Nitrile Gloves Frequently Asked Questions

TGC Orange nitrile gloves

What Are Nitrile Gloves?

Nitrile Gloves are a disposable hand protection option that is typically stronger than other disposable gloves, like latex or vinyl. The glove material is a compound called nitrile, which is chemical and puncture resistant. Simply put, Nitrile is a synthetic, reprocessed version of natural rubber latex. 

What Are Nitrile Gloves Used For?

With their incredible durability, dexterity, and strong chemical resistance, nitrile is ideal for a broad range of tasks. They’re commonly used for trade-based jobs such as mechanics and technicians. Lightweight nitrile is also great for tattooing, hairdressing, or any job that requires dexterity.

Are Nitrile Gloves Good For Mechanics?

Yes! Nitrile disposable gloves are the preferred disposable glove for mechanics in Australia due to their strength. Typically, mechanics prefer black nitrile, but hi-vis orange, tough blue, and other colours are gaining popularity.

Some nitrile disposable gloves even have Low Sweat Technology, making them perfect for mechanics and outdoor trades in the Australian Summer.

Are Nitrile Gloves Food Safe?

Yes, they are considered food safe by Australian Food Standards. However, not all are HACCP Certified Food Safe, so always check with the manufacturer before using them with food. Look for the HACCP symbol below

HACCP Australia Food Safety Certification for nitrile gloves

Are Nitrile Gloves Latex Free?

Nitrile Gloves are Latex free, BPA free, Phthalate free, Vinyl Free, MBT free and often powder free.

Are Nitrile Gloves Waterproof?

Yes, nitrile disposables are waterproof. Nitrile is derived from rubber, which is naturally waterproof.

How Long Are Nitrile Gloves Good For?

Nitrile lasts a long time, however, like any natural product they will eventually degrade. To ensure your box of gloves lasts its lifetime, store them out of direct sunlight and out of the heat.

Biodegradable nitrile gloves like BioGlove degrade faster than regular disposable gloves.

What Do Nitrile Disposable Gloves Protect Against?

Nitrile disposable gloves protect your hands from contamination and stop you from contaminating items or surfaces you may be touching. Nitrile is waterproof, grease proof, oil proof and most importantly, chemical resistant to a range of common chemicals and substances. While disposable gloves typically have low cut and puncture resistance compared to material gloves, nitrile has incredible strength that protects against common mechanical hazards like nicks. Nitrile is also commonly used in the medical industry due to its high puncture resistance, dexterous strength, and latex-free material being safer for allergies.

Are Nitrile Gloves Impermeable?

It is important to remember nothing is impermeable forever. Nitrile material does have a higher chemical resistance compared to latex material. But eventually, some chemicals will pass through, especially strong grade chemicals. However, for an everyday work glove, nitrile is a great choice for hand protection against common chemicals.

Are Nitrile Disposable Gloves Recyclable?

Nitrile gloves aren’t recyclable through regular curbside recycling, but they can be safely thrown in the rubbish. In landfill, they’ll eventually break down, especially if certified to ASTM D5511, which means they’re designed to biodegrade faster in anaerobic conditions (landfill).

In Australia, TerraCycle is a company that provides specialist disposable glove recycling boxes. You can buy them online, or from Australia Post, simply fill the box with your used disposable gloves, then ship the box to the collection address.

Are Nitrile Disposable Gloves Biodegradable?

Yes, Nitrile Disposables are biodegradable! Nitrile will eventually biodegrade, especially if the gloves are certified to ASTM D5511, which means they’re designed to biodegrade faster in anaerobic conditions (landfill).

Discover BioGlove, certified to ASTM D5511, able to biodegrade faster than other disposable gloves in landfill conditions

Is Nitrile Rubber?

Nitrile is a synthetic material derived from rubber trees. The rubber is processed until it turns into Nitrile Material. 

Are Nitrile Disposable Gloves Hypoallergenic?

Nitrile Disposable gloves have a lower allergy rate than latex disposable gloves. Nitrile is the superior choice when it comes to people with allergies or sensitive skin. If you suffer from sensitive skin, accelerator-free nitrile is even better.

Recommended products for sensitive skin

Nitrile or Latex Gloves For Mechanics?

Nitrile disposables are stronger than latex disposable gloves. They are also more resistant to chemicals, and have higher puncture resistance. Most mechanics need a strong, dexterous, chemical resistant glove, therefore, they normally always go for Black Nitrile Disposable Gloves.

Have any questions not covered here? Contact us on sales@glovesnow.com

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