Latex Glove Buying Guide
Latex gloves are the go-to choice for many professionals across a variety of industries. Their elasticity, snug fit, and natural material ensure that users get both comfort and protection. This guide aims to aid in understanding the various factors to consider when purchasing latex gloves.
Understanding the Basics:
What are latex gloves?
Latex gloves were first manufactured in the early 1960s, although their use for sterilisation was championed as early as 1890. Latex gloves are tough, yet thin and tight-fitting, allowing for dexterity like a "second skin”. Made in their millions today, they keep the world sanitary in a wide variety of environments.
Latex gloves are made from natural rubber latex, sourced from the sap of the rubber tree, "Hevea brasiliensis", making them biodegradable and eco-friendly.
Why Choose Latex Gloves?
Elasticity: Their stretchable nature ensures a comfortable fit.
Tactile Sensitivity: They provide a better feel and touch, which is essential for professions requiring precision.
Protection: They protect against a wide range of chemicals, pathogens, and contaminants.
Application Areas
Medical & Dental
For surgeries, examinations, and general patient care.
Food Industry
Ensuring safe food handling without contamination.
Laboratories
For research, handling chemicals, and samples.
Beauty & Salon Services
Maintaining hygiene during treatments and services.
Cleaning
Protecting hands from chemicals and dirt.
Types of Latex Gloves:
| Type | Description |
|---|
| Powdered vs. Powder-Free | Powdered gloves are easier to put on, but the powder can cause allergic reactions in some users. Powder-free gloves have a chlorinated surface to make donning easier. |
| Sterile vs. Non-Sterile | Sterile gloves are ideal for surgical procedures, while non-sterile ones find use in everyday tasks. |
| Disposable vs. Reusable | Disposable gloves are for single-use, whereas reusable ones can be cleaned and used multiple times. |
Thickness & Durability
Gloves come in various thicknesses, typically measured in mils. A higher mil indicates a thicker glove which can offer better protection but might sacrifice tactile sensitivity.
Check out some of our gloves ranging from thin to thick...
- 100% natural latex gloves for a comfortable fit and enhanced dexterity
- Powdered to ease donning and absorb perspiration during use
- As Low As £4.50 per 100
- High-quality powder free black gloves are ideal for prolonged use
- Tattooist's favourite due to its textured high grip qualities
- As Low As £8.50 per 100
- Finest quality microroughened textured surface provides superior grip
- Chlorinated so latex proteins responsible for allergies are at a negligible level
- As Low As £8.95 per 100
- Up to four times thicker than a standard latex gloves
- Powder free with excellent grip and dexterity
- As Low As £8.70 per 50
Allergy Concerns
Some users find themselves allergic to the proteins contained within natural rubber, which is why many have switched to other materials. However some gloves have been treated with chlorine and water then neutralised with ammonia, this reduces protein levels to below the limit of detection. Many latex sensitive users find they can use Chlorinated Latex Gloves without provoking an adverse reaction.
Please view our range of Chlorinated and Low Protein Latex Gloves. If you are unsure or still find you are allergic, Vinyl or Nitrile gloves may be a better choice for you.
Sizes & Fit
Just like any other wearable, latex gloves come in various sizes like small, medium, large, and extra-large.
A proper fit is essential for comfort and safety. Measure your hand size accurately and refer to the sizing chart shown below to select the right size. A snug fit ensures dexterity and minimizes the risk of tears.
Brands & Certifications
Always look for reputable brands that adhere to the standards set by international certification bodies. Certifications ensure quality and safety.
View some reputable brands below...
- Premium quality, optimal protection and superior comfort
- Global leader in protection solutions
- As Low As £1.00 Per Pair
- Unigloves specialises in premium medical grade disposable gloves
- Offering both latex and non-latex gloves
- As Low As £4.75 Per 100
- Bodyguards produce a wide range of latex and latex free disposable gloves
- For surgical and examination use
- As Low As £5.45 Per 100
- UCi gloves are certified by recognised testing houses ensuring premium safety
- Includes a wide range of disposable and reusable work wear and gloves
- As Low As £0.39 Per Pair
Pricing & Quantity
Buying in bulk can lead to discounts. But always balance between quantity and the shelf life of the gloves.
Consider both the initial price and the long-term value. Sometimes, investing in high-quality gloves can reduce costs in the long run.
Environment & Disposal
Being biodegradable, latex gloves are an eco-friendly choice. However, ensure proper disposal in designated bins to avoid environmental harm.
Extended Cuff Latex Gloves
Enhanced Protection: Extended cuff latex gloves offer a longer cuff, typically reaching several inches above the wrist. This extended length provides additional protection against splashes and contaminants, especially useful in situations where there's a risk of exposure to hazardous substances or fluids.
Ideal for Specific Professions: While these gloves find use across various industries, they are especially beneficial for professionals in the medical field, including surgeons and first responders, as well as those in the chemical and automotive industries. The extended cuff ensures that the gap between the glove and the wearer's sleeve is minimized, reducing the chances of exposure.
Assessing Quality with AQL (Acceptable Quality Level)
Defining AQL: AQL stands for "Acceptable Quality Level" and is a standard measure used in the production industry, including for latex gloves. It represents the maximum number of defective products (like gloves with holes or tears) that could be considered acceptable during the random sampling of an inspection.
Implication for Glove Quality: A lower AQL indicates a higher quality, meaning there are fewer defects allowed. For instance, an AQL of 1.5, commonly used for examination gloves, means that in a batch of 100 gloves, only 1.5% (or 1-2 gloves) can have defects. When purchasing latex gloves, it's crucial to check the AQL rating. A lower AQL ensures you're getting a higher quality product with fewer potential defects, which is especially vital when safety and hygiene are paramount.
Check out some of our lower AQL gloves below...
- Offer protection and excellent performance in a variety of applications
- AQL 1.5 medical grade
- As Low As £2.95 per 100
- Extended cuff helps prevent liquids getting into the glove
- Matt black gloves mask blood and ink and help to reduce eye strain
- As Low As £9.50 per 100
- 100% natural latex gloves for a comfortable fit and enhanced dexterity
- Powdered to ease donning and absorb perspiration during use
- As Low As £4.50 per 100
Why are disposable gloves different colours?
Disposable gloves come in many different colours. The most commonly used colour is blue due to professions such as surgeons, caterers, carers and dentists.
Choosing the right colour gloves is important, for example; in a hospital environment where cross-contamination can happen, the colour of a glove can be used to identify which area the glove belongs, thus reducing the risk.
How would we rate Latex Gloves?
| Property | Good | Very Good | Exceptional |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | ✓ | |
| Dexterity | ✓ | |
| Sensitivity | ✓ | |
| Tear & Abrasion Resistance | ✓ | |
| Cut & Puncture Resistance | ✓ | |
| Resistance to Oil & Grease | ✓ | |
| Resistance to Chemicals | ✓ | |
| Biodegradability | ✓ | |
| Price | ✓ | |
| Suitable for Latex allergy sufferers | No | |
Conclusion
When it comes to protection, comfort, and sensitivity, latex gloves stand out. Whether you’re a professional in the medical field, food industry, or just need them for everyday tasks, this guide provides you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Always prioritize safety and remember to consider individual needs and allergies.
Check out some of our other guides...
Reasons to Shop With Us
JustGloves is one of the UK's leading glove suppliers.
Featuring over 700 different varieties, all in sizes small to extra large, we are sure to have the right glove for you. Our most popular materials are nitrile, latex and vinyl and all offer protection against chemicals.
We supply gloves to healthcare, beauty, motortrade, education and other businesses.
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