Vinyl Gloves Vs. Nitrile Gloves?

Getting the right disposable work gloves is easy with JB Tools here to help you.

Vinyl gloves and nitrile gloves were developed as alternatives for latex gloves. It’s not that latex gloves aren’t good. For two decades, these disposable gloves were the leading protections against bloodborne pathogens. The widespread use of these gloves uncovered a problem, though. More and more healthcare workers and other people had allergic reactions to latex. This created a demand for latex-free disposable gloves and led to the creation of nitrile and vinyl gloves. Knowing the differences between these two gloves helps you decide which ones you need.

Vinyl Gloves

These disposable gloves are made from a petroleum-based film called PVC. These gloves are latex-free and offer a handful of helpful features that includes:

• A loose fit on the hands,
• A tendency to be cost effective, even when buying in bulk,
• And more anti-static properties to keep the gloves from sticking

While vinyl gloves have their benefits, there is something you need to know. These disposable gloves lack the elasticity of other gloves. When stretched, their protective barrier becomes permeable. This lets viruses and chemicals enter through the pores and come in contact with your hands. Because of this, these gloves are best suited for working with non-hazardous materials such as food-handling tasks.

Nitrile Gloves

Nitrile gloves are latex-free gloves that have been in use since the 1990s. These disposable gloves offer a variety of benefits that include:

• A tight fit on the hands,
• A resistance to punctures and tears,
• Are very protective against viruses,
• And can be worn for long periods of time

Do you work in a medical environment that puts you at risk for infection if you’re not properly protected? If so, then nitrile gloves are your choice for protective handwear. The same goes for anyone working with potentially hazardous and corrosive chemicals. There’s just one thing to keep in mind when it comes to these disposable gloves. They tend to cost more than vinyl and latex gloves. You can’t put a price on safety, however, which makes nitrile gloves a worthwhile investment.

Chemical-Resistant Gloves, Exam Gloves, and More

JB Tools what you need. Search our online inventory for latex, nitrile, and vinyl gloves. You’ll find a variety of sizes, counts, and top-name brands that includes Derma-Lite, Microflex, and Red Lightning. We’re proud to carry the biggest selection of  disposable gloves online. This, plus our free shipping on most orders, makes us the best place to buy disposable work gloves.