Nitrile vs vinyl gloves: which to buy for cleaning and food service

By Alpha Supplies Limited, Scarborough. Updated October 15, 2026.

Choose nitrile gloves for cleaning chemicals, healthcare and anything where tears matter: they are stronger and more chemical-resistant. Choose vinyl gloves for short, low-risk tasks like food prep and light handling, where a lower cost per glove matters more than durability. Neither contains latex.

Side by side

NitrileVinyl
MaterialSynthetic rubberPVC (plastic)
Puncture and tear resistanceHighLow to moderate
Chemical resistanceGood against many cleaning chemicals and oilsLimited
Fit and feelSnug, flexibleLooser
Latex-freeYesYes
Cost per gloveHigherLower
Best forJanitorial, chemicals, clinics, longer tasksFood prep, light handling, quick changes

Sizing

Gloves that are too big tear at the fingertips and slip; too small and they split at the palm. Most teams need a mix of medium and large. Note your sizes in your order and we'll split the case.

Common questions

Are nitrile gloves safe for people with latex allergies?

Yes. Nitrile is a synthetic material and contains no natural rubber latex.

Can vinyl gloves be used with cleaning chemicals?

Only for brief contact with mild products. For disinfectants, degreasers and longer cleaning tasks, nitrile gives better protection.

Shop gloves & ppe and cleaning chemicals

Delivered across the GTA from our Scarborough warehouse.

See all gloves & ppe
BrandProductSKUPackPriceAdd to order
Prime Plus Nitrile Gloves, Blue, Medium, 3.5 mil, 10 Boxes of 100Powder-free blue nitrile disposable gloves, size medium. 10 boxes of 100 per case.CS109110 boxes x 100 gloves / case$51.99per caseor $5.99 per box
AdvanCare Nitrile Gloves, Blue, Large, 10 Boxes of 100Powder-free blue nitrile disposable gloves, size large. 10 boxes of 100 per case.CS106210 boxes x 100 gloves / case$53.99per caseor $5.99 per box
Rite Touch Nitrile Gloves, Blue, Large, 10 Boxes of 100Powder-free blue nitrile disposable gloves, size large. 10 boxes of 100 per case.CS106410 boxes x 100 gloves / case$53.99per caseor $5.99 per box
Rite Touch Nitrile Gloves, Blue, Medium, 10 Boxes of 100Powder-free blue nitrile disposable gloves, size medium. 10 boxes of 100 per case.CS109010 boxes x 100 gloves / case$51.99per caseor $5.99 per box
Choice Line Cleaning Vinegar, 4 L, 4 JugsWhite vinegar (5% acetic acid) for cleaning appliances, sinks and kitchens, 4 L x 4 jugs. Made in Canada.CCH10584 x 4 L / case$20.99per caseor $6.49 per jug
Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner, Lavender, 5.18 LPine-Sol multi-surface all-purpose cleaner, Lavender scent, 5.18 L jug.CCH10121 x 5.18 L jug$11.49per jug