Types of Gloves Used in Laboratory

When working in laboratory environments, hand protection is a key component of personal protective equipment (PPE). Whether you're handling hazardous chemicals, biological materials, or conducting mechanical tasks, using the right type of gloves ensures safety, comfort, and compliance with lab standards.

Here's a comprehensive guide to the most commonly used laboratory gloves and their specific applications:

1. Nitrile Gloves

Best for: Chemical handling, medical use, puncture resistance

Nitrile gloves are one of the most widely used types in laboratories due to their excellent chemical resistance, durability, and puncture resistance. They are also latex-free, making them suitable for people with latex allergies.

Key Features:

• Resistant to many solvents, oils, and acids

• Stronger than latex or vinyl

• Ideal for chemical, pharmaceutical, and research labs

2. Latex Gloves

Best for: Biological hazards, clinical settings, precision tasks

Latex gloves offer superior tactile sensitivity and elasticity, making them ideal for detailed laboratory procedures. However, some users may experience allergic reactions.

Key Features:

• Excellent fit and flexibility

• Suitable for microbiological and medical labs

• Not suitable for people with latex allergies

3. Vinyl Gloves

Best for: General lab use, short-term tasks, non-hazardous materials

Vinyl gloves are a cost-effective option for tasks that involve minimal risk. They provide a looser fit and lower chemical resistance, so they are not suitable for high-risk applications.

Key Features:

• Economical choice for light lab work

• Latex-free

• Not recommended for handling dangerous chemicals

4. Neoprene Gloves

Best for: Acid handling, chemical resistance, comfortable fit

Neoprene gloves offer strong resistance to acids, bases, alcohols, and peroxides. They maintain flexibility and comfort while providing solid chemical protection.

Key Features:

• Good abrasion and chemical resistance

• Comfortable during extended wear

• Common in pharmaceutical and chemical labs

5. Butyl Rubber Gloves

Best for: Extreme chemical protection, especially gases and ketones

Butyl gloves are used in high-risk laboratory settings where chemical exposure is intense. They protect against gases, esters, ketones, and corrosive acids.

Key Features:

• Exceptional chemical resistance

• Impermeable to gases and vapors

• Used in high-level chemical research labs

6. Polyethylene Gloves

Best for: Food handling, low-risk, short-use applications

While not suitable for most lab tasks, polyethylene gloves are occasionally used in low-risk environments for quick tasks that require minimal contamination control.

Choosing the Right Lab Gloves

When selecting gloves for lab use, consider:

• Material compatibility with substances handled

• Dexterity and comfort

• Glove thickness and durability

• Certification or compliance with safety standards (e.g., EN 374 for chemical resistance)

LITA SAFETY – Your Reliable Glove Manufacturer

At LITA SAFETY, we specialize in producing a wide range of laboratory and industrial gloves with strict quality control and compliance with international standards. We serve labs, clinics, and research institutions worldwide with tested, certified, and dependable hand protection.

We also provide OEM/ODM services for wholesalers and distributors to help build your own glove brand with confidence.

Email us at info@litasafety.com to discuss your custom lab glove needs.