With so many disposable gloves to choose from, sometimes it can be difficult to determine which product is right for you. One common dilemma is whether to use nitrile or latex disposable gloves – how do you choose?
Nitrile vs Latex: Which Disposable Gloves Are Right For You?
With so many disposable gloves to choose from, sometimes it can be difficult to determine which product is right for you. One common dilemma is whether to use nitrile or latex disposable gloves – how do you choose?
Latex disposable gloves have been used for many years within a broad range of industries including medical and laboratory environments. However, the prevalence of latex allergies within both the medical profession and the wider population led to the development of synthetic allergy-free alternatives such as nitrile. It would therefore seem logical to abandon troublesome latex in favour of these fantastic new materials – but it’s not quite that simple.
As always, there are pros and cons to using each of the materials – some of which are outlined below.
Latex gloves offer fantastic sensitivity and dexterity making them the number one choice for small-scale activities – sterile latex gloves are still commonly used during surgical procedures, and low-grade latex gloves are popular for amateur decorating and DIY. They have greater elasticity than nitrile, and cost less to purchase. However, the strong smell and the allergy issues attributed with the natural rubber latex sometimes outweigh the relative benefits of the gloves.
Nitrile gloves are manufactured from a synthetic material making allergic reactions highly unlikely. Whilst still maintaining good dexterity, nitrile gloves boast greater tensile strength than their latex counterparts. They’re easier to don, tend to last longer and are more resistant to cuts, tears and mild chemicals. On the downside, they tend to be more expensive than latex. Nitrile gloves are often used in medical and laboratory environments in which latex allergies may pose an issue. They are also popular for mechanical and automotive applications in which strength and general purpose barrier protection is required.
Essentially, the decision on which glove is the right choice often hinges on a combination of 3 key factors: usage, allergies and cost. It’s often the act of determining which of these factors is of most importance to you that leads to a decision on which glove to purchase. However, if you’re still unsure as to which product to choose, our Sales Team will be more than happy to help.
10/01/2013
