Wearing rubber gloves while washing clothes or dishes is not unique to South Koreans. It is a common practice in many cultures and households around the world. There are several reasons why people choose to wear rubber gloves for these tasks:
Protection: Rubber gloves provide a physical barrier between the skin and the water, detergents, and cleaning agents. They help protect the hands from potential irritants, chemicals, or hot water, which can cause dryness, chapping, or skin sensitivity.
Hygiene: Wearing gloves can maintain a higher level of cleanliness and hygiene while handling dirty dishes or laundry. It prevents direct contact with food residue, greasy dishes, or potentially harmful bacteria present on soiled items.
Sensory sensitivity: Some individuals may have sensory sensitivities or skin conditions that make their hands more sensitive to water, detergents, or certain fabrics. Wearing gloves can help reduce discomfort or irritation during the washing process.
Long-duration tasks: When engaging in prolonged washing sessions, such as washing a large pile of dishes or a load of laundry, wearing gloves can provide added comfort and prevent prolonged exposure to water, chemicals, or heat.
It's important to note that the choice to wear gloves while washing dishes or clothes is a personal preference. Not everyone chooses to wear them, and cultural practices may vary across different regions and households.