A glove that fits badly is a glove that gets changed too often, tears, or does not get worn at all. Choosing the right size and type helps protect staff and residents, reduces waste and keeps hands comfortable during long shifts. This guide explains how to size disposable gloves, how material and thickness affect fit, and how to stock a range that suits your whole team. It is general information: follow your facility's infection prevention policy for when and which gloves to use.

Why glove fit matters

• Too tight. Gloves are more likely to split, restrict movement and cause hand fatigue.
• Too loose. Fingertips bunch, grip suffers and gloves can slip or tear on equipment.
• Wrong size across a team. If only medium and large are in stock, smaller and larger hands go without a proper fit and use more gloves.

How to measure for glove size

Glove sizes are usually based on the width of the palm. A simple way to check is to measure around the widest part of the palm, just below the knuckles, excluding the thumb. Brands vary, so always compare against the manufacturer's size chart.

Size	Typical fit
Extra small (XS)	Very small hands
Small (S)	Smaller hands
Medium (M)	Average hands
Large (L)	Larger hands
Extra large (XL)	Very large hands

This is a guide only. If you are between sizes, trial both and choose the one that lets you move your fingers freely without bunching.

Material and thickness

Material	Notes
Nitrile	Latex-free, good puncture resistance and widely used in healthcare. Many people find it close-fitting.
Latex	Very elastic and comfortable, but latex allergy is a concern, so many facilities avoid it.
Vinyl	Looser fit and lower barrier performance. Often used for short, low-risk tasks.

Thicker gloves give more protection for heavy-duty or cleaning tasks but reduce touch sensitivity. Thinner gloves are better for tasks that need dexterity. Powder-free gloves are standard in healthcare.

Stock a spread of sizes

• Order small, medium, large and extra large, and add extra small if your team needs it.
• Track usage by size over a month or two and set a minimum stock level for each.
• Many glove shortages are really size shortages, so reorder by size and not just by total boxes.

Compliance

Examination gloves are regulated as medical devices in Australia. Ask your supplier to confirm ARTG inclusion and to supply product documents. BIOFAST is a TGA-listed sponsor for nitrile examination gloves.

Ordering gloves from BIOFAST

BIOFAST is a Melbourne-based Australian supplier of disposable gloves alongside masks, gowns and other PPE, continence, wound care and personal care products. Aged care facilities can apply for a 30-day trade account (a completed credit application is required). Orders placed before 2pm normally ship the same day, and delivery is free over $199 in metro areas. Browse disposable gloves and aged care supplies, or contact the sales team at sales@biofast.com.au or on 03 8905 4449.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know what size disposable gloves to buy?

Measure around the widest part of the palm and compare with the manufacturer's size chart. If you are between sizes, trial both.

Which is better for aged care: nitrile, latex or vinyl gloves?

Nitrile is the most common choice because it is latex-free and offers good protection. Latex can cause allergies, and vinyl is generally used for short, low-risk tasks.

Why do I need several glove sizes in stock?

Staff have different hand sizes. A poor fit increases tearing, hand fatigue and glove waste, so stocking a range keeps everyone protected.

Can aged care facilities buy gloves on account?

Yes. BIOFAST offers 30-day trade accounts to aged care facilities, subject to a completed credit application. Email sales@biofast.com.au to start.