Posted by Fred Koenig on Dec 20th 2021

How to Choose the Best Nitrile Gloves

Disposable gloves are an essential item across industries and sectors, which is a large reason why nitrile gloves have increased in popularity. Nitrile gloves can be used in a variety of applications, including industrial and the medical field because they are puncture resistant and therefore offer a lot more value. And for those with an allergy to latex or that find it uncomfortable, nitrile gloves are a suitable alternative since they are made with synthetic rubber.

So how do you choose the best nitrile gloves for your field, and what are some of the qualities that you should be looking for? First, we’ll look at some of the key applications where nitrile gloves can be useful, and then we’ll explore how to choose nitrile gloves correctly based on their qualities.

Uses: Exam vs. Industrial Nitrile Gloves

When narrowing down what nitrile glove to choose, your first consideration will be its use. Will the gloves be used in an industrial setting or a medical setting?

Industrial grade nitrile gloves will be better suited in situations where there is frequent handling of chemicals and solvents. Nitrile gloves can withstand that and are chemical resistant, making them easier to use in an industrial setting such as an automotive or janitorial. For example, Shamrock Heavy Duty Nitrile Gloves 808120 Series are specifically designed for high-risk settings as they maintain sensitivity while still staying thick enough for adequate protection. These can be used in chemical emergencies and other settings such as automotive and firefighting.

Medical grade nitrile gloves are used as protection against environmental contaminants and provide a higher degree of protection in a medical setting.

What sets the two types of nitrile gloves apart is the testing that goes into them before they can be used. Medical-grade disposable gloves such as nitrile gloves are tested against FDA guidelines to ensure they can be used in a medical setting.

The tests involve checking for strength and durability, as the nitrile gloves need to provide protection against bodily fluids, blood-borne pathogens, and other high-risk settings. The Cranberry Evolve 300 Nitrile Gloves are a great example of this since they are used in medical settings and provide high tensile strength and excellent comfort without sacrificing tactile sensitivity.

Color and Size of Nitrile Gloves

Another consideration when choosing nitrile gloves is the size and color. The gloves need to be well-fitted to ensure maximum protection. Identifying the right glove sizes can help ensure you buy the best product for your needs and get maximum use out of it. You can get an idea of what kind of glove sizes you should be buying based on feedback around fit to make it easier and ask for samples before making a purchase. Additionally, you can also purchase nitrile gloves such as the Kimberly-Clark Textured Blue Nitrile Gloves, which are ambidextrous and easier to use.

Distinctive colors are also an important factor in buying nitrile gloves. Colorful nitrile gloves can be useful since they provide a visual cue and help prevent cross-contamination in lab and medical settings. Different colored gloves can be used for different functions, thereby lowering the risk of contamination. Generally, blue nitrile gloves are used in medical settings, while black is used in automotive and other settings where contact with oil and other materials happens more often.

Other Factors to Evaluate When Choosing Nitrile Gloves

There are a few other factors too that you must think about as well when you’re in the process of choosing nitrile gloves. We’ll look at a few of these in more detail to help with decision-making.

Nitrile glove thickness is also something you should consider. There are a variety of thicknesses available that can vary based on the type of nitrile glove. For example, industrial-grade nitrile gloves tend to be around six or eight millimeters thick to provide extra protection against chemicals while still retaining flexibility. If you’re looking for something even more lightweight that’s still protective, Shamrock Nitrile Examination Gloves 30350/100 Series could be a good choice for you. Thicker gloves can provide an extra protection barrier if needed and flexibility.

Texture also plays an important role in choosing nitrile gloves. For example, a textured finish can help improve grip and tactile flexibility in both cold and dry settings like the Shamrock Industrial Nitrile Gloves Textured 10000 Series.

Powdered and powder-free is something else you might see when searching for nitrile gloves. Powdered gloves are helpful in some settings as they absorb moisture easily. However, they can also leave behind a residue when taken off, which can be a bit messier. On the other hand, powder-free gloves are coated with a chlorinated or polymer finish to make it easy to take gloves on and off without residue. ROMI Medical has many powder-free glove options available with varying measures of thickness, including the Synmax Vinyl-Nitrile Hybrid Examination Gloves Latex-Free FDA 510(k), Shamrock Heavy Duty Nitrile Gloves 808120 Series, and Shamrock Medical Examination Latex Gloves Natural Latex 10000 Series.

Where Can I find Nitrile Gloves?

When searching for the best nitrile gloves, it’s crucial to do your research before you buy. Different brands have varying qualities, and understanding the specific differences between nitrile glove brands can help you make a better decision. At ROMI Medical, we have a wide array of options when it comes to nitrile gloves for you to select from. Think about all the ways gloves are used in your organization and what qualities would be most beneficial as you continue to use disposable gloves.

ROMI Medical is a woman-owned business here to help you find the right products and help you select the best nitrile glove options for your needs. You can request a custom quote here for nitrile gloves for bespoke pricing and availability. ROMI Medical is a part of the New York Microscope Company. So if you’re looking for additional medical equipment such as high-quality microscopes, we can help! You can find a large selection of microscopes here at the New York Microscope Company.