As the name suggests, compostable gloves are made of materials that can be broken down and decomposed by microorganisms. They’re designed to be an eco-friendly alternative to traditional disposable gloves, which often end up in landfills.
Whilst compostable gloves may be a relatively new product on the market, they’ve already gained popularity, with consumers looking for more sustainable options. If you’re considering switching to compostable gloves, here’s everything you need to know.
What Are Compostable Gloves?
Compostable gloves are typically made from biodegradable materials like cornstarch, tapioca and potato starch. These materials can be broken down by microbes, making them a more sustainable option than traditional plastic gloves.
Some compostable gloves are also made from latex, a natural material that bacteria and fungi can decompose. However, not all latex gloves are compostable. To be sure you’re getting a compostable product, look for gloves certified compostable by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI).
Why Switch? The Benefits of Compostable Gloves
- Eco-Friendly
Compostable gloves are made from biodegradable materials, which break down into harmless substances when exposed to light, heat or moisture. This makes them an excellent choice for those who are looking for a more sustainable option.
- Decreased Waste Management Cost
The most obvious benefit is that it can help decrease waste management costs. By using compostable gloves, you can reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills, which can significantly impact your bottom line.
- Sustainability
Another benefit of compostable gloves is that it helps to make your business more sustainable. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers, and businesses that demonstrate their commitment to sustainability will likely reap the rewards. Using compostable gloves will show that your business is serious about reducing its environmental impact.
How to Choose the Right Compostable Glove for You
When it comes to choosing compostable gloves, there are a few things you need to take into consideration to make sure you’re getting the right product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
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Type of Materials
The first thing you need to consider when choosing compostable gloves is the type of material you want them to be out of. This is important for two reasons:
- Different materials break down at different rates, so you’ll want to ensure the gloves you choose will decompose at a similar rate as the other organic matter in your compost.
- The wrong material can contaminate your compost, so choosing biodegradable gloves made of safe materials is essential.
Here are some of the most common types of materials used to make compostable gloves:
- Polylactic acid (PLA): PLA is a biodegradable plastic made from cornstarch or other sugar-based plants. It’s a popular choice for compostable gloves because it breaks down relatively quickly and doesn’t release toxins into the soil as it decomposes.
- Cellulose: Cellulose is another biodegradable material often used to make compostable gloves. It’s made from plant fibres and breaks down quickly, making it a good choice for those who want their gloves to decompose quickly.
- Natural latex: Latex is a biodegradable material that comes from rubber trees. It’s a popular choice for compostable gloves because it’s durable and has a long shelf life.
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Amount of Protection You Need
When choosing compostable gloves, you must consider the protection you need. A thin pair of gloves should suffice if you’re simply sorting through your kitchen scraps. However, if you’re working with raw meat or other potentially hazardous materials, you’ll need to choose a thicker pair of gloves made from a more durable fabric.
If you are only wearing them for a short period, you may not need as heavy-duty of a glove. Once you’ve determined the level of protection you need, you can narrow down your options.
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Amount of Time
Consider the time you’re willing to wait for them to decompose. If you’re in a hurry, choose gloves made from materials like paper or cotton. If you are okay with waiting a bit longer, gloves made from natural latex will eventually decompose.
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Your Budget
When choosing compostable gloves, it’s essential to consider your budget. Some gloves are more expensive than others, so you’ll want to ensure you’re getting good value for your money. Compostable gloves can range in price, so find something that fits your budget.
Bonnie Bio: Sustainable Compostable Packaging in Australia
Feeling guilty about using disposable non-biodegradable gloves?
Introducing Bonnie Bio, a leading supplier of sustainable and compostable gloves that are gentle on your hands and the environment. Our gloves are made from corn starch, which decomposes within 60–90 days, so you can feel good knowing that you’re not contributing to landfill waste.
Whatever you’re doing, our gloves will protect your hands whilst still allowing you to feel the textures of what you’re handling. They’re also super comfortable, so you’ll forget you’re even wearing them! They come in various sizes to help you find the perfect pair for your hands.
Get your compostable gloves from us today.
