Are you allergic to Latex but do not know how to wear work gloves that protect your skin as effectively as possible without causing adverse reactions?
In this article, we will explain precisely what alternatives there are for professional protective gloves made of materials other than Latex.
In fact, we know that Latex gloves are an effective solution to protect the wearer’s skin, and that they are suitable for different sectors of professional use, ranging between medical and industrial, as well as for beauticians and cleaning companies.
However, we also know that this material is characterised as an allergenic substance for many people, which is why we feel it is important to talk about professional gloves made of equally efficient, durable materials.
Let’s get started!
Nitrile, the first alternative to Latex
If they were to ask us what is the best alternative to Latex for durable, skin-friendly work gloves, our choice would undoubtedly be Nitrile gloves. Furthermore, one of the advantages of this material is that it can also be safely used in the HoReCa sector, in food production and marketing and in catering, areas in which, on the contrary, the use of Latex gloves is not recommended.
They provide effective protection even in these contexts of use due to their excellent chemical and mechanical resistance and suitability for contact with most foodstuffs. Nevertheless, Nitrile gloves, like Latex gloves, are also perfect in the medical, dental, beauty/ hairdressing, tattoo and cleaning/service industries.
Technically speaking, what is Nitrile? Also known as NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber), it is a material of synthetic origin derived from the polymerisation of Acrylonitrile and Butadiene. It has also been called ‘synthetic rubber’ due to the fact that the raw material is in a liquid state (like Latex and unlike PVC-Vinyl) and due to its ability to emulate rubber in elasticity.
Vinyl, for inexpensive, durable, Latex-free gloves
An alternative solution for particularly resistant Latex-free gloves could be those made from vinyl, or even those containing a percentage of nitrile. This is a very good solution for those working in areas where there is a high consumption of disposable gloves: in the medical sector, RSAs, clinics, etc.
It is worth mentioning that the mechanical resistance of this product is lower than that of Latex and Nitrile gloves, due to poor molecular cohesion.
As a result, they are less elastic and more prone to breakage/damage and therefore not recommended for those working in contact with hazardous materials, especially those of a biological nature.
If we look at this material more closely, it is a derivation of PVC ( Polyvinyl Chloride) granules, one of the most widely used types of plastic, and also of plasticisers (mostly phthalates), which make it both flexible and pliable.
Unlike the other two, vinyl gloves refer to the regulations for plastic materials.
Polyethylene guarantees maximum cost-effectiveness and ease of use
Polyethylene work gloves,can be made from two different types of Polyethylene: High Density PE (HDPE) or Low Density PE (LDPE).
The former is more rigid, harder and is particularly cost-effective, often used in petrol stations and grocery stores. On the other hand, the second is more pliable, less rigid and therefore recommended in contexts where hand sensitivity must remain at a high level.
So, what is Polyethylene? You can ‘find it’ under the abbreviation PE and it is a widely used, low-cost plastic, as well as being very chemically stable and an excellent insulator for films and food safe bags.
Then there is also CPE or Cast PE, which is a polyurethane formulation that has a knurled finish in disposable gloves and provides a very high level of sensitivity and grip.
Last but not least, there are also TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomers) gloves, which are extremely sensitive and have an efficient grip, excellent for those who handle greasy and oily foodstuffs, also characterised by an increased thickness that provides remarkable resistance.
Supported, ergonomic and versatile gloves
Have you ever heard of supported work gloves? These are coated fabric protective gloves that are made by dipping the knitted fabric glove in a liquid such as Nitrile or Polyurethane.
While they are protective, durable, and comfortable in many areas of professional use, when coated with Nitrile or Polyurethane they become even more versatile, safe and durable. They have unprecedented ergonomics and wearability due to their mechanical strength and elasticity.
These are multi-purpose work gloves that are very protective, durable, and comfortable in all contexts of professional use. In their Nitrile-coated version, they are particularly recommended for use in wet and oily environments. On the other hand, the Polyurethane-coated version is better suited for use in dry environments.
Reflexx helps you choose your Latex-free gloves
After discovering the best alternatives for Latex-free work gloves, you can choose the type of gloves best suited to your professional needs on our website and request a customised quote.
Do you need help choosing? We are here to provide you with our no-obligation advice, contact us!
