Underscrubs are an essential yet often overlooked part of professional attire. Whether you work in healthcare, laboratories, or other uniformed professions, the right underscrubs can enhance your comfort, hygiene, and overall work experience. By selecting the right material, fit, and care routine, you can ensure that your underscrubs work for you helping you stay fresh, protected, and professional throughout your shift.
Why Do You Wear Under Scrubs?
The choice of what to wear under scrubs depends on workplace policies, personal preferences, and comfort needs. Some common options include:
- Long-Sleeve and Short-Sleeve Undershirts – These are the most popular underscrubs, designed to provide warmth and moisture control.
- Compression Undershirts – Often used for muscle support and improved circulation, compression undershirts help reduce fatigue.
- Thermal Layers – Ideal for colder environments, thermal underscrubs help retain body heat.
- Moisture-Wicking Tanks or Tees – If you sweat a lot or work in a humid environment, breathable and moisture-wicking underscrubs keep you dry.
- Leggings or Compression Pants – Some professionals wear leggings or compression pants under scrub bottoms for added warmth and muscle support.
The Benefits of Wearing Underscrubs
Enhanced Comfort
Underscrubs provide a soft barrier between your skin and scrubs, preventing irritation from stiff or synthetic fabrics. They also help regulate temperature, keeping you warm in cold environments and cool in warm settings.
Improved Hygiene
Scrubs can absorb sweat and bacteria throughout the day. Wearing an underscrub prevents direct skin contact with scrubs, reducing the spread of germs and keeping your attire fresher for longer.
Moisture Control
Underscrubs made from moisture-wicking materials help keep you dry during long shifts, preventing sweat stains and discomfort.
Professional Appearance
A fitted underscrub can create a neat, polished look by smoothing out any wrinkles or loose areas in your scrubs.
Added Protection
In medical and laboratory settings, underscrubs provide an extra layer of protection against spills, contaminants, and accidental exposure to fluids or chemicals.
Temperature Regulation
If your workplace is too cold or hot, underscrubs help regulate body temperature by adding warmth or increasing breathability.
Browse best Scrubs Collection
Materials and Design of Underscrubs
When selecting underscrubs, choosing the right material is crucial. Here are some of the best fabric options:
Cotton Blends
- Soft and breathable
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Absorbs sweat but may retain moisture
Polyester and Spandex Mix
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
- Lightweight and flexible
- Great for active professionals who move frequently
Merino Wool
- Naturally temperature-regulating
- Odor-resistant and antibacterial
- Suitable for colder climates
Bamboo Fabric
- Hypoallergenic and soft
- Eco-friendly and moisture-wicking
- Helps regulate body temperature
Compression Fabrics (Nylon and Spandex)
- Provides muscle support and improves circulation
- Prevents fatigue during long shifts
- Common in medical and athletic wear
Design Considerations:
- Seamless or Flatlock Stitching: Prevents skin irritation and enhances comfort.
- Breathable Mesh Panels: Increases airflow and prevents overheating.
- Stretchable Fabric: Ensures a snug but comfortable fit.
Shop the Best Lab Coats from Here!
The Applicability of Underscrubs in Different Professions
While underscrubs are most commonly associated with healthcare professionals, they are beneficial across various industries:
Healthcare Professionals
Doctors, nurses, and lab technicians wear underscrubs for hygiene, comfort, and protection against spills and contaminants.
Laboratory Workers
Scientists and researchers wear underscrubs beneath lab coats to prevent skin irritation and maintain warmth in cold labs.
Veterinary Professionals
Vets and veterinary technicians benefit from underscrubs as they work with animals, often facing unexpected spills and messes.
Beauty and Aesthetics Industry
Estheticians and spa workers wear underscrubs for added comfort under their uniforms, especially in temperature-controlled environments.
Dental Professionals
Dentists and hygienists wear underscrubs to absorb sweat and maintain a clean, polished look under their scrubs.
How to Wear and Care for Underscrubs?
How to Wear Underscrubs Properly
- Choose the Right Fit: Underscrubs should be snug but not too tight to allow free movement.
- Layer Strategically: In colder climates, opt for thermal or long-sleeve underscrubs, while in hot environments, go for moisture-wicking short sleeves or tanks.
- Match Workplace Dress Codes: Some workplaces have restrictions on underscrubs' color and visibility, so ensure compliance.
Caring for Your Underscrubs
- Wash After Every Use: Since underscrubs absorb sweat and bacteria, wash them daily to maintain hygiene.
- Use Cold Water: Hot water may shrink or damage fabrics like spandex or bamboo.
- Avoid Fabric Softeners: These can reduce the moisture-wicking properties of performance fabrics.
- Air Dry or Use Low Heat: High heat can break down elastic fibers, reducing longevity.