At RapidClean we are often asked the question, what is the difference between powdered and powder-free disposable gloves?
So what is the difference and when does the difference matter? In this blog, we will take a quick look at both options.
Let’s start with the easy question, what are Powdered Gloves?
The lowest cost method to ensure easy donning of gloves is to add corn starch powder at the point of manufacture.
This method has been used for a number of years, however, there is a higher chance that you will have an allergic/dermatitis reaction to powdered gloves than to latex gloves.
Why is there a higher chance of a reaction?
The powder in these gloves can absorb moisture from the skin, causing drying, cracking, and irritation. Also, the powder in gloves can leave an unpleasant residue on the hands and unsightly marks on clothing.
So how do Powder-Free Gloves work?
Powder-free gloves are specially treated in the manufacturing process to ensure easy donning. Some gloves are polymer coated; others use an online chlorination process to ensure the gloves are smooth on the inside.
What are the benefits of Powder-Free Gloves?
Powder-free gloves are now the most popular option for most industries and the only option in the healthcare industry.
Just like you wouldn’t use a 20-year-old computer or mobile phone, powder-free gloves utilise the latest glove production technology to ensure easy donning without the need to use powder.
RapidSafety Apollo Glove Range
This is why over the past 10 years, powder-free gloves now outsell powdered gloves more than 10 to 1. For these reasons, the disposable / examination gloves in the RapidSafety Apollo glove range are ALL powder-free.
Questions on the RapidSafety Glove range?
Reach out to your local RapidClean member today!
