Vinyl gloves are made from a synthetic monomer material called polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The PVC undergoes a process of polymerization, which produces a hard and rigid material that is mixed with a plasticizing chemical to make a flexible material to produce the gloves.

When to Use Vinyl Gloves

Vinyl gloves can be used in a wide variety of situations and industries. The most common circumstances where vinyl gloves are suitable for food handling, cleaning tasks, and light medical use such as for examinations with low risk of exposure to body fluid. These gloves offer limited protection against exposure to chemicals or biomedical substances but can temporarily protect the hands from contact with non-hazardous materials.

If your line of work requires known contact with harmful substances, you will need to invest in a medical-grade glove instead. Their lack of chemical resistance makes them unsuitable for handling industrial cleaning solvents. They are not puncture-resistant or form-fitting, meaning those in the mechanical field requiring protection and dexterity will not benefit from a vinyl glove.

In general, vinyl gloves are excellent for any low-risk tasks requiring hygienic protection and are a less expensive option than latex or nitrile.