According to the CDC, medical gloves should be worn any time the hands might come in contact with another person’s bodily fluids, hazardous drugs, or potentially contaminated items. This helps prevent the spread of disease and can keep you safe from other serious medical situations like an accidental overdose.
So, whether you’re assembling a home first-aid kit, stocking the classroom for this coming year, or making sure your workplace has all the emergency supplies that it needs, you’ll want to include a box or two.
That said, all gloves aren’t created equal. In fact, one option trumps both latex and vinyl: nitrile.
Read on to learn all about the benefits of using nitrile gloves, rather than other commonly-sold varieties.
Heat, Puncture, and Chemical Resistant
Nitrile gloves are up to three times stronger than latex, offering better protection from needles and other sharp objects. And, once it is punctured, the material is designed to tear, making it clear that the wearer needs to change gloves.
Latex, on the other hand, won’t show a small puncture because it is so stretchy. This can increase the danger of contamination, allowing wearers to accidentally continue their task without changing gloves.
Nitrile is waterproof, and won’t weaken on wet hands. It can also withstand an incredible range of temperatures, from −40 to 226 °F (−40 to 108 °C).
Low Allergic Reaction Rates
A surprising 8 to 17% of people are allergic to latex. So, wearing some disposable gloves can give them an uncomfortable allergic reaction.
Instead, opt for medical gloves that nearly everyone can use without worry. Nitrile is a synthetic rubber that contains no latex at all. The same is true of vinyl gloves, though they aren’t as versatile as nitrile.
Comfortable Fit
You don’t just need gloves; you need gloves that fit comfortably while keeping your hands safe.
Nitrile is a low-friction material, so gloves made from it won’t irritate your skin. They’ll also be easier to put on and take off than latex and vinyl gloves.
Their exterior is slip-resistant, offering a firm grip even when wet. And, they come in both powdered and unpowdered varieties, to help some users keep their hands fresh and dry.
Cost Effective
While nitrile gloves might cost a bit more than the alternatives, they’re well worth the investment. And, because they are so much stronger than vinyl and latex gloves, you’ll end up using fewer of them.
This saves money in the long run, and can dramatically cut the costs associated with accidents and unintentional contamination.
There’s No Substitute for Nitrile Gloves
As you can see, nitrile gloves are the best option out there, when it comes to safety and comfort. They resist heat, punctures, and penetration by harsh chemicals. And, they offer a good alternative to latex for those who are allergic. Best of all, they are available in a wide variety of types and thicknesses, with options to suit both medical and industrial purposes.