Deciding which glove is best for you can be a real headache – however it is important to know the differences, as each style has properties that make them uniquely suited to different tasks. Particularly in the medical field, choosing the right style of glove is critical for your staff, as well as your budget – therefore we have picked out the 3 most popular styles of gloves used in the medical industry to help you decide which is best for you!
Vinyl Gloves
Vinyl gloves are made from PVC, a petroleum-based film. Being the cheapest option out of the three, these gloves provide adequate protection where high levels of durability and protection are less of a priority. Commonly used in non-hazardous and low infection based environments, vinyl gloves are popular in the food industry. However, these gloves offer limited protection against chemical or biomedical exposure. The gloves are loosely fitted, susceptible to punctures and the least durable glove option. Conversely, vinyl gloves are comfortable and the most economical and cost-effective option.
Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile gloves are a synthetic rubber based glove similar to latex gloves. They are commonly referred to as “medical grade” gloves and are a good alternative where latex allergies are of concern. Commonly used in medical, cosmetic, janitorial, and automotive industries, nitrile gloves are the most puncture resistant of the glove offerings and are long lasting and durable in nature. Being synthetic in nature, nitrile gloves can be worn for long periods of time and have a long shelf life. The gloves mould to the person’s hand and provide a close fit. However, the gloves do not fit as tightly as latex gloves. Nevertheless, nitrile gloves provide a barrier and protection against many chemical and petroleum based products. Intrinsically, the gloves are expensive to manufacture and therefore expensive to buy, making them the least cost effective option of the three. Additionally, the gloves are non-biodegradable making them a non-ecological option for certain consumers.
Latex Gloves
Latex gloves are a natural based glove made from rubber. The glove exhibits a “second skin” like qualities and allows for a good fit and excellent dexterity and comfort. Commonly used in medical, janitorial, automotive and industrial based industries, latex gloves have become a trusted and popular option in the healthcare industry, particularly being the preferred option amongst surgeons. Latex gloves provide a barrier and protection against bacteria, viruses and some chemicals and are of a high strength level due to their elasticity. Despite their thinness, the gloves provide the highest level of touch and tactile sensitivity out of the three gloves. However, they possess a lower resistance to punctures and a lower chemical resistance. Being made out of natural material, latex gloves are biodegradable making them an ecological option that is cost effective. Unfortunately, as latex allergies emerge worldwide, consumers are seeking synthetic alternatives such as nitrile and vinyl disposable gloves.
We hope you are well informed now to make a decision on which style of gloves suits you and your facility best! Feel free to give us a call if you would like any more information.