Caring for your rubber

Because we only use natural latex, our rubber clothing needs special care to avoid tearing. Semi-transparent and pale coloured rubber can permanently discolour if it comes into contact with metallic objects like buckles, belts, jewellery or coins, so be warned! Latex rubber is strong but not indestructible, so always take care with cigarettes or sharp objects, as a tiny hole can quickly lead to a big tear.

Whilst latex can be repaired using materials similar to those provided in a bicycle repair kit, the result is rarely as attractive as the original appearance of the garment. If your rubber gear requires repair, please email us a description and if possible a photo of the damage and we will be pleased to help. We take care to make any repair unnoticeable, if not completely invisible at a fraction of the cost of a new item. In all cases, we will promptly let you know what can be done and will provide you with a comprehensive quote.

Latex clothing is normally polished to preserve and improve its shiny appearance. It is easier to polish rubber garments when you have them on, using a rubber polish and a soft cotton cloth. Try to avoid cleaning too hard over any metals surfaces (i.e. zips, studs, buckles and body piercings), as this can leave a mark.

Putting on latex clothing can be difficult, because latex has high friction against dry skin. To make it easier to put on, you may use unscented talc to reduce friction against the skin when putting the clothes on; then, because stray talc is very visible against the rubber, you will need to polish off any visible talc. You may also use a liquid product like Vividress. We recommend Vividress especially for semi-transparent colours, as it does not create unsightly white residue such as talcum powder would leave.

You should wash your garment after each use in lukewarm soapy water (or better use Vivishine), rinse thoroughly after with cold water until it 'squeaks' and hang to dry. Dry them inside out first and once the inside is dry, turn them over and leave to dry until thoroughly dry.

To store your rubber once dry, coat it with a thin layer of talcum powder inside and out, either hang or place in a plastic bag and store away from heat and sunlight. If you can, avoid folding your rubber gear during storage. Folding may leave creases. If your rubber gear is creased after a period in storage, simply wash them in lukewarm water and dry. The creases should disappear.

Having said all this, if you look after you and your rubber then you should be 'devoted' to each other for many years.

For more information about natural latex clothing visit Wikipedia