What Is The Difference Between Vinyl Gloves and Latex Gloves?
Although various disposable gloves look the same, they are not interchangeable. Depending on the disposable gloves you choose, two sets of gloves may be made from different materials. To determine which glove would best suit your needs and preferences, there are some pros and cons you should consider to help narrow down your choice. Let’s have a look at the difference between latex and vinyl gloves.
Latex Gloves
Since the late 1800s, when William Steward Halsted first developed latex gloves, they have been protecting surgeons and others in a variety of settings. Made from a rubber tree sap, natural rubber latex has long been the traditional material used in disposable medical exam gloves. Latex gloves combine the right balance of flexibility and agility for those working in medical or industrial environments. Said to fit like a second skin, latex gloves offer users protection against chemical and other hazardous contaminants, including infections. Thanks to the lightly powdered inside of the latex gloves, they can easily pull on and off. If you don’t have an allergy to latex, they are an excellent option for personal protection as long as you won’t be handling any petroleum-based products.
Pros
- Naturally derives from a rubber tree plant
- Biodegradable
- Fits like a second skin
- Reliable protection against contamination and chemicals
Cons
- Known to cause allergic reactions for some
- Doesn’t protect against petroleum-based products
- Low puncture resistance
- Depending on the cost of natural rubber, prices can fluctuate
Vinyl Gloves
Disposable vinyl gloves were the first synthetic rubber disposable glove available on the market. They were created as an alternative to latex gloves, which were causing allergic reactions for some people. Due to vinyl gloves’ look and feel, they are not suitable for working in industries that require high precision. A less durable and looser-fitting option to latex gloves, vinyl gloves are commonly used in janitorial or food preparation industries. Vinyl gloves are also the right choice for painters or those handling hazardous materials because of their basic protection capacity.
Pros:
- Great alternative if you have latex allergies
- Low cost
- Synthetic polymer
Cons:
- Not biodegradable
- Loose-fitting
- Barely any protection against hazardous materials and chemicals
It’s essential to use the right disposable gloves based on where and how you will use them. Looking for affordability and durability isn’t always the best option. Consider allergies and the level of protection as well. If you need help determining which option would work best for you, contact the team at iPromo. We offer a wide variety of disposable gloves in bulk and other personal protective equipment to suit all your needs.
More Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between nitrile gloves and vinyl gloves?
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