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Latex or Nitrile Gloves?

Latex or Nitrile Gloves?

Posted by Splitboxes Australia on 11th Apr 2019

Latex or Nitrile Gloves?

Many people get a little confused trying to determine which type of gloves is the ideal choice especially when deciding between latex and nitrile gloves. Let’s take a look at the attributes and benefits of these gloves.

Latex:

Latex gloves are made of material originating from the latex ducts of rubber trees. They are a popular choice of protective glove for medical or industrial use. The draw backs to natural rubber latex are that some individuals are highly allergic to latex gloves and latex allergies are more likely to develop with the use of latex gloves, if the gloves are not properly washed and processed. Another, drawback is that latex gloves are not as chemical resistant as nitrile gloves.

Attributes include:

  • Fit like a second skin
  • Have a high level of touch sensitivity
  • Are good for wearing for an extended amount of time
  • Work well for high-risk situations involving infectious material
  • Are cost-effective
  • Are lightly powdered, making it easier to put on
  • Are very elastic 


Nitrile:

Nitrile is a synthetic polymer that has many natural rubber latex characteristics. The biggest plus of nitrile gloves are that they are free of any latex proteins. Nitrile gloves provide better chemical and biohazard protection compared to latex gloves. Also, nitrile gloves are more resistant to punctures and tears compared to natural latex. Being a synthetic material, nitrile has a longer shelf life than natural rubber.

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.

Attributes include:

  • Latex-free
  • Are most puncture resistant
  • Have a high level of sensitivity
  • Mold to your hand for a great fit
  • Are very good for wearing an extended amount of time
  • Work very well for high-risk situations involving infectious material
  • Resist many chemicals
  • Have a long shelf life