The Best Nitrile Gloves for Mechanic and Medical

The best nitrile gloves are perfect choices for anyone who is looking for superior protection and performance. What is great about the nitrile material is that it suits various work applications and industries. Nitrile is even popular in several professions as a great substitute for latex gloves.

One reason behind this is that the top-rated nitrile work gloves are perfect for tough jobs. Several professionals even depend on the sturdiness on gloves made of nitrile material, especially if they are exposed to blood-borne pathogens as well as other contaminants in the environment.

It fits those industries that deal with dangerous toxins, dirt, grime, and chemicals the most. You will enjoy its heavy-duty nature, making it ideal for tough jobs because of how meticulously created and designed it is.

To gather more information about nitrile work gloves, we have compiled ten of the most popular and satisfying products in this industry. You can also check out the informative sections in this article to familiarize yourself with all the things related to nitrile gloves that will surely serve as your ultimate guide during the selection.

9 Best Nitrile Work Gloves Reviews of 2023

1. MedPride MPR-50503 Nitrile Exam Gloves

As the product name says, these powder-free nitrile gloves are intended for medical use. Personally, though, I think that they are thick enough for general purposes as well. I know some people who keep a box of these at home to keep their hands free from contaminants while they clean and prepare food.

Unlike other exam gloves, these do not emit any strong chemical smell when I opened the box. Moreover, they fit my hands well and cover my wrist. The glove material wraps around my palms and fingers without leaving any excess material around the tips. Despite that, they don’t restrict my movements.

It’s normal to sweat while wearing gloves when working for long hours, but I’m glad that they never irritate my skin. While the material feels smooth to touch, I’m impressed that I can grip my tools and perform my tasks just fine. Thus, they are also recommended for tattooing, handling chemicals, and cleaning.

2. SAS Safety 66519 Raven Nitrile Gloves

One of the nitrile gloves that caught my interest because of all the things it can do is the SAS Safety 66519 Raven Disposable Powder-free Black Nitrile Glove. It is a truly dependable and versatile pair of nitrile glove as it is compatible with various tasks, even the toughest one, like fixing plumbing or car engine issues and painting.

The durability of this glove is also unmatched. It is solid and durable in the sense that even the toughest tasks will be easy for you to accomplish. I am very satisfied with its abrasion and puncture-resistance. It has a 6-mil nitrile material, making it possible for it to deliver superior comfort and dexterity.

I am also happy that it is latex-free as it means that it does not cause the usual allergies often triggered by latex. It is also built with flexibility in mind. It even features a beaded cuff, which promotes ease in inserting and removing your protective glove with the least amount of effort.

This type of cuff is also helpful in lessening the glove’s risk of slipping. Another advantage and strength I am so amazed by its great gripping power. I discovered that it is made possible by the glove’s textured grip. With this grip, I am sure that handling tools will be less troublesome for me.

Furthermore, it boasts of an ambidextrous design, allowing you to use both your left and right hands when wearing it.

3. The Safety Zone Nitrile Exam Gloves

If you are interested in a nitrile protective glove then I am pretty sure that The Safety Zone Nitrile Exam Glove will catch your attention. I can confirm how incredible it is in terms of providing personal and hand protection. Constructed out of nitrile, I can vouch for its great puncture-resistance and chemical-resistance.

In fact, I am fully aware of its ability to supply the highest amount of protection when you are dealing with sharp items, as well as harmful gases and liquids. Considering the fact that it is nitrile-based, it is free of the most common threats and issues linked to latex gloves.

This means that it does not irritate your hands nor cause allergic reactions because it does not contain any traces of latex material. I like the finely textured construction of the whole glove. The fingers and palms are also finely textured.

This specific construction delivers consistent and great grip when dealing with glass and other tools, instruments, and objects, regardless of their size. I also agree to most of its users who say that this nitrile exam glove delivers incredible sensitivity, proper fit, and superior dexterity, which is good when trying to accomplish fine tasks.

Moreover, I noticed how its ambidextrous design further improves the glove’s flexibility and fit. It suits your left or right hand. Furthermore, it promotes ease of opening and rapid donning and removal – thanks to its rolled cuff.

4. AMMEX GWON44100-BX Nitrile Disposable Gloves

I am also happy that I got the opportunity to introduce to prospective users the AMMEX GWON44100-BX Nitrile Glove. I am truly amazed by how this glove functions and performs, especially for a lot of workers. It is an industrial-grade nitrile glove designed in a way that it can meet the rigorous demands of workers and pros who are aiming to gain maximum protection for their hands.

I think one thing that makes this nitrile glove from AMMEX unique and distinctive is the raised diamond texture. I instantly sensed how incredible it is when it comes to offering an unmatched grip. The diamonds in the glove’s design work in channeling liquids away, allowing you to grasp on the glove tightly even if it is wet.

The grip is also around 8 to 9-mil thick, which can dramatically resist punctures, tears, and rips. I am also glad that this glove is capable of offering additional resistance to chemicals when planning to use it for a long duration. With its powder-free and latex-free design, you do not also need to worry and think about allergies and irritation.

The fact that it is free of the mentioned substances also makes it perfect for industrial and automotive applications as well as food handling. The color chosen for the glove is orange, which promotes high visibility, a huge help as far as safety is concerned. This also makes the glove suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Moreover, it has a polymer coating in its interiors, promoting ease in donning and removing it.

5. Maxiflex 34-874 Ultimate Nitrile Work Gloves

If you are interested in Maxiflex gloves then the brand’s 34-874 Ultimate Nitrile Work Glove is surely going to satisfy you. It is a great option, even for those who have sensitive skin as it does not cause allergies and skin irritation. I am impressed with its capability of supplying a barrier or shield in between the threats you are exposed to and your hands.

This means that regardless of the threats for the hands surrounding in your work environment, it can still supply the kind of shield and protection required. I also appreciate it that while it mainly offers protection, it also remains breathable and functional. It also has the ability to make you feel comfortable once worn.

It makes use of micro-foam nitrile material in its construction. There is also no silicone in there. This results in a design that promotes a snug and close fit as there are no seams found in the finger area and the palms. I am also glad that this Maxiflex work glove provides a superior tactile feel made possible by its rounded and smooth fingertips.

With this, handling small and delicate objects is easier. It has an intact and great grip, too, which makes it possible for you to work around lightweight oils. Furthermore, it is popular for its extreme abrasion-resistance. I am sure you will be fond of the knitted part at the wrist because it promotes a safe and tight fit.

This can surely serve as a barrier for your hands when you are dealing with unwanted and harsh elements in the workplace.

6. Safeguard Nitrile Disposable Gloves

Another excellent investment designed to protect your hands is the Safeguard Nitrile Disposable Glove. In my opinion, this glove performs well for daily use and proper food handling as it works in maintaining a safety shield and barrier from various kinds of threat. What I like even more about it is that it is 100 percent safe for use on a number of applications.

It is primarily because it adheres to the safety standards set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Constructed out of premium-quality and durable nitrile material, it is possible for it to show its puncture-resistance and elasticity in a number of situations.

It serves as an affordable substitute to gloves made of latex and vinyl, too. I am fond of its ambidextrous design, promoting a perfect fit in both your right and left hands. Another great advantage present in this glove is its improved grip, which makes it all the more convenient to use the glove to hold a lot of items and objects.

I love its secure and snug fit, too, which, I think, can be attributed to the palm’s contours. Since it is powder- and latex-free, those who have sensitive hands can use it. It is also safe when used for proper food handling. It is strong and sturdy in the sense that it can withstand sharp edges.

This disposable nitrile glove also has just the right amount of thickness. It is thick enough to act as a shield from threats while still giving you enough dexterity and allowing you to hold on items conveniently.

7. Venom Steel Nitrile Gloves

The Venom Steel Nitrile Glove is another protective item that performs well in all situations and environments. In fact, this glove fits the needs of any worker who does not mind doing the dirty and hard work in their workplace but still want to ensure that his/her hands receive the ultimate protection from harm.

One reason why I truly admire this nitrile glove from Venom is that it is designed to be heavy-duty. This means that it is truly suitable for those who are really doing all the hard work. I am in favor of its really tough and strong construction, which gives some a hundred percent assurance that it can withstand rough and tough jobs.

It has a much better grip compared to the others. It is also built to be 70 percent thicker compared to the other gloves offered by Venom. With that grip and thickness, I am sure you can move and do your job conveniently without worrying about harming your hands since you know that you are fully protected.

I like the somewhat unmatched versatility of this nitrile glove, too. It is flexible and versatile in the sense that it fits most jobs, like cleaning, automotive, or any other job that needs the ultimate solution for hand protection. It is even designed to have two protective layers so it can effectively resist rips, chemicals, punctures, and tears.

Furthermore, it can prevent your hands from dealing with the effects of being directly exposed to dirt, grime, grease, scrapes, nicks, fuels, and oils.

8. Adenna DLG678 9-mil Nitrile Powder-free Gloves

Another great nitrile glove that you have to consider incorporating in your choices is the Adenna DLG678 9-mil Nitrile Powder-free Exam Glove. I am impressed with how this powder-free nitrile glove is constructed because I noticed that it is really meant to give users the ultimate protection.

I am happy that it is 100 percent latex-free as it makes it ideal for a wide range of tasks and activities, including those revolving around the auto workshops, manufacturing, plumbing, and painting industries, and marine environments. I am also fond of its black color as I noticed its effectiveness in masking or hiding stains.

In terms of its thickness, it is around 9-mil thick, giving you the additional protection you need. It also has a strong and incredible resistance to various threats, as well as wear and tear. Despite its thickness, I noticed that the brand still applies a unique formula to soften the gloves and make them more elastic and comfortable.

In fact, it is possible for it to fit your hands really comfortably. It is a versatile piece of protection, too. It is famous among mechanics while also working perfectly when used on spray painting applications. This capability is made possible by its thickness designed to protect you from paints, light chemicals, and thinners, among many others.

The versatility of this glove is also showcased by its compatibility with the military, laboratory, correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies, industrial applications, mid- to heavy-mechanics, and homeland security.

You can also use it safely in dry and wet environments because of its superior grip brought on by its textured fingertips.

9. Infi-Touch Heavy-duty Nitrile Gloves

I also find the Infi-Touch Heavy-duty Nitrile Glove a favorable choice. What I specifically like about it is that it has the combination of the high amount of protection provided by nitrile while also having the amazing tactile sensitivity provided by latex material.

This heavy-duty nitrile glove is made in such a way that it has great tensile strength, thereby boosting the superiority of its barrier protection significantly. It has more than enough thickness to handle all the threats exposed to it. This powder-free glove is also built to be tough while retaining dexterity and sensitivity.

You will find it valuable in a wide range of applications and uses, including law enforcement, laboratory, cleaning and maintenance, and homeland security. It is also ambidextrous, making it supportive and fitting to both your hands. The resistance of this glove to a wide range of threats, like abrasion, punctures, and harsh chemicals is also amazing.

It can maximize your gripping power with the help of the built-in micro-textured fingertips. The grip will also be stronger when exposed to dry and wet applications because of its textured fingertips.

I am also pleased that I can easily and effortlessly don it because of its smooth and user-friendly interior finish.

AMMEX GWBN44100-BX Nitrile Gloves (Outdated)

Another product that continues to earn praises from a lot of work glove users like me is the AMMEX GWBN44100-BX Nitrile Glove. It offers superior protection, especially if your job or task is extremely demanding. I advise checking this protective glove out, including its features and benefits, as I find it has the right balance of control, power, performance, and protection.

One thing that amazes me about this nitrile glove is the raised diamond texture since I noticed how useful it is in channeling liquids and excess moisture away. This capability promotes additional gripping power, especially if you are in a wet working environment. I find its overall construction highly durable, too.

In fact, it does a fantastic job when it comes to protecting you from and resisting rips and punctures. I think this can be attributed to the glove’s 6-mil thickness that makes it really protective while promoting extended and prolonged use.

I am also happy that it is built to be powder-free and latex-free as this also means that it is safe for almost all kinds of users, particularly those who have allergic reactions to natural rubber.

It is available in black, which I can say is a great color for the glove as it looks rugged and professional while also concealing accumulated grime and dirt.

Adenna Catch 8-mil Nitrile Gloves (Outdated)

The last nitrile glove that caught my attention because of its overall quality is the Adenna Catch 8-mil Nitrile Powder-free Glove. I am genuinely impressed with how this powder-free glove performs in various work conditions and how it protects a wide range of workers.

I am in love with its 8-mil finger thickness as it significantly enhances the glove’s overall strength. With this, it has more than enough durability when used in mid and heavy-duty applications as well as high-risk jobs and environments.

It is also 100 percent devoid of rubber latex, which prevents you from experiencing possible allergies caused by latex protein. It has remarkable flexibility because I noticed how it works appropriately in a wide range of scenarios and applications, including painting, plumbing, auto mechanics, manufacturing, industrial, and aviation.

I am also satisfied with its ability to keep your hands fully protected and safe from harsh paints, solvents, and chemicals. I like its vibrant orange color as it significantly boosts its visibility.

This further enhances its ability to give you protection. It holds a heavily textured surface, maximizing its grip.

What is a Pair of Nitrile Gloves

Nitrile gloves are protective gloves constructed using synthetic rubber. They are known to be perfect substitutes to latex that serve their purpose in case you are allergic to the latter material. The superiority of the top-tier nitrile disposable gloves can actually be attributed to their high puncture-resistant rating.

Nitrile material is already around for quite some time. However, it has only become more affordable lately, which is the main reason behind its increased popularity nowadays in various industries, including cleaning, food, and the medical industry.

Most people love and enjoy the latex-free and strong comfort offered by the nitrile material. Nitrile gloves are actually gain the most popularity in the medical industry as this is where they quickly replaced protective gloves made of latex.

Still, you can expect nitrile to provide similar protection from a number of things, like chemicals, cuts, and punctures. The only difference between nitrile and latex is that the former relieves possible allergic reactions often caused by latex-based gloves.

If you are searching for a pair of glove for your job, maybe you also interested in our list of puncture-resistant gloves. Furthermore, check our guide for mechanic gloves if you need.

How Does It Work

Nitrile gloves can be expected to work and function through its high level of tear- and puncture-resistance. It is also preferred by many over latex because of its strong chemical-resistance. It is because nitrile material is capable of standing up to oil more effectively, making it perfect if you plan to handle small oily components and metal stamping.

It also works well when used in the food industry by preventing the issue associated with latex-related allergies. In addition, this type of glove is designed in a way that it rips visibly when punctured, allowing it to function by protecting you regardless of the industry you are in.

Types of Nitrile Gloves

When it comes to picking the most reliable nitrile glove that suits the purpose and application you have in mind, it is essential to spend time looking at the primary categories of it. The gloves are actually categorized into a couple of types depending on their grade. These are:

Industrial-grade – This specific type or category is ideal for applications that require you to deal with solvents and harsh chemicals. Among the industries and applications where the industrial-grade nitrile gloves can benefit are the janitorial and automotive industries as well as those that require safety from chemicals, including food service.

The most significant reason why the industrial-grade nitrile glove works in the mentioned applications and industries is that it has a strong resistance to chemicals. In addition, the material is also known for being puncture-resistant.

Medical-grade – The second type of nitrile glove that you have to be aware of is the medical-grade glove. Also called nitrile exam gloves, the medical-grade protective gloves made of nitrile material perfectly suit those industries that might expose you to environmental contaminants and blood-borne pathogens.

With this, you will most likely see the medical-grade or exam nitrile gloves in dental and medical offices, laboratories, and hospitals. It should be noted that this category requires rigorous testing. In fact, they need to meet the specific standards and guidelines set by the Food and Drugs Administration or FDA.

This is crucial in ensuring that they offer the kind of shield or protection, durability, and strength required for the mentioned applications. It is also famous in dental and medical offices since they get rid of the risk or potential for allergies.

Why Do You Need to Wear Nitrile Gloves

There are numerous reasons why wearing nitrile gloves in whatever job you hold or industry you are in can do you a lot of good. Here are just some of the positive things to look forward to when wearing nitrile gloves, making them great investments as far as your protection is concerned:

Hypoallergenic – One reason behind the popularity of nitrile gloves and why some people prefer the material over latex is because it lessens the risk of experiencing allergic reactions. It prevents the development of allergies not only to the wearer but also to any client or patient that comes in direct contact with it.

Apart from being hypoallergenic, nitrile gloves, especially the exam-grade ones, are strong and durable. They can even withstand several safety hazards present in the medical field.

Extreme puncture-resistance – Nitrile gloves are also amazing because they are naturally puncture-resistant. In fact, this resistance is around 3-5 times stronger compared to disposable latex gloves. This specific resistance is crucial, especially in the medical industry.

What is good about nitrile is that it also serves as a general barrier against all possible sources of harm. It is extremely durable, too. In most cases, you can choose to buy powder-free nitrile gloves to prevent dealing with the mess that is often associated with using powdered protective gloves.

Form-fitting – Another reason why it is a wise move to use nitrile gloves is that they are naturally form-fitting. What is even better about wearing gloves that properly fit is that it can dramatically increase your level of comfort and dexterity.

Nitrile can offer such benefit since this material is known to naturally and easily conform to the actual shape of your hand while the natural heat of your body tries to warm them up. The same can be expected from thick nitrile gloves that belong to the industrial-grade category.

Excellent chemical-resistance – The chemical-resistance of nitrile gloves is also amazing, making it truly a great investment for those who need a protective glove. It is designed to offer the highest level of resistance to oils, acids, and chemicals in comparison to latex and other natural rubber gloves.

High tactile sensitivity – Nitrile-based protective gloves also continue to gain popularity lately because of their incredible touch or tactile sensitivity. With this, it is easier to move when you are working and doing your job.

The great tactile or touch sensitivity of nitrile gloves is also one reason why it is commonly used as surgical and exam gloves today.

Apart from the positive things already mentioned about nitrile-based gloves, their versatility is also impressive. Their versatility together with their other benefits shines clearly, especially once you see how they are appropriate to use on a wide range of industries.

In a number of industries, many prefer nitrile due to the many advantages that they can offer compared to vinyl, latex, and any other materials for several applications. It is even possible for you to wear nitrile gloves under other protective work gloves so you can make them even more waterproof.

Buying Guide

With the many things that nitrile gloves can offer, it no longer comes as a surprise why it continues to gain popularity as of the moment. It is durable and tough plus it has a long shelf-life. The durability of the glove also makes it possible for it to withstand even the harshest work environments.

However, you can’t expect to enjoy all the mentioned advantages if you choose one, which is not high-quality enough. Increase your chances of finding a pair of glove that showcases its great quality by spending time scrutinizing all these important factors and points:

Intended purpose or use – Just like what has been discussed earlier, a nitrile glove can be categorized as either industrial-grade or medical-grade. You can make your choice between the two based on your intended purpose or use of the actual glove. That’s why you have to determine the specific purpose for the glove prior to buying.

You can go for the industrial-grade nitrile glove if you intend to use the gear for certain activities that tend to expose you to harsh substances and chemicals. These are commonly visible in janitorial and automotive industries.

The exam or the medical-grade nitrile glove, on the other hand, can protect you from blood-borne or environmental pathogens commonly found in medical facilities. Find out the risks and threats you are frequently exposed to so you can pick the right type of nitrile glove for you.

Size and color – Checking the size of the nitrile glove should also form an essential part of the entire selection process. Note that you will be in need of a glove that properly fits your hands. If possible, try on some samples prior to deciding to buy so you can really get the size that is right for you.

It is also essential to consider the color. Note that the blue is the standard color used in a nitrile glove. It is primarily because this is the color used in differentiating the material from those constructed out of latex. It is also possible to use the color in distinguishing sizes of gloves and preventing cross contamination.

Glove thickness – Nitrile glove also varies in thickness, which is measured in mil, the abbreviated version of millimeters. This glove’s thickness actually ranges from 4-8 mil. If possible, choose a glove, which has an additional thickness designed to provide the utmost protection from harsh substances and chemicals.

One thing that you have to remember is that the thickness of nitrile gloves also has a say on its level of dexterity. Thicker gloves also mean that they have less dexterity. If you are working in the food processing industry and planning to use the glove there for 8 hours daily, then it would be best to pick thinner work gloves.

It is because it means that you will enjoy more dexterity, preventing your hands from becoming too tired and sweaty. If you are a painter, tattoo artist, or hold any other similar job then you have to invest in thicker gloves. It is because your job might cause you to deal with more puncture threats.

Finish and texture – It also helps to spend time scrutinizing the finish and texture of the nitrile glove before buying. If you think that you will be needing an improved grip then look for a pair of the glove with fingers and palm that have textured finish. This often comes in the pattern of a diamond.

Having this texture is a big help as it significantly increases the grip of the glove, which contributes a lot when using it in dry and wet situations. A chlorinated coating is also used as a finish for the nitrile glove in most cases. This specific coating is a big help in lessening the stickiness, thereby promoting ease in putting on and taking off the gloves.

Powder-free vs. powdered – You also have to decide whether you will be getting a nitrile glove with powder or the one that is free from it. It is because it is also two of the most common choices in this type of glove. If you go for powder-free then note that it makes use of a polymer or chlorinated finish.

What is great about this finish is that it promotes ease in donning and doffing the glove while preventing you from experiencing the mess of the powdered version. However, the powdered glove is also an advantage for those who deal with a lot of moisture on a regular basis.

It is because it is capable of absorbing excess moisture. This is also a huge advantage as it helps in conveniently putting on the nitrile glove. The only problem with this is that it also tends to leave some residues.

Care and Maintenance

Your nitrile gloves can be expected to last for quite a long time if you know exactly the basics of properly caring for them. In terms of caring for them, the first thing that you have to know is how to clean the gloves properly. It would be best to wash this type of glove in your sink with the help of mild dishwashing soap or laundry detergent.

Avoid using solvents or bleach as these two are known to be oxidizing agents that trigger discoloration. After washing, it is advisable to let the gloves air-dry naturally. Air-drying is highly recommended to prevent the material from shrinking.

It can also ensure that the actual and proper size will be retained after washing. Also, avoid drying it using your machine. You should not also expose it to a source of heat, which is different from indirect sunlight.

Also, it helps to inspect and check the present condition of the nitrile glove before using. This will show you right away whether it already has signs of damage or wear and tear that requires immediate replacement. In terms of storage, it is essential to look for an area, which is dark and cool.

Avoid storing your nitrile glove in a place that exposes them to UV light or ozone for an extremely long period of time. The storage area should also be far from sources of heat, such as steam pipes and radiators.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are nitrile glove brands?

A number of nitrile glove brands is now gaining popularity in the market. Most workers trust some of these brands because of the quality of the gloves, their durability, and their ability to offer the kind of protection that they are wishing to receive. Among the most trusted nitrile glove brands are SAS Safety, AMMEX, Maxiflex, Venom, and Adenna.

What are nitrile gloves made of? How they are made?

Nitrile is constructed using synthetic rubber or latex – both of which are composed or made up of physical properties capable of resisting petroleum fuels and oils. One thing to remember is that the nitrile material does not have latex proteins.

The synthetic material used in constructing this glove also has thrice more puncture-resistance compared to latex. All the properties composing nitrile can also be expected to create an incredible protective glove that you can safely use in several industries, particularly food service and medical applications.

In terms of the manner through which nitrile gloves are made, take note that the process of manufacturing them takes place in an assembly line. This is where you can find the glove forms being dipped first in a solution containing calcium nitrate, which thickens the dipped forms.

This process contributes to how thick the final form of the glove is. After the calcium nitrate solution evenly dries into the glove form, it is dipped into the solution containing the nitrile material. This is the step involved in developing the nitrile glove. It cures into the form prior to creating the actual glove through a blow of direct and strong burst of air.

Are nitrile gloves safe?

Of course, nitrile gloves are safe to use. In fact, the material is popular for having less to zero toxic materials, making it truly safe to use even in food and medical industries. If you are wondering about the question “are nitrile gloves food-safe”, then you will also receive a resounding yes as an answer.

Nitrile gloves for food, however, should be of top-notch quality so you will be assured of their high level of safety. Make sure that you use the gloves correctly around foods, too. Keep in mind that there are nitrile gloves that are low in quality, causing them to contain some harmful chemicals that can adversely affect the wearer and can transfer to food.

It is also crucial to monitor the glove regularly so you can instantly avoid using it in case it is torn or ripped. One more thing that you have to remember is that disposable nitrile gloves have to be replaced at the right time. It is because some of them may get contaminated, causing the transfer of viruses and bacteria to foods.

With that in mind, remember that while most nitrile gloves, especially the high-quality ones, are food safe, it is still important to inspect them regularly and learn a lot of things about how to take good care of them.

Are nitrile gloves chemical-resistant and waterproof?

Yes, nitrile glove is both chemical-resistant and waterproof. Nitrile material has a high resistance to chemicals, thereby protecting you from some chemical-based threats, like acids, caustics, petroleum products, greases, oils, and chlorinated and aromatic solvents.

Since it is chemical-resistant, it is safe to assume that nitrile is also liquid-proof or waterproof. In fact, it is one of the strongest, waterproofed material used in numerous industries and applications.

Can nitrile gloves be used for food handling?

Yes, nitrile gloves can be used for handling and preparing foods because it is safe to use this material for the mentioned industries and applications. In fact, many consider it as the preferred choice in the food industry since it prevents allergic reactions that often happen when using latex material.

It is also more chemical-resistant compared to latex material. Just ensure that you go for the powder-free version when planning to use a nitrile glove for food handling and application to lower the risk of contamination.

Are nitrile gloves recyclable?

Yes, nitrile gloves are recyclable. In fact, you can find programs designed to help you in your nitrile glove recycling projects. All it takes is to find the kind of recycling project and program that perfectly suits you.

Also, take note that while you can recycle this type of glove, it is important to put it in a separate and special recycling bin, not your standard or typical recycling bin. This is important in protecting not only the hands of those around you but also the environment.

How to sterilize nitrile gloves?

Nitrile gloves can actually be sterilized to make them even safer to use, especially if you are handling or preparing foods. The first step involved in sterilizing the nitrile glove is to wipe the outer part using an antibacterial cloth or wipes. Make sure to soak the cloth or wipes in a disinfectant prior to using it to wipe the glove’s exteriors.

Avoid using alcohol in sanitizing or sterilizing as this might only increase the risk of the nitrile material for tearing. Once done, hang the glove to dry prior to reusing it. You can actually use this simple method as a substitute for washing the nitrile glove using warm water and soap.

How long do nitrile gloves last?

Nitrile gloves can actually be expected to last for quite a long time. However, just like other natural products, there is still a high chance for them to degrade eventually. To increase the chance of your glove to last its expected lifetime, ensure that you properly take care of it. If unused, store it away from heat and direct sunlight.

What is the best thickness for nitrile gloves?

Many of us assume that the thickest disposable nitrile gloves are superior to the thinner ones but this is not always the case.

Naturally, a cheap nitrile glove is often under 3 mils in thickness, which is considered thin. Yet they are reliable for kitchen use, specifically when preparing ingredients.

On top of that, their dexterity and tactile sensitivity often feel like your second skin. They are also comfier and more breathable than thicker ones. Besides workers in the food industry, dentists use nitrile gloves with 2 to 4-mil thickness.

For BBQ, culinary experts recommend 5-mil nitrile gloves. They are thick enough to keep the bacteria from the raw meat while keeping your hands comfy. Let me also add that there are nitrile gloves with inner linings designed specifically for outdoor cooking and grilling.

By contrast, nitrile gloves with a thickness of 6 to 8 mils are less prone to tearing and capable of handling caustic chemicals longer. Apart from using them for cleaning, these are recommended for agricultural, automotive, chemical, and manufacturing workers.

What grades are nitrile gloves?

Generally speaking, nitrile gloves fall into two major grades: Medical and Industrial.

You’re probably wondering: If nitrile gloves are only either medical or industrial grade, then what will you use for cooking?

Well, there is a consensus among experts on food safety websites and Reddit users that powder-free medical gloves are the best option for food handling. This is to ensure that no powder can get into the food you’re preparing!

As discussed in the previous question, you need to choose the correct glove thickness for the task.

Medical-grade vs industrial-grade nitrile gloves: What is the difference?

We all know that surgical gloves are medical-grade because we are accustomed to seeing healthcare professionals wearing them in clinics, hospices, and hospitals.

Whether it’s a high-quality latex rubber glove or nitrile, these are medical devices regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The goal is to protect the medical workers from a patient’s blood, vomit, urine, and other contaminants.

When it comes to industrial-grade nitrile gloves, workers and employers follow safety standards for hand protection outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The same goes for stretchy latex gloves and leather work gloves.

The OSHA standards apply to various fields, which include but are not limited to the beauty, personal care, automotive, manufacturing, and food, and beverage industries.

Besides the regulations set by respective authorities, the medical-grade and industrial-grade nitrile gloves differ in design. For instance, some disposable industrial nitrile gloves are thicker because they need to be more chemical-resistant. They are also textured to improve the grip. Meanwhile, exam gloves are more lightweight, therefore, more tactile sensitive.

What size of nitrile gloves do I need?

The specific size of glove that you need is actually dependent on which one can significantly improve your performance and optimize your comfort level while you are at work. To determine the correct size, try to fit a few samples. Your chosen glove should have a snug fit on your hand. It should also mimic your hand’s natural shape and size.

Another sign that you are getting the correct size and fit if it does not have any additional material over your fingertips. It should make you feel comfortable. It should never make your hands feel extreme tiredness and fatigue once your workday ends.

In addition, it should give you exceptional dexterity, especially if your work requires the use of your finger. It should not also fit too loosely in the sense that it can already lead to skin irritation and chafing.

What threats can nitrile gloves protect me from?

One of the most important things about a nitrile glove is that it protects your hands each time you wear it at work. It makes use of nitrile, which is a material designed to keep your hands protected and safe from all forms of threat and contamination. It also prevents you from getting contaminated by the items or surfaces you are touching.

Nitrile also contains protective properties as it is oil-proof, grease-proof, and waterproof, among many other things. Most important, it is resistant to chemicals and substances. It also promotes dexterous strengths plus protects you from cuts and punctures, especially if you are working in the medical industry.

Are their nitrile gloves for mechanics?

Of course, you can find nitrile gloves designed for mechanics. The best nitrile gloves for mechanics are actually known for their strength. In fact, they are stronger than latex gloves plus they are known to offer more resistance to punctures and chemicals.

With that, it is safe to assume that they work for mechanics, too. Almost all mechanics actually need a dexterous, strong, and chemical-resistant work glove, all of which are qualities that can be met by nitrile gloves. This especially holds true if you choose the black nitrile gloves that are preferred by a lot of mechanics.

Conclusion

The best nitrile gloves offer numerous advantages to wearers, which is the reason why they continue to win the hearts of many. Their extreme versatility is one of their strengths, making them useful in almost all applications. In addition, they are sturdy and strong, allowing you to work in whatever industry with confidence.

Andrew Carnegie

Having worked in the field of personal protective equipment for over two decades, Andrew Carnegie is a specialist in the field.

At EDC, he strives to improve performance efficiency and promote workplace safety for EDC’s readers and customers. He also researches the most up-to-date equipment that has earned relevant accreditation for use in a wide range of industries and specialties.