Frequently Asked Questions

Latex gloves are made from natural rubber latex (NRL) which is a renewable resource. Latex gloves are also more environmentally friendly than synthetic gloves as they are easily biodegradable.

In terms of protection latex exam gloves offer users the best barrier protection in areas of potential risk associated with blood-borne pathogens and other substances or biohazards. The physical properties of the latex also provide excellent flexibility with high degree of sensitivity. Latex outperforms other glove materials in terms of elasticity and tensile strength. These gloves will generally provide the best comfort and feel of all disposable gloves. A small number of people be sensitive to latex and for these people we recommend nitrile or vinyl gloves.

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Nitrile gloves are made by combining acrylonitrile and butadiene, to create a synthetic rubber called nitrile. This synthetic rubber is 100% latex-free and protein-free. For people who are sensitive to latex gloves we highly recommend nitrile gloves as an alternative.

Nitrile gloves provide an excellent feel, fit, and comfort. Keep in mind that while they are highly elastic their elasticity is less superior when compared to latex gloves. Nitrile gloves possess high abrasion and puncture resistance and also good resistance to oil, and a wide range of chemicals. This is why many industrial users prefer nitrile gloves. Examination grade nitrile gloves also offer very good barrier protection from blood-borne pathogens and other biohazards.
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Vinyl gloves are made from poly vinyl chloride also known as PVC. They are an economical alternative for users who are sensitive to latex gloves. Vinyl gloves have a good resistance to oil and anti-static properties which make them suitable for cleanroom and critical environment applications. While form-fitting they are generally less flexible than nitrile or latex exam gloves.

Vinyl exam gloves are best suited for short-term procedures and/or minimal risk applications. Vinyl exam gloves generally offer a lower degree of barrier protection than nitrile or latex exam gloves. These gloves are commonly found in daycare centers, beauty salons, food service, and light industrial/cleaning applications. Examination grade nitrile gloves are also used in many hospitals for routine examinations. back to top

• All medical grade gloves have FDA oversight and approval.
• Medical grade gloves are mandatory for anyone coming in contact with blood borne pathogens (blood, urine, saliva, etc.).
• If the box does not say “EXAM”, it is not medical grade.back to top
  

• A term used to distinguish disposable gloves used for industrial or non-medical purposes. 
• Industrial grade gloves are popular in industrial and food service markets were there are no blood borne pathogen issues.

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