To keep rubber from dry rotting, you must shield it from UV rays and ozone, clean it without harsh chemicals, and apply a specialized rubber conditioner. 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

Avoid the "Ozone Zones": Keep rubber away from electric motors, furnaces, and weld shops. These environments have high ozone concentrations that eat through rubber like acid. 5. Hydrate with Specialized Conditioners

Where you keep your work gear is as important as how you clean it. Cool and Dry: Store items in a climate-controlled area.

. Regular maintenance—specifically cleaning and conditioning—is the most effective way to prevent the rubber from becoming brittle and cracking. hunterboots.com.au 1. Routine Cleaning

• Antiozonants can stain or bleed; some antiozonants affect color or create surface bloom.
• Increasing antioxidants improves lifetime but can be consumed over time; designs should assume finite protection.

• Attach a protective rubber or polymer coating over the metal-to-rubber contact points; use silicone-impregnated blades for UV resistance.