How to Properly Disinfect Your Scrubs After a Shift

As healthcare workers, we are constantly exposed to bacteria, germs, and viruses during our shifts, making it essential to properly disinfect our scrubs after each day of work. Proper cleaning not only ensures your scrubs remain hygienic but also helps maintain their durability and longevity. In this blog, we will walk you through the best practices for disinfecting your scrubs to keep both you and your uniform fresh and safe.

Why Proper Disinfection Matters

Healthcare scrubs are exposed to a variety of contaminants daily, from bodily fluids to harmful pathogens. Disinfecting your scrubs is crucial to minimizing the risk of spreading germs and infections. Additionally, effective disinfecting helps preserve the fabric and integrity of the scrubs, preventing premature wear and tear.

Improper washing can lead to the buildup of bacteria, odors, and fabric deterioration, making it essential to follow a proper routine to ensure your scrubs remain clean, safe, and long-lasting.

Step 1: Sort Your Laundry

Before throwing your scrubs into the laundry, it’s a good idea to sort them based on color and fabric type. This helps prevent colors from bleeding onto each other, keeping your scrubs looking fresh. Scrubs made from delicate fabrics may also require special care, so sorting them by fabric type ensures proper washing and protection.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

If your scrubs have visible stains from blood, bodily fluids, or other substances, it's essential to treat them before washing. Use a stain remover or a gentle soap to pre-treat any spots to ensure they are fully cleaned during the wash. Allow the pre-treatment solution to sit for a few minutes, but avoid scrubbing, as this can damage the fabric.

For more stubborn stains, consider using a specialized laundry detergent with enzymatic properties that can break down proteins found in blood and other bodily fluids.

Step 3: Choose the Right Detergent

Choosing the right detergent is key to disinfecting your scrubs effectively. Look for detergents that are designed to kill bacteria and viruses while remaining gentle on the fabric. Detergents with antibacterial properties, such as Clorox Laundry Sanitizer or Lysol Laundry Sanitizer, are great options to help disinfect your scrubs thoroughly.

If you're sensitive to fragrances or chemicals, look for gentle, unscented, and hypoallergenic options that still offer disinfecting power without causing irritation.

Step 4: Wash in Hot Water

One of the most effective ways to disinfect your scrubs is by washing them in hot water. Hot water (at least 140°F or 60°C) is essential for killing harmful bacteria and viruses that may be on your scrubs. Be sure to check the care label on your scrubs to ensure they can withstand the temperature, as some fabrics may shrink or become damaged in high heat.

For scrubs that are more delicate or color-sensitive, washing them in cold or warm water with a disinfectant additive may be a safer option. Always prioritize the material type when deciding the water temperature to avoid unnecessary damage.

Step 5: Dry Thoroughly

After washing, it’s important to dry your scrubs properly. High heat in the dryer is effective for further disinfecting, but be cautious about over-drying, as this can damage the fabric. Drying on a high heat setting for about 30 minutes should suffice to ensure your scrubs are thoroughly sanitized.

Alternatively, line drying your scrubs in direct sunlight is a natural way to kill bacteria. The sun’s UV rays have natural disinfecting properties that can further cleanse your scrubs, especially if you're concerned about residual germs after the washing process.

Step 6: Iron or Steam (Optional)

To further ensure your scrubs are disinfected, consider using a steam iron or a garment steamer after washing. The high heat from steam not only helps remove wrinkles but also provides an additional layer of sanitization. This is especially important in environments where extra protection is necessary, such as in hospitals or clinics with high patient contact.

Step 7: Disinfect the Washing Machine

It’s also important to disinfect your washing machine periodically. Washing healthcare clothing regularly, especially items like scrubs, can lead to a buildup of bacteria in the machine. Run a hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to kill any bacteria that may linger in the drum.

Step 8: Maintain Your Scrubs Regularly

While proper disinfecting after each shift is essential, maintaining your scrubs regularly can prolong their lifespan. Consider rotating between multiple pairs of scrubs so that one set is being cleaned while you wear another. This reduces the frequency of wear and tear and ensures that your scrubs stay in good condition longer.

Properly disinfecting your scrubs after each shift is an essential step in maintaining hygiene, fabric integrity, and overall longevity. By following these simple steps—sorting your laundry, pre-treating stains, using the right detergent, washing in hot water, and thoroughly drying—you can ensure that your scrubs remain as fresh, clean, and functional as possible.

Don’t forget to occasionally disinfect your washing machine to prevent germs from building up. Taking the time to properly care for your scrubs is an investment in both your health and your work attire.