FAQ

What are disposable gloves made of?

Disposable gloves are made from a variety of materials, but mainly you’ll find them in latex, nitrile, chloroprene, vinyl and polyethylene. Each offers slightly different benefits depending on the use and application. Taking a closer look at the attributes of each material type helps determine which one is best for your needs.

Latex (Rubber) gloves are the choice for the industry when optimal barrier protection is a requirement. Latex is also considered to provide the greatest fit of any disposable glove. These gloves are available both in powdered and powder-free, medical and industrial grade. Industrial grade latex gloves are made from component materials which meet requirements for food contact and handling. Our medical grade latex gloves comply with FDA regulations.

Nitrile gloves are manufactured using synthetic polymers and are more puncture resistant than natural rubber. Offering superior resistance to punctures and abrasions, they are a perfect choice for protection from a variety of chemicals. Easily donned, this product is the perfect choice for your disposable needs when latex allergens are a concern. Industrial grade nitrile gloves are made from component materials which meet requirements for food contact and handling. Our medical grade nitrile gloves comply with FDA regulations.

Chloroprene (CR) gloves are a proprietary formulation of completely synthetic polymers, closely related to neoprene. This unique compound combines the barrier performance of a synthetic glove with the superior comfort found only in natural latex. Chloroprene gloves are ideal against abrasive and corrosive chemicals, grease, contaminated soil and composites, and sharp edges from plastic and other materials. These gloves are popular for food handling due to the extra comfort and exceptional tactile sensitivity. Industrial grade chloroprene gloves are made from component materials which meet requirements for food contact and handling.

Vinyl gloves which are derived from synthetic PVC resins offer a cost-effective alternative to latex. They are ideal for food preparation, light duty cleaning and general maintenance. Like latex and nitrile, vinyl gloves are available in powdered and powder-free versions. Industrial grade vinyl gloves are made from component materials which meet requirements for food contact and handling. Our medical grade vinyl gloves comply with FDA regulations.

Polyethylene gloves serve as a cost-effective solution for creating a barrier between hands and product. Mainly used in food service environments and parts handling, polyethylene disposable gloves are ambidextrous as well as have an embossed grip.

What industries use and/or require disposable gloves?

Disposable gloves have come a long way and are used in just about every industry in one way or another. Complying with FDA and USDA regulations, our vast selection is suitable for every application and budget.

Can “disposable” gloves be used more than once?

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), disposable gloves should never be reused. Microscopic tears can occur after using disposable gloves, which can increase the risk of exposure to germs.

How often should I change gloves?

OSHA recommends changing your gloves frequently. How often you change them during a shift depends on how they are being used. Medical use requires frequent changes depending on the facility policy. In contrast, food prep might only need one or two glove sets for an entire work period – again, this depends on workplace policy.

Change/replace your disposable gloves if you notice holes, punctures, or any other damage. New gloves are also required after working with chemicals or contaminants and beginning a new task. In general, according to OSHA, you should change disposable gloves every four hours.

How do I judge comfort and fit?

It’s essential any disposable glove actually “fits like a second skin” for the best result. If your disposable gloves are too big, they’ll likely fall off or get twisted during use. If your gloves are too small, they might tear and limit movement. Wear a pair that fits well and is designed for the task “at hand.

*This image is not true to size; please refer to diposable gloves box artwork for true sizing chart.