Using gloves wisely: rethinking glove use for health, safety, and environmental sustainability

Authors

• M. Lauren Lalakea
• Radhika Sheth, Henry Ford HealthFollow
• Elizabeth Cerceo
• Yvonne Huckleberry
• Preeti Jaggi
• Vidya Mony
• Elizabeth Monsees

Recommended Citation

Lalakea ML, Sheth R, Cerceo E, Huckleberry Y, Jaggi P, Mony V, Monsees E. Using gloves wisely: rethinking glove use for health, safety, and environmental sustainability. Antimicrob Steward Healthc Epidemiol. 2026;6(1):e88.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-1-2026

Publication Title

Antimicrob Steward Healthc Epidemiol

Abstract

Non-sterile gloves (NSG) are essential for reducing transmission of pathogens and for protecting patients and staff. Their overconsumption can lead not only to an increased risk of cross-contamination but also increased plastic waste and downstream environmental effects. Glove reduction campaigns worldwide have safely and successfully reduced their inappropriate use and associated waste. In this multidisciplinary commentary, we discuss the sweeping public health and environmental consequences of NSG overuse and strategies to implement a successful glove stewardship campaign.

PubMed ID

42038601

Volume

6

Issue

1

First Page

88

Last Page

88