Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl
Latex gloves
Latex comes directly from rubber trees. Latex gloves are the most commonly used disposable gloves because for many years, they have been the only strong disposable glove material option on the market. Ideal applications include the medical, janitorial, automotive & industrial industry.
However, now many hospitals and clinics have begun replacing their latex gloves with nitrile gloves - due to latex allergies increasing globally. For those who aren’t allergic, latex gloves are comfortable, relatively cost-effective, and offer a high degree of touch sensitivity.
With high levels of flexibility, protection, and comfort, disposable latex gloves are suitable for most medical environments - as long as latex allergies are not an issue.
Vinyl gloves
Vinyl gloves are made from PVC, a petroleum-based film. The primary benefit of vinyl disposable gloves is that they’re inexpensive to manufacture. That being said, they are less durable than latex and nitrile, and they offer limited protection against chemical or biomedical exposure. When vinyl gloves are stretched or flexed, the individual molecules separate and the integrity of the protective barrier is compromised.
Due to their low cost and low protection levels, vinyl gloves are commonly used in non-hazardous and low-infection environments, such as the food industry.
Nitrile gloves
Nitrile goves are made from a synthetic rubber and are relatively similar to latex gloves in terms of their stretchy feel. However, because they do not contain latex, they make a great alternative in applications or workplaces where latex allergies are a concern. This is also why nitrile gloves are often known as ‘medical-grade’ gloves. They also have a higher puncture resistance than the other types. Ideal uses include medical, cosmetic, janitorial and automotive industries.
Industrial vs Examination Gloves
Industrial Grade
This category of nitrile glove is best suited for applications that necessitate the handling of harsh chemicals and solvents. Typical industries where this grade of nitrile glove would be used include automotive, janitorial, and any other industry that involves chemical safety, and even food service. The most important features of this category are the glove’s chemical resistance and high levels of puncture resistance.
Medical Grade
Examination, or medical grade gloves, are typically suited for use where there is a risk of coming in contact with blood born pathogens or environmental contaminants. This category of nitrile glove is commonly found in hospitals, medical and dental offices, and laboratories, as they are required to meet specific guildelines around strength, durability and barrier protection for these applications.
Other Glove Features to Consider
Size
Many people underestimate the importance of a well fitting glove. Manufacturer sizing of disposable gloves can differ, so it is highly recommended to try samples if possible so you can determine what size glove you need. The correct size glove will enhance your comfort and tactile sensitivity in every application.
Colour
By color coding your nitrile gloves, you can assist in differentiating glove sizes and help prevent cross contamination.
Blue nitrile gloves are the standard color, and are helpful in differentiating between nitrile and latex gloves in a medical application.
Black nitrile gloves are commonly used in automotive applications, or other work environments where oil and grime is present. The black gloves hide this messiness.
Brighter color nitrile gloves like orange, green, or pink can be helpful in several situations. They help increase safety compliance, because the gloves are easily seen, so you know when employees are wearing them.
Texture/ Finish
If you are in need of enhanced grip on your nitrile glove, look for a nitrile glove that has a textured finish on the palm and fingers. Typically a diamond pattern, this texture will increase grip in both wet and dry conditions. Most nitrile gloves are finished with a chlorinated coating which helps to reduce stickiness and makes it easier to put on and pull off your gloves.
Thickness
Most disposable nitrile gloves come in different thicknesses, ranging from 4mm to 8mm thick.
The vast majority of heavy duty industrial grade nitrile gloves will be 6 - 8mm thick. Due to the harsh environments that generally utilize industrial grade disposable gloves, the extra thickness will provide a thicker barrier of protection. Thicker gloves will provide a longer permeation timeframe when working with chemicals as well as more tear resistance than thinner light duty nitrile.
Powdered vs Powder-free
These are two common options when it comes to nitrile gloves. Powder free gloves are where the chlorinated or polymer finish comes in. This finish makes it easy to put on & remove your gloves without the messiness of powder. The powdered option is helpful because it absorbs any extra moisture, which aids in putting on gloves, however it can leave behind some residue.
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