Hospital scrubs have been a staple for medical professionals for decades, but their fabric and style have changed dramatically over time.
Before the 20th century, surgeons wore black clothing to hide bloodstains, but this attire was not the precursor to today’s scrubs. Early 20th-century scrubs were made of muslin fabric, which was later mixed with rubber to make them more moisture-resistant. However, this material blend proved to be less than ideal.
Fast forward to modern times and now scrubs are made with a variety of fabrics, including cotton, rayon, spandex, polyester, and even nylon. Blends of these fabrics have become popular, but which ones are the best?
If you’re looking for new scrubs, it’s important to know the ins and outs of each fabric type before making a purchase. Keep reading as we take a closer look at the different types of scrub fabrics and what you should consider before buying a pair.
Fiber fabrics for medical scrubs
Cotton, spandex, rayon, and polyester have all played a significant role in medical uniforms. However, it’s important to note that scrubs are not like regular clothes – they have to meet higher quality standards to ensure they can withstand the rigorous demands of the healthcare setting. Each fabric has unique properties that offer advantages and disadvantages in a medical environment. Let’s take a closer look at them.
| Breathable | Moisture-Wicking | Easy Care | Durable | Wrinkle-Resistant | Stretchy | Anti-Static | |
| Cotton | √ | √ | √ | √ | |||
| Polyester | √ | √ | √ | √ | |||
| Rayon | √ | √ | √ | ||||
| Spandex | √ | √ | √ |
Cotton
Cotton is often used to make Hospital scrubs. Cotton fabric is delightfully breathable, has great durability, and provides comfort for the wearer. However, compared to other fibers or blends, cotton scrubs lack stretchiness, which can be a disadvantage. If you’re not careful, cotton scrubs can shrink drastically in the dryer and wrinkle easily. But there’s good news! Medical scrub manufacturers have found ways to blend cotton with other, more durable fibers to create a better alternative for medical professionals.
Polyester
When it comes to durability and longevity, polyester is a top contender in the world of medical scrubs. This synthetic fabric is made from petroleum, air, and water, making it one of the most reliable options out there. Unlike cotton, polyester is highly resistant to shrinkage, wear and tear, and it dries quickly.
But what sets polyester apart from other fabrics is its hydrophobic properties. The fibers repel water, making it less absorbent than cotton. This makes polyester scrubs an ideal choice for healthcare workers who handle bodily fluids and contagious diseases, as the fabric is easy to clean and sanitize. However, because it’s not as breathable as cotton, wearing polyester scrubs for an extended period may cause you to feel warmer due to sweat not being absorbed by the fabric.
Rayon
Rayon is a popular fabric in medical scrubs, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s soft, lightweight, and absorbent, with breathability that mimics natural fibers like cotton and linen. Although it may wrinkle easily, the benefits of rayon scrubs are worth the extra care.
One of the best things about rayon is that it provides similar properties to cotton blends, but at a lower price point. Plus, unlike some natural fibers, rayon is hypoallergenic, making it a more versatile option. You can enjoy the same level of comfort and breathability as cotton or other natural fibers, without breaking the bank.
Spandex
If you need scrubs that will move with you during long and hectic days, you may want to consider fabrics that include spandex. Spandex is a synthetic fiber that is often combined with other fibers to enhance comfort, flexibility, and stretchiness. This “stretchy” fabric will return to its original shape after stretching, preventing bagging and sagging. You may recognize spandex from yoga pants and tights, which are often made of this material. Scrubs made with spandex fabric offer maximum comfort and flexibility, perfect for those who need ultimate freedom of movement. So, if you want to feel comfortable while you’re working, spandex might just be your best friend!
| Cotton | Polyester | Spandex | Rayon | |
| Advantage | Comfortable year-round Soft texture Drapes well for a nice fit Durable Doesn’t build up static electricity | Easy care Durable Resistant to stretching and shrinking Quick drying Wrinkle resistant Abrasion resistant | Lightweight Durable Resistant to stretching and shrinking Prevents bagging and sagging Perspiration resistant Abrasion resistant | Durable Extremely absorbent Comes in a variety of qualities and weights Drapes super well Looks soft and silky |
| Disadvantage | Fades with washing Shrinks – the looser the weave the more it shrinks Fibers soil easily Wrinkles easily | Rough texture Builds up static electricity | Rough texture | Wrinkles easily May stretch when wet May shrink when washed |
| Care | Easy to clean – launder in cold or hot water lay out to dry to prevent shrinking | Turn inside out to prevent snags and pilling. Wash in warm water, using fabric softener to prevent static. Dry on low temperature with dryer sheet, or line dry. | Machine-wash in warm water with a cold rinse. Machine-dry any garments containing spandex on medium temperature. | It is best to hand wash and line dry. If manufacturer’s label allows for washing, wash on delicate cycle and lay flat or hang dry. |
| More | Often blended with another fiber to prevent wrinkles Formaldehyde sometimes added to cotton to create “easy care cotton.” | Made out of oil. | When combined with cotton, if the fabric content of spandex is 10% or greater, the fabric doesn’t wear as well. | Made from cellulose, and can be made to resemble many natural fabrics. |
Common fabric blends for medical scrubs
Nowadays, specific fabric blends have gained popularity for a good reason. Combining different fibers provides the best of both worlds by leveraging the strengths of each fabric and minimizing their weaknesses. The result is a set of scrubs that are perfectly suited for a healthcare setting. There are several popular fiber blends available, including:
Polyester-cotton
Poly-cotton is a well-established blend that has stood the test of time. It’s a combination of high-quality, comfortable, and absorbent fibers that deliver great performance. Compared to 100% cotton, poly-cotton is less likely to wrinkle, making it practical, durable, and efficient.
While it’s not as breathable as pure cotton, poly-cotton offers some ventilation options, ensuring that scrubs stay cool and comfortable. Besides, you can easily maintain poly-cotton scrubs by throwing them in the dryer on low or medium heat, saving you time and effort.
Polyester-spandex
Poly-spandex is another favorite fabric blend! This combination of synthetic fibers is all the rage in workwear, thanks to its unbeatable mix of durability and stretchiness. With a smooth feel against your skin and wrinkle-resistant properties, poly-spandex scrubs will keep you comfortable and looking sharp all day long. And when it’s time for laundry day, just toss them in the dryer on low heat for an easy clean.
| Cotton/ Polyester | Polyester/ Rayon | |
| Advantage | Polyester helps retain shape Polyester resists stains and wrinkles Cotton makes fabric absorbent Cotton makes fabric comfortable Easy care | Polyester provides durability Polyester helps maintain shape Rayon gives nice texture Rayon makes fabric absorbent |
| Disadvantage | Not as breathable as cotton May pill when washed | Not as durable as polyester |
| Care | Machine wash on warm. Tumble dry low or hang dry, based on the manufacturer’s label instructions. | Wash on a cold, gentle cycle. Lay flat or hang to dry. |
| More | A permanent press property gives the fabric extended wear. | Entirely synthetic, and therefore not biodegradable. |
Weave fabrics for medical scrubs
It wouldn’t be correct to not mention the different types of fabric weaves used in medical uniforms! Poplin, dobby, and twill are all worth mentioning.
Poplin has a cord-like surface and is incredibly durable, making it a popular choice for scrubs. This weave is typically used with cotton or a cotton-polyester blend, and it’s resistant to wrinkles.
Dobby, on the other hand, is a double weave with small geometric patterns that add extra texture to the fabric. This weave is absorbent and wrinkle-resistant because of its texture and thickness.
Twill is a versatile weave known for its diagonal rib pattern. The yarns within cotton twill are packed tightly, giving the fabric its relatively heavy feel, which is why it’s often used for making scrub jackets.
| Poplin | Dobby | Twill | |
| Merit | Durable Prevents wrinkles Easy to iron Stains are less noticeable | Very absorbent Prevents wrinkles Stains are less noticeable | Durable Prevents wrinkles Drapes well Stains are less noticeable |
What is the best material for scrubs?
Remember, each of these fabrics, blends, and weaves offer unique benefits that make them great for different types of medical scrubs. However, their effectiveness ultimately depends on the job, the environment, and even the weather. So keep these factors in mind when choosing the right scrub for you.
For instance, if you need:
- The best scrub fabric for summer weather: For hot summer weather, a cotton-polyester blend is your best bet. It offers breathability, durability, and moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool and comfortable in the dry heat. Make sure to choose a lightweight blend to avoid feeling weighed down.
- The best scrub fabric for humid weather: In humid weather, avoid cotton scrubs as they don’t wick away sweat or cool down quickly. Instead, opt for a blend that can withstand moisture and offer ventilation to keep you feeling fresh.
- The best scrub fabric for cold weather: For cold weather, heavyweight cotton or a cotton blend is ideal. It’ll keep you warm and toasty while also maintaining breathability.
- The best scrubs for surgeries: If you’re working in surgeries or other sterile environments, choose lightweight cotton scrubs that you can dispose of after one use.
- The best scrubs for protection against fluids and chemicals: For protection against fluids and chemicals, go for a high-percentage polyester or polyester blend. Polyester has a synthetic surface that resists absorption and is also durable enough to resist stains and germs.
Choosing the correct fabric for your scrubs can be quite challenging. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to choose, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information or guidance.
Here at Lezhougarment.com, we’re always happy to read your feedback and answer any questions you may have. With 19 years of experience in clothing manufacturing, you can rely on us to assist you in your clothing business.
Leave a comment or contact us directly, and let’s find the perfect fabric for your scrubs together!