Laboratory Gloves
Welcome to the essential resource for laboratory gloves. In a lab environment, your hands are your most important tools. Protecting them from chemical exposure, biological agents, and other hazards is non-negotiable. At UniSafe Gloves, we provide a curated selection of high-quality, disposable gloves specifically designed for the unique demands of scientific and research work.
Why Choose Specialized Lab Gloves?
Standard gloves may not offer the necessary protection for a lab. Our gloves are engineered to meet the stringent requirements of scientific work:
- Chemical Resistance: Lab work often involves exposure to a variety of solvents, acids, and bases. Our gloves, particularly those made from nitrile, are rigorously tested to provide a strong barrier against a wide range of chemicals, minimizing the risk of skin contact and absorption.
- Biological Protection: Handling biological samples and agents requires a dependable barrier. Our gloves are medical-grade, providing a reliable defense against viruses, bacteria, and other biohazards.
- Tactile Sensitivity: Precision is paramount in a lab. Our gloves are designed to be thin yet strong, offering exceptional tactile sensitivity. This allows you to perform delicate tasks, handle small instruments, and feel subtle textures without compromising on safety.
- Puncture and Tear Resistance: A torn glove can lead to immediate exposure. Our gloves, especially our nitrile options, are built to resist punctures and tears, providing a robust protective barrier for your hands
Top Materials for Laboratory Gloves
Choosing the right glove material is crucial for safety and performance. We recommend two primary materials for laboratory use:
Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile gloves are the gold standard for most laboratory applications. They are highly versatile and offer a balance of protection and performance.
Key Features:
- Superior Chemical Resistance: Excellent against oils, acids, bases, and many organic solvents.
- High Durability: More resistant to punctures and tears than latex or vinyl.
- Allergy-Safe: Not made with natural rubber latex, making them safe for all lab personnel.
- Visual Indicator: Many of our nitrile gloves are colored (e.g., blue or purple), making it easy to spot tears or contamination.
Latex Gloves
Latex gloves are a classic choice known for their comfort and flexibility. While not suitable for all chemicals, they are a great option for tasks requiring high dexterity.
Key Features:
- Excellent Fit and Feel: They conform to the hand, providing a "second-skin" fit for superior dexterity and tactile sensitivity.
- Good Biological Barrier: They offer reliable protection against biological agents.
- Cost-Effective: A great value for high-volume, non-chemical tasks.
How to Choose the Right Lab Glove
Selecting the perfect glove depends on the specific tasks and hazards in your lab. Consider these factors:
- Hazard Assessment: Identify the specific chemicals or biological agents you will be handling. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for a glove's chemical compatibility.
- Glove Thickness (Mil): For more aggressive chemicals or tasks with a high risk of puncture, a thicker glove (higher mil rating) provides a longer breakthrough time. For precision work, a thinner glove might be more suitable.
- Sterile vs. Non-Sterile: For sterile compounding, cell culture, or other aseptic techniques, sterile gloves are essential. For general handling, non-sterile gloves are adequate.
- Allergies: If anyone in your lab has a latex allergy, nitrile gloves are the safest choice.
Our Top Picks for the Lab
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use one pair of gloves for different tasks?
No. To prevent cross-contamination, gloves should be changed frequently and especially when moving between different tasks, handling different chemicals, or before touching common surfaces.
How do I know when my gloves are no longer safe? Immediately dispose of gloves if they are torn, punctured, or show signs of degradation such as swelling, discoloration, or cracking. It is also good practice to change gloves after a certain amount of time, as chemicals can eventually permeate the material.
Is there a universal glove for all lab work?
No. The ideal glove depends on the specific hazard. Always perform a risk assessment and choose a glove material that provides the necessary protection for the chemicals and tasks at hand.
Shop Our Laboratory Gloves Collection
Equip your lab with the best hand protection available. Browse our full collection of lab gloves and ensure the safety and precision of your work.
