What Is The Best Type Of Disposable Gloves 

Here we take a look into the world of Latex, Vinyl, and Nitrile disposable gloves

Disposable gloves are a requirement across a variety of industries, with different materials more suited to particular tasks. The range of choice may be confusing at first, but if you consider the type of task you need the gloves for, it will quickly become clear what type of gloves you need to purchase.

The most widely used types of disposable gloves used across most industries are:

Nitrile, Latex, Vinyl

Why Choose Nitrile

Nitrile gloves are suitable for use by

• Mechanics
• Medical professionals
• Laboratory staff
• Kitchen staff
• Individuals with allergies to latex

Nitrile  disposable gloves are resistant to a variety of chemicals while still offering good ductile properties. It is manufactured using a synthetic rubber, making them ideal for those with allergies to latex, as they do not contain the same protein that causes the reaction. Nitrile gloves should not be worn while working with electrics, as they will not provide shock protection.

Why Choose Latex

Latex gloves are suitable for use by

• Medical professionals
• Beauty professionals
• Those requiring high levels of touch sensitivity while in use
• Those requiring a ‘second skin’ type fit
• Those requiring biodegradable gloves

Latex gloves are a popular choice, as they fit closely and comfortably to the hand, offering high levels of sensitivity and a full range of dexterity for tasks that require small detail and precision. The material is reliable and durable, and provides an excellent barrier against infectious substances. Some people may suffer from an allergy to latex, so should choose an alternative material.

Why Choose Vinyl 

Vinyl gloves are suitable for use by

• Kitchen staff
• Hairdressers
• Those with allergies to latex
• Those working with non-hazardous materials, seeking a looser fit

Vinyl gloves are a good budget friendly option for short, low-risk tasks that still need some form of protection to avoid cross contamination. They are not as strong as latex or nitrile, but are sufficient for hygiene in food prep and housekeeping tasks. Another important question regarding vinyl gloves is.

Powder free or not to powder free?

Do I need powder or non powdered gloves and what is the difference between them? Powder free vinyl gloves have a corn starch added to make the process of donning the gloves easier to put on and take off. The powder free vinyl gloves have had a chlorination process to essentially wash the gloves, in essence the latter makes the gloves less form fitting.

Making the Choice for Disposable Glove Material

Before you purchase disposable gloves, it is important to determine the risk level and requirements for the task at hand. Do some research of the various chemicals you might be in contact with. This will help you in the long run when making a decision.

Make sure that the gloves have the right level of protection you require.

Depending on what job you are doing, make sure that you are wearing gloves that offer the right amount of protection from chemicals. If you are working with the public, make sure that they are clean and sterile.

All that remains to consider is whether you need to have your gloves with an internal layer of powder for comfort (not suitable for food prep), and what size you will need.

Contact our hand care team today and let us find the right protection for you and your team.

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