Nitrile, vinyl or latex: which gloves do I need?
Gloves are one of the highest-volume items any practice or care home buys, so picking the right one for each task protects staff and saves money.
The short answer
- Nitrile for most clinical tasks and any contact with blood or body fluids.
- Vinyl for short, low-risk tasks such as cleaning, food handling or non-clinical work.
- Latex offers a great fit, but check your latex allergy policy first.
- Sterile gloves for aseptic procedures such as minor surgery, catheterisation or wound care that needs a sterile field.
Glove types compared
| Nitrile | Vinyl | Latex | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Clinical examinations, phlebotomy, body fluids, cleaning with chemicals | Short, low-risk tasks, food prep, light cleaning | Tasks needing high dexterity and touch sensitivity |
| Protection | Strong and puncture-resistant | Lower barrier protection; can tear more easily | Strong and elastic |
| Fit and feel | Snug and flexible | Looser fit | Very close “second skin” fit |
| Allergy risk | Latex-free | Latex-free | Can cause latex allergy |
| Cost | Mid | Lowest | Mid to high |
What to look for on the box
EN 455
The European standard for medical gloves. It covers freedom from holes, strength and shelf life.
EN ISO 374
Shows the glove has been tested for protection against chemicals and micro-organisms.
Powder-free
Powder-free gloves reduce the risk of irritation and contamination, and are the norm in clinical settings.
Getting the size right
Too small
Tight gloves tear more easily and cause hand fatigue on long shifts.
Too big
Loose fingertips reduce dexterity and can catch on equipment.
Stock a range
Most teams need S, M and L, with a few XS and XL. Use wall dispensers so every room has the right sizes.
Free download: Our infection prevention and control audit checklist includes a PPE section you can use to check glove use across your practice. Get it free from our GP resources library.
Ready to order?
Common questions
Are nitrile gloves better than vinyl?
For clinical work, usually yes. Nitrile is stronger and more resistant to punctures and chemicals. Vinyl is fine for short, low-risk tasks and costs less.
Can I use non-sterile gloves for wound care?
For many routine dressing changes, clean non-sterile gloves are used. Procedures that need a sterile field call for sterile gloves. Always follow your local policy.
How can we cut our glove spend?
Match the glove to the task (don’t use nitrile for jobs where vinyl will do), buy by the case and compare prices. Send us an invoice for a free price comparison.
Keep reading
Not sure what’s right for you?
Call our team on 020 3301 6500 or email help@medical-supermarket.com and we’ll recommend the right product, at the right price.
