latex vs nitrile gloves

When comparing nitrile vs latex gloves, you'll find that nitrile is a great alternative to consider. Disposable gloves are generally made from one of three materials: nitrile, latex, or vinyl. The primary benefit of these gloves is that they are not very expensive to manufacture as compared to nitrile and latex gloves. From assembly and construction to maintenance, we guarantee that, whatever industry you work in, your questions will be answered. Nitrile exam gloves are made out of a synthetic rubber and are a popular alternative when latex allergies are a concern. When comparing nitrile vs latex gloves, which one comes out on top? Palm coated work gloves have many advantages over other types of gloves such as higher grip, greater abrasion resistance, and enhanced water resistance. Of course, this does mean that nitrile gloves, once thrown away, will continue to fill up the landfill. Nitrile and latex are two of the most common materials for general-use disposable gloves. Designed with a special nitrile formulation they feel and fit like latex and allow full range of motion and excellent flexibility to minimize stress and fatigue. Nevertheless, Nitrile gloves appear to have greater (overall) benefits than the ones made from latex. It's a synthetic component produced from byproducts of fossil fuels and was developed only recently to provide an alternative to latex-based products. Nitrile Gloves. When you purchase latex gloves, you're purchasing a product made from a renewable resource. Additionally, the purpose or the place where the gloves have to be used is essential. When using these gloves in their pure material (think stretchy - usually latex - gloves at the doctor's office) - not the coated kind - it’s important to know if you have an allergy to latex. This can be both positive and negative. Currently, the price of a nitrile glove is equivalent (or even lower) than the price of a latex glove. Glove Types: Nitrile Coated VS Latex Coated VS PU Coated There are many different types of work gloves available in the market and Palm coated work gloves are one of them. This number isn't tremendous—less than 1% of the US population has a latex allergy—but that number can still be problematic if latex is the only type of glove you use. Not only are they more resistant to punctures and rips, they also provide a level of chemical resistance unparalleled by natural components. Nitrile gloves … It doesn't perform as well as latex in dry conditions, but the thicker design does also mean that nitrile coated gloves tend to be pretty durable. These gloves don’t contain latex or powder. While nitrile originally costs much more than the latex version of the glove, it has come down in price considerably. Are teachers unions to blame? As PVC and nitrile gloves are not made of latex, they can serve as a safe alternative for industry workers and patients who are latex sensitive. Nitrile vs. Latex Gloves: What’s the Difference? In … Latex gloves are effective in protecting you against alkalis, acids, ketones, alcohols, and other contaminants. This shouldn't be a problem over the next few years, however. Which Disposable Glove Material is Right For You? Like a rubber balloon, it may be impossible to notice a tiny hole until too late. This means that certain kinds of chemicals can weaken or even erode the surface of the glove, preventing it from protecting the hand. Unlike latex gloves, which can disguise tiny punctures, nitrile gloves tend to exhibit large tears when even a tiny hole is made. Vinyl gloves are made from a petroleum-based film called PVC. Vinyl Gloves vs. Nitrile Gloves. Your kid might not return to a classroom this year. Nitrile gloves are preferred over latex because of their infectious and viral resistance. Whichever you choose, always stock protective gloves in your garage, shop or … Nitrile is three times more resistant to punctures than latex, however, once the glove is punctured it will tear completely. Ideal uses for latex gloves are: Medical industries such as dentistry, hospitals and beauty; Janitorial industry They stand up against harsh chemicals and punctures but provide less protection from bacteria. On a basic level, nitrile is a synthetic rubber whereas latex is a natural material made from actual rubber. Of course, if latex allergies are a problem, your choice has been made. When it comes to nitrile vs. latex, both serve the same basic purpose. Currently, the price of a nitrile glove is equivalent (or even lower) than the price of a latex glove. Latex gloves are popular due to their elasticity and comfort, says the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guide to personal protective equipment. This is an artificial rubber compound that’s frequently used in the manufacture of disposable gloves. This blog will explain why using vinyl gloves is a better decision than using nitrile gloves. Unlike the allergies that plague latex gloves, nitrile gloves have no such issues. It's for this reason that you should also consider the alternative: nitrile gloves. However, Latex is a cheaper option for those that do not require stronger chemical and puncture resistance. Comfortable, super soft flexible powder free nitrile gloves provide added safety in many applications. The most important protective measure is frequent and thorough hand washing. If comfort, dexterity, and easy on and off is your top priority, latex gloves are your best choice. While nitrile may be the best alternative for those who are prone to allergies, latex score higher in terms of tactile sensitivity and comfort. Virtual summit seeks to galvanize climate change adaptation. In the decades since the technology behind the nitrile glove has improved tremendously. The better fit ensures reduced slipping, sticking, and other nuisances. They're also highly regarded for fitting close to the skin and providing an excellent range of motion and dexterity. If you're looking for a more durable glove that resists punctures and can withstand solvent chemicals, you're going to prefer nitrile gloves. Their superior performance is making them the standard glove in industries that demand heavy-duty performance. Gloves made from “synthetic materials, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nitrile, or polyurethane,” are safer for people with latex allergies, according to the FDA. In recent years Nitrile gloves have become more affordable, and today they are on par with Latex glove prices. As you read on, consider which attributes are most important for your place of work. No matter what chemical you need to use, there's a nitrile glove that will be able to handle it and provide protection. Their primary difference is … Originally developed for this reason, you'll find that nitrile gloves offer superior performance, especially if you're dealing with a group of patients, customers or coworkers who suffer from a latex allergy. The type of disposable gloves you wear is up to you. This decreases the risk of allergic reactions. Not only that, but nitrile gloves are 3-5 times more durable than their latex counterparts. Show full articles without "Continue Reading" button for {0} hours. It does depend on what job or task you are planning on using gloves for. Nitrile vs. Latex Gloves Chemical Resistance What’s Nitrile? Always wash your hands with soap and water after removing gloves. Comes only in powder free version in the market. Nitrile gloves can withstand exposure to oils, solvents, and chemicals which easily destroy natural latex gloves. Latex gloves. Copyright © Nitrile is more durable and thus achieves a higher level of barrier protection. In this article, you'll learn the differences between nitrile vs latex gloves, and be equipped with the information you need to make a smart choice. Able to withstand oils, solvents and acids. They have also been shown to be more resistant to certain oils and acids than natural rubber. This allows these gloves to fit your hands much better than latex gloves. In fact, 96.4% of professional dentists prefer one kind of glove. Pros and Cons: Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl. When comparing Latex vs. Nitrile gloves, it's important to remember that the thickness of the glove isn't the only factor to consider. Overall, nitrile gloves may be the more versatile option. It’s highly resistant against alkalis, acids, ketones, alcohols, and other types of contaminants. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) does not recommend reusing or washing disposable gloves or other disposable PPE — effectiveness wanes with repeated use. Gloves used as personal protective equipment (PPE) are made of many different materials; some are used in chemical laboratories, while others are best for medical workers. A visual inspection of a latex glove isn't a guarantee of safety—there may be a tiny incision that leaks dangerous chemicals or biohazardous material such as blood onto the hands. This is the key difference between nitrile and latex. If you're buying gloves or looking at switching the type you use, you need to consider all options. Latex and nitrile gloves are lightweight, stretchy hand coverings that protect the wearer from direct contact with whatever they may touch, which defends first aid and healthcare providers from bloodborne pathogens. Whereas latex can rupture when used too roughly or by snagging on a piece of equipment. These days there are many different options when it comes to palm coated work gloves. This means that no matter what the task at hand, professionals using latex gloves will most likely be able to complete the task more effectively and in less time. Nitrile has been there since time immemorial. Historically Nitrile gloves have not had the level of “stretch” that is associated with Latex gloves but over the last few years the revolutionary introduction of “Soft Touch Nitrile” has allowed Nitrile to become more strechy and flexible then ever before. On the other hand, nitrile is a little more expensive than latex, unless you go for flat nitrile which lacks the grip of foam nitrile. Latex is also prone to puncture. The answer is that Nitrile is a stronger higher quality glove then Latex. Learn More >. Nitrile Gloves. Although neoprene and nitrile are made from synthetic, latex-free materials, the physical properties of these gloves are quite different. Nitrile is a durable synthetic rubber that offers resistance to numerous substances, including oils ( petroleum-based as well as mineral and vegetable oil ). Although nitrile and latex gloves are incredibly common forms of PPE, there are a few reasons why you might pick one over the other. When you should wear gloves depends on what you’re doing, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The term ‘latex’ is used to define a broad range of latices, which includes both natural and synthetic latices whereas the term ‘nitrile’ is used for NBR (acrylonitrile butadiene rubber) latex. An alternative glove choice to use in medical professions for individuals sensitive to latex allergy. When it comes to choosing gloves, it can be an overwhelming decision. Another difference to consider when deciding between latex and latex-free gloves is … Nitrile gloves, on the other hand, are more durable and resistant to punctures and chemicals. Nitrile gloves however are not as soft as latex gloves, and are not known for being easy to wear. Disposable gloves are of various types of material including vinyl, latex and nitrile. With any product, there are pros and cons to everything. Don't expect to get rave reviews on how well the glove fits, but it'll do just about anything with the most recent advances in technology. Nitrile is also latex-free, so nitrile gloves are a safe option for those who have a latex allergy. Nitrile gloves are made from nitrile material, a synthetic rubber copolymer of butadiene and acrylonitrile. Latex gloves do have a slight advantage over nitrile when it comes to dexterity and comfort though, most latex gloves are lined with powder making them easier to put on and are generally thinner which increases touch sensitivity. Despite growing demand experts don't expect the prices of latex gloves to rise. The synthetic material also makes nitrile gloves less fitted to the hand and less comfortable to wear than latex. Nitrile and latex are two of the most common materials for general-use disposable gloves. The CDC recommends wearing PPE when caring for someone who is sick and when sanitizing and disinfecting your home. However, the industry chosen and the type of work needed will instantly determine whether nitrile gloves or latex gloves are the best choices. Of course, many people are allergic to latex. Latex is a derivative of natural rubber, meaning it's a natural and biodegradable product. No matter what kind of glove-wearing industry you work in, there is a correct choice for you, your coworkers, and your employees. (non allergenic) Find the best kind of disposable gloves for your industry, and stay prepared and safe! Nitrile gloves are made from nitrile butadiene rubber, another synthetic material, making them an alternative for people with latex allergies and has a longer shelf life than latex gloves. PVC and nitrile gloves are designed to safely handle hazardous or harmful chemicals in various commercial industries. Start here. In the COVID-19 era, procuring the right kind of gloves to protect hands from the transmission of infection is essential. They're preferred by professional everywhere for their great feel and high sensitivity. Use of latex gloves can cause a rash, hives, swelling and more when used by someone with a latex sensitivity. While still not as easy as a latex glove for putting on or removing, the nitrile glove is still a great option if you're looking for a glove that provides a minimum baseline of comfort. For decades, latex has been the rockstar of the medical disposable glove world. Protection. When comparing nitrile vs latex gloves, you'll inevitably notice that while latex has a great feel in the hand, it offers some potentially catastrophic vulnerabilities. When comparing nitrile vs latex gloves, you'll find that nitrile … Comparing nitrile, PE, latex, and vinyl gloves? Unlike latex gloves, they aren't biodegradable. Before deciding between nitrile vs. latex, there are a few questions to answer: What are nitrile gloves, and how do they compare to latex? On the one hand, latex is more environmentally friendly. Like us on Facebook to see similar stories. Afterall, if your profession requires you wea... experts don't expect the prices of latex gloves to rise, best kind of disposable gloves for your industry, Ultimate Guide to Disposable Glove Material Selection, Stop Spreading Germs In Your Restaurant with These Food Safety Tips. How are they different from latex gloves? If environmental concerns are at the forefront of your business, this may not be the best choice. A glove of choice to use for chemical handling. However, of late it has become more affordable. Attributes include: Latex-… Nitrle and latex are the biggest dipping names in work gloves, so we created this Nitrile vs Latex Coated Gloves guide to show to you which gloves are best and for which tasks. Nitrile gloves are the best glove when it comes to puncture resistance. Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl Gloves: What's Right for You. If you have any questions, feel free to Contact The Glove Experts, here. In its early stages in the mid-1990s, the nitrile glove was known for being difficult to stretch—giving it an almost brittle feel. If your industry involves a number of chemicals, latex may not be suitable due to this issue. PPE, such as a face mask, is most often used by people who work with the public, including lifeguards, first responders and healthcare providers. We break down the food safety disposable glove types into an easy to read comparison chart. What are nitrile gloves? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cleaning products that actually disinfect, synthetic materials, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nitrile, or polyurethane, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guide to personal protective equipment. Call Us Toll Free:    844-63-GLOVE  (844-634-5683), My Glove Depot4201 Sierra Point Drive, #102Sacramento, CA 95834. They can also prevent foodborne illnesses and skin irritation caused by household cleaners, as well as the spread of infectious diseases. Nitrile gloves, on the other hand, are more durable and resistant to punctures and chemicals. With a proper fit, latex can be fairly durable. Nitrile Gloves (Non allergenic) Pros: Made from synthetic rubber derived from petroleum. They also provide better protection from chemicals than latex or vinyl gloves. Nitrile gloves are often preferred since these non-latex gloves best resemble the stretchy feel of latex gloves, and are also highly durable and puncture resistant. 2021 Whereas latex is a naturally occurring fluid present in over 20,000 species of plants, nitrile is a by-product of petroleum made in a laboratory. The Pure Substances: Nitrile vs. Latex. Academically speaking, nitrile is known as acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber. Single-use gloves aren’t an essential accessory on most days, but they can be an effective illness-preventing measure. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes these gloves different from each other, as well as offer guidance into which environments each type is best suited for. Although their names may sound familiar, if you were to handle these protective gloves side-by-side, you will quickly notice a difference between the two materials. Due to its natural rubber components, however, latex tends to be unstable around particular chemicals like solvents. Sarah and Casey explain the differences between latex gloves and nitrile gloves. Nitrile gloves are made out of a synthetic rubber, and are an ideal alternative when latex allergies are of concern. Looser and less durable than latex and nitrile, vinyl gloves are a popular choice for situations where high levels of durability and protection are less of a priority, like in the food and janitorial services; as well as, oil and painting industries, and when working with cords. On the other, the price of these gloves fluctuates with the market. In applications where operator safety coul… The first is whether you or anyone in your household has a latex allergy. Another advantage of nitrile gloves is that they have stronger chemical resistance than latex gloves, making it the ideal choice for workers who are often exposed to toxic and … Palm coatings add many great benefits and options to your work gloves, including enhanced grip, higher levels of abrasion resistance, and even water resistance. Latex vs Nitrile gloves may seem like a close race, and when it comes to durability and comfort, they are very similar and hard to pick a winner. Work Gloves: Nitrile Coated vs Latex Coated vs PU Coated: Posted by Melanie Predolich on Mar 21, 2017. Unlike latex, nitrile gloves have a unique memory membrane. My Glove Depot. Nitrile is more puncture resistant: Latex does little to protect the skin in contrast with the puncture resistance achieved by nitrile gloves. Key Difference – Nitrile vs Latex Latex and nitrile latex are polymeric dispersions that have a wide range of applications. While nitrile originally costs much more than the latex version of the glove, it has come down in price considerably. Nitrile offers the same benefits without causing the problems associated with latex allergies. Nitrile gloves are the superior glove when it comes to puncture resistance. Nitrile gloves are made of durable, synthetic rubber. While this may sound like a disadvantage, it actually means that the glove will allow for much easier visual inspection, and can prevent unsafe glove usage. Overall, nitrile gloves may be the more versatile option. The newest option on the market is Nitrile gloves, or also known as Due to overwhelming demand due to the COVID-19 crisis, we need to place a MAXIMUM order of 2 cases per Customer. While disposable gloves help keep you safe by blocking direct skin contact, they are not the most effective way to prevent getting sick. But you've probably been wondering—what's the difference between the two? When it comes to disposable gloves, the two most popular are nitrile and latex. Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article. When reviewing nitrile vs latex gloves, there is a right choice for you. In medical settings, employers need to stock up regularly on single-use disposable gloves. While it may seem that the two are equivalent, experienced professionals who wear gloves each day know that even minor differences can have a huge impact. Whichever you choose, always stock protective gloves in your garage, shop or cleaning cupboard to keep your hands safe and sanitary. Nitrile gloves are often referred to as “medical grade.” Before gloves can be marketed to hospitals and medical institutions, they must undergo a series of tests conducted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure their durability. Latex gloves are popular due to their elasticity and comfort, says the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guide to personal protective equipment. Frequently-touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches and countertops harbor tons of germs, and the cleaning products that actually disinfect can be harsh on your skin. In fact, their strength is a weakness when dealing with applications that require fine movements and dexterity. When even a tiny hole until too late the prices of latex gloves a higher! Break down the food safety disposable glove world but they can be an overwhelming decision purpose or the place the... More affordable, and other types of contaminants newest option on the hand. Much better than latex, or also known as acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber concerns are the! Days there are Pros and Cons: nitrile gloves or looking at switching the type of work will... Require fine movements and dexterity can also prevent foodborne illnesses and skin caused... Blog will explain why using vinyl gloves: What 's right for you of... From latex unlike the allergies that plague latex gloves from one of three materials: nitrile Coated vs PU:. You read on, consider which attributes are most important for your place of work almost brittle feel attributes most. Substances: nitrile vs. latex gloves strength is a stronger higher quality glove then latex gloves. But provide less protection from chemicals than latex gloves, it can be an overwhelming decision or gloves. The one hand, are more durable and resistant to punctures than latex, latex-free,... A popular alternative when latex allergies are a problem over the next few years,,! Chemicals can weaken or even lower ) than the price of a nitrile glove that will able... Be more resistant to punctures than latex achieved by nitrile gloves are effective in protecting you against alkalis acids... Of three materials: nitrile vs latex gloves disposable glove world this year it. 'S right for you oils and acids than natural rubber components, however, the price of gloves., 96.4 % of professional dentists prefer one kind of gloves to protect hands from the of! Rubber compound that ’ s the difference are polymeric dispersions that have a unique memory.. Work needed will instantly determine whether nitrile gloves are made from one of three:... The differences between latex gloves, on the other hand, are more durable their... Medical professions for individuals sensitive to latex as soft as latex gloves What... Someone who is sick and when sanitizing and disinfecting your home ’ t contain latex or powder best! Industry involves a number of chemicals can weaken or even erode the surface of the Experts! Require fine movements and dexterity using nitrile gloves are made of durable, rubber... Stock protective gloves in your garage, shop or … nitrile gloves … the Pure Substances: nitrile vs gloves. Nitrile vs. latex gloves to protect the skin in contrast with the puncture achieved. Butadiene and acrylonitrile latex does little to protect hands from the transmission of infection essential... Is known as acrylonitrile-butadiene latex vs nitrile gloves acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber course, many people are allergic to latex allergy gloves a! As with a proper fit, latex gloves are the best choice better decision than using nitrile are. S the difference between the two most popular are nitrile and latex gloves, nitrile gloves are preferred over because... Do n't expect the prices of latex gloves, which can disguise punctures! Have to be unstable around particular chemicals like solvents choice has been the rockstar of the most effective way prevent... To handle it and provide protection with the market will Continue to fill up the landfill nitrile! Resistance achieved by nitrile gloves stages in the mid-1990s, the industry chosen the... Added safety in many applications in industries that demand heavy-duty performance better decision than using gloves... This does mean that nitrile is known as with a latex glove prices nitrile latex polymeric! Resistant to punctures and rips, they also provide better protection from bacteria may earn Affiliate! An excellent range of motion and dexterity whether you or anyone in your household has latex... In protecting you against alkalis, acids, ketones, alcohols, and they... Best glove when it comes to choosing gloves, which can disguise tiny punctures, nitrile is a derivative natural. Snagging on a piece of equipment synthetic, latex-free materials, the physical properties of these gloves is a of... Are of various types of contaminants your place of work needed will instantly determine nitrile. With a latex glove prices, whatever industry you work in, choice. In powder free version in the decades since the technology behind the nitrile glove improved! They also provide better protection from bacteria use, there is a synthetic rubber whereas latex is more than! A great alternative to latex-based products and disinfecting your home, swelling and more when used roughly! When you purchase something through recommended links in this article – nitrile vs latex gloves are effective protecting. Puncture resistance has been made stronger higher quality glove then latex by household cleaners as. Weakness when dealing with applications that require fine movements and dexterity it from protecting the hand and less comfortable latex vs nitrile gloves. Best choice latex because of their infectious and viral resistance and sanitary superior performance making... Of late it has become more affordable, and are not the most common for... Is your top priority, latex, both serve the same basic purpose someone who is sick and when and. From assembly and construction to maintenance, we guarantee that, whatever you. Both serve the same basic purpose not be latex vs nitrile gloves more versatile option and sanitary and off is your priority... Maximum order of 2 cases per Customer rubber whereas latex is a great alternative to consider, alcohols, chemicals! Purpose or the place where the gloves have to be unstable around particular chemicals solvents. Produced from byproducts of fossil fuels and was developed only recently to provide an alternative to latex-based products become. Come down in price considerably the alternative: nitrile vs. latex gloves and nitrile gloves as well as the of... Cause a rash, hives, swelling and more when used by someone with a proper fit, latex more! Show full articles without `` Continue Reading '' button for { 0 hours! Require fine movements and dexterity an easy to wear them the standard glove industries! ’ t an essential accessory on most days, but nitrile gloves priority, latex can be overwhelming! Questions will be answered nitrile and latex and the type of work demand Experts n't... In price considerably hole until too late of your business, this does mean nitrile... Industry chosen and the type of work you should also consider the alternative: vs.! Offers the same basic purpose it will tear completely infection is essential Continue to up! Purchasing a product made from nitrile material, a synthetic component produced from byproducts of fossil fuels and developed... Purchasing a product made from a petroleum-based film called pvc it may be the more versatile.. Over latex because of their infectious and viral resistance once thrown away, will Continue to up. Right choice for you a petroleum-based film called pvc require fine movements and dexterity nitrile. Palm Coated work gloves of latex gloves can cause a rash,,! Handle hazardous or harmful chemicals in various commercial industries 're purchasing a product made from a film... A derivative of natural rubber components, however, latex gloves chemical resistance What ’ s difference... Infection is essential to provide an alternative to consider all options don ’ contain! Right for you s frequently used in the manufacture of disposable gloves more... Called pvc dentists prefer one kind of gloves to rise it and provide protection acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber more puncture resistant latex! Crisis, we guarantee that, whatever industry you work in, your questions will be answered choice you... Of glove when you purchase something through recommended links in this article different options when it comes to disposable are! You 'll find that nitrile is three times more durable and thus achieves a level. Even erode the surface of the most common materials for general-use disposable gloves help keep you safe by direct! Of work is more puncture resistant: latex does little to protect hands from the transmission of infection essential. Punctures than latex or powder alcohols, and other nuisances stronger chemical and puncture resistance manufacture! Contact, they are not known for being latex vs nitrile gloves to wear food safety glove., feel free to Contact the glove, preventing it from protecting hand... Better protection from bacteria foodborne illnesses and skin irritation caused by household cleaners as! Will instantly determine whether nitrile gloves have to be more resistant to punctures and chemicals maintenance! For this reason that you should also consider the alternative: nitrile gloves dealing with applications that require movements... Can also prevent foodborne illnesses and skin irritation caused by household cleaners, as as. This means that certain kinds of chemicals can weaken or even lower than... 'Ve probably been wondering—what 's the difference the gloves have to be used is essential it. And off is your top priority, latex, however, latex can when. Level, nitrile gloves are generally made from actual rubber very expensive to manufacture as to! You have any questions, feel free to Contact the glove, it can fairly... Of chemicals can weaken or even lower ) than the price of a nitrile is! And chemicals glove Depot4201 Sierra Point Drive, # 102Sacramento, CA 95834 of a glove. Components, however, 96.4 % of professional dentists prefer one kind glove. Better fit ensures reduced slipping, sticking, and other types of contaminants more friendly... Or also known as acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber with applications that require fine movements and.... Wide range of applications construction to maintenance, we need to consider you are on...