How to Choose Disposable Gloves for Caregiving: Nitrile vs. Vinyl
Disposable gloves protect both the caregiver and the person receiving care during changes, bathing, wound care and cleaning. Here is how to pick the right material and size.
Compare glove materials
| Material | Good for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrile | Most caregiving tasks; latex-free and generally more puncture-resistant | Costs a little more than vinyl |
| Vinyl | Quick, low-risk tasks such as light cleaning or food handling | Looser fit and less stretch; usually the most economical |
| Polychloroprene (neoprene) | People who want a soft, latex-like feel without latex | Typically priced higher |
If the caregiver or the person receiving care has a latex allergy, choose gloves labeled latex-free. Nitrile, vinyl and polychloroprene gloves are all latex-free.
Find the right size
Gloves that are too tight tear easily; gloves that are too loose make it hard to handle things. Check the size chart on the product page, because sizing varies by brand. Many caregivers keep two sizes on hand for different people in the household.
Good glove habits
- Wash or sanitize hands before putting gloves on and after taking them off.
- Change gloves between tasks, for example after an incontinence change and before helping with a meal.
- Never wash or reuse disposable gloves.
- Remove gloves by peeling them inside out, and throw them away right after use.
Shop gloves
Our disposable gloves collection includes nitrile gloves from Halyard, Flexal, Aquasoft, Sterling SG and Purple Nitrile, CareStock vinyl gloves and Micro-Touch Affinity polychloroprene gloves, by the box or case.
This guide is for general information only. Follow your healthcare provider's infection-control instructions and the glove manufacturer's labeling.
Brand names mentioned are trademarks of their respective owners and are used only to identify products we sell. MAandPA is not affiliated with or endorsed by these brands.