Disposable Gloves

Disposable gloves are hand coverings used as personal protective equipment to protect personnel and prevent contamination. They are particularly useful for applications that demand stringent sanitation practises, as they can be disposed of and replaced after contact with contaminants. Disposable gloves can additionally be manufactured using materials specialised for chemical resistance. For those who work in an environment which involves unusually frequent chemical exposure, they can be greatly helpful. Importantly, disposable gloves are flexible and allow for complete dexterity.

Choose reliable gloves from suppliers such as Ansell, Uniglove, Honeywell, Kimberly Clark and Reldeen, available in multiple colours and sizes, and in powered and powder-free options. A varied selection of our own, high quality RS Pro disposable gloves are also available to choose from. Explore our guide to disposable gloves here.

Disposable gloves as workwear

Disposable gloves are utilised in numerous industries:* Engineers calibrating components use gloves to avoid contaminating exposed circuitry with residue from the hands. Anti-static gloves can also prevent a static charge from damaging components.

• Mechanics favour nitrile disposable gloves for their resistance to chemicals and their durability when using machinery.
• Medical practitioners rely on medical gloves to ensure infectious fluids do not pass from patient to patient, or from practitioner to patient. Surgeons maintain sterile conditions during surgery by using and routinely replacing gloves.
• Using food-safe gloves for food preparation prevents contamination by potential allergens or hazardous microbes. Many food professionals work with strict hygiene and safety guidelines, making disposable food-safe gloves crucial.
• Tattoo artists and beauty technicians will commonly use disposable gloves, in order to follow the best hygiene procedures and ensure the tattoo, piercing or design job is completed safely, avoiding contamination.

Latex, nitrile, or vinyl gloves?

Disposable gloves are manufactured using a selection of different synthetic rubbers. These different materials offer varying properties, subsequently, the material of a glove is an important choice that requires consideration of its intended use.

Latex disposable gloves

Latex offers impressive flexibility and dexterity in a durable glove that demonstrates good tensile strength, which protects against punctures and tears. Latex gloves offer a high degree of protection against a broad range of hazards, including chemical and biohazards. Latex is generally comfortable, although, it can cause an allergic reaction in those with a latex allergy or sensitivity.

Nitrile disposable gloves

Nitrile similarly offers excellent durability and additionally features superior resistance to chemicals, acids & oils. Nitrile is latex-free, meaning it is tolerated by those with allergies to latex and is a viable alternative. They are also powder free, reducing the risk of allergens and complications with messy powder.

Vinyl disposable gloves

Vinyl is a comfortable option that is suitable for those with a latex allergy or sensitivity, as they are latex-free. Vinyl gloves are anti-static, making them perfect for working with wires and cords and protect against chaffing. They are also cost-effective and flexible. Vinyl does not have the same durability as latex and nitrile and is subsequently not advised for applications requiring puncture resistance.

Neoprene disposable gloves

Neoprene gloves protect against a wide range of oils, acids, caustics and solvents. Neoprene offers less resistance to punctures, cuts and abrasions than nitrile or natural rubber, but are highly suitable for handling slippery or wet materials safely.