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. Importantly, disposable gloves are flexible and allow for complete dexterity.

Choose reliable gloves from suppliers such as Ansell, Uniglove, and Reldeen, available in multiple colours and sizes, and in powered and powder-free options. 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.

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. 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 resistance to chemicals. Nitrile is tolerated by those with allergies to latex and is a viable alternative. Nitrile is not considered as comfortable as latex or vinyl and does not provide the dexterity latex does.

Vinyl disposable gloves

Vinyl is a comfortable option that is suitable for those with a latex allergy or sensitivity. Vinyl does not have the same durability as latex and nitrile and is subsequently not advised for applications requiring puncture resistance.