Latex Gloves Alternative ways to recycle Trash All types of single use gloves including nitrile, latex and/or vinyl should be placed in the trash. They can not be recycled. Gloves that are still in an unopened box can be donated to shelters, community groups, and other non-profits. Throw Away Nitrile Gloves Do not recycle or compost nitrile gloves because they are synthetic. Nitrile gloves are often used by medical professionals and come in blue or black. The dark color will help the wearer tell if the gloves have been punctured. Toss used nitrile gloves in the garbage. Alternative Ways to Recycle RightCycle by Kimberly-Clark Professional Kimberly-Clark Professional runs the RightCycle program, which collects hard-to-recycle laboratory items including nitrile gloves. These items are then upcycled into eco-friendly plastic products such as Adirondack Chairs.