What Are Latex Gloves? – Your Buying Guide | Easygloves

Today, we want to offer a comprehensive buying guide for anyone wondering &#;&#;what are latex gloves?&#;&#;.

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With so many options on the market, we completely understand the confusion you may feel. If you are looking to purchase a high volume of gloves, because you work in the commercial sector, this can be even more confusing. 

Latex gloves are a fantastic choice for a range of buyers. They offer good levels of protection and can often be sourced at a reasonable price (More on this later). There are, however, a few things to consider before purchasing. 

Like any gloves, the latex variety has strengths and a few downsides to consider. We are going to explore these in full below, so you have the correct information to inform your next buying decision. 

Continue below where we outline what, exactly, latex gloves are and who they may, or may not, be suitable for. 

How Are They Made? 

So, if you are totally new to the disposable glove market you may be wondering: what are latex gloves?

Here at Easygloves, as a leading manufacturer and supplier of gloves, we get this question a lot. Customers approach us asking what they are, and more importantly how they differ from other options on the market. Before we go into further detail, we want to explain what this glove consists of and how it is made. 

When considering latex, there are two options. Natural latex gloves are made from the sap of a rubber tree. When the bark of this kind of tree is shaved, an oozy white liquid is released which, later on, is manipulated to create this type of glove. 

Natural latex is robust, flexible and highly versatile. Moreover, it can provide good levels of protection in a range of environments. The downside is that a percentage of the population are susceptible to allergic reactions from latex, which can make this type of glove unusable for some people. 

This is where synthetic latex comes in handy. This is a synthetic substitute which is prepared with chemicals. Whilst it has many of the same properties of natural latex, it is suitable for those with latex allergies.

In both cases, the gloves are chemically treated and altered to improve strength and elasticity. Depending on the specific finish, the glove may undergo further processing. Powered gloves, for example, are treated with a starched powder which absorbs sweat and improves dexterity. 

We hope anyone who wondered &#;&#;what are latex gloves&#;&#; now has a better understanding. Continue on to read about our detailed insight on the key differences between this type of glove and others. 

Latex Gloves Price

When deciding on the type of glove that is required, many people will use price as a benchmark. This is especially true if you are buying in volume, as more expensive gloves, naturally, can add up. 

Whilst there are cheaper alternatives on the market, such as vinyl gloves, the price of latex gloves is reasonable. This is especially true if you consider the wide range of tasks for which they are suitable. 

They offer high levels of protection against microorganisms and bacteria, which makes them popular amongst the medical community. You will also find the use of latex gloves in other industries, such as food preparation, forensics and the cosmetic industry. They don&#;t, however, offer fantastic levels of protection against chemicals. This is something to consider.

Buying Nitrile Gloves vs Buying Latex Gloves

Buying nitrile gloves as opposed to buying latex gloves may be confusing, as their benefits overlap. 

There are a few distinct differences however. On the whole, nitrile gloves offer greater levels of durability and protection against chemicals. They are also, similarly, microbial resistant. Lastly, they are made from synthetic materials so can be used by those with latex allergies. 

Latex does, however, tend to offer greater dexterity and is priced more competitively. Nitrile gloves are expensive, so buying in volume, for an entire workforce, may not be feasible. It all depends on the task at hand. If chemical resistance and a higher quality glove is the requirement, latex may be unsuitable. 

A Quick Recap

As with any purchasing decision, context is important. To quickly recap, latex gloves are a phenomenal choice in a range of settings. They offer great levels of bacterial and viral resistance, are cost effective compared to other options and provide decent levels of protection against puncturing materials. 

However, an option such as nitrile will provide a better quality, stronger glove generally. If you are dealing with puncturing hazards, or strong chemicals, nitrile gloves may be more suitable, if you are willing to pay more. If you are interested in nitrile gloves and would like to learn more, we have a wealth of resources in our blog section. Our guide to buying nitrile gloves, for example, offers an excellent insight into this type of glove.

Also, those with allergies to latex may have to consider the possibility of other options. If you are supplying gloves to an entire workforce, for example, it may be encouraged to supply a selection of latex and nitrile. This will avoid any unwanted allergic reactions. 

Purchase Latex Gloves at Easygloves

We hope you enjoyed the article, and have the necessary information to make your next purchase with confidence. We have a range of latex gloves available, if you feel that this type of glove would be sufficient for your needs. 

As always, we offer our customers the opportunity to speak to a member of the team. We understand with so many options and prices, making the final decision can be challenging. This is why we offer our knowledge and expertise to help you make the right decision. For more information, contact us.

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Medical gloves are a critical part of safety and hygiene routines in medical facilities of all sizes. Recent events have also thrust hand hygiene protocols and the importance of PPE as an infection control measure into the public spotlight.

As such, demand for single-use exam gloves and other types of medical gloves will surely rise in the coming years, but not all gloves offer the same benefits and performance.

Getting the best blend of protection and performance out of a glove is about more than simply picking the correct size.

In this guide, we&#;ll cover essential considerations, including medical glove materials, glove designs, and recommended procedures for donning and doffing, to ensure optimal protection in any situation.

Glove Materials: 3 Popular Choices Compared

One of the most important considerations when choosing a disposable glove is the material.

Each material offers a unique mix of traits which you must consider to ensure optimal protection, wearer comfort, and cost-effectiveness.

Let&#;s look at three of the most common medical glove materials on the market: nitrile, latex, and vinyl.

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Nitrile Gloves

Made from synthetic rubber, nitrile gloves are an excellent choice when latex allergies are a concern or you need enhanced durability. Nitrile gloves are the most widely used gloves in acute care and provide a good balance of dexterity and protection.

Pros

• Great durability
• Enhanced chemical resistance
• Chemotherapy tested models available
• Latex-free
• Excellent puncture resistance
• Snug fit
• Good bacterial and viral resistance
• Excellent touch sensitivity
• Powdered and Powder-free options available
• Accelerator-free nitrile glove options available
• Comfortable for long periods
• Longer shelf life than natural rubber/latex

Cons

• Non-biodegradable
• More expensive than other materials

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Latex

Made from natural rubber, latex gloves are very elastic. This creates an ultra snug fit which is especially important when fine motor skills or increased dexterity are required.

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Latex gloves are also less resistant to punctures and chemicals than nitrile. The main reason why Latex gloves are becoming less and less popular is the allergy risk that comes with using latex gloves.

Pros

• Affordable
• Biodegradable
• Very elastic
• Extra snug-fit
• Good bacterial and viral resistance
• Allows for greater dexterity
• Good touch sensitivity

Cons

• Can cause Type 1 Allergic Reactions
• Reduced chemical/puncture resistance compared to nitrile

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Vinyl

Made from a synthetic polymer (PVC), vinyl gloves eliminate the concern of latex allergies much like nitrile gloves but do so at a lower price point.

However, vinyl gloves are often the least protective option, providing limited chemical resistance, a looser fit, and increased risk of rips and tears due to lack of durability.

This makes them more suited for low-risk procedures and scenarios where latex glove alternatives are required.

Pros

• Very affordable
• Latex free

Cons

• Looser fit
• Weak chemical and puncture resistance
• Reduced manual dexterity

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Glove Designs Compared

While there is a wide range of specialized glove types available, you&#;ll frequently encounter two primary designs:

• Standard cuff gloves
• Extended cuff gloves

When you think of a single-use glove for medical use, the standard cuff glove is likely what comes to mind.

Typically 9.5 inches in length, standard cuff gloves are designed to provide protection up to the wrist area.

It is suited for a variety of common medical care scenarios and is also popular for a range of consumer and non-medical applications.

Extended cuff gloves include a lengthier wrist section, up to 12 inches long.

This provides greater protection against splashes and spills to keep harmful substances from entering the glove.

The additional length also makes the gloves ideal for situations in which submersion of the hands or arms in hazardous substances or sensitive environments is required, such as in medical device reprocessing departments or when handling chemotherapy drugs.

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Sterile vs. Non-Sterile Gloves

Apart from design and materials, whether the gloves are sterile is also an important consideration.

Most gloves used in the healthcare setting are likely of the non-sterile variety. These are suitable for non-surgical procedures and patient interactions from exams to ICU and isolation.

However, more sensitive situations &#; such as surgical procedures and internal examinations &#; often require sterile gloves to reduce the risk of contamination and infection.

Always be sure to consult procedures and product types before performing more delicate procedures to ensure the optimal levels of personal protective equipment are used.

Following proper procedures and protocols will ensure the safety of both the healthcare professional and the patient.

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Powdered vs. Powder-Free Gloves

Many gloves are available in powdered and powder-free varieties.

While powdered gloves allow for easier donning, the powder acts as a carrier of allergens. Powder can also increase the chance of dermatic reactions and present contamination risks. As such, powdered gloves are not recommended for sensitive or invasive procedures.

Powder-free gloves have improved greatly since the earliest options. Today&#;s powder-free technologies make slipping gloves on easier than in the past while eliminating the caked-on, pasty feeling that comes with wearing a powdered glove.

Best of all, pricing between powdered medical gloves and powder-free medical gloves has become nearly identical. PRIMED offers powder-free glove options at prices which easily compete with powdered gloves to help control costs while providing optimal comfort and protection for healthcare professionals.

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Glove Sizing Considerations

Apart from material choice, glove sizing is the factor most likely to impact glove effectiveness.

The feel and fit of a glove change slightly depending on specific glove lines and material thickness.

When trying on an exam glove ask yourself:

• Does your examination glove fatigue your hand?
• Do you feel resistance when you move your fingers?

If so, the glove might be too small.

• Does the glove feel loose or bunch at the palm, wrist, or fingers?
• Is it tough to grip objects?
• Do your fingers fail to fill the glove space?

If so, the glove might be too big.

If the glove is comfortable to wear for extended periods and feels like a second skin or is hardly noticeable during wear, you&#;ve found the right glove size.

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When Should You Change Your Gloves?

Exact requirements will vary based on the usage environment and any requirements set forth by local and government regulations as well as your facility&#;s standard operating procedures.

However, best practices often recommend changing your disposable gloves at the following times:

• Between patients or tasks
• When gloves become contaminated or dirty
• When moving between a contaminated part of the body to another part of the body or work environment that may be at higher risk from cross-contamination (e.g. broken skin, mucous membranes, etc.)
• When gloves are torn or punctured
• After sneezing, coughing, or touching one&#;s hair or face

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Key Takeaways

• Materials impact everything from resistances and pricing to comfort and fit
• Vinyl gloves offer the least protection but are cost-effective for tasks requiring a shorter time frame or less exposure to body fluids or hazardous substances.
• Latex gloves may cause allergic reactions &#; especially during extended use or when using powdered varieties.
• Nitrile gloves offer an excellent alternative to latex with enhanced chemical protection, improved penetration resistance, and no worry of allergic reactions. Accelerator-free nitrile glove models can help reduce dermic reactions when required.
• Always pair gloves with effective hand washing procedures. Gloves are not a replacement for hand washing.
• Proper donning and doffing of gloves is essential to avoid exposure to pathogens or contaminants.
• Glove sizing is not just about comfort. It also impacts manual dexterity, protection from fluids, tearing and penetration chances, and tactile sensitivity.

PRIMED offers a wide range of medical examination gloves to meet the needs of medical professionals across North America. Contact us today to discuss how our Medical Examination and Procedure Glove line can help to protect your workers and patients with reliable, affordable delivery of supplies for healthcare facilities large and small.

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For more industrial disposable nitrile gloves from chinainformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.