Why Use Nitrile Gloves - GloveNation

Nitrile glove are a popular choice in many industries including healthcare, food service, food processing and automotive - but why? What makes Nitrile gloves a superior choice to other materials like vinyl or latex? Let's explore and identify all the reasons nitrile disposable gloves are a great choice across so many industries.

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The History of Nitrile Gloves

Nitrile gloves have become a popular choice for gloves in many industries due to their durability, chemical resistance, and comfort, but where did they come from? How long have they been around?

In the early s, the B.F. Goodrich Company was known for producing rubber products, including tires and hoses. However, during World War II, the company was tasked with producing synthetic rubber for military use. It was during this time that chemists at the company discovered a way to make nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), which is resistant to oils, solvents, and other chemicals.

In the s, nitrile rubber began to be mixed with other materials to produce gloves for the healthcare industry. These gloves were primarily used as an alternative to latex gloves, these gloves quickly gained popularity due to their chemical resistance, strength, and durability.

Nitrile gloves as we know them today started being produced in the s by Neil Tillotson and Luc DeBecker. Their corporation Tillotson Corp. was granted a patent for them in after they produced the first disposable glove made entirely of nitrile butadiene rubber.

Nitrile gloves were at first heralded as a solution to a growing minority of people who have developed allergies to the latex proteins that accompany latex gloves. But the truth is, nitrile gloves are not suitable replacements for the latex glove in all situations - the surgical operating room for example still primarily uses sterile latex gloves. However, nitrile gloves are ideal for environments where resistance to hydrocarbons is critical. They're perfect for non-surgical medical exams and procedures, food service, automotive and industrial use.

Nitrile gloves for Automotive

Automobile mechanics have been discovering the advantages of wearing nitrile gloves. For years, disposable gloves were considered useless by the automotive industry, because latex simply dissolved when it made contact with grease, oil, diesel fuel or gasoline. Mechanics can use nitrile gloves to safely for many daily tasks including changing oil, replacing brake pads, and handling battery acid.

Now, a sparkling clean maintenance facility is an indication that a repair shop might be trusted to have the correct digital diagnostic equipment. Being clean means making money and this tends to change the heart of even the most hardened grease monkey. All of a sudden, we see our nitrile gloves being sold in ever-increasing quantities to automotive manufacturers and service centers everywhere. Nitrile gloves are able to withstand the high temperatures under the hood and they are very resistant to almost all of the chemicals in an automobile's system.

Nitrile gloves for medical use

Nitrile gloves have become an essential part of the medical industry. There are some applications where nitrile gloves are the only gloves that make sense. Dentists prefer nitrile gloves because of the reduced possibility of allergic reactions for their patients. Nitrile gloves are widely used in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities for a variety of purposes. Since nitrile gloves are resistant to punctures, tears, and chemicals they make an ideal choice for medical professionals who need to protect themselves from infections and other hazards.

The use of nitrile gloves in the medical industry has several advantages. Firstly, nitrile exam gloves offer excellent protection against infections. Nitrile gloves are designed to be highly resistant to punctures and tears, which means that they can provide a barrier between medical professionals and infectious agents. They are also effective in preventing the spread of infections from one patient to another. Nitrile exam gloves are latex-free. Latex gloves can cause allergic reactions in some people so this makes nitrile a safer option for medical professionals who have allergies or sensitivities to latex. It also protects the patients they see who could be allergic to latex.

Nitrile gloves for food service

Nitrile gloves have become increasingly popular in the food service industry. Food service workers rely on gloves to protect themselves and their customers from contamination and the spread of foodborne illnesses. In fact some states have gone so far as to ban latex gloves for food service and food manufacturing use. You can read more about that here.

While latex gloves were previously the go-to choice for food service workers, nitrile gloves have quickly gained popularity due to being more allergy-friendly, durable and versatile. Nitrile gloves provide better chemical resistance to most common chemicals than latex gloves. This is important when working with cleaning chemicals and other substances that may be harmful to skin. Nitrile gloves are also resistant to oils and fats, making them ideal for food service workers who handle greasy foods and raw meats.

Nitrile gloves for cleaning

In the cleaning and sanitation industry, personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for maintaining safety and hygiene. Nitrile gloves have become a popular choice for many professionals due to their durability, flexibility, and chemical resistance.

Nitrile gloves provide a high level of protection against cuts, scrapes, and other injuries that may occur while handling cleaning chemicals or sharp objects. The gloves are also highly resistant to many chemicals, including cleaning agents, solvents, and disinfectants. This means that they provide excellent protection against harmful chemicals, reducing the risk of skin irritation, allergies, and other adverse reactions. If you're going to be using specific chemicals we always recommend checking our chemical resistance chart.

Shop Disposable Nitrile Gloves

Disposable nitrile gloves are an excellent choice for individuals who require hand protection in a variety of industries. They provide a high level of protection, are durable and long-lasting, and are an ideal choice for those with latex allergies. If you work in an industry that requires hand protection, consider using disposable nitrile gloves to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

Disposable gloves are essential across many industries, from healthcare and food service to janitorial and industrial work. As the demand for disposable gloves grows, the need for selecting the best material to ensure optimal safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility increases. Among the three main types of disposable gloves—latex, vinyl, and nitrile—nitrile has increasingly become the preferred choice across various industries, offering enhanced durability, allergy prevention, and resistance to various chemicals.

To understand why more businesses are choosing nitrile gloves we’ll explore what nitriles are made of, the core benefits of nitrile gloves, the superior feature that sets nitrile apart from latex and vinyl gloves, along with the industries that choose nitrile gloves as well as sustainable options to nitrile gloves. 

What Are Nitrile Gloves?

Before diving in deep it's important to understand: what are nitrile gloves? Nitrile gloves are disposable gloves made from nitrile rubber, a synthetic rubber material derived from acrylonitrile (ACN) and butadiene. Being a synthetic rubber, nitrile gloves are entirely latex-free, BPA, phthalate, vinyl, and MBT free. Available in various thicknesses and colors, nitrile gloves are widely used in medical, industrial, and food service settings due to their reliable performance and versatility.

Key Advantages of Nitrile Gloves Over Latex and Vinyl

There are many key advantages to choosing nitrile over the traditionally popular latex and vinyl gloves. Below we outline some of the key benefits of nitrile gloves:  

Ideal Gloves for Sensitive Skin

One of nitrile gloves' most significant advantages over latex is its hypoallergenic nature. Latex gloves, traditionally the go-to material in healthcare and many other fields, are made from natural rubber, which have been commonly known to cause allergies in some people. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI), approximately 1-6% of the general population experiences latex allergies, with higher sensitivity in healthcare workers due to constant exposure (ACAAI, ). 

In contrast, nitrile gloves are entirely synthetic andfree from latex proteins, which helps to eliminate the risk of allergic reactions commonly associated with latex material. Nitrile gloves are also free from powder, a common irritant in some glove types, ensuring maximum comfort during use. Their smooth interior and snug fit also help minimize friction, reducing the risk of skin irritation even with prolonged wear.

Great Gloves for Durability

Nitrile gloves are renowned for their superior durability, with many studies showing nitrile outperforming both latex and vinyl in demanding environments. In comparison to latex gloves, nitrile gloves are generally considered more durable than latex gloves,  particularly when it comes to puncture and tear resistance. 

In comparison to vinyl gloves, which tend to break down under stress or extended use, nitrile maintains its integrity even during prolonged wear, ensuring consistent protection. 

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Their durability translates to fewer glove replacements, enhancing cost-effectiveness for businesses and ensuring uninterrupted workflow in critical tasks. 

Best Gloves for Thickness and Puncture Resistance

Nitrile gloves have been known to be highly resistant to punctures and tears, making them ideal for tasks involving sharp objects or hazardous substances.  Their puncture-resistant properties make them more reliable for tasks involving sharp objects or abrasive materials, reducing the risk of tears and leaks that could compromise safety. 

Nitrile gloves typically range in thickness from 3 to 8 mils, with many industrial-grade gloves falling in the 5-8 mil range for superior protection. Thicker nitrile gloves typically perform exceptionally well in high-risk environments, offering enhanced puncture resistance to their counterparts. In fact, research indicates that nitrile gloves are up to three times more puncture-resistant than latex gloves of similar thickness, which is critical in industries involving sharp tools and equipment. 

Excellent Gloves for Comfort And Fit

Comfort is an often-overlooked factor when choosing disposable gloves, yet it plays a crucial role in user experience and compliance. Nitrile gloves have evolved significantly in recent years to offer a comfortable, contoured fit that mimics the flexibility of latex without the associated allergy risks. These gloves conform well to the hand, allowing for excellent dexterity and a more natural feel, which is especially important in tasks requiring fine motor skills. While latex gloves might offer slightly better dexterity than nitrile, nitrile gloves typically offer a better fit than vinyl gloves. 

Preferred Gloves for Texture and Tactile Sensitivity

High-quality nitrile gloves often feature textured fingertips, enhancing grip and tactile sensitivity. This is especially useful in medical or laboratory settings where precise handling is necessary. Vinyl gloves are typically less form-fitting and offer limited tactile feedback, which can be a drawback in detailed tasks. Additionally, there are fewer options for textured vinyl gloves, making nitrile the more attractive choice. 

When it comes to the comparison against latex gloves in this department, nitrile gloves generally have a slightly less smooth texture and offer lower tactile sensitivity to latex. This means they may not feel as delicate or provide the same level of fine touch perception making latex the preferred choice for tasks requiring high precision and dexterity.  

Ideal Choice for Prolonged Wear and Long-Term Storage

Nitrile gloves are considered better for prolonged wear because of their superior durability, high puncture resistance, and excellent chemical resistance compared to other glove materials like latex, making them less likely to tear or degrade when exposed to harsh substances over extended periods of time; this allows for safer and more reliable protection during long tasks. Additionally, nitrile gloves tend to resist degradation when exposed to sunlight, moisture, and general wear, maintaining their protective qualities over extended periods of use. Nonetheless, to maintain the best quality gloves, it is important to properly care for and follow manufacturer storage requirements. 

Best Gloves for Chemical Resistance

Nitrile gloves exhibit exceptional chemical resistance, making them suitable for handling various chemicals that might otherwise damage latex or vinyl. These gloves are specifically engineered to withstand exposure to harsh substances, including oils, solvents, acids, and certain chemicals that would typically degrade latex or vinyl gloves. 

Nitrile’s Chemical Compatibility

Unlike latex, nitrile gloves exhibit a high level of resistance to a broad spectrum of chemicals, including:

• Petroleum-based Products: Nitrile gloves are highly oil resistant, making them ideal for use in automotive and mechanical settings.
• Solvents and Grease: Nitrile’s resistance to industrial solvents provides dependable protection in sectors where harsh chemicals are common.
• Common Laboratory Chemicals: Laboratory environments often require gloves that can withstand alcohols, acids, and bases, whereas nitrile gloves perform exceptionally well. 

This  resilience makes nitrile gloves ideal for industries many industries, including healthcare, automotive, laboratory work, and industrial cleaning.

Understanding Chemical Resistance in Glove Materials

Chemical resistance is a critical factor when selecting disposable gloves, especially for industries that involve handling hazardous substances. Different glove materials—such as nitrile, latex, vinyl, polyethylene (PE), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polylactic acid (PLA), and neoprene—offer varying levels of protection against chemicals, making it essential to choose the right material for your specific tasks. This chart provides a comprehensive comparison of glove materials, their resistance to different types of chemicals, and common use cases. Whether you work in healthcare, laboratory settings, or industrial environments, this guide will help you make an informed choice for maximum safety and performance.

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What Tasks or Industries are Nitrile Gloves Best Used For?

Nitrile gloves have become a trusted solution in numerous industries, thanks to their unique combination of durability, chemical resistance, and comfort. Designed to meet the needs of various tasks, from precision work to heavy-duty applications, these gloves provide reliable protection without compromising on flexibility or performance. Some industries that prefer nitrile gloves include: 

• Healthcare and Medical: Nitrile gloves are indispensable in hospitals, clinics, and emergency services for protecting against infectious agents, bodily fluids, and hazardous materials. Their hypoallergenic properties make them a safer alternative to latex gloves, especially for patients and healthcare workers with latex sensitivities.
• Laboratories and Research: Ideal for scientists and researchers, nitrile gloves provide robust protection against chemical spills, biological agents, and contaminants, ensuring safety in environments where precision and contamination control are critical.
• Automotive and Mechanical: Resistant to oils, greases, and chemicals, nitrile gloves are essential for automotive technicians and mechanics. They offer a strong barrier while allowing sufficient dexterity for handling tools and intricate parts.
• Food Service and Handling: Nitrile gloves meet FDA standards for food safety, making them a reliable option for food preparation and handling. Their durability ensures they remain intact during extended use, preventing contamination while maintaining hygiene.
• Cleaning and Janitorial Services: Their chemical resistance makes nitrile gloves ideal for handling cleaning agents, disinfectants, and detergents, protecting workers from skin irritation and harmful substances.
• Tattoo and Beauty Industries: Nitrile gloves are a go-to for tattoo artists and salon professionals due to their sleek appearance, puncture resistance, and barrier protection against inks, dyes, and chemicals.
• Industrial and Manufacturing: In heavy-duty environments, nitrile gloves withstand exposure to harsh chemicals, abrasions, and sharp objects, making them indispensable for workers in manufacturing and chemical processing.

Eco-Friendly Choices: Addressing Environmental Impact with Nitrile and Beyond

With the growing demand for nitrile gloves and disposable gloves across various industries, concerns about glove waste pollution and its impact on the environment, wildlife, and human health have intensified. As a result, eco-conscious companies are actively seeking sustainable alternatives to minimize their environmental footprint. Innovations in glove technology have paved the way for eco-friendly solutions, including improved recycling methods and accelerated biodegradable formulations, offering a practical response to the significant waste created by traditional disposable gloves.

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Here are some of the sustainable solutions being developed as eco-friendly alternatives or solutions to nitrile gloves:

• Biodegradable Nitrile Gloves: These gloves are designed with special additives that enable them to break down more rapidly in landfill conditions, significantly reducing the time they remain in the environment compared to traditional nitrile gloves.
• Recyclable Nitrile Gloves: Made to be compatible with recycling programs, these gloves can be processed and repurposed into new materials rather than contributing to waste in landfills. They are crafted to be disposed of through specialized recycling facilities.
• Eco-Friendly Manufacturing: This approach emphasizes the use of renewable energy sources, such as biomass fuel and co-generation plants, during the production of gloves. It also involves minimizing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency to reduce the overall environmental impact.
• Reduced Packaging Waste: Sustainable brands often use minimal or biodegradable packaging for their glove products, further decreasing plastic waste and enhancing the overall environmental friendliness of their offerings.

By focusing on end-of-life concerns, there are opportunities for nitrile gloves to make less of a detrimental impact on our environment. At the same time it’s important to choose to purchase with suppliers who prioritize environmental stewardship and protection.

With allergy prevention, durability, and chemical resistance as standout benefits, nitrile gloves have rightfully earned their reputation as the go-to disposable glove solution. Individuals and businesses alike can enjoy enhanced safety and reliability without compromising comfort or environmental responsibility by choosing nitrile over latex or vinyl.

Make The Sustainable Choice With Eco Gloves

At Eco Gloves, we’re committed to providing high-quality, eco-friendly glove options that cater to a wide range of needs. Our selection includes biodegradable, compostable gloves, and recyclable gloves aligns with our mission to reduce environmental impact while delivering top-notch protection. Whether you’re looking for reliable gloves for professional use or personal safety, Eco Gloves offers sustainable solutions to help you positively impact your safety and the planet.

Explore our range of sustainable gloves today and take a step towards safer, greener protection!

FAQ

Are nitrile gloves better than latex gloves?
Nitrile gloves are often considered better than latex gloves for certain applications due to their superior durability, puncture resistance, and chemical protection. They are also latex-free, making them a safer option for individuals with latex allergies or sensitivities. While latex gloves offer excellent tactile sensitivity, nitrile gloves provide a balance of strength and flexibility, making them ideal for medical, industrial, and cleaning tasks where both protection and dexterity are crucial.

What are biodegradable nitrile gloves?
Biodegradable nitrile gloves are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional nitrile gloves, designed to break down more quickly in landfill settings. These gloves maintain the same durability, chemical resistance, and protective qualities as standard nitrile gloves but offer an added benefit of reducing environmental impact. They are an excellent choice for industries looking to adopt more sustainable practices without compromising on safety and performance.

Can nitrile gloves cause skin irritation?
Nitrile gloves are less likely to cause skin irritation compared to latex gloves, as they are free from natural rubber latex, a common allergen. Additionally, many nitrile gloves are powder-free, reducing the risk of irritation from powder residue. However, in rare cases, prolonged wear or exposure to glove components, such as certain dyes or chemical additives, can lead to minor skin irritation or contact dermatitis. For individuals with sensitive skin, choosing gloves labeled as hypoallergenic or free from added chemicals can minimize this risk.

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