Disposable Gloves Buying Guide Australia: How to Choose the Right Gloves?

Disposable gloves are one-time-use gloves designed to be used for a short period and then thrown away. The main purpose of using disposable gloves is to create a barrier or protection between the user’s hand and the external environment to prevent contamination, germ spreading, etc. 

Making the individual save from various harmful substances.  

With emerging new challenges in today’s world, disposable gloves have become a vital item for safety, protection and hygiene in various industries. 

These disposable gloves are widely used in various industries such as healthcare, hospitality and maintenance. In Australia, with rapidly increasing awareness towards workplace safety among people, along with strict regulatory provisions for workplace safety such as AS/NZS standards, the use of the right disposable gloves is mandatory.

Considering these points, disposable gloves are widely used in all of these industries. But before using that, each of these industries should have adequate knowledge of how to choose the right gloves for their needs. 

With so many options available in the market, any business must consider various factors before buying disposable gloves in Australia.

This comprehensive buying guide will help you navigate the key factors to consider when purchasing disposable gloves in Australia.

Why Businesses Need Quality Disposable Gloves:

Whether you're in hospitality, healthcare, cleaning or retail business, it's important to choose the right disposable gloves. They provide a strong barrier to your customers and staff against the spread of germs, cross-contamination, etc. 

Investing in the right disposable gloves or getting premium quality disposable gloves ensures Australian hygiene standards are always met.

Whether you're in food handling, healthcare, or someone who values hygiene, disposable gloves act as a strong barrier against infections, contaminations and chemical exposure that not only safeguards your staff but also enhances the trust of your customers. 

Here are a few factors on why Australian Businesses need quality disposable gloves:

• Compliance: Businesses should always go for gloves that meet Australian safety and hygiene standards. SUCH AS TGA CERTIFICATIONS. If you are not sure about this, you can look at the packaging or ask for Safety Data Sheets (SDS) from the suppliers.

• Protection: Customers always look for disposable gloves that protect individuals from chemicals, pathogens and cross-contamination. Always go for gloves that provide superior protection against all these factors. Eve Zone offers a wide variety of premium disposable gloves from our trusted suppliers all across Australia.

• Cost Efficiency: With rising inflation all over the world, rising costs have been one of the major issues for many businesses all across the globe, and Australia is not an exception in retaining its profit margin. While procuring disposable gloves, businesses should go for suppliers who offer discounted prices for bulk purchase, free shipping, which will reduce the long-term expenses and unwanted overheads. Suppliers such as Eve Zone offer bulk purchase discounts up to 15% and free shipping for orders above $250. Which means if you order more, you will save more and maximise your profit margin.
  

• Sustainability: Protecting the Earth has been a global sensation in recent times. People are more aware of promoting sustainability by using eco-friendly, and less carbon emissions. Thus, quality disposable gloves also promote sustainability. This will not only contribute to the protection of the earth but also build a positive reputation among customers who care about the environment.

• Convenience and Comfort: Good quality disposable gloves are well-known for their better grip and comfort. Quality disposable gloves make your job easier with improved grip. Eve Zone deals in high-quality, premium disposable gloves from trusted suppliers across Australia.

For businesses in Australia, buying high-quality, premium and certified disposable gloves ensures operational efficiency and risk mitigation.

What are the Different Types of Disposable Gloves

Nitrile Gloves

A nitrile glove is made from a synthetic rubber copolymer, also referred to as Nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR). These are artificial rubber gloves, so they do not contain natural rubber proteins like those found in latex gloves.

This composition is excellent for users with latex allergies, as it eliminates the risk of allergic reactions. The manufacturing process includes a stable liquid created through chemical reactions, which is then solidified, filtered and processed to thin layers of flexible material used for gloves.

Nitrile gloves are used in various industries due to their key features, such as:

• Chemical resistance: They provide excellent protection against a wide range of chemicals such as oils, acids and solvents. This makes them an ideal choice for automotive work, labs, and cleaning work.

• Puncture and tear resistance: These gloves are more durable than latex gloves and vinyl gloves as they offer more resistance to punctures and tears. These gloves are ideal for tasks involving sharp or rough objects.

• Allergy-Free: As these gloves are made from artificial rubber or synthetic which makes them allergy-free as it doesn’t contain any natural rubber proteins that are found in latex gloves. These are popular as latex-free gloves among users with latex allergies.

Nitrile gloves are widely used in different industries, such as the following:-

• Healthcare & Medical: This industry consumes nitrile gloves. These are popular among Doctors, Nurses, Dentists, elderly care workers, and other healthcare workers.

• Food Service & Processing: Nitrile gloves are widely used in food processing plants, restaurants, cafes and commercial kitchens. These are food safe and provide strong protection to prevent any cross-contamination, suitable for a food environment.

• Automotive and Mechanical: Nitrile gloves offer superior resistance against chemicals, making them ideal for the automotive and mechanical industries. 

• Cleaning & Janitorial: As these industries widely use cleaning agents, disinfectants and harsh chemicals, nitrile gloves are widely used due to their resistance to tears and punctures.

• Chemical, Industrial, Mechanical and Pharmaceutical: In labs and industry settings, disposable nitrile gloves are a critical part of their PPE. They are used by workers, mechanics, scientists, technicians, etc, to protect against a wide range of chemicals, solvents and other hazardous materials.

• Tattoo and Beauty Parlours: To maintain a sterile environment, tattoo artists, piercers, hairstylers, etc, use nitrile disposable gloves to protect themselves from sharp objects, chemicals, etc.

• Agriculture and Gardening: Due to their strong puncture and tear resistance to sharp and rough objects, Nitrile gloves are a popular choice for farmers and gardeners to safeguard themselves from dirt, thorns, pests, chemicals, pesticides, fertilisers, etc. Not only for professional farmers or gardeners, but these can also be used in your own home garden and kitchen garden as well.

Trending in Australia:

In Australia, black nitrile gloves are widely popular in non-medical industries across Australia due to their sleek look and superior durability.

For the Medical industry, Powder-Free Examination Grade Nitrile Gloves, which meet Australian standards for medical devices such as TGA, are widely popular.

In recent times, with the growing focus on sustainability and eco-consciousness in Australia, biodegradable nitrile gloves are becoming popular among businesses that use large volumes and are more concerned about reducing their environmental footprint.

Latex Gloves

Invented in the late 19th century, latex gloves were the first widely used disposable gloves for medical use. They are still one of the most popular disposable gloves today, though with some crucial considerations. 

Latex gloves are made from Natural Rubber Latex (NRL). This material is extracted from milky substances from the sap of the rubber tree, also known as Hevea brasiliensis. This natural material is processed into an elastic film, which can be moulded into a latex glove.

These disposable gloves offer exceptional elasticity, which provides a snug fit and comfort to the hand and also makes the user feel like a second skin.

These are excellent for Exceptional flexibility and tactile sensitivity. Due to its snug fit and thinness, it provides a high level of dexterity and tactile sensitivity, making it the optimal choice for tasks that require precision, such as surgical procedures, dental and lab work.

Though it was invented in the 19th century for medical use, now latex gloves are used in various industries such as food service, cleaning, personal care and light industrial work. This is where protection and dexterity are required.

As these latex gloves are made from natural rubber, it makes they are bio-degradable. These are more environmentally friendly options compared to other synthetic alternatives like vinyl.

Considerations:

• Powdered Vs Powder-Free: Latex gloves are made powdered by using cornstarch to make them easier to don and doff. However, these cornstarch powders can cause skin irritation, and as they carry latex proteins into the air, they might increase allergy risk. Due to such reasons, powder-free gloves, which are chlorinated to make them smooth, are now the standard in various industries.

• Sterile vs. Non-Sterile: Sterile gloves are used in completely germ-free environments, such as surgical procedures, whereas non-sterile gloves are used for general applications such as food-handling, cleaning, etc.

• The Allergy Problem: Latex gloves can cause type I reactions in some individuals. This is the main reason why synthetic substitutes such as latex and vinyl gloves were developed and are common in many industries these days.

Latex Gloves are used in various industries such as:

• Healthcare and Medical: Hospitals, veterinary clinics, examinations, surgeries, and other patient care

• Food Service: For the food service and preparation sector.

• Laboratories: Handling chemicals and biological samples where dexterity is needed for precision.

• Industrial: cleaning and janitorial services, manufacturing, and general assembly work.

• Beauty & Cosmetics: Tattoo studios, beauty parlours, hair salons, etc.

Note: Individuals with Latex allergies are recommended to use alternatives like nitrile or vinyl. 

Vinyl Gloves

Generally, vinyl gloves are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a synthetic plastic polymer. These disposable gloves are an affordable alternative to latex and nitrile gloves. 

Vinyl gloves are widely popular among various users due to their 

• Affordability: Vinyl gloves are widely known for their affordability. These gloves are comparatively cheaper than the nitrile and latex gloves, making them economical gloves. 

• Latex-Free: As these disposable vinyl gloves are made from latex-free synthetic polymer, they are perfect for users with latex allergies. 

• Versatility: Like other types of gloves, vinyl gloves are used across various industries, including food handling, cleaning & janitorial work, general-purpose tasks, and low-risk healthcare, such as caregiving and non-invasive medical examinations, where there is minimal exposure to biohazards. 

Consideration:

• Vinyl gloves are not recommended for handling risky chemicals, high-risk medical procedures, sharp objects, etc, due to their limited chemical resistance and lower durability.

• Vinyl gloves are generally less flexible than latex or nitrile and looser. These can affect dexterity for tasks that require precision. 

• As PVC is not a biodegradable option, users with environmental concerns need to consider it before buying the vinyl disposable gloves.

• Though these gloves are non-latex, some individuals might face skin irritation due to a lack of ventilation inside the gloves.

Vinyl gloves are widely used in the following industries:

• Food Industry: Commonly used for non-fatty food handling and processing due to their low cost and ease of donning and doffing.

• Cleaning and Janitorial Industry: Widely used for light cleaning duties that don't involve exposure to harsh chemicals.

• General Purpose: light manufacturing, general assembly, and short-term domestic chores.

• Healthcare: Low-risk, non-sterile medical examinations and care work where exposure to bodily fluids is minimal.

If you’re looking for more details on vinyl options, check out our guide on Choosing the Right Size of Vinyl Gloves. It covers sizing tips, comfort, and usage so you can find the best fit for your hands.

Neoprene Gloves

Neoprene gloves are made from polychloroprene, a type of synthetic rubber polymer. It was developed by DuPont in the 1930s as a flexible, durable, and oil-resistant alternative to natural rubber. 

Polychloroprene is developed through the polymerisation of chloroprene. Made from a type of synthetic rubber, Nitrile gloves are well known for their versatility and durability. 

These disposable gloves are more popular in different industries where a balance of chemical protection, flexibility and comfort is needed.

Neoprene gloves are ideal for tasks that require high interaction with a broad range of chemicals, durability and dexterity. Being latex-free, these neoprene gloves are a good substitute for latex gloves. Further, these neoprene gloves are broadly chemical resistant as they offer a strong barrier against a variety of solvents, acids, alcohol, oils, etc. 

These neoprene disposable gloves are known for their weather and temperature resistance as they maintain flexibility even in a wide temperature range, making them suitable for outdoor use. 

These Neoprene gloves are best for various industries such as:

• Chemical Handling: These gloves are used for handling chemicals and hazardous materials.

• Industrial Cleaning: Provides strong protection against harsh chemicals, detergents, and disinfectants, making them ideal for industrial cleaning.

• Automotive and Aerospace: Ideas against oils, grease, fuels, and solvents can thus be used in the automotive and aerospace sectors.

• General Maintenance: Their flexibility and durability make them versatile and can be easily used for general maintenance. 

• Medical and Laboratory Use: Neoprene gloves are ideal for medical examinations, procedures and lab work. 

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Disposable Gloves

For any businesses across Australia, before buying disposable gloves, the following factors need to be taken into consideration:

Material

• Nitrile Gloves: For heavy-duty tasks, Nitrile gloves are ideal.

• Latex Gloves: For precision work, Latex Gloves are used

• Vinyl Gloves: For any light applications and cost effectiveness, vinyl gloves are best.

• Neoprene Gloves: For any task that is related to interactions with a wide variety of acids, oils, and other hazardous substances, Neoprene or polychloroprene gloves are used.

Size and Fit

Choosing the right glove size is important for both safety and getting the job done right. A glove that is too wide may cause you to lose your grip and tear it more readily, while one that is too small may rip and cause your hand to become weary and fatigued.

Generally, gloves should be a snug fit and easy to don. Most of the suppliers offer sizes such as Extra small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, XXL to XXXL. 

Thickness

• Thicker gloves, generally between 5-8 mil, are better for heavy-duty tasks.

• Thinner gloves, generally between 3-4 mil, are ideal for precision work life medical procedures. 

Powdered vs. Powder-Free

• Powdered gloves: Easier to wear, but may irritate.

• Powder-free gloves: Preferred for sensitive tasks like food handling.

Certification and Standards

• Look for gloves compliant with AS/NZS 4011 (for medical use) or TGA certified.

Where to Buy Disposable Gloves in Australia

Numerous suppliers across Australia offer disposable gloves online. Eve Zone also offers a wide variety of disposable gloves online, all across Australia. You can search for Wholesale disposable gloves online at Eve Zone.

• Online Retailers: Websites like Eve Zone offer a wide range of disposable gloves with detailed product descriptions.

• Local Suppliers: Check medical supply stores or industrial suppliers for bulk purchases. Visit Eve Zone

Pro Tips

• For Healthcare: Opt for nitrile or latex (if no allergies) with high durability.

• For Food Service: Choose powder-free vinyl or nitrile gloves.

• For Industrial Use: Thick nitrile gloves for chemical resistance.

Eve Zone offers bulk disposable gloves at an affordable price, with shipping all over Australia. Purchase wholesale for cost savings at Eve Zone.

FAQs

Q. How to choose disposable gloves?

While choosing disposable gloves, always consider material, size, and industry requirements.

Q. How to know what size disposable gloves to buy?

First, measure your hand circumference and refer to the sizing charts attached herewith below:

Q. What are the best disposable gloves for food handling?

For food-handling powder powder-free nitrile disposable gloves and vinyl disposable gloves Nitrile or vinyl gloves are widely used.

Q. What is the difference between vinyl and nitrile disposable gloves?

Generally, nitrile disposable gloves are more durable, while Vinyl disposable gloves are cheaper or cost-effective options.

Q. Should nitrile gloves be tight or loose?

Generally, Nitrile disposable gloves should bea snug fit but not too restrictive for better dexterity.

Q. What is the difference between black and blue disposable gloves?

Colour coding helps to differentiate gloves in different industrial settings. Black disposable gloves are mainly used in the automotive and beauty sectors to hide stains, offering a professional look. While blue disposable gloves are commonly used in medical and food prep and handling industries for their visibility.

Q. How many times can disposable gloves be worn before being discarded?

By its name, these are Single-use only and should be removed after using them every time.

Q. Which gloves are best for medical use?

Nitrile disposable gloves or latex disposable gloves are ideal for medical use. However, latex gloves are suitable only for users with no allergies.

Q. Where can to buy bulk disposable gloves in Australia?

Various online stores offer bulk disposable gloves in Australia. Eve Zone also offers bulk disposable gloves in Australia. Contact us for a bulk order.

Q. Can disposable gloves be reused?

No, disposable gloves are single-use gloves, and they can’t be reused.