Face Shields + Goggles – Clean with mild soap. Replace if scratched or cloudy.
Gloves – Punctured = pointless. Disposable means one-and-done.
Respirators – Replace the filters, clean the facepiece, and keep it sealed and dry.
How to Keep It Clean (Literally)
Inspect before every use – Yes, every time.
Clean and disinfect properly – Use the stuff the manufacturer actually recommends.
Dry it completely – Moist gear breeds bacteria and breaks down faster.
Store it right – Not in your truck bed under five old fast food bags.
Bonus: Keep a log of what you’ve cleaned, replaced, or tossed. That way, you’re not guessing when something last got serviced.
Pro Tips for Smarter PPE Care
Write expiration dates on anything short-lived, like respirator filters.
Use a checklist for shared gear to avoid the “I thought you checked it” spiral.
Train the team on care and maintenance—don’t assume everyone just knows.
Set a schedule so nothing slips through the cracks (literally).
In Conclusion
Take care of your gear and It’ll take care of you. Read the full PPE Maintenance Guide to make sure your gear works when you need it, not after it should’ve.