Latex vs. Nitrile Gloves: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?
Gloves aren’t exactly the most thrilling topic. But when you’re elbow-deep in a cleanup, handling food, or caring for someone vulnerable, the type of glove on your hands really matters.
Latex or nitrile? They might look alike, but they play by very different rules. One offers serious stretch; the other, next-level durability. One could trigger allergies; the other might save your skin—literally.
So if you’ve ever found yourself staring at a box of gloves wondering, “Which one should I be using?” — this guide is for you. We’ll break down the differences without the jargon, so you can protect your hands (and your peace of mind) like a pro.
What Are Latex Gloves?
Latex gloves have been around forever—and for good reason. Made from natural rubber latex (yep, the stuff that comes from rubber trees), these gloves are known for their superior flexibility, snug fit, and tactile sensitivity. They basically feel like a second skin, which is why they’ve long been a go-to in medical settings, beauty salons, and cleaning cupboards alike.
Perks of Latex Gloves:
- Excellent dexterity and touch sensitivity – Perfect for tasks that need precision, like wound care or detailed cleaning.
- Strong barrier protection – Great at keeping out bacteria and viruses when intact.
- Biodegradable – Since latex is natural, it breaks down more easily than synthetic materials.
But before you load up your cart…
Watch out for latex allergies.
According to the Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA), latex allergies affect a small but significant portion of the population—and reactions can range from skin irritation to anaphylaxis.
That’s why many workplaces are shifting to latex-free alternatives for staff and patient safety.
What Are Nitrile Gloves?
Nitrile gloves are the modern-day multitaskers of the glove world. Made from a synthetic rubber called nitrile butadiene, these gloves are tough, durable, and completely latex-free, making them an excellent choice for people with allergies—or just anyone who wants solid protection without the risk.
Originally used mostly in industrial settings, nitrile gloves are now everywhere—from hospitals and dental clinics to hair salons and home kitchens.
Why Nitrile Gloves Are a Crowd Favourite:
- Puncture-resistant – Tougher than latex and less likely to tear under pressure (literally).
- Chemical-resistant – A great pick if you’re dealing with cleaning products or other harsh substances.
- Hypoallergenic – Perfect for those who can’t wear latex (or just want to play it safe).
- Longer shelf life – Doesn’t degrade as quickly when stored properly.
They may feel slightly less stretchy than latex at first, but don’t let that fool you—once warmed by your hands, nitrile gloves mould comfortably for a secure fit. Plus, they come in a variety of colours (hello, blue, black, and purple!) so you can colour-code tasks or just look cool doing them.
Latex vs. Nitrile Gloves: What’s the Real Difference?
So, you’re staring at two boxes—one says latex, the other says nitrile—and wondering: “Aren’t they both just gloves?”
Well, yes... and no. Both protect your hands, but how they feel, stretch, and stand up to mess makes a big difference—especially if you’re in healthcare, aged care, food prep, or any job that needs reliable hand protection.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how latex and nitrile gloves stack up:
1. Material & Allergies
- Latex: Made from natural rubber. They’re biodegradable and known for their superior comfort and elasticity—they feel like a second skin.
- Nitrile: Made from synthetic rubber, which means they’re 100% latex-free. This makes them the go-to for anyone with latex allergies or sensitivities.
According to Steroplast, latex gloves offer unbeatable tactile sensitivity but aren’t suitable for everyone due to allergy risks. Nitrile gloves are a safer universal option.
2. Strength & Durability
- Latex: Flexible and resilient, but not as resistant to punctures or chemicals.
- Nitrile: More durable and puncture-resistant—especially helpful when handling sharp instruments or aggressive chemicals.
As noted by Gloves.com, nitrile is up to 3-5 times stronger than latex, making it ideal for high-risk environments.
3. Chemical Resistance
- Latex: Offers limited protection from chemicals—fine for basic medical use but not great for industrial-grade cleaning.
- Nitrile: Built for battle—excellent chemical resistance, especially against oils, greases, and solvents.
Medtecs explains that nitrile’s superior resistance makes it a favourite in healthcare, lab work, and cleaning industries.
4. Fit & Comfort
- Latex: Wins on comfort—very flexible and snug. Great for fine motor skills or long wear.
- Nitrile: Slightly stiffer at first but moulds to your hand with body heat, offering a secure, comfortable fit over time.
Ventyv adds that modern nitrile gloves are much improved in softness and dexterity, almost rivalling latex.
5. Environmental Impact
- Latex: Biodegradable and eco-friendlier, as it’s made from natural rubber.
- Nitrile: Not biodegradable but has a longer shelf life and less chance of allergic reactions, making it more practical for many facilities.
Your Glove Guide: Shop Our Most Trusted Latex & Nitrile Gloves
Whether you're in healthcare, cleaning, food service, or simply looking for reliable everyday hand protection, choosing the right glove isn’t just about comfort—it’s about confidence. Here's a breakdown of our top-selling gloves at Platinum Health Supply and why our customers keep coming back for them:
1. Safeguard Blue Nitrile Examination Gloves (A Platinum Health Best-Seller)
Our best-seller—and for good reason.
These gloves hit the sweet spot between lightness and durability. Designed to be tough on germs but gentle on skin, they’re ideal for healthcare workers, carers, aged care providers, and anyone handling sensitive tasks.
Why you’ll love them:
- Latex-free & hypoallergenic – Perfect for sensitive hands or workplaces with allergy concerns
- Textured fingertips – Better grip when precision matters (no more fumbling with medical tools or slippery containers)
- Excellent chemical resistance – Suitable for everything from wound care to disinfectant handling
- Soft and flexible – Easy to wear for extended shifts without hand fatigue
Order now and experience why they’re a top choice in aged care and medical environments.
2. Ultra Fresh Latex Examination Gloves (Powder-Free)
Maximum sensitivity, minimal fuss.
Need high tactile sensitivity for patient care, wound dressing, or delicate tasks? These powder-free latex gloves mould to your hand like a second skin, offering unbeatable feel and control—and it comes in 5 different sizes (from XS to XL).
Why they’re a staple in clinical settings:
- Excellent stretch and fit – Designed to move with you, not against you
- Powder-free for reduced residue – Keeps things clean and allergy-safe
- Highly responsive grip – Great for aged care workers, dental assistants, and lab techs
- Lightweight but strong – Helps you stay nimble without compromising protection
Shop here if you're after a glove that keeps up with the pace of healthcare.
3. Nitro Black Industrial Nitrile Gloves
Black gloves built for the messiest jobs and toughest hands.
These aren’t your average nitrile gloves. At 5.5g thickness, they’re made for the heavy-duty jobs—think mechanics, cleaners, tradies, or any industrial environment where durability matters.
Why these are your go-to for serious protection:
- Extra-thick nitrile – For added strength, tear resistance, and peace of mind
- Powder-free & latex-free – Ideal for sensitive users who still need robust protection
- Bold black design – Hides grease, grime, and stains—perfect for workwear or shop use
- High dexterity – Despite their ruggedness, you still get excellent movement and flexibility
Get yours here if you need gloves that won’t quit halfway through a job.
4. Ultra Fresh Latex Examination Gloves (Powdered)
Quick on, quick off—perfect for frequent glove changes.
Sometimes, powdered gloves make all the difference. These gloves are lightly powdered to make slipping them on and off a breeze, especially if you're switching pairs multiple times a day.
Why they’re great for high-turnover environments:
- Lightly powdered interior – Makes damp hands or tight fits a non-issue
- Classic latex feel – Smooth, flexible, and responsive
- Cost-effective option – A great choice for food prep, general cleaning, and non-sterile medical use
- Available in bulk – Easy to stock in care homes, kitchens, or cleaning trolleys
Browse now for fast, easy-to-use gloves without the fuss.
Try Before You Buy: Visit Our Epping Store
Not sure which glove suits your needs best? Come down to our Epping store and showroom for a hands-on experience—literally. You can feel the difference between latex and nitrile gloves, compare textures, test your size, and chat with our knowledgeable team about which glove fits your work or care routine best.
📍 You’ll find us at: Unit 2/51 Trafalgar Rd, Epping VIC 3076
🕘 Open Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm
Whether you’re buying for a clinic, aged care home, kitchen, or personal use, we’ll help you pick a glove that feels right and works hard.
Not local? We’ve got you covered. Browse our online collection of gloves and protective gear and enjoy fast, Australia-wide shipping—so you can stay stocked and protected without leaving home.
Choosing the Right Glove Made Easy
Whether you’re dealing with food prep, personal care, medical procedures, or messy clean-ups, the right gloves make all the difference. Latex and nitrile each have their strengths—what matters most is choosing a glove that suits your needs, your skin, and your level of protection.
Need something flexible and comfortable? Go with latex. Prefer something stronger and allergy-safe? Nitrile is your new best mate.
Still unsure? Don’t sweat it—we’re here to help. Pop into our Epping store to try on your options, or explore our full range of gloves online at Platinum Health Supply. We offer fast Australia-wide shipping and expert customer support to help you get it right the first time.
Stay clean, stay protected, and shop with confidence.
