Scrubs are the go-to uniform for healthcare professionals worldwide. They are comfortable, practical, and essential for maintaining hygiene in medical environments. However, many people still have questions about how to care for scrubs, their professional use, and whether they can be written off on taxes.
What Are Scrubs and Why Are They Important?
Scrubs are the standardized medical uniforms worn by healthcare professionals, primarily in hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. They are designed to be functional, hygienic, and easy to clean. Scrubs are vital in maintaining a sterile environment in healthcare settings, helping prevent the spread of germs and ensuring professionals remain comfortable during long shifts.
Originally, scrubs were worn exclusively in operating rooms by surgeons and their assistants. Today, they are used across various medical fields, from emergency rooms to dental offices.
Why Are They Called "Scrubs"?
The name "scrubs" originates from the practice of "scrubbing in" before a surgical procedure. Surgeons and operating room staff would wash and disinfect themselves thoroughly before putting on these clean garments. Over time, the term "scrubs" became synonymous with the medical attire itself.
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The History of Scrubs
Before scrubs, doctors and nurses used to wear white coats and street clothes. However, during the early 20th century, the need for better hygiene in hospitals led to the development of sterilized uniforms.
In the 1940s, surgical teams began wearing green or blue scrubs instead of white because bright white garments caused eye strain under intense surgical lights. By the 1970s, scrubs had become the standard attire for medical professionals.
Benefits of Wearing Scrubs
Scrubs offer numerous benefits for healthcare professionals, including:
Hygiene and Infection Control
Scrubs are designed to be cleaned at high temperatures to remove bacteria and contaminants. Some modern scrubs even come with antimicrobial properties to further reduce the risk of infection.
Comfort and Durability
Medical professionals work long shifts, often spending hours on their feet. Scrubs are made from breathable, flexible fabrics that allow ease of movement and comfort throughout the day.
Professional Appearance
Scrubs create a uniform look that helps patients and colleagues easily identify healthcare professionals. Many hospitals have color-coded scrubs to distinguish between departments.
Convenient Features
Scrubs come with multiple pockets to store essential tools like pens, notepads, stethoscopes, and even small medical instruments.
How to Choose the Right Scrubs?
Not all scrubs are created equal! When choosing scrubs, consider the following factors:
Fabric
Scrubs come in different fabric blends, such as:
- Cotton – Soft, breathable, but may shrink after washing.
- Polyester blends – Wrinkle-resistant, durable, and moisture-wicking.
- Spandex blends – Stretchy and comfortable, perfect for professionals who need extra flexibility.
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Fit and Style
Scrubs come in different styles, including:
- Classic fit – Loose-fitting and comfortable for all body types.
- Tailored fit – More structured and stylish.
- Jogger scrubs – Trendy, with a tapered ankle for a modern look.
Color and Patterns
Different hospitals and medical facilities have dress codes that dictate scrub colors. Common scrub colors and their meanings include:
- Blue or green – Often worn in surgical settings.
- White – Traditionally associated with lab coats.
- Pink or purple – Popular in pediatric units.
- Black or navy – A sleek and professional look for general healthcare workers.
Some scrubs also come with fun patterns, especially for professionals working in pediatrics or dental offices.
Pockets and Features
Think about what you need to carry. If you need to store medical tools, go for scrubs with multiple deep pockets. Some scrubs also have side vents, zippers, or badge loops for added convenience.
How to Take Care of Scrubs?
Since scrubs are exposed to various germs and stains, they require special care. Here are some tips for maintaining your scrubs:
- Wash in hot water to kill bacteria and remove stains.
- Use a mild detergent to keep fabrics soft and durable.
- Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can reduce the moisture-wicking ability of scrubs.
- Separate scrubs from regular laundry to prevent contamination.
- Dry on a low heat setting to extend their lifespan.
Are Scrubs Only for Healthcare Workers?
While scrubs are primarily worn by medical professionals, they are also used in other industries, such as:
- Veterinary clinics – Veterinarians and assistants wear scrubs for hygiene.
- Spas and wellness centers – Massage therapists often wear scrubs for comfort and professionalism.
- Cleaning services – Some cleaning professionals use scrubs for easy maintenance and mobility.
Can You Wear Scrubs Outside of Work?
Many medical professionals change into scrubs at work to prevent carrying germs from outside environments into hospitals. However, some wear scrubs outside of work, especially when running errands before or after their shifts.
If you plan to wear scrubs outside, it’s a good idea to have a separate set for work and casual wear.
The Rise of Fashionable Scrubs
Scrubs are no longer just boxy, plain outfits. Modern brands offer stylish, well-fitted scrubs that look great while maintaining functionality. Some trendy scrub features include:
- Athleisure-style designs for a sporty look.
- Wrinkle-resistant and stretch fabrics for better comfort.
- Embroidered logos and names for a personalized touch.
Fun Facts About Scrubs
- The TV show Scrubs (2001-2010) played a big role in making scrubs iconic in pop culture.
- Some scrubs are made from recycled materials to promote sustainability.
- The world's most expensive scrubs were designed with antimicrobial fabric and cost over $300 per set!