Nitrile vs Latex Disposable Gloves: Which Is Best?

Disposable gloves are used in countless industries, some of which include medical, food production and even electrical engineering. They provide a liquid-proof covering for workers' hands. While most disposable gloves feature a similar appearance, they are often made of different materials. The two most common materials used for disposable gloves include nitrile and latex. So, what's the difference between nitrile and latex disposable gloves, and which type should you choose?

Comparison of Nitrile to Latex Gloves

Nitrile gloves are comprised of synthetic rubber. Latex gloves, on the other hand, are comprised of naturally occurring rubber. Certain types of plants contain rubber. These plants are harvested for their rubber, which is then used to make latex for products such as disposable gloves.

Benefits of Nitrile Gloves

Nitrile gloves are a popular choice among workers with skin allergies. Research shows that about 20% of the U.S. population suffers from a skin allergy. A skin allergy involves an adverse bodily reaction to a substance that's otherwise harmless. Some people are allergic to pollen. Others are allergic to latex. If you're allergic to latex, you may want to choose nitrile gloves so that you don't break out in hives when wearing them.

There's no powdery residue on nitrile gloves. Latex gloves are typically packed in powder. Most of them are packed in a starch-based powder that, unfortunately, leaves a residue behind. While the powder is harmless, many workers prefer to avoid getting it on their hands. Nitrile gloves don't contain powder, so this isn't a problem when wearing them.

Benefits of Latex Gloves

There are still reasons to choose latex gloves. When compared to nitrile gloves, latex gloves are more flexible. You can bend and stretch latex gloves without damaging them. They offer a superior level of elasticity when compared to nitrile gloves.

Latex gloves are also extremely comfortable. Aside from being elastic, they are soft and gentle on the skin. As long as you don't suffer from a skin allergy, you can comfortably wear latex gloves for long periods.

Latex gloves have been around for many decades, so you can rest assured knowing that they work. When worn, they'll create a protective barrier over your hands that prevents the intrusion of liquids and other potentially harmful substances. Nitrile gloves can protect your hands as well, but they aren't as durable as their latex counterparts. Hopefully, this gives you a better idea of how nitrile and latex disposable gloves differ from each other.