How to Care for Your Scrubs: Washing and Maintenance Tips

Scrubs are more than just work uniforms, they’re part of your daily performance in healthcare. Between long shifts, constant movement and exposure to clinical environments, your scrubs go through a lot. Proper care not only keeps them looking professional but also extends their lifespan and maintains fabric performance like stretch, softness and color vibrancy.

1. Wash Scrubs as Soon as Possible After Wearing

After a long shift, it’s best not to let worn scrubs sit in a hamper for too long. Bacteria, stains and odors can set into the fabric over time.

• Wash within 24 hours if possible
• Avoid leaving damp scrubs in a bag or laundry pile
• Separate scrubs from regular clothing

This helps preserve hygiene and keeps fabrics from breaking down prematurely.

2. Turn Scrubs Inside Out Before Washing

Turning scrubs inside out protects the outer fabric surface, especially if your scrubs are dark-colored or printed.

• Reduces fading
• Protects embroidery and logos
• Helps clean sweat and oils more effectively

3. Use Cold or Warm Water (Not Hot)

Hot water can damage fibers, fade colors, and weaken stretch materials over time.

• Cold water = best for color retention
• Warm water = good for heavier cleaning
• Avoid consistently using hot water unless necessary

4. Choose a Mild Detergent

Harsh chemicals can break down antimicrobial coatings and fabric elasticity.

• Use gentle, fragrance-free detergents when possible
• Avoid bleach unless absolutely needed
• Skip fabric softeners for performance scrubs

Fabric softeners can coat fibers and reduce moisture-wicking ability.

5. Avoid Overloading the Washer

Scrubs need space to move freely in the wash cycle to get properly cleaned.

• Wash in small to medium loads
• Avoid mixing with heavy items like jeans or towels
• This helps reduce friction and wear

6. Drying Tips: Air Dry When Possible

High heat is one of the biggest causes of scrub damage.

• Air drying preserves elasticity and fit
• If using a dryer, choose low heat
• Remove scrubs promptly to avoid wrinkles

Air drying also helps extend the life of antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties.

7. Handle Stains Immediately

Healthcare environments can lead to unexpected stains. Quick action makes a big difference.

• Rinse stains with cold water ASAP
• Pre-treat with mild stain remover
• Avoid scrubbing too harshly to protect fabric fibers

8. Ironing and Wrinkle Care

Most modern scrubs are wrinkle-resistant, but if needed:

• Use low heat only
• Iron inside out
• Avoid ironing over printed or embroidered areas

9. Store Scrubs Properly

Proper storage keeps scrubs fresh and ready for your next shift.

• Hang scrubs to maintain shape
• Keep in a clean, dry space
• Avoid cramming into tight drawers for long periods

Taking care of your scrubs properly helps you maintain a professional appearance while extending the life of your uniforms. With the right washing habits and maintenance routine, your scrubs will stay comfortable, clean, and durable shift after shift.

At ScrubHaven, we believe great scrubs deserve great care, because when your scrubs last longer, you perform better every day.