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Ladies, if you want comfort, stretch, durability, and lots of pockets in your scrubs, you need the best scrubs for women. Find them in our reviews.
Grey’s Anatomy Women’s V-Neck Top (71166) & Drawstring Pant (4232) Scrub Set
A good value
Fine quality
Flattering and feminine
Soft and durable
Top flares and looks wide
Runs large for some
Jockey Ladies Scrub Set
Good price
Soft
Durable quality and colors
Flattering to the figure
Dickies Gen Flex Women’s Junior Fit Top (817455) & Gen Flex Drawstring Pant (857455) Scrub Set
Comfortable
Easy to move in
Abundant pockets
V-neck low
Pants a bit long
Writer
Cherokee Infinity Women’s Round Neck Top (2624A) & Drawstring Pant (1123A) Scrub Set
Good price, flattering cut, and modest neckline, but sleeves a little short.
Good price
Flattering cut
Stretchy
Modest neckline
Sleeves a little short
Some dislike bungee cord/drawstring at pants hem
Dickies EDS Signature by Women’s 3-Piece Scrub Set
Good value and lots of pockets, but the top is tight in chest and shoulder for some, the jacket is “puffy”, and the pants’ waistline is high.
Good value
Flattering fit
Lots of pockets
Top tight in chest and shoulder for some
Jacket “puffy”
Pants’ waistline high
8 Soft and Stylish Scrubs for Women Reviews 2024
Therapist with experience of more than 25 years. She has written over 15 scientific papers. She works as a family doctor.
Diane W. ChristensonHealthcare professionals are valuable to society, and nurses are the unsung heroes of medical care. Often working 12-hour (or longer) shifts, they certainly deserve the best scrubs for women.
Think about it:
Scrubs are worn by a variety of healthcare workers (e.g., registered nurses, physicians, physician assistants, nursing assistants, medical technicians, etc.).
Although both genders occupy these positions, we’ll focus on fashionable yet functional scrubs for women.
After all, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, females “represent nearly 80% of the healthcare workforce.”
Before diving into information on different scrubs, enjoy these nurses cutting loose in their scrubs in Footloose: Nursing School Style.
Scrubs aren’t just an outfit–they’re also tools for caring for patients. We going to help you choose the right scrub tops and pants for your workday.
How?
After researching over 30 of the most popular scrubs for women, we narrowed the list down to these top eight picks.
We consulted female healthcare workers–nurses as well as others caregivers–to choose the highest rated scrub sets (and one top) for your needs.
Wait until you hear this:
The women who provided helpful and honest feedback certainly didn’t hold back on their views!
We want to present their experiences with and opinions on these scrubs so you can decide which ones you want to try.
Fair enough?
Our goal is to provide objective reviews that are useful to you the consumer.
Rest assured: we do NOT accept products directly from manufacturers.
“Scrubs” got their name because the operating room is a place that’s “scrubbed clean” to prevent infections and prevent spreading disease and bacteria.
According to Merriam-Webster, “to scrub” means “to prepare for performing surgery by scrubbing oneself” or to wash with hard rubbing to remove dirt.
When surgeons, OR nurses, and other surgical care practitioners “scrub in,” they’re donning scrubs under their surgical gowns.
“Scrub in”, of course means they need to decontaminate their hands and forearms.
They do so by systematically scrubbing those areas, including their fingernails, with a strong antibacterial cleanser.
As you might know, this is “in order to render the hands and arms as free as possible from micro-organisms” and bacteria.
Named after the popular television show Grey’s Anatomy, this line by Barco is also heavily favored by real-life healthcare professionals.
The Grey's Anatomy Women's V-Neck Top (71166) & Drawstring Pant (4232) Scrub Set has a classic silhouette and fine quality for all-day comfort and performance.
Our testers mostly raved over how soft, breathable, and stylish these scrubs were.
Nonetheless, a few said the fabric can be stiff and scratchy before its first washing. But that’s really no big deal.
Also...
The Grey's Anatomy Women's V-Neck Top (71166) & Drawstring Pant (4232) Scrub Set is durable.
In fact, one nurse has had numerous sets for more than three years…and they’ve all held up well with frequent washes.
One expert noted the dark colors fade a little. Another recommends hanging washed scrubs up to dry.
Made of 77% polyester and 23% rayon, these scrubs aren't supposed to shrink.
Overall though, our testers reported the set not fading, shrinking, or wrinkling.
The scrub set’s variety of colors is large and the colors are “true.”
Essentially, they’re worth the price.
Oops!
A couple of women warn the lighter colors (like white) make the fabric a little translucent. So, plain undergarments (especially underpants) are advised.
Styled with shirring detail at the back yoke and sleeves, the feminine top is flattering, yet loose and easy to move in. It’s cut to give the waist definition without being tight.
One wearer we spoke to with a 34D chest finds the top large enough and “relaxed.”
Yet we also found contradictory comments that the Grey's Anatomy Women's V-Neck Top may not be well-suited for women with large chests.
Side slits at the hem of the top make it flare out a little, which provides more room but can make people look wide.
The Grey's Anatomy Women's Drawstring Pant has a drawstring waistband with back elastic situated just below the natural waistline.
A few prefer an elastic waistband because tightening the waist tie during a busy shift isn’t always convenient.
The slightly flared legs with side hem slits resemble a boot-cut fit. One woman feels the pants are a bit tight around the thigh.
As with most clothes, the Grey's Anatomy Women's V-Neck Top garners different comments on sizing and fit.
Small for some and large for others.
For the most part, the wearers report the garments run true to size.
Here are some sizing data we encountered from the testers:
As expected, sizing feedback runs the gamut since everyone has a different body shape.
We just want to give readers ideas of which body sizes and types work (or don’t) with various sizes.
Note:
If you plan to purchase a set of scrubs with matching or same-size top and pants, use the link for the Grey's Anatomy Women's V-Neck Top (71166) & Drawstring Pant (4232) Scrub Set.
However, if you want to buy the top and pants separately because you need them to be different sizes, then use the links for the shirt, Grey's Anatomy Women's V-Neck Top (71166) and for the bottom, Grey's Anatomy Women's Drawstring Pant (4232).
The bottom line is...
The Grey's Anatomy Women's V-Neck Top & Drawstring Pant Scrub Set leaves its wearers feeling good about themselves.
In fact, one respondent told us this:
While she doesn’t want patients and co-workers to hit on her, the set does flatter a feminine figure and makes her feel elegant.
A good value
Fine quality
Flattering and feminine
Soft and durable
Top flares and looks wide
Runs large for some
Is comfort your thing?
Then look no further.
One of our product testers described this set to be as comfortable like “silk pajamas.”
Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it?
The Jockey Ladies Scrub Set Zipper Pocket Top and Front Tied Zipper Pant set are light and easy to move around in.
Soft and slightly fitted at the waist, these scrubs are flattering to figures--even one that has “seen better days,” one reviewer joked.
This set is durable too.
They’re made of quality fabric--Jockey’s “Tri-blend” of 72% polyester, 21% rayon, 7% spandex.
Longtime owners report that even after a few years of being laundered, the color still doesn’t fade or wash out.
Even better, these scrubs don't wrinkle when washed.
Hallelujah! ?
The manufacturer suggests the scrubs be machine washed in cold water on the gentle cycle with similar colors before tumbling them dry on low.
Even though these scrubs are “limited” in color selection, numerous testers state they definitely plan to buy more.
Why?
The top has a V-neckline, two patch pockets, and an invisible nylon zipper on one of the patch pockets to create an angled cell-phone pocket.
It also has side slits.
Measuring about 28.5” long in the medium size, the top is long enough to provide ample coverage.
The bottom has a half elastic back and half drawstring front. It features a total of four pockets: two front angled pockets, one cargo pocket, and one angled cell-phone pocket with a zipper on the cargo pocket.
The pants flare slightly at the bottom.
A few reviewers feel the pants are a little small through the hips.
What does this all mean?
The Jockey Ladies Scrub Set receives mixed reviews on its fit.
Some people think it fits is just right while others feel it runs a bit small or large.
One 5’4” wearer states it’s a good fit for her frame.
However...
Another person finds the set’s cut rather straight and a bit snug. That suggests those with curves reconsider or order one size up.
A 5'7" reviewer who weighs 146 pounds finds the top “very big” for a slim person, yet the pants somewhat short for a tall person.
Good price
Soft
Durable quality and colors
Flattering to the figure
The Dickies Gen Flex Women's Junior Fit Scrub Set is soft, comfortable, and easy to move in.
Made with 52% cotton twill, 45% polyester, and 3% spandex, these scrubs stretch and flex for freedom of motion.
They wash and dry well and require no ironing.
Yay!
Also known as the Women's Contemporary Fit Gen Flex Youtility V-Neck Scrub Top, the Dickies Gen Flex Women's Junior Fit Top (817455) in this set has a fitted, flattering cut with sporty front yoke seaming, side hem vents, and decorative contrast stitching.
The V-neck dips a bit low for some.
In fact, one reviewer worries she’ll give her patients a peep show when she bends down.
Yikes!
The Dickies Gen Flex Drawstring Pant (857455) (aka Women's Gen Flex Youtility Cargo Scrub Pants) also sports a contemporary fit close to the body.
They sport a low-rise waistline, straight legs, and even motion knee darts for ease of movement.
It also has a drawstring front with an elastic back waist.
A couple people think the pants run a little long. Even the "tall" pants are too big for one lanky wearer.
Now for the good news...
Both pieces provide many areas for carrying items.
The top features one chest pocket with a reinforced pen slot, a cell phone pocket, two large patch pockets, and an ID bungee loop.
The pants have two back pockets, two side cargo pockets, and two shaped pockets on the front that even have their own sectional pockets.
Reviewers rave about the pockets!
Especially when they realize this:
As one product tested pointed out, the side cargo pockets can accommodate something as large as a stethoscope.
Overall, the Dickies Gen Flex Women's Junior Fit Top (817455) & Gen Flex Drawstring Pant (857455) Scrub Set fits users well. It might run a bit on the large side for some, so people suggest possibly ordering one size smaller.
Reviewers like the fit and colors, but one person notes the fabric can attract lint, fuzz, and hair.
If you plan to purchase a set of scrubs with matching or same-size top and pants, use the link for the Dickies Gen Flex Women's Junior Fit Top (817455) & Gen Flex Drawstring Pant (857455) Scrub Set.
However, if you want to buy the top and bottom separately because you need them to be different sizes, then use the links for the shirt, Dickies Gen Flex Women's Junior Fit Top (817455) and for the pants, Dickies Gen Flex Drawstring Pant (857455).
Comfortable
Easy to move in
Abundant pockets
V-neck low
Pants a bit long
The Dickies Xtreme Stretch Women's V-Neck Top (82851) & Drawstring Pant (82011) Scrub Set feels extremely soft and “heavenly against the skin.”
Composed of 75% polyester, 21% rayon, and 4% spandex twill, these scrubs are breathable and very comfortable for long shifts. They stretch well and are so appealing that many reviewers declare they plan to purchase more sets.
Even better:
Speaking of stretch, one person said the garments’ stretch makes her look slimmer.
Many agree the Dickies Xtreme Stretch Scrub Set is “cute” and figure-flattering with its fitted cut.
And, although they’re loose and comfortable, the pants are still flattering.
This durable outfit’s thick, elastic fabric washes and dries easily.
The issue?
The fabric can get hot in warm weather.
Luckily, it quickly dries and comes out of the dryer unwrinkled. The scrubs don’t shrink and colors don’t fade in warm water or in the dryer.
Although people like the colors, the Mango Tango hue earns a few criticisms: it’s “ugly,” see-through, and makes the wearer look like an orange “traffic cone.”
Let’s take a closer look...
The V-Neck Top has a contemporary fit with front and back princess seams that shape the garment.
It has a multi-use pocket with a utility "D" ring at the end.
Cut to fit close to the body, the Drawstring Pant has back leg seams and flared legs with slits at the bottom.
Reviewers love the pockets.
Two front, one side cargo with a self-loop and logo eyelet snap, and one back pocket to be exact.
The front waist drawstring stays tied pretty well and works with elastic at the back waistband to hold up the pants.
For the most part, people seem to agree on sizing issues with Dickies Xtreme Stretch Scrub Set.
For many, the pants run big and long (but enough to wear with nursing shoes with higher soles) and the top runs small.
Here’s some feedback we found:
If you plan to purchase a set of scrubs with matching or same-size top and pants, use the link for the Dickies Xtreme Stretch Women's V-Neck Top (82851) & Drawstring Pant (82011) Scrub Set.
However, if you want to buy the top and bottom separately because you need them to be different sizes, then use the links for the shirt, Dickies Xtreme Stretch Women's V-Neck Top (82851) and for the pants, Dickies Xtreme Stretch Women's Drawstring Pant (82011).
Great quality and value
Extremely soft and comfortable
Stretches
Flatters the figure
Described as “super comfortable” and great for “those 12-hour days,” the Cherokee Infinity Women's Scrub Set wins in the movement department.
Its breathable four-way stretch “goes a long way” for nurses bending over and reaching freely.
While some people like how the 95% polyester and 5% spandex poplin fabric dries quickly from spills, a few others dislike it picks up lint easily.
What about its form?
The scrubs function well.
The Cherokee InfinityScrub Set is “beautifully form-fitting” and contoured to the shape of the female body.
Reviewers also note the scrub top and pants match well, are crisp, and look professional.
Even after several hours of work and travel.
The Cherokee Scrub Set is durable and easy to maintain. Cherokee suggests machine washing the garments in cold water with similar colors before tumbling them dry on low.
Want a tip?
Our experts recommend hanging the scrubs to dry to ensure lack of shrinkage.
Even though Cherokee advises no bleaching, one user notes she works with a lot of bleach and gets splashed often…and has seen no noticeable stains.
Others concur that the colors hold true and resist fading.
Here are more details:
The Round Neck Top has a contemporary fit and slimming shape with front and back princess seams and a stretch rib knit at the center back panel.
It also has a handy bungee I.D. badge loop on the right shoulder.
Some reviewers like the three pockets (two patch and one interior) while others feel there aren’t enough pockets.
It’s a matter of personal preference.
People also the modest neckline. But, the sleeves can be a bit short for some.
The Drawstring Pant (1123A) is low rise, with straight legs. The elastic knit waistband is comfortable and held snug by an adjustable drawstring.
In fact, the women who tested these pants often left comments of relief the pants don’t fall down.
No more plumber’s cracks! ?
Another compliment to the pants?
They feel and wear like yoga pants. Wearers like the two slash pockets, one zippered cargo pocket, one back patch pocket, and the bungee instrument loop below the left pocket.
But, a few disliked the bungee cord or drawstring at the leg hems for adjusting the length.
How does it fit?
The top shoulder area is large. The pants can be tight and long.
Here’s the feedback we got:
If you plan to purchase a set of scrubs with matching or same-size top and pants, use the link for the Cherokee Infinity by Women's Round Neck Top (2624A) & Drawstring Pant (1123A) Scrub Set.
However, if you want to buy the top and bottom separately because you need them to be different sizes, then use the links for the shirt, The Cherokee Infinity Women's Round Neck Top (2624A) and for the pants, The Cherokee Infinity Drawstring Pant (1123A).
Good price
Flattering cut
Stretchy
Modest neckline
Sleeves a little short
Some dislike bungee cord/drawstring at pants hem
The Dickies EDS Signature by Women's 3-Piece Scrub Set is a good deal.
Thick but not bulky, its fabric is comfortable and durable. Users comment the scrubs hold up well after much wear and are worth the price.
Love pockets?
This set has lots of them.
A couple of reviewers find the garments’ material stiff when the scrubs are new.
The set launders easily and machine dries without shrinking for the majority.
Some wearers note the colors of the top and pants don’t match perfectly because one piece’s hue fades faster.
Here’s some good news:
Definitely cut for a female figure, the Dickies EDS Signature by Women's 3-Piece Scrub Set isn’t boxy like many scrubs. It has a “Missy” fit.
First...
The shirt in this set, the Dickies Women's EDS Signature Mock Wrap Top, has two patch pockets (the right one with an instrument loop) and a stretchy knit interior pocket.
Its flattering design features an empire waistline and side vents. Some wearers like that the top is fitted but others think it runs small and is a bit tight around the chest and shoulders.
In fact, if you have Michelle Obama arms or a large chest, you might find this top snug. In contrast, two people find the top baggy through the waist.
Here are a few specific measurements from our research:
Second...
The jacket in this set is the Dickies Women's EDS Signature Snap Front Warm-up Jacket.
This long-sleeved layer has a very “roomy” multiple patch pockets, a stretch knit interior pocket, a back yoke, side vents, and knit cuffs at the wrists.
Reviewers like the jacket’s sturdiness and side vents, but several noted it runs large, is “puffy” and “not flattering,” and the sleeves are a bit short.
Third...
This set’s bottom is the Dickies Women's EDS Signature Pull-on Cargo Scrub Pants.
It has an all-around elastic waistband, which some find soft and comfortable but one person says its “high” and “tight.” We suspect the “high” comment results from the pants having a natural (not low) rise.
A few others complain that the waistband doesn’t hold the pants up well. The garment’s tapered legs are “not too snug” yet “not too baggy.”
For the most part, reviewers say the pants fit well and as expected, although they run a bit long. The pants have a “nice” stretch and plenty of pockets: two front slash, two front cargo (the right with an instrument loop), and a knit interior pocket under the double cargo pocket.
Specific body measurement and pants size feedback from our focus group include:
Warning:
A couple people report the white pants are a bit see-through.
Don’t forget!
If you plan to purchase a set of scrubs with matching or same-size top and pants, use the link for the Dickies EDS Signature by Women's 3-Piece Scrub Set.
However, if you want to buy the top and bottom separately because you need them to be different sizes, then use different links for the shirt, Dickies Women's EDS Signature Mock Wrap Top, the jacket, Dickies Women's EDS Signature Snap Front Warm-up Jacket, or the pants, Dickies Women's EDS Signature Pull-on Cargo Scrub Pants.
Good value
Flattering fit
Lots of pockets
Top tight in chest and shoulder for some
Jacket “puffy”
Pants’ waistline high
The Cherokee Workwear Unisex Stretch Scrub Set is the only unisex model on the list, but it garnered so much positive feedback we want to highlight it.
In fact, a few male reviewers comment this set seems to be designed more for women or very slim men.
Women like how the scrubs are comfortable and stretchy. A few concede this set may run large and be “boxy for ladies.”
Some females suggest ordering “at least one size smaller” than normal.
Want to learn more?
The Cherokee Workwear Unisex Scrub Set is durable, popular, and easy to clean.
Several users said they have two or more sets and plan to purchase more.
One nurse told us her older sets (8 months old) hold up very well to washing without any shrinking, fading, or staining.
Cherokee recommends machine washing the scrubs without bleach in cold water with similar colors, tumbling them dry on low, and using a cool iron if needed.
Now, check this out...
The shirt in this set is the Cherokee Workwear Scrubs Unisex Stretch V-neck Top. People love that it has pockets designed for their “trade.”
It features one chest pocket with an instrument holder and badge clips, two patch pockets, and an additional instrument (loop)/cell phone pocket on the side.
One nurse writes she finds the divided pockets in one of the patch pockets perfect for small objects like alcohol pads, pens, and markers.
The other patch pocket is adequate for larger items.
Its ample room accommodates long-sleeve undershirt during colder weather.
Wait, there’s more
This bottom of this set is the Cherokee Workwear Scrubs Unisex Stretch Cargo Pant. Much to some reviewers’ relief, the pants have a natural rise. It stays up with an adjustable drawstring with an elastic waistband.
Again, people love the pockets: two slash front pockets, a side cargo pocket with an instrument loop (great for holding items like scissors), extra instrument/cell phone pocket, and a back pocket.
The pants are big for some.
One 5’6” nurse remarks that the pants are long but “doable” because she wears shoes with a one-inch high chunky platform; she doesn’t trip or walk on the hems.
However, she thinks that someone shorter than 5”5” may want to hem the pants.
By now, needless to say...
If you plan to purchase a set of scrubs with matching or same-size top and pants, use the link for the Cherokee Workwear Unisex Stretch V-Neck Top (4725) & Drawstring Pant (4043) Scrub Set.
However, if you want to buy the top and bottom separately because you need them to be different sizes, then use the links for the shirt, Cherokee Workwear Scrubs Unisex Stretch V-neck Top or the pants, Cherokee Workwear Scrubs Unisex Stretch Cargo Pant.
Comfortable
Stretchy
Lots of pockets
Runs large for ladies
Boxy for ladies
Even though this item is only a scrub top (not an entire set), it earned excellent reviews and we wanted to let you know about it.
First off, wearers love the material and the fit of the FIGS Casma Three-Pocket Scrub Top for Women. Its high-quality and “super soft” fabric is perfectly comfortable, which is “so important” when wearing scrubs for long shifts.
What’s not to like?
The FIGS Casma Three-Pocket Scrub Top for Women is “flexible” and great for moving in. It’s made from four-way stretch material that’s moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and anti-wrinkle, qualities that are perfect for busy health-care professionals in the trenches.
The manufacturer FIGS recommends an easy-care routine: wash in cold inside-out and then tumble dry low.
And...
The shirt has a tailored fit with slimming back darts and side hem slits. Its modern V-neck is fine for most but low-cut for a few, who feel like they need to wear something under the top.
People like the pockets (two front, one with a hidden inside pocket) but wish a petite length is available. The shirt runs large and loose for some wearers yet small by one size for others.
Despite its fitted style, it looks “boxy” for some female bodies.
Here’s size-specific feedback we tabulated:
This is really cool…
What we like about FIGS is the company’s philanthropic practices.
Under its “Thread for Threads” initiative, FIGS donates scrubs to healthcare providers and medical professionals in resource-poor areas in more than 35 countries.
Each FIGS garment style is named after cities where they’ve donated scrubs. Casma is a city in Peru.
We also like FIGS’ origin and mission.
The company was started by Heather Hasson who heard from her nurse practitioner friend how boxy, scratchy, and uncomfortable scrubs were–and that she had to wear them all day while helping others.
Ms. Hasson and company co-founder Trina Spear formed FIGS to improve scrubs with as much care for healthcare professional as these workers put into patient care.
The philanthropy may explain why the FIGS Casma Three-Pocket Scrub Top for Women isn’t economical.
Some consumers feel that the shirt is overpriced.
Excellent quality
Extremely soft and comfortable
Fitted style
Not economical
Runs large
While researching different scrubs, check the clothing’s fabric content, which affects its feel, stretch, durability, and practicality. The clothes need to move with you and hold up to day-to-day physical tasks.
But wait, there’s more.
Also, look for the garments’ washing and drying instructions. And if needed, ironing requirements.
Many fabrics have good moisture-wicking properties as well.
Don’t forget appearances!
And then, check out the scrubs’ cuts or styles to see:
1) What’s pleasant to move in.
2) And, what looks good on you.
Finally, the number and placement of the pockets are important for stowing away pens, a cell phone, small medical instruments, and more.
You’ve found the best watch for your calling as a nurse or healthcare provider.
Now let’s dive into your actual clothes for the job.
No longer the stereotypical white dress and hat of nurses until the 1950’s, today’s uniform typically consists of a scrub top and scrub pants.
Now…
From a quick glance, scrubs look simple.
You might think, a scrub is a scrub is a scrub.
Well, not really.
Many scrubs are unisex, so any healthcare professional–male or female–can wear them for work. Unisex scrubs, however, often are big, boxy, and shapeless.
What can be done?
As we mentioned earlier, the majority of healthcare professionals are female.
Scrubs need to fit women well.
Plain and simple.
Right, ladies?
Guess what?
We have good news.
Scrub manufacturers are listening. They’re now designing styles specifically geared for women.
Scrubs that are comfortable yet practical…
Roomy but not boxy…
Functional yet fashionable….
You know, basically what we’ve been wanting for ages now. Because, gosh darn it, we deserve it.
So, how do you pick the right fit in scrubs for you?
Let’s start here:
When researching different scrub manufacturers, pay close attention to the following factors:
Many scrubs are made of a blend of cotton and polyester. Some styles contain only cotton, only polyester, or a blend of one or both with other fabrics like rayon, spandex, etc.
Most important for you is how the fabric feels.
Is it soft and comfortable?
Or is it rough and/or stiff?
Is it breathable?
Do you want only 100% natural fabrics?
The fabric content determines the clothing’s ability to stretch. Since you’ll be running around, reaching, bending, maneuvering patients and equipment, and doing much more, you need scrubs that allow freedom of movement.
Of course scrubs aren’t spandex leotards for performing acrobatics in the medical arena.
Nonetheless, a little spandex or another fabric blend that allows for a bit of stretch is welcome.
A scrub fabric’s content and its construction affect the clothing’s durability.
How tough is the garment and is it still comfortable?
For hygiene purposes as well as professional appearance, nurses and other healthcare providers need to wash their scrubs constantly.
How well and how long do the scrubs hold up to frequent washes? How many cycles in the washing machine and dryer can they last and still look presentable?
Speaking of washing, after working a long shift, can you simply toss dirty scrubs into the washing machine and the dryer?
After the dryer buzzes, presto–are your scrubs ready to go for the next shift? Or do the scrubs come out of the dryer wrinkled and need ironing?
Nurses and other healthcare workers often have liquids spilled on them.
Can you relate to that? If so, you’ll know…
Waiting until the end of a 12-hour shift is a long time to run around in wet clothes.
Look for scrubs made with moisture-wicking material. Something that pulls external liquids as well as sweat away from your skin.
Is the scrub’s cut very basic and unisex? Or are the scrub pieces–top and pants–designed for women?
Ladies’ scrubs tend to be narrower yet more accommodating of curves than unisex scrubs are.
Caregivers love and need lots of pockets! The number and placement of pockets on both on the scrub top and pants are important for practicality and convenience.
Hospitals and medical offices differ in their policies as to what colors nurses and other healthcare providers can wear.
Some offer plenty of freedom while others have strict uniform rules.
We read vocal feedback on colors–which ones fade, which ones don’t, which ones are cheerful and flattering, which ones are see-through or just plain ugly, and more.
We’ll talk more in-depth about colors in just a bit. But, first, there’s a few more things we want to mention.
How much can or are you willing to pay for a scrub outfit or a single piece?
Also, if you like a particular brand and/or style, do you want and are you able to buy more (either in the same or different colors)?
Finally, only you know your unique body type. Some styles are perfect for curvy figures while others fit less curvy bodies well.
Think about what kind of scrubs will be flattering and make you feel great during long shifts.
It all began with Florence Nightingale, a “pioneer of nursing and a reformer of hospital sanitation methods” who helped the practice of nursing gain professional respect.
In the mid-nineteenth century, she created the first nursing uniform which consisted of full-length, long-sleeved dark dresses, and white apron.
But…no masks or gloves that “were meant to protect nurses from illness.”
And then…
During World War II, nursing dresses and sleeves became shorter, perhaps as a result of war rationing and the recognition of the need for greater mobility.
The stereotype of a nurse’s all-white uniform consisted of a dress, a starched apron, stockings, a cap and rubber shoes.
The 1960s, however, saw a trend of more unisex clothing styles.
In fact, the “nurse pantsuit made an all-too-brief appearance in the 1970s!” Also, more men entered the nursing profession in the 1970s.
Around the same time…
For surgeons, surgical greens became the standard uniform.
The color green reflects less glare from bright lights than white does–making it easier on surgeons’ eyes.
Also, green is complementary to red (i.e., on the opposite side of the color wheel), easily distinguishing it from blood and preventing the eyes from becoming desensitized to the color red.
Surgical greens formed the prototype for today’s non surgical scrubs.
Now, here’s something else that’s interesting…
The original green scrub uniform, however, didn’t differentiate among “staff positions or departments, so nonsurgical scrubs became the accepted uniform for other healthcare staff.
Later…
In the 1980s and 1990s, scrubs became the standard uniform for nurses and other medical personnel.
People liked the advantages and convenience that scrubs offered over traditional white dresses: they’re comfortable, easier to work and move in, have many pockets for carrying tools and equipment, and “can be washed frequently in the harsh cleaners necessary to make them sanitary enough for continuous hospital use.”
Also, both female and male nurses could wear scrubs.
Can you believe this?
We found an interesting article in the online magazine Scrubs: The Nurse’s Guide to Good Living on the importance of these garments in such a demand profession.
The August 2017 piece entitled “Report: Ability To Wear Scrubs To Work Is Only Thing Keeping Health Care Professionals From Quitting” states “According to a recent poll of nearly 20,000 health care professionals jointly conducted by the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Nurses Association (ANA), 99.8% of health care professionals say their ability to wear scrubs, also known as work pajamas, is the one thing keeping them from quitting their professions entirely.”
That’s understandable
Caring for sicker patients, covering more patients with smaller staffs, dealing with electronic health records and insurance companies, and encountering endless challenges lead to increasing burnout.
At the very least, healthcare professionals should be able to wear comfortable clothes when performing their often tough, thankless jobs.
Some hospitals require medical personnel to wear certain colors (or, if allowed, patterns) according to department.
Other hospitals don’t.
Doctors and veterinary offices also may specify which colors its staff can wear–or give them free rein.
In any case, the scrubs you chose to purchase obviously depend on if your workplace has color restrictions.
Feeling stifled?
If your employer requires you to wear a specific color, how can you distinguish yourself from others and inject a bit of personality?
If allowed, maybe wear an undershirt that peeks from under the V-neck and contrasts the scrub’s color. If you really want to push the boundaries (but not lose your job!), wear bright or uniquely printed nursing clogs.
In the end, though, be sure you still look professional and can complete your tasks successfully.
Color Me Beautiful
Okay, let’s take a minute to emphasize appearances, or in this case, scrub colors. No one wants to wear an unflattering color when donning just the right hue can make you feel good.
When organizations assign uniform colors or when healthcare workers are permitted to choose their scrub colors, which tones do organizations and individuals pick and why?
Want to hear something interesting?
In 2016, the newspaper Philly Voice researched scrubs sales data and interviewed local hospitals about their color choices for departments.
The Philly Voice then compiled this eye-opening list that ranks scrub shades from least liked to most favored.
Aesthetics, practicality, and just plain (but important!) human nature came into play.
Drumroll…
Starting with the least favored at the top and most revered at the bottom of the list, the colors for scrubs include:
A pet peeve among nurses and other healthcare workers are people (especially non-medical professionals) wearing scrubs out on the street.
Sure, often you have no choice since you need to get to work and return home (sometimes stopping for errands on the way). You also may need to go out and grab lunch during the workday.
But still,
Try not to run around in scrubs excessively and randomly.
Theoretically, they should be kept clean before you enter a medical setting as well as be sanitized of dirt, spilled liquids, and bodily fluids after you leave.
So why get them dirty or spread germs on the street?
If you’re not actually a medical professional (but just trying to look like one or pass yourself off as one), be careful what you wish for!
Here’s a funny story…
Years ago, an actor who portrayed a surgeon on the long-running medical series ER shared a humorous anecdote.
Before the show grew wildly popular and the stars became household names, the actor and a fellow cast member wore their costumes (e.g., scrubs) while commuting home.
As they waited on a train platform, they witnessed a medical emergency and both frantically looked around for a doctor…only to realize that they themselves looked like doctors, and incompetent or lazy ones at that trying to avoid treating a sick person!
When the day comes that you finally have to retire a set of scrubs, what should you do?
Many people like to wear old clean scrubs at home or for pajamas. If the scrubs have become unwearable (e.g., torn, stained, etc.), turn them into rags.
Give it a go.
But what are some other ways to repurpose scrubs?
Of course, first clean and dry them well. Then consider one of these ideas:
Take a look/listen and enjoy!
If you’ve just finished a long shift and need to put your feet up or if you just want to take a break from researching scrubs, watch these funny videos:
So you need new scrubs…and now you know what to look for: fabric content and feel, durability, stretch, practicality, fit, and price.
Other features to consider when searching for the best scrubs for women include the number of pockets, any special qualities (e.g., moisture-wicking, antibacterial, etc.), and appearance.
Laypersons may think that all scrubs are alike but they’re not!
If you look good and feel great in the scrubs you chose, you’ll be ready for challenges in your important job caring for others.
Ladies, if you want comfort, stretch, durability, and lots of pockets in your scrubs, you need the best scrubs for women. Find them in our reviews.
Ladies, if you want comfort, stretch, durability, and lots of pockets in your scrubs, you need the best scrubs for women. Find them in our reviews.
Ladies, if you want comfort, stretch, durability, and lots of pockets in your scrubs, you need the best scrubs for women. Find them in our reviews.
Every time after each use! Ugh, can you imagine wearing used scrubs? Gross! Scrubs are to be worn only once in a row and then washed for hygienic purposes.
Most manufacturers can embroider tops (and jackets and maybe pants?) for an extra fee when you order scrubs. Individualize your scrubs with your name, initials, etc.
In order to prevent colors from fading, try turning the scrubs inside out and then washing them with like colors in cold water.
Use gentle detergent and the gentle wash cycle.
For additional power, add a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. If you want to nip the fading in the bud, before the first laundering try soaking dark fabrics in water mixed with a half cup of vinegar and two teaspoons of salt for 30 minutes–this mixture is supposed to help “set” the color dyes.
Before their first wash, soak red scrubs in cold water and then rinse them to see if any red dye still runs.
Repeat if necessary.
Sometimes you also have to hand wash the red pieces alone a few times until you no longer see red bleeding from the cloth.
If you don’t have the time or want to avoid the hassle, then machine wash the scrubs with other dark (preferably also red) clothes in cold water.
Do NOT wash new (or not terribly old) red scrubs with light or white fabrics.
Therapist with experience of more than 25 years. She has written over 15 scientific papers. She works as a family doctor.
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