Why should leather and cloth gloves be avoided when handling pesticides?

Leather and cloth gloves should be avoided when handling pesticides because they absorb pesticides. This characteristic means that these materials can retain harmful chemicals even after the gloves have been removed, potentially leading to skin exposure and increasing the risk of pesticide-related health issues. Unlike synthetic materials designed for chemical resistance, leather and cloth do not provide a protective barrier and can become contaminated, posing significant safety concerns during and after pesticide application.

In contrast, gloves made from materials that do not absorb chemicals—such as nitrile or latex—are much more suitable for pesticide handling as they can effectively prevent skin contact and minimize the risk of absorption. Adopting proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial in maintaining safety standards in landscape and maintenance practices.