Washing scrubs doesn’t have to be a chore. By following these simple tips for different fabric types and stain removal methods, you can keep your scrubs looking fresh, clean, and in excellent condition. Whether you work in healthcare, a lab, or another profession, taking care of your scrubs will ensure they last longer and maintain their comfort and style.
How to Wash 100% Cotton Scrubs?
Cotton scrubs are a popular choice because of their softness and breathability. However, cotton tends to shrink and wrinkle if not washed properly. Here’s how to keep them in great condition:
- Wash in Cold Water: Cotton scrubs should be washed in cold water to prevent shrinking. Hot water can cause the fabric to tighten and lose its shape.
- Use a Gentle Detergent: Choose a mild detergent to protect the fabric’s fibers from unnecessary wear and tear.
- Avoid Overloading the Washer: When washing cotton scrubs, ensure that the washing machine isn't overloaded to allow for proper agitation and even cleaning.
- Dry on Low Heat: To prevent shrinking, air dry or use a tumble dryer on a low heat setting. If you prefer a crisp, fresh look, iron the scrubs while they are slightly damp.
How to Wash Polyester-Cotton Blend Scrubs?
Polyester-cotton blend scrubs combine the best qualities of both fabrics. They are less prone to wrinkles and shrinkage compared to pure cotton, but they still require some attention.
- Use Warm Water: Warm water is ideal for washing polyester-cotton blends. It removes dirt and oils effectively while avoiding the risk of shrinkage associated with cotton alone.
- Use a Mild Detergent: Choose a mild detergent that is safe for synthetic fabrics, which will help preserve the material’s color and prevent fabric damage.
- Avoid Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can build up on polyester fabrics, reducing their breathability. Skip the softener to maintain comfort.
- Tumble Dry on Low: Polyester-cotton blends dry quickly, and low heat in the dryer ensures the fabric doesn’t shrink or lose its shape.
How to Remove Stains from Scrubs?
Stains are a common concern when wearing scrubs daily. Whether from food, blood, ink, or bodily fluids, it’s essential to treat them promptly. Here are some effective stain removal methods:
- Act Quickly: The quicker you treat the stain, the easier it is to remove. Blot excess stains immediately with a clean cloth.
- Pre-Treat with Stain Remover: Apply a stain remover directly to the affected area before washing. For greasy stains, dish soap works wonders.
- Use Baking Soda for Odor Removal: For persistent odors, sprinkle baking soda on the scrubs before washing. It neutralizes smells without damaging the fabric.
- Hydrogen Peroxide for Blood Stains: Blood stains can be tricky, but hydrogen peroxide can break down the proteins in blood. Apply it directly to the stain, wait a few minutes, and rinse with cold water before washing.
- Lemon Juice for Ink Stains: Ink stains can be tough to remove, but lemon juice acts as a natural solvent. Apply lemon juice to the stain, let it sit, and then wash with cold water.
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How to Wash Scrubs with Embroidery or Prints?
Scrubs with embroidery or prints require special attention to prevent fading or damage. Here’s how to care for them:
- Turn Inside Out: Always turn scrubs with embroidery or prints inside out before washing. This prevents the design from rubbing against other garments, reducing wear.
- Use Cold Water: Cold water is gentler on the fabric and design, preserving colors and preventing the embroidery from fraying.
- Use Gentle Detergent: Mild detergent is recommended to preserve the integrity of embroidery or prints.
- Air Dry: Air drying is the best option to maintain the design's vibrancy and prevent the embroidery from shrinking or unraveling.
How to Wash Scrubs to Maintain Their Color?
Maintaining the color of your scrubs is important, especially if you work in a setting where appearance matters. Here are a few tips to preserve color:
- Wash Scrubs with Similar Colors: Always wash scrubs with similar colors to prevent colors from bleeding. For example, wash light blue scrubs with other light-colored items.
- Use Color-Safe Detergents: Invest in a color-safe detergent to keep your scrubs looking bright and fresh. These detergents are designed to prevent fading and discoloration.
- Avoid Excessive Washing: Scrubs can lose their color if washed too frequently. If they aren’t excessively dirty, you can try spot cleaning instead of a full wash to preserve the color.
- Use Vinegar in the Rinse Cycle: Adding half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help set colors and prevent them from fading.
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How to Prevent Scrub Shrinkage?
Shrinkage is a common issue with scrubs, especially cotton ones. To avoid this, follow these steps:
- Wash in Cold Water: Always wash scrubs in cold water to minimize shrinkage. Hot water can cause cotton fibers to contract, leading to smaller garments.
- Dry on Low Heat: High heat in the dryer is a major cause of shrinkage. Dry your scrubs on low or air dry them to preserve their original size.
- Pre-Wash New Scrubs: When you first purchase new scrubs, wash them separately in cold water to prevent initial shrinkage.
How to Remove Odors from Scrubs?
Scrubs can absorb odors from sweat, food, and other sources. If your scrubs have lingering odors, try the following:
- Soak in Vinegar: Soaking your scrubs in a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water before washing can help neutralize odors.
- Use Odor-Eliminating Detergent: There are detergents specifically designed to tackle odors. These detergents contain enzymes that break down odor-causing bacteria.
- Add Baking Soda to the Wash: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that helps eliminate stubborn odors. Add a half-cup to your wash cycle for fresher scrubs.
- Air Dry Outside: Fresh air can do wonders for removing odors. If possible, hang your scrubs outside to air out before putting them in the wash.
How to Maintain Scrub Elasticity?
The elastic bands in scrub pants can lose their stretch over time. Here’s how to preserve their elasticity:
- Don’t Overdry: Overdrying your scrub pants can cause the elastic to lose its stretch. Use a lower heat setting when drying and remove them as soon as they are dry.
- Wash in a Laundry Bag: To prevent excessive friction, wash scrub pants in a laundry bag. This reduces the wear on the elastic and helps maintain its stretch.
How to Clean Scrubs without a Washing Machine?
If you don’t have access to a washing machine, you can still clean your scrubs by hand washing them. Here’s how:
- Fill a Basin with Cold Water: Fill a basin or sink with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Soak and Agitate: Place your scrubs in the basin, letting them soak for 15–20 minutes. Gently agitate them with your hands to remove dirt and stains.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the scrubs under cold water until all soap is removed.
- Dry Properly: After washing, air dry your scrubs by hanging them or laying them flat.
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