Manufactured for use within the clinical and care industry, medical disposable gloves are made from a range of different polymer based materials... But what's the difference?

If you're left baffled by the many kinds of nitrile, vinyl and latex gloves on offer and which one is your ideal choice, SHD will guide you through exactly what you need to know before you buy.

Latex Gloves

Latex gloves are by far the most popular disposable glove type you'll come across. Made from natural rubber, these protective gloves are a quick, convenient choice for all generic medical and industrial jobs. The reason they're so ubiquitous is due to their incredibly comfortable fit, tactility and finger sensitivity when dexterity is required and the durable yet elastic design which will serve you well if you're involved in a profession that requires contact with potentially infectious or dangerous materials.

The only downside is that they're unsuitable for anyone with a latex allergy or sensitivity, which is why an alternative material is needed...

Nitrile Gloves

A synthetic rubber alternative to latex, nitrile gloves are great for anyone with a latex allergy, sensitivity or general aversion to latex. Nitrile may also be used when a higher level of strength is required from the glove, thanks to the robust, puncture resistant design. The advantages of nitrile range from a lengthy shelf life to chemical resistance, strength and comfort when in use for long periods of time.

Nitrile is a great option for automotive and general industry work to catering, cleaning and medical practice.

Vinyl Gloves

Vinyl is a widely used choice for the food industry and other low risk jobs that don't demand a great deal of strength from the glove in question. Therefore, vinyl tends to have a looser fit, but they are hygienic, cost-effective and antistatic. Like nitrile, they can also be used by individuals who suffer from latex allergies.

Powdered vs Unpowdered

Powder Gloves

The powder itself is used as a form of efficient lubrication to make applying and removing the gloves from your hands easier. Often in the medical industry gloves need to be put on almost immediately, so many find powder a necessary part of the glove wearing process due to the non-stick feel. There are some downsides to powder - irritation being the primary issue amongst latex allergy sufferers as the powder can meld with the latex proteins, finding its way deeper into the skin, causing an allergic reaction. If you suffer from allergies, our advice is to stay clear from powdered latex.

Unpowdered Gloves

The obvious downside to the powder-free variety is that they're a little more awkward to remove and apply at a moments notice. What you do get however is a reduction in risk of allergic reactions, particularly if you use powder-free nitrile gloves which are more resistant to punctures and tears and great to touch. Interestingly, powdered gloves can slow the healing process if they come into contact with wounds during surgery, therefore, unpowdered options can be more of an appealing choice for medical professionals during particularly intricate procedures.

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Post By Ed Mason