In this new Covid-19 world, a lot of people, companies, and healthcare providers are stocking up on gloves to use while working or running an errand, like going to the grocery store, protect themselves from the virus. There are three types of gloves that people use, latex, nitrile, and vinyl, to protect them selves from Covid-19. In this article I will describe the differences between latex, nitrile, and vinyl and what situation each is used for.
Latex Gloves:
Why Latex?
- 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 and strong
- Are biodegradable
Latex gloves are natural material, made out of rubber. They are the most popular type of glove used in the medical field as they are preferred by healthcare providers, since they provide the best service when it comes to elasticity, comfort and fit. Latex gloves are also considered to offer the best protection against bacteria and viruses. The major reason people decide to not use latex gloves is because many people suffer from latex allergies. When allergy is not a concern, latex does have a slight advantage with comfort and dexterity over nitrile gloves.
Nitrile Gloves:
Why Nitrile?
- Latex-free
Are most puncture resistant
- Have a high level of sensitivity
- Mold to your hand for a great fit
- Are good for wearing an extended amount of time
- Work well for high-risk situations involving infectious material
- Resist many chemicals
- Have a long shelf life
- Are available in blue or black to help identify if the glove has been punctured
Nitrile gloves are made out of a synthetic rubber, and are an ideal alternative when latex allergies are of concern. These gloves best resemble the stretchy feel of latex gloves. Nitrile gloves are high end gloves that are highly durable and puncture resistant. 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. Once approved by the FDA, these gloves are superior when it comes to puncture resistance.
Vinyl Gloves:
Why Vinyl?
- Latex-free
- Have a looser fit
- Are good for short-term, low-risk tasks
- Are the most economic option
- Have anti-static properties
- Are best for use with non-hazardous materials
- Are lightly powdered to make it easier to put on
Vinyl gloves are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and are usually the cheapest latex-free glove. They are a popular choice for the food industry and situations where high levels of durability and protection are less of a priority. Vinyl gloves are the least expensive option, but they also offer the least protection and durability.
Final Thoughts:
In this new world of Covid, the best type of glove stock up on for your company or organization are nitrile gloves. The reason for this is because many people do have a latex allergy, so if you were to stock up on a certain type of glove for all the people in your company to use, it would be nitrile, to avoid any allergy problems. As far as vinyl gloves, they are great in the food industry and other low risk situations, but not the best when trying to protect yourself from touching infectious germs leading to getting the coronavirus. CAG Federal currently provides its clients with Nitrile Gloves. Please call today at 877-797-8776 to discuss your current needs on all PPE products.