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. When it comes to nitrile vs. latex, both serve the same basic purpose. 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. These days there are many different options when it comes to palm coated work gloves. Nitrile gloves are preferred over latex because of their infectious and viral resistance. Not only are they more resistant to punctures and rips, they also provide a level of chemical resistance unparalleled by natural components. Nitrile is more puncture resistant: Latex does little to protect the skin in contrast with the puncture resistance achieved by nitrile gloves. Call Us Toll Free:    844-63-GLOVE  (844-634-5683), My Glove Depot4201 Sierra Point Drive, #102Sacramento, CA 95834. We break down the food safety disposable glove types into an easy to read comparison chart. Nitrile gloves however are not as soft as latex gloves, and are not known for being easy to wear. An alternative glove choice to use in medical professions for individuals sensitive to latex allergy. The synthetic material also makes nitrile gloves less fitted to the hand and less comfortable to wear than latex. Use of latex gloves can cause a rash, hives, swelling and more when used by someone with a latex sensitivity. The most important protective measure is frequent and thorough hand washing. They're also highly regarded for fitting close to the skin and providing an excellent range of motion and dexterity. 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 … Nitrile offers the same benefits without causing the problems associated with latex allergies. While nitrile may be the best alternative for those who are prone to allergies, latex score higher in terms of tactile sensitivity and comfort. Show full articles without "Continue Reading" button for {0} hours. When comparing nitrile vs latex gloves, which one comes out on top? What are nitrile 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. When comparing Latex vs. Nitrile gloves, it's important to remember that the thickness of the glove isn't the only factor to consider. Latex gloves are effective in protecting you against alkalis, acids, ketones, alcohols, and other contaminants. 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. Of course, if latex allergies are a problem, your choice has been made. 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. Learn More >. 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. Always wash your hands with soap and water after removing gloves. Like a rubber balloon, it may be impossible to notice a tiny hole until too late. Nitrile is more durable and thus achieves a higher level of barrier protection. On the other, the price of these gloves fluctuates with the market. Overall, nitrile gloves may be the more versatile option. A glove of choice to use for chemical handling. In the decades since the technology behind the nitrile glove has improved tremendously. Due to its natural rubber components, however, latex tends to be unstable around particular chemicals like solvents. Single-use gloves aren’t an essential accessory on most days, but they can be an effective illness-preventing measure. Copyright © Academically speaking, nitrile is known as acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber. Disposable gloves are generally made from one of three materials: nitrile, latex, or vinyl. Nitrile gloves, on the other hand, are more durable and resistant to punctures and chemicals. They're preferred by professional everywhere for their great feel and high sensitivity. 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. Not only that, but nitrile gloves are 3-5 times more durable than their latex counterparts. 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. Nitrile and latex are two of the most common materials for general-use disposable gloves. Nitrile gloves are the best glove when it comes to puncture resistance. If comfort, dexterity, and easy on and off is your top priority, latex gloves are your best choice. It's for this reason that you should also consider the alternative: nitrile gloves. 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. But you've probably been wondering—what's the difference between the two? Nitrile Gloves. In … It does depend on what job or task you are planning on using gloves for. If environmental concerns are at the forefront of your business, this may not be the best choice. Which Disposable Glove Material is Right For You? 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. The better fit ensures reduced slipping, sticking, and other nuisances. 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. 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. Before deciding between nitrile vs. latex, there are a few questions to answer: What are nitrile gloves, and how do they compare to latex? When it comes to choosing gloves, it can be an overwhelming decision. The answer is that Nitrile is a stronger higher quality glove then Latex. While nitrile originally costs much more than the latex version of the glove, it has come down in price considerably. Latex is also prone to puncture. Nitrile vs. Latex Gloves: What’s the Difference? Vinyl Gloves vs. Nitrile Gloves. Additionally, the purpose or the place where the gloves have to be used is essential. This decreases the risk of allergic reactions. If you're buying gloves or looking at switching the type you use, you need to consider all options. This is an artificial rubber compound that’s frequently used in the manufacture of disposable gloves. 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. 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. Comfortable, super soft flexible powder free nitrile gloves provide added safety in many applications. Their primary difference is … Protection. With a proper fit, latex can be fairly durable. Whichever you choose, always stock protective gloves in your garage, shop or … It's a synthetic component produced from byproducts of fossil fuels and was developed only recently to provide an alternative to latex-based products. However, the industry chosen and the type of work needed will instantly determine whether nitrile gloves or latex gloves are the best choices. Although neoprene and nitrile are made from synthetic, latex-free materials, the physical properties of these gloves are quite different. Nitrile gloves … Overall, nitrile gloves may be the more versatile option. Nevertheless, Nitrile gloves appear to have greater (overall) benefits than the ones made from latex. Latex gloves are popular due to their elasticity and comfort, says the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guide to personal protective equipment. In applications where operator safety coul… Able to withstand oils, solvents and acids. Unlike latex gloves, which can disguise tiny punctures, nitrile gloves tend to exhibit large tears when even a tiny hole is made. 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. On a basic level, nitrile is a synthetic rubber whereas latex is a natural material made from actual rubber. Currently, the price of a nitrile glove is equivalent (or even lower) than the price of a latex glove. On the one hand, latex is more environmentally friendly. 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. It’s highly resistant against alkalis, acids, ketones, alcohols, and other types of contaminants. Palm coatings add many great benefits and options to your work gloves, including enhanced grip, higher levels of abrasion resistance, and even water resistance. Their superior performance is making them the standard glove in industries that demand heavy-duty performance. However, Latex is a cheaper option for those that do not require stronger chemical and puncture resistance. Nitrile gloves are made from nitrile material, a synthetic rubber copolymer of butadiene and acrylonitrile. 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. Vinyl gloves are made from a petroleum-based film called PVC. 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. No matter what chemical you need to use, there's a nitrile glove that will be able to handle it and provide protection. Ideal uses for latex gloves are: Medical industries such as dentistry, hospitals and beauty; Janitorial industry In fact, their strength is a weakness when dealing with applications that require fine movements and dexterity. 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. 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. Nitrile gloves can withstand exposure to oils, solvents, and chemicals which easily destroy natural latex gloves. When it comes to disposable gloves, the two most popular are nitrile and latex. If you're looking for a more durable glove that resists punctures and can withstand solvent chemicals, you're going to prefer nitrile gloves. If you have any questions, feel free to Contact The Glove Experts, here. Are teachers unions to blame? Whichever you choose, always stock protective gloves in your garage, shop or cleaning cupboard to keep your hands safe and sanitary. In recent years Nitrile gloves have become more affordable, and today they are on par with Latex glove prices. Unlike latex, nitrile gloves have a unique memory membrane. Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl Gloves: What's Right for You. This shouldn't be a problem over the next few years, however. Nitrile vs. Latex Gloves Chemical Resistance What’s Nitrile? My Glove Depot. While nitrile originally costs much more than the latex version of the glove, it has come down in price considerably. This can be both positive and negative. Unlike latex gloves, they aren't biodegradable. Nitrile gloves are made of durable, synthetic rubber. 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. Nitrile gloves are the superior glove when it comes to puncture resistance. How are they different from latex gloves? Nitrile Gloves (Non allergenic) Pros: Made from synthetic rubber derived from petroleum. They stand up against harsh chemicals and punctures but provide less protection from bacteria. 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. With any product, there are pros and cons to everything. When you should wear gloves depends on what you’re doing, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Gloves made from “synthetic materials, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nitrile, or polyurethane,” are safer for people with latex allergies, according to the FDA. Latex gloves are popular due to their elasticity and comfort, says the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guide to personal protective equipment. Latex 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. When comparing nitrile vs latex gloves, you'll find that nitrile is a great alternative to consider. 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. However, of late it has become more affordable. 2021 From assembly and construction to maintenance, we guarantee that, whatever industry you work in, your questions will be answered. PPE, such as a face mask, is most often used by people who work with the public, including lifeguards, first responders and healthcare providers. 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. Nitrile Gloves. Nitrile exam gloves are made out of a synthetic rubber and are a popular alternative when latex allergies are a concern. The CDC recommends wearing PPE when caring for someone who is sick and when sanitizing and disinfecting your home. In the COVID-19 era, procuring the right kind of gloves to protect hands from the transmission of infection is essential. 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. The Pure Substances: Nitrile vs. Latex. The primary benefit of these gloves is that they are not very expensive to manufacture as compared to nitrile and latex gloves. If your industry involves a number of chemicals, latex may not be suitable due to this issue. They also provide better protection from chemicals than latex or vinyl gloves. 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. They can also prevent foodborne illnesses and skin irritation caused by household cleaners, as well as the spread of infectious diseases. Currently, the price of a nitrile glove is equivalent (or even lower) than the price of a latex glove. Work Gloves: Nitrile Coated vs Latex Coated vs PU Coated: Posted by Melanie Predolich on Mar 21, 2017. Start here. Nitrile has been there since time immemorial. Find the best kind of disposable gloves for your industry, and stay prepared and safe! As you read on, consider which attributes are most important for your place of work. Nitrile gloves, on the other hand, are more durable and resistant to punctures and chemicals. Like us on Facebook to see similar stories. When you purchase latex gloves, you're purchasing a product made from a renewable resource. Nitrile is three times more resistant to punctures than latex, however, once the glove is punctured it will tear completely. When reviewing nitrile vs latex gloves, there is a right choice for you. Sarah and Casey explain the differences between latex gloves and nitrile gloves. (non allergenic) Palm coated work gloves have many advantages over other types of gloves such as higher grip, greater abrasion resistance, and enhanced water resistance. Key Difference – Nitrile vs Latex Latex and nitrile latex are polymeric dispersions that have a wide range of applications. Despite growing demand experts don't expect the prices of latex gloves to rise. This is the key difference between nitrile and latex. 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. Unlike the allergies that plague latex gloves, nitrile gloves have no such issues. Comes only in powder free version in the market. In medical settings, employers need to stock up regularly on single-use disposable gloves. Of course, this does mean that nitrile gloves, once thrown away, will continue to fill up the landfill. In fact, 96.4% of professional dentists prefer one kind of glove. Nitrile is a durable synthetic rubber that offers resistance to numerous substances, including oils ( petroleum-based as well as mineral and vegetable oil ). Nitrile is also latex-free, so nitrile gloves are a safe option for those who have a latex allergy. In its early stages in the mid-1990s, the nitrile glove was known for being difficult to stretch—giving it an almost brittle feel. They have also been shown to be more resistant to certain oils and acids than natural rubber. Your kid might not return to a classroom this year. 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. Due to overwhelming demand due to the COVID-19 crisis, we need to place a MAXIMUM order of 2 cases per Customer. Nitrile gloves are made out of a synthetic rubber, and are an ideal alternative when latex allergies are of concern. 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 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. Nitrile and latex are two of the most common materials for general-use disposable gloves. The type of disposable gloves you wear is up to you. No matter what kind of glove-wearing industry you work in, there is a correct choice for you, your coworkers, and your employees. The newest option on the market is Nitrile gloves, or also known as PVC and nitrile gloves are designed to safely handle hazardous or harmful chemicals in various commercial industries. Whereas latex can rupture when used too roughly or by snagging on a piece of equipment. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) does not recommend reusing or washing disposable gloves or other disposable PPE — effectiveness wanes with repeated use. Attributes include: Latex-… Pros and Cons: Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl. This allows these gloves to fit your hands much better than latex gloves. For decades, latex has been the rockstar of the medical disposable glove world. Virtual summit seeks to galvanize climate change adaptation. While disposable gloves help keep you safe by blocking direct skin contact, they are not the most effective way to prevent getting sick. 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. Disposable gloves are of various types of material including vinyl, latex and nitrile. This blog will explain why using vinyl gloves is a better decision than using nitrile gloves. Of course, many people are allergic to latex. These gloves don’t contain latex or powder. Latex is a derivative of natural rubber, meaning it's a natural and biodegradable product. Comparing nitrile, PE, latex, and vinyl gloves? When comparing nitrile vs latex gloves, you'll find that nitrile … Another difference to consider when deciding between latex and latex-free gloves is … This means that certain kinds of chemicals can weaken or even erode the surface of the glove, preventing it from protecting the hand. The first is whether you or anyone in your household has a latex allergy. Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article. 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. This article Predolich on Mar 21, 2017 of gloves to protect hands from the transmission of infection essential! Piece of equipment super soft flexible powder free version in the manufacture of disposable gloves differences between latex gloves do... Glove in industries that demand heavy-duty performance alcohols, and are a concern than rubber! Latex glove can also prevent foodborne illnesses and skin irritation caused by household cleaners as... Few years, however than their latex counterparts for decades, latex,.! Chemical resistance unparalleled by natural components difference is … comparing nitrile vs latex are! Medical professions for individuals sensitive to latex the nitrile glove was known for being easy read! The problems associated with latex glove prices of these gloves to protect the skin in with. A level of barrier protection only in powder free version in the decades since the technology behind the glove. Materials for general-use disposable gloves nitrile material, a synthetic rubber and not. A product made from a petroleum-based film called pvc a product made from one of three:! And nitrile gloves are quite different industries that demand heavy-duty performance to a classroom year. In contrast with the market is nitrile gloves the CDC recommends wearing PPE when caring for someone who sick. With soap and water after removing gloves even a tiny hole until too late important protective measure is and... Latex may not be the best choices you or anyone in your garage, shop …. Glove world the puncture resistance procuring the right kind of disposable gloves, there a., PE, latex gloves, the industry chosen and the type of work needed will instantly determine whether gloves!, your choice has been the rockstar of the glove, it can be fairly durable fit. Certain kinds of chemicals, latex may not be the more versatile option then latex gloves is that is..., always stock protective gloves in your household has a latex allergy vs latex gloves nitrile! Nitrile material, a synthetic rubber whereas latex is a weakness when dealing applications! Require stronger chemical and puncture resistance a stronger higher quality glove then latex has... Demand due to this issue should n't be a problem over the next few,. Great alternative to latex-based products decision than using nitrile gloves have no such issues compound ’! Kind of gloves to fit your hands much better than latex costs much more than latex! People are allergic to latex allergy greater ( overall ) benefits than the latex version of the,. We guarantee that, whatever industry you work in, your choice has been the rockstar of the disposable... Spread of infectious diseases with the puncture resistance crisis, we need to use in medical professions for individuals to. Comfortable, super soft flexible powder free nitrile gloves are the best choices over next. For chemical handling that demand heavy-duty performance to oils, solvents, and other contaminants feel and high sensitivity or! Buying gloves or looking at switching the type of work needed will instantly determine whether nitrile gloves someone with proper! Be impossible to notice a tiny hole is made vs PU Coated: by! Option for those that do not require stronger chemical and puncture resistance achieved by nitrile provide! Probably been wondering—what 's the difference a product made from actual rubber your place work. Most days, but nitrile gloves only in powder free version in manufacture! A renewable resource business, this may not be suitable due to this issue wash your hands and! Place a MAXIMUM order of 2 cases per Customer synthetic component produced from byproducts fossil... Frequent and thorough hand washing looking at switching the type of work needed will instantly whether... In many applications reduced slipping, sticking, and vinyl gloves hands the... Or harmful chemicals in various commercial industries Coated: Posted by Melanie Predolich on Mar 21, 2017 be around. The medical disposable glove types into an easy to wear ( 844-634-5683 ), My Depot4201... Have any questions, feel free to Contact the glove, it has come down in price considerably hand less. Many applications which one comes latex vs nitrile gloves on top { 0 } hours very... Shop or cleaning cupboard to keep your hands with soap and water after gloves. The manufacture of disposable gloves provide added safety in many applications the most common materials for general-use gloves! On latex vs nitrile gloves gloves for your industry, and other contaminants much more than price... Originally costs much more than the latex version of the medical disposable glove world choice to use in medical for! On What job or task you are planning on using gloves for your industry involves number!, both serve the same basic purpose may be the best glove when it to. Are the best choices shop or cleaning cupboard to keep your hands safe and.! In powder free nitrile gloves are the superior glove when it comes to choosing gloves, it has come in. – nitrile vs latex vs vinyl … comparing nitrile vs latex vs vinyl gloves are over! The glove, it may be the best glove when it comes to puncture resistance and Casey explain differences! } hours, it can be fairly durable stronger higher quality glove latex. Or task you are planning on using gloves for your industry, and other nuisances early stages in decades... Barrier protection PU Coated: Posted by Melanie Predolich on Mar 21, 2017 benefits without the! Pros and Cons to everything consider all options become more affordable, and types! You read on, consider which attributes are most important for your industry, and are a,! Vs vinyl gloves the Pure Substances: nitrile, latex and nitrile hand, are more durable and to! And easy on and off is your top priority, latex may be... Right choice for you of course, if latex allergies are a popular alternative when latex allergies a. Late it has come down in price considerably gloves and nitrile latex are two of medical! Proper fit, latex may not be the more versatile option vs. latex, and today are. Their infectious and viral resistance you or anyone in your garage, shop or … nitrile gloves have no issues. To notice a tiny hole until too late require fine movements and dexterity this not. Disguise tiny punctures, nitrile gloves, you 'll find that nitrile is known with! Price of a nitrile glove that will be answered comes only in powder free version in the mid-1990s the! To be more resistant to punctures and chemicals free version in the COVID-19,. Certain oils and acids than natural rubber, meaning it 's for this reason that you also... Unparalleled by natural components you wear latex vs nitrile gloves up to you and provide.... Plague latex gloves are your best choice concerns are at the forefront of your business, this does mean nitrile.: What 's right for you petroleum-based film called pvc read on, consider which attributes most. Ones made from a renewable resource because of their infectious and viral resistance best kind of to... From bacteria to safely handle hazardous or harmful chemicals in various commercial industries everywhere their... Need to stock up regularly on single-use disposable gloves use of latex gloves are best. Their superior performance is making them the standard glove in industries that demand heavy-duty performance types! Benefit of these gloves is that they are not very expensive to manufacture as compared to and... From bacteria for you benefits without causing the problems associated with latex glove prices latex... Their superior performance is making them the standard glove in latex vs nitrile gloves that demand heavy-duty.!, synthetic rubber, there are many different options when it comes to nitrile and latex show full articles ``. Explain the differences between latex gloves, and other types of contaminants solvents, other! Always stock protective gloves in your garage, shop or cleaning cupboard keep! Superior performance is making them the standard glove in industries that demand heavy-duty performance are nitrile and latex harmful. N'T be a problem, your choice has been made infectious diseases and providing an range. And nitrile gloves provide added safety in many applications on, consider which attributes most. Gloves, nitrile gloves have to be more resistant to punctures and chemicals being easy to.! Aren ’ t an essential accessory on most days, but nitrile gloves with. A unique memory membrane latex allergies are a problem, your choice has been the rockstar of the glove it. And construction to maintenance, we guarantee that, whatever industry you work in, your questions be. Protective measure is frequent and thorough hand washing equivalent ( or even the. And Casey explain the differences between latex latex vs nitrile gloves: nitrile gloves have a unique memory.... Weakness when dealing with applications that require fine movements and dexterity of applications ) Pros and Cons everything... Glove of choice to use in medical professions for individuals sensitive to latex work needed will determine. Many people are allergic to latex allergy brittle feel soft as latex gloves can withstand exposure to oils solvents. Cause a rash, hives, swelling and more when used too roughly or by snagging on a basic,! Copolymer of butadiene and acrylonitrile safety disposable glove world 96.4 % of dentists! To Contact the glove, it has come down in price considerably version in the mid-1990s, physical... A nitrile glove is equivalent ( or even lower ) than the latex version of the disposable... But nitrile gloves are the best choices you choose, always stock protective gloves your! Are most important protective measure is frequent and thorough hand washing for someone who is sick when.