The Complete Buyers Guide to Vinyl Gloves

07 Jul.,2025

 

The Complete Buyers Guide to Vinyl Gloves

The Complete Buyers Guide to Vinyl Gloves

If you are considering making the move to vinyl gloves, this handy guide can help determine if it is the right choice for you.

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Vinyl gloves are commonly used for food preparation and general house cleaning tasks, to keep hands protected at all times.
 
They are essential food handling room supplies for the catering industry to ensure hygienic standards are adhered to. Their looser fit makes them great for those working in food retail, allowing people to remove gloves quickly and easily when dealing with customers. Outside caterers rely on these gloves to maintain food hygiene standards, particularly when the usual sources of water for handwashing are not available. They provide full hand protection as well as reducing the risk of cross-contamination, particularly when preparing high risk foods. Once worn, they can simply be disposed of, rather than transferring germs to other parts of the kitchen.
 
They also provide protection during general housekeeping use, such as cleaning, changing bed linen, laundry and other similar tasks. They can protect your hands from all manner of bleaches, chemicals and abrasive substances, which could otherwise irritate the skin. You’ll keep clean hands and be fully protected, while offering a full range of movement and a textured grip.
 
Disposable vinyl gloves can also be used in the medical sector. Many medical professionals choose medical grade vinyl gloves for examinations and the treatment of patients. Vinyl exam gloves are particularly useful for people with latex allergies, as they are 100% latex free. This means there is no risk of skin irritation caused by latex, so everyone can use them safely and comfortably.

Vinyl Glove Standards & Regulations

Medical grade vinyl gloves conform to AQL 1.5 CE Class 1 Medical grade standard and comply with BS EN 455. The BS EN 455 series of standards refer to the testing that must be carried out on medical gloves. Whilst the EN420, EN375 series of standards determine the PPE requirements for chemical and mechanical handling.

 Non-medical; grade vinyl gloves conform to AQL4.0, CE marked for Minimal Risk, in compliance with BS EN 420 PPE Regulation (EU/425.

What are vinyl gloves made of?

Vinyl gloves are created using polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The first stage of the manufacturing process involves adding a plasticiser to the material, which makes it flexible and ready to be used for protective gloves. If the plasticiser was not added, the mixture could be used to form materials such as PVC pipes. PVC is a wonderfully versatile and flexible substance, widely used across many different industries.
 
PVC is relatively inexpensive to make, which is why vinyl gloves are usually the cheaper option compared to nitrile and latex. Vinyl gloves are excellent for everyday use, as they come with a relatively small price tag while protecting your hands and whatever you are handling from contamination.

Do vinyl gloves contain latex? 

Vinyl gloves are completely latex free, which makes them a preferable choice for those suffering with latex and skin allergies. In some workplaces, employees may not know that they have a latex allergy. This is why some employers choose to kit their staff out with personal protective equipment (PPE) that is already latex free, such as disposable vinyl gloves, just in case. This eliminates the risk that someone will have an allergic reaction.

What is the difference between latex and vinyl gloves?

Vinyl gloves are not as strong and durable as latex when it comes to puncture and tear resistance and should not be used for higher risk medical purposes or when dealing with hazardous substances. Vinyl provides a good barrier for low risk procedures and because they are latex free and chemical accelerator free, are a good alternative to those with type I and type IV allergies.

 Vinyl gloves are typically cheaper to purchase than their latex or nitrile counterparts, making them excellent disposable gloves for everyday use.

Are vinyl gloves safe for blood?

Vinyl gloves are widely used for certain procedures and types of tasks in the medical sector. However, it is not recommended that you wear vinyl gloves if you may find yourself coming into contact with blood. The material has been proven to be impermeable to blood borne pathogens, including viruses. However, because the vinyl film is weaker compared to latex and nitrile it does have a higher chance of tearing during use and does not provide a close fit to the hand. Therefore, it is not advisable to use vinyl gloves in situations where there is contact with blood. Instead, you should choose a stronger glove that fits closely to the hand such as latex or nitrile. When it comes to hand protection and equipment supplies, safety is everything.

What is the difference between latex and vinyl gloves?

While ideal for everyday use and low-risk, low-impact tasks, vinyl gloves are not as strong and durable as latex when it comes to puncture resistance. For this reason, it is not recommended to use them for higher risk medical purposes or when dealing with hazardous substances.
 
Vinyl provides a good barrier for low-risk procedures - for example, when coming into contact with bodily fluids, drainage bags, body hygiene in medical environments, as well as during washing, laundry, general housekeeping and food handling. As they are latex free and chemical accelerator free, vinyl gloves are a good alternative for those with type I and type IV latex-related skin allergies.
 
Vinyl gloves tend to have a slightly looser fit than latex gloves, which usually fit closely around the hand for ultimate freedom of movement and dexterity.  

Are vinyl gloves acid and chemical resistant?

Vinyl gloves are waterproof and provide low chemical resistance, so can be used with detergents and low chemicals that have easily reversible effects. However, it is important you carefully check the specifications of the gloves you are purchasing, before using chemicals. It is recommended to use nitrile gloves for chemical handling.

Are vinyl gloves recyclable?

Vinyl gloves are not usually recyclable but their packaging is. You should always aim to dispose of your vinyl gloves in a responsible way when working with them – in the general waste bin. Gloves that have come into contact with blood should be disposed of using local infection control guidelines.

Are vinyl gloves food safe?

Vinyl gloves have been certified for contact with food. However, they are not suitable for long-term handling of fatty foods. This is because over time, the material can start to erode.

Vinyl gloves are available in a range of bright colours and therefore are ideal for food preparation, as you can easily see any ripped or torn glove pieces in the food itself.

What is the powder in vinyl gloves?

The powder used in vinyl gloves, to ensure they are easy to put on and remove, is corn starch. This ensures hands can smoothly enter gloves, as well as providing a level of sweat absorption during use, which makes the gloves more comfortable to wear. This can also help to reduce fatigue when wearing disposable gloves for a long time.
 
However, some people discover they suffer irritation caused by the friction of the powder in the glove. In these situations, powder free vinyl gloves are an ideal solution. There’s no powder, and no irritation. Powder-free gloves are also very useful in situations where contamination could be an issue, such as food preparation, production or manufacturing.

How should I store vinyl gloves?

Vinyl gloves should be stored in a cool, dry place. You should refrain from breaking the seal on the packaging until you are ready to use the gloves inside. This is to ensure there is no damage or deterioration to the gloves, so they remain in perfect condition ready for use.

Are vinyl gloves the right choice for my workplace?

When choosing disposable gloves for your workplace, there are several things to consider. The first and possibly most important is the level of protection you need. Employers are advised to carry out a full risk assessment before buying personal protective equipment (PPE) such as disposable gloves.
 
If you need light use gloves for low-risk or everyday tasks, vinyl gloves are a good choice. If you’ll be working with harsher chemicals or need more durable, hard-wearing gloves, latex or nitrile could be a more suitable option. 
 
Vinyl gloves are a good choice for a range of tasks and sectors, including patient examinations in hospitals, GPs and dental practices, as well as care homes and veterinary practices. They are also widely used in the catering, food production and food manufacturing industries, as well as in hair salons, beauty parlours and other environments where low-risk chemicals are used. Vinyl gloves are a top choice for cleaning businesses, as well as for everyday use. You can even use them for household cleaning and DIY.
 
Another consideration is budget. Vinyl gloves are one of the most affordable options for low-risk tasks, especially when bought in bulk. They may not last as long as other types of gloves, but they do offer good value for the hand protection and versatility they offer.

Brosch Direct offer an extensive range of Vinyl Gloves

Here at Brosch Direct, it’s easy to find the right disposable gloves. Whatever the use and whatever you need, you’ll find it among our range of vinyl gloves. We have a selection of exceptional quality products in all sizes from extra small to extra large, featuring both lightly powdered and powder free options. Our vinyl gloves also come in a variety of colours depending on their required use, and the boxes are colour coded to make it easy for staff to access the right size gloves at a glance.

A complete guide to vinyl gloves – Health Supply World

If you are worried about allergies on your skin and your hands are sensitive to different types of soaps and sanitizers that you have been using, vinyl gloves could be a great option for you to choose from. They are better than plastic gloves and offer a latex-free solution to your problems. They are disposable as well, which means that you don’t even need to worry about cleaning them!
Read on to find more about the benefits of these types of gloves!

What are vinyl gloves?

Vinyl gloves are like many other protective and disposable gloves, except that they are made from PVC (a petroleum-based film). They are known to be more durable than plastic gloves and are latex-free. Vinyl gloves are designed for quick and efficient tasks and are easy to put on and remove. They also have beaded cuffs that make them different from plastic gloves.
They are largely demanded in the food, medical, and production industry, though the medical industry primarily uses vinyl exam gloves (rather than powder free or other styles). They are inexpensive to manufacture and are low cost. While they also offer low protection against germs, disposable gloves come in incredibly handy since they reduce the risk of spreading disease instead.

What vinyl gloves are used for?

These gloves can be used for a variety of tasks. The better question is – for what can these gloves NOT be used? Here are some of their most popular uses.

Medical uses

These vinyl exam gloves are in demand in the medical industry and can be used by doctors to create a barrier between their hands and the patient. Plus, if they will be worn for a while, you can choose the vinyl gloves powder free to maintain flexibility.

Cleaning tasks

Whether it is in the industrial arena or at home, these gloves will help you clean surfaces effectively. Some surfaces require a little more intensity, putting the hands at risk of coming in contact with germs, chemicals, and other particles. These gloves will protect your hands while cleaning, keeping them from getting wet or risking contamination.

Serving and preparing food

These gloves are also used in the food industry. They will keep your hands off of any food and utensils to protect anyone who eats the meals. They are an essential part of any food service, and they are equally helpful with in-home cooking. If you have sensitive skin, you might want to look for vinyl gloves powder free to reduce the risk of irritation

Are vinyl gloves latex-free?

If you are looking for a latex-free glove option, your search ends here. Gloves made from vinyl contain no latex, often making them the cheapest option in the market. They are easily disposable, though they offer low protection and do not safeguard against some chemicals. Therefore, these gloves should not be used when working with hard chemicals.

Are vinyl gloves safe?

Even though most people tend to go for these types of gloves because they are latex-free, they are not known to be the safest option in the market. They are affordable and rather cheap. However, that usually compromises the safety standards of the vinyl gloves. They offer low protection and could be ineffective on certain chemicals.

Are vinyl gloves food safe?

If you are thinking can you use vinyl gloves for food, the answer is yes! They are completely sanitary and safe in food handling and food preparation alike. The food industry makes up most of its demand. They usually protect against oil, grease, and other spices being used in the food, enduring that none of these compounds affect your skin. Simultaneously, they also prevent infections from seeping through.
When talking about vinyl gloves powder free is another helpful feature in food preparation. Vinyl gloves powder free don’t add any substances that make the hands feel chalky, allowing the user to keep a steady grip on any knives or other utensils used in food handling.

Do vinyl gloves contain latex?

No, these gloves do not contain latex at all, including vinyl gloves powder free. These gloves have been produced with raw synthetic materials, like Poly Vinyl Chloride-and-Phthalates DINP plasticizers. These components are used to make plastics soft as well as pliable. However, while they might be the first choice for those who want latex-free gloves, they should not be used in environments that involve the handling of hard chemicals.

Can you be allergic to vinyl gloves?

Reports suggest that there is almost no chance of you being allergic to vinyl. However, some people complain of skin irritation after wearing these gloves for too long or while excessively sweating. Most often than not, this is caused by the lack of ventilation inside these gloves. This problem is called contact urticaria. However, contact urticaria is not isolated to only the vinyl gloves. It can be caused by other gloves too – those are sealed to keep the chemicals and germs out.
Not only that, but vinyl gloves also contain something known as phthalates that have been known to leech onto the human body after detaching themselves from the gloves. In such a case, it could cause reactions on your skin – eventually causing allergies but could also slip into your food and can have severe adverse effects on your health.

Are vinyl gloves acetone resistant?

While people do often use these gloves to handle acetone, it has been noticed that acetone can dissolve any vinyl surface. Therefore, it might not be safe to use vinyl gloves while you are working with acetone. You would probably need to use a more rigid material like rubber gloves when working with acetone, so the surface is not dissolved.

Can I use vinyl gloves to dye hair?

Like many other things, people find it okay to use these gloves for dyeing their hair. However, studies that tested vinyl while handling hair dye discovered that it sometimes causes a cause eczema-like reaction on the skin. Therefore, it does not seem like a great idea to have vinyl gloves on while dyeing your hair as the chemicals in the dye can quickly penetrate them. The last thing that anyone wants to do is stain their hands the same color as their hair!

Are disposable vinyl gloves recyclable?

Yes, vinyl is a recyclable material. However, some people may prefer to simply throw the gloves away, since the process of recycling vinyl can be more difficult to recycle than some plastics. Disposable versions of the glove can be melted down and recycled to suit the needs of the user. However, it is not always accepted by your local recycling authorities. They are loose and are not made up of a rigid material as rubber gloves so they can be easily tossed into the trash can. However, even though they are disposable, where you throw them and where they go from there has to be checked beforehand.

Can I use vinyl gloves for cooking?

Yes, this material is completely safe to use while cooking. Vinyl gloves are in high demand in the food industry and are specifically used when handling spices. They do not let the oil, grease, and spices pass through them, thus protecting you against any kind of skin irritations that might cause. In addition to that, it would also help the consumer of the food that you are cooking, protect against any passable infections that you might have.
Even though vinyl gloves are extensively used while cooking, they do contain some substance that can leach onto human skin after detachment from gloves and can eventually run down your food – causing serious health issues for you and your consumers – if you are making food for people other than yourself.

What is the difference between vinyl and nitrile gloves?

When we talk about vinyl vs nitrile gloves, the difference is that the latter is much more resistant than the former. However, nitrile gloves are known to be more expensive than Vinyl gloves. Another difference in vinyl vs nitrile gloves also lies in the elasticity and mechanical resistance of the two. Vinyl gloves are known to be much weaker and can break easily – even by a harsh press by your finger, while the nitrile gloves are tough.
Not only that, but the Vinyl gloves are also much more porous and are therefore not known to protect as much against the chemicals and infections as nitrile gloves. They can easily allow infections to pass through when working with chemicals and/or bodily fluids.
Moreover, vinyl gloves do not have any accelerators which make them better than nitrile gloves as this lack of accelerators reduces the chances of IV-type hypersensitivity reactions as well as contact allergies. Nitrile gloves, on the other hand, do have these accelerators.
While nitrile gloves are resistant to stretch, vinyl gloves are not as pliable. Therefore, if you are looking for a non-stretchable, tight material for your gloves that would ultimately protect your skin, this material might not be your first choice. For some people, nitrile gloves fit better and rest on your hands. They are not so elastic. Therefore, in vinyl vs nitrile gloves, looks like nitrile gloves make a much better choice.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Cheap Vinyl Gloves Wholesale in bulk.

Do vinyl gloves stretch?

Unfortunately, vinyl gloves do not provide much strength when stretching them to fit a hand. This texture could become problematic for individuals who want tight and non-stretchable gloves. While they offer a little give, trying to stretch them too far will cause breakage and tearing. No one wants a glove that could expose them to germs, chemicals, or other surfaces that they seek protection from, so it is important to choose the correct size.

Which gloves are better – latex or vinyl?

In the discussion of vinyl vs latex gloves, vinyl comes from PVC (a synthetic material), and the main benefit is that they are inexpensive to manufacture. They’ve quickly become people’s first choice of cheap protection wherever possible.
However, latex has always been a primary leader when it comes to gloves. In the past, latex gloves have also known to protect against highly communicable diseases and diseases like HIV. Meanwhile, vinyl offers much lesser protection even against basic germs and bacteria. The vinyl gloves are not even recommended in environments where there is a use of hard chemicals.
Not only that but when it is vinyl vs latex gloves, vinyl gloves are much less durable than latex gloves and can break as easily as when pressed with even a finger. They are also loosely fitting and hardly protect against infections.
In terms of protection for vinyl vs latex gloves, latex is always better than vinyl when it comes to choosing gloves to restrict contact and protection of your skin. Latex is also the clear winner because the vinyl gloves do contain substances that can detach from the vinyl gloves and can leach on to human skin – causing serious reactions and allergies. Not only that, these compounds known as phthalates can also slip down your food and the consumer could later face severe health issues.

Do vinyl gloves protect against germs?

While several people have now resorted to using vinyl gloves, it only remains a cheap alternative to the proper protective gloves as it is not very beneficial when compared to gloves made out of other materials. Vinyl exam gloves are not very efficient against germs and other bacteria and can easily expose your skin to infection. This is because they are more porous than other materials and can easily break under pressure, thus causing a significant exposure to your skin to make you catch an infection. Vinyl gloves are known to be highly breakable which can cause cracks in the glove material and cause your skin to be exposed to infections – thus causing serious complications in your health.

Where to buy vinyl gloves

Are you wondering where can you find vinyl gloves for sale? It is relatively easier to buy vinyl gloves as more and more people have now started to opt for them as a cheap alternative to protection wherever possible. Considering the coronavirus pandemic and the need to protect ourselves from any extra contact with the outside world or contaminants, vinyl gloves, like all the other gloves are easily available at all the medical stores near you.
If you’re looking to buy them online, virtual shopping sites like Amazon, glovesAmerica, thomasnet, etc. would also be good options to try out. You could also find them in any vinyl gloves wholesale store or vinyl gloves wholesale market.

Guide to Glove Selection

 Find the Right Disposable Glove for the Job 

Disposable gloves developed because of needs in the medical industry, where the tool matured and refined into what we know today. In recent years, attention has expanded to include disposable gloves for industrial safety applications, such as automotive repair, food processing and service, and janitorial/sanitation. Exam gloves however, have found many uses beyond medical and dental offices, such as tattoo, piercing and beauty salons.

The industrial market is the fastest-growing sector, with nitrile glove improvements, such as raised diamond texture and heavy-duty thickness, being important game changers. Vinyl provides a versatile, economical alternative, but offers a lesser degree of protection. Latex is the former industry leader that has slipped in popularity over concerns about allergies.

As awareness for worker protection needs spreads around the globe, and demands for safer operation conditions increase, the disposable glove business will continue to experience increasing levels of growth.

Choose the Right Material 

Nitrile 

Nitrile gloves are stronger than latex or vinyl, with three times the puncture resistance, plus more abrasion and chemical resistance, than latex. Additionally, they have a longer shelf life than natural latex rubber.

These gloves have the fit, feel, and comfort of latex, without the allergy concerns.

Preferred for automotive, manufacturing, janitorial, plumbing, painting, chemical, industrial, and food processing uses. Nitrile gloves are manufactured in industrial and exam grades.

Latex 

Superior dexterity, comfort, and fit are the standout traits of latex gloves. It offers the highest elasticity, resilience, flexibility, and tactile sensitivity.

Concerns over latex allergies have reduced its popularity. Likewise, potential reactions range from skin irritation to anaphylaxis, a possibly life-threatening condition. Therefore, more organizations are opting for nitrile to avoid this risk. A number of states have banned its use in food contact. 

Washing the gloves in a chlorinated solution during manufacturing can reduce latex proteins. Latex gloves are manufactured in industrial and exam grades.

Vinyl 

Vinyl gloves have a smooth texture with a roomy fit that is looser than latex or nitrile. They are the lowest puncture resistance, but the most economical, of the three materials.

These lightweight gloves deliver dependable barrier protection against most cleaning solutions and common chemicals. They are not recommended for harsh or petroleum-based chemicals.

A value-forward option for applications where frequent glove changes are required. Popular in food service, janitorial, and beauty & salon use. Vinyl Gloves are manufactured in industrial and exam grades.

Choose the Right Thickness 

Glove thickness is usually expressed in mils. Gloves of 3 mils or less are suited for jobs that do not require strong protection from chemicals or hazardous materials. Gloves in the 5- to 6-mil range are dependable for a variety of applications, from cleaning and janitorial use to heavier automotive or industrial needs involving tools and machinery. Gloves 8 mils and above are rated for heavy-duty use.

Choose the Right Grade 

Gloves are inspected and rated for either industrial or medical and exam use. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is responsible for regulating gloves by their minimum barrier protection, strength, and Acceptable Quality Level (AQL), the latter being related to the product’s freedom from pinholes during water testing. A lower AQL number represents a higher-quality—and more expensive—exam-grade glove. Exam gloves may be used for industrial applications, but not vice versa.

Align with Your Job & Budget 

For lightweight applications such as janitorial, food service, beauty & salon, or automotive detailing, 3-mil gloves are usually sufficient. Thinner gloves cost less but are better suited for frequent glove changes. Nitrile and latex gloves cost more than vinyl, which offers great value.

For medium-weight applications such as industrial use or working with tools and machinery, gloves in the 5- to 6-mil range are appropriate. They are more durable and offer stronger barrier protection.

Heavy-duty applications, such as automotive repair, require gloves of 8 mils or thicker. These gloves often come with raised diamond texture for improved grip, and the thickness. Meaning fewer rips or tears, these gloves are made for extended durations of use. Due to the durability users normally go through fewer gloves over the course of a shift.

What's the Difference Between Nitrile and Vinyl Gloves?

When it comes to selecting the right gloves for your spa, salon, or wellness center, understanding the differences between nitrile and vinyl gloves is crucial. These gloves are essential for maintaining hygiene and ensuring the safety of both staff and clients. Nitrile gloves are known for their superior resistance to chemicals and punctures, making them a popular choice for more demanding tasks. On the other hand, vinyl gloves are cost-effective and suitable for activities that require less durability and protection.

Why Choose Nitrile Gloves?

Nitrile gloves are made from synthetic rubber, offering exceptional strength and resistance to a variety of chemicals. They're an ideal choice for procedures that involve exposure to bloodborne pathogens or hazardous materials. Thanks to their high level of tactile sensitivity, nitrile gloves are preferred in the beauty industry, especially for services like nail care and facial treatments. Additionally, they are more resistant to oils, fats, and petroleum-based products, making them durable for longer use.

Benefits of Vinyl Gloves

Vinyl gloves are made from PVC, a petroleum-based film. They are less durable compared to nitrile gloves but are significantly more cost-effective. These gloves are suitable for short-term tasks and are best used in services that do not require high levels of protection or tactile precision, such as cleaning or light beauty treatments. Vinyl gloves are also latex-free, making them a good option for individuals with latex allergies.

Choosing the Right Gloves for Your Business

Deciding whether to use nitrile or vinyl gloves depends on the nature of the services your business provides. For intensive treatments that require durable and chemical-resistant gloves, nitrile is the superior choice. For less intense tasks or where cost-saving is a priority, vinyl gloves are adequate. Understanding the needs of your services will guide you in making the best choice for your staff and clients, ensuring safety and efficiency in your operations.

Want more information on blue disposable gloves? Feel free to contact us.