If you work in the medical field or an industrial area, such as painting or automobile mechanics, that requires you to protect your hands, vinyl gloves are likely the way to go. However, not all vinyl gloves are created equal. Comfort, elasticity, durability and medical or non-medical strength are among features to look for in vinyl gloves before making any purchase.

It won't do, for instance, to don vinyl gloves intended for medical use to clean hazmat material or to work on an automobile. Likewise, if you're a dental hygienist, wearing heavier vinyl gloves won't allow your fingers the flexibility needed to perform your job. When it comes time to shop for vinyl gloves and gather vinyl gloves information, here are some things you should consider:

1. Decide between medical grade and general purpose vinyl gloves.

2. Choose powdered or unpowdered vinyl gloves, depending on your specific needs.

3. Buy vinyl gloves in bulk to save money in the long run.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find vinyl gloves for everyone from auto mechanics to surgeons

You might think of vinyl gloves as a one-size-fits-all product but that's not true, especially when it comes to elasticity and durability. Vinyl gloves come in different grades, with each grade intended for specific uses. Make sure you find the right vinyl gloves provider offering you exactly the type of glove you need to get the job done, from conducting delicate operations to adjusting carburetors.

I recommend: Find a long and varied vinyl gloves list at ReStockIt.com. If you're a doctor or dentist and are worried about patients allergic to latex, find medical vinyl gloves at Woodbury Products. EQ Plus sells only non-medical vinyl gloves for doing everything from industrial cleaning to handling food.

Decide between powdered and unpowdered vinyl gloves

For the most part, whether you choose powder or non-powder gloves becomes a matter of personal preference. Powdered vinyl gloves are easier to slip on and off, a nice time-saving and comfort-enhancing feature. On the other hand, powdered gloves often carry more allergens, so non-powdered gloves may be preferred in a medical setting.

I recommend: Don the Glove offers both powered and non-powdered vinyl gloves at low prices, in a variety of sizes to fit hands both large and small. Glove Source sells lightly powered and non-powdered medical and general purpose vinyl gloves suitable for any type of work. R.J. Safety Supply carries a large supply of work gloves, including many powdered and unpowdered vinyl glove varieties. Check out their convenient vinyl gloves directory to find exactly what you need.

Buy vinyl gloves in large quantities to save money

Since vinyl gloves are disposable, you'll likely go through several pairs or more every day. Stock your medical office, repair shop or industrial supply room with plenty of vinyl gloves to suit your daily needs. Most vinyl glove providers will charge less if you buy in bulk.

I recommend: Buy 1,000 pairs of vinyl gloves intended for non-medical use for less than 45 dollars at Safety Dispatch. Magid has a broad inventory of vinyl gloves for use in most any field, at prices much lower than latex or rubber gloves.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Remember to look for a handy vinyl glove dispenser that you can hang on the wall for quick accessibility. These are available through most vinyl glove distributors.