Cotton scrubs are soft and breathable but wrinkle and fade faster. Poly-cotton blends are affordable workhorses that hold color and shape. Polyester, rayon and spandex blends with a few percent spandex stretch, resist wrinkles and dry quickly, which is why most premium scrubs use them, though they can pill and trap heat. Check the fabric weight, stretch, pockets, inseam options and the care label.
You spend twelve hours in your scrubs. Fabric decides how they feel by the end of a shift and how they look after fifty washes.
Fabrics
| Fabric | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 100% cotton | Soft, breathable | Wrinkles, shrinks, fades |
| Poly-cotton | Affordable, durable, holds color | Less stretch |
| Polyester-rayon-spandex | Stretch, wrinkle resistant, quick drying | Can pill, warmer |
| Polyester-spandex performance | Very stretchy, durable | Feels synthetic to some |
Fit and features
| Feature | Why |
|---|---|
| Stretch | Bending, lifting, kneeling |
| Pockets | Cargo, utility and phone pockets |
| Inseam options | Petite, regular and tall |
| Jogger or straight leg | Preference and floor clearance |
| Waist | Drawstring, elastic or yoga band |
Policies
Many employers set colors by role or department. Check before buying several sets.
Care
Follow the care label; most blends do best in warm water and low dryer heat. Launder after every shift.
Pair scrubs with supportive work shoes. Browse scrubs and apparel.
Common questions
What is the best fabric for scrubs?
Polyester, rayon and spandex blends are popular for stretch and wrinkle resistance. Cotton blends suit those who prefer breathability.
Do antimicrobial scrubs prevent infection?
Antimicrobial finishes are marketed to reduce odor or fabric bacteria. They do not replace hand hygiene or your facility's infection-control rules.
How much spandex should scrubs have?
Many stretch scrubs use about 3 to 8 percent spandex for comfortable movement.
How do I keep scrubs from fading?
Wash inside out in cool or warm water as the label allows, and avoid high dryer heat on stretch blends.