Here are just a few tips to keep your latex AV liners and cones in top condition.

1. When you take your liners out of the box, it is recommended by the manufacturer to clean and prepare them for use, first.  They should be thoroughly cleaned.  Turn the liner inside out and wash it with warm water and a mild detergent (a chlorhexidine solution diluted with water works great).  Rinse off the detergent or any residue and allow the liner(s) to soak in hot tap water for 60 minutes followed by rinsing with distilled water and a final rinse with 70% isopropyl alcohol.  Allow to dry completely.

2. Storage.  The top environmental enemies to natural latex products are heat and light.  When not in use, store the liners in a cool, dark place.  A paper bag in a refrigerator is ideal.  With larger liners, a paper bag in a cellar or similar steady-temperature dark place works well.  Avoid sealing them up in a plastic bag.

3. Usage.  The number one culprit for getting nicks and cuts in latex liners (which then spread, causing larger tears) is the human fingernail when stretching the liner over the end of the AV.  To avoid this, put on a pair of cheap wrist gloves before prepping the AV to keep your fingernails from coming into direct contact with the liner.

These tips will all help you get the most out of your liners — extending their useful life to the fullest, and saving you the expense of replacement.