By establishing a routine of cleaning, conditioning, and proper climate-controlled storage, you can double or triple the lifespan of your rubber work gear. Treat your equipment as an investment, and it will keep you safe and dry on the job for years to come.
For seasonal gear (snow blower tires, pool hoses, kayak seals):
The environment where you store your tools and gear between shifts dictates how long the rubber will last.
Rubber components are critical assets in industrial and commercial environments. They seal machinery, insulate electrical components, transport fluids, and dampen vibrations. However, rubber is highly susceptible to dry rot—a degenerative process that causes the material to crack, brittle, and ultimately fail. how to keep rubber from dry rotting work
However, even modern vulcanized rubber can "dry rot" (scientifically called ) if it isn't cared for. Here is how you can keep your rubber gear—from work boots to vehicle seals—from meeting a crumbly end: 1. Use It or Lose It
Rubber is designed to be used. Many rubber compounds contain internal waxes and oils that are distributed through the material when it is flexed and compressed. Rotate your work boots regularly. Run machinery for a few minutes weekly. Drive vehicles to prevent flat-spotting and stagnation. Flex rubber hoses and seals periodically. Use Conditioners Wisely
Apply a high-quality, water-based silicone or polymer conditioner to seals, gaskets, and hoses. This creates a barrier against oxygen and UV rays. By establishing a routine of cleaning, conditioning, and
For components that are already starting to show signs of dryness, a liquid polymer like AT205 Re-Seal can penetrate the rubber and restore its pliability 1.2.1.
Oil, gas, and harsh solvents dissolve rubber compounds rapidly.
What are you trying to protect? (boots, tires, gaskets, hoses?) Rubber components are critical assets in industrial and
To keep rubber from dry rotting, you must . While real rubber does not technically "rot" like organic wood, it undergoes severe polymer degradation that leaves it brittle, chalky, and cracked. 🛡️ How to Prevent Rubber Dry Rot How To Care For Your Boots
For outdoor equipment, vehicle tires, and external hoses, use dedicated UV-blocking protectants designed specifically for rubber and vinyl.
Use opaque bins, dark cabinets, or windowless storage rooms to shield rubber items from direct sunlight and fluorescent UV exposure.
Here is a proven, repeatable process to protect any rubber item for long-term storage.