Disposable Gloves
Why Should You Wear Gloves?
Before the pandemic, disposable gloves were not popular for personal use as they were regularly used in various settings such as hospitals, kitchens, schools, etc. When leaving your home, gloves can protect your skin from viruses, bacteria, and other germs, including harmful chemicals, bodily fluids, and dirt. Different types of gloves range in their strength and fit. Nitrile, vinyl, and latex gloves can make a difference in keeping you safe. It is essential to do your research and determine which gloves are the best for you.
Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile gloves are the leading gloves in hospitals due to their thickness and their flexible fit. Typically, you associate these gloves with "medical grade" due to their high protection. Nitrile gloves are the most puncture-resistant, are latex-free, and resist many chemicals from factories and labs. When choosing the right Nitrile glove, make sure to find out the thickness of the gloves. Look for gloves with a thickness of 3mm or more for the best protection. In addition, nitrile gloves have an extremely long shelf life giving them an advantage for long-term use.
Top Characteristics of Nitrile Gloves
- Medical grade – CDC and FDA approvals
- Most puncture-resistant glove type
- Flexible and stretching fit
- Most resistant to viruses, bacteria chemicals
- Latex-free
Vinyl Gloves
Vinyl gloves are made from non-biodegradable, protein-free synthetic material. Vinyl glove's biggest perks are that they have a very long shelf life, and they are the most inexpensive of the three glove types. Vinyl gloves do not protect against harsh chemicals and micro-organisms. This makes them ideal for situations involving non-hazardous materials and safer chemicals. These gloves are suitable for environments like food services and people who want to stay protected for a better price.
Top Characteristics of Vinyl Gloves
- Made from a synthetic material
- Long shelf life
- Least expensive glove type
- Great for food services and similar environments
Latex Gloves
Latex gloves are popular as the latex material comes from the rubber of trees, making it an excellent biodegradable alternative. In addition, latex gloves have a very elastic and form-fitting material making the gloves very comfortable. Latex gloves are good at protecting against bacteria, viruses, and body fluids and are recommended for medical use. Unfortunately, latex is a prevalent allergen and is less used because of the potential risk to yourself or others who are allergic. In addition, latex gloves have the shortest shelf life and can break down over time.
Top Characteristics of Latex Gloves
- Biodegradable
- Have a great comfortable fit
- Latex is an allergen
How to know which glove type is right for you?
All three glove types have essential uses and thrive in different environments. Of the three glove types, nitrile is the best glove to keep you safe from Covid-19. Due to the thickness, nitrile can provide the best barrier against viruses & bacteria. For business or medical purposes, remember to identify the thickness of the nitrile glove to confirm it is 3mm or more in strength to have real medical-grade quality strength. As well, latex gloves offer the best overall fit, and vinyl gloves are the lowest-priced option.
