Disposable Gloves Guides

The most common materials used for disposable gloves are Latex, Vinyl and Nitrile. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks.

Latex Gloves are constructed from Natural Rubber Latex and are the most popular type of disposable glove. The physical properties of the material offer protection from biohazardous risks whilst superior elasticity and tensile strength provide unsurpassed user comfort and a reasonable resistance to cuts and abrasions. Because they are manufactured from a naturally occurring substance, Latex gloves possess greater biodegradability and are kinder to the environment than Vinyl and Nitrile gloves, which are manufactured from man-made synthetic materials. Latex gloves are generally cost-effective .

A drawback to using Latex gloves is that some users find themselves allergic to the proteins within the Natural Rubber they are constructed from. Some of our Latex gloves range, such as Bodyguards New Latex Gloves, have undergone a process called ‘Chlorination’ – whereby gloves are treated with Chlorine and Water, then neutralised with Ammonia. This creates a smooth inner surface to the glove by reducing the natural tackiness of the Latex. In turn, this reduces protein levels to below the limit of detection. Many Latex sensitive users find they can use chlorinated Latex gloves without provoking an adverse reaction. Please view our range of Chlorinated & Low Protein Latex Gloves. If you are unsure or still find you are allergic, Vinyl or Nitrile gloves may be a better choice for you.

Vinyl Gloves are manufactured from Polyvinyl Chloride Plastisol and are a popular choice for users who find themselves sensitive to Latex proteins or allergenic compounds. The material itself is extremely soft and provides a snug and comfortable fit. Vinyl gloves provide a reasonable resistance to oil and grease, but are not as strong or as resistant to tearing as Latex or Nitrile gloves. For this reason, they are often used for lower risk non-invasive procedures. We supply a range of Blue Vinyl Gloves which are ideal for use in catering applications. Our Standard Medical Grade Vinyl Gloves are our most cost-effective disposable gloves.

Nitrile Gloves are manufactured from a synthetic polymer known as Acrylonitrile-butadiene and are rapidly gaining popularity for their superior strength and resistance to tears and punctures. Nitrile gloves also provide excellent resistance to oil, grease and a number of aqueous chemical solutions. The material offers a comparable feel to Latex gloves but contains none of the proteins known to aggravate sensitivity to Natural Rubber Latex. Nitrile gloves are slightly more expensive than Vinyl and Latex gloves, but can last longer due to their superior resilience. Subsequently they can often be a more cost-effective option for those who use disposable gloves frequently or in large volumes.