Proper care not only preserves the life of your scrubs but also ensures they remain hygienic and presentable. Whether you're a nurse, doctor, dentist, or lab technician, our comprehensive guide will help you keep your scrubs in top condition.
- Read the Label – The Care Tag Is Your Best Friend
Before anything else, take a peek at the care label on your scrubs. That little tag holds a wealth of information specific to the fabric blend, including recommended water temperatures, whether it’s safe to use bleach, and drying instructions.
MedStitch.pk scrubs often use premium fabric blends for extra comfort and durability. However, treating cotton-polyester differently than 100% cotton is crucial. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid shrinkage, color fading, or fabric damage.
- Pre-Wash Before First Use
We know it’s tempting to wear your brand-new MedStitch.pk scrubs right out of the package, but resist the urge! Pre-washing removes any chemicals used during the manufacturing process and helps set the dye, reducing the risk of color bleeding in future washes.
Pro tip: Wash new scrubs separately the first time—especially bright colors like teal, burgundy, or navy. This ensures any excess dye doesn’t transfer to your other clothing.
- Sort Like a Pro – Separate Colors and Fabrics
Scrubs aren’t immune to the laws of laundry physics. Just like with your everyday clothes, you should sort your laundry before tossing it in the washer.
- Dark colors (navy, black, maroon) go with darks.
- Light colors (sky blue, white, pastels) go with lights.
- Avoid mixing heavily soiled scrubs with lightly worn ones.
Sorting helps preserve color vibrancy and prevents lint transfer. If your scrubs include white trim or logos, wash them with similar items to maintain their crisp appearance.
- Treat Stains Immediately – The Scrub Savior Rule
In the healthcare field, stains are inevitable. From ink marks and food spills to blood and iodine, your scrubs will go through a lot. The key is acting fast!
- Blood stains: Rinse with cold water immediately, then treat with hydrogen peroxide or an enzyme-based cleaner.
- Ink stains: Dab with rubbing alcohol using a cotton ball.
- Oily stains: Use a grease-cutting dish soap before washing.
Avoid using hot water on fresh stains—it can set them permanently. At MedStitch.pk, we recommend keeping a stain-removal pen in your locker or bag for emergencies on the go.
- Wash with Care – Gentle but Effective
Scrubs should be washed after every use. Hygiene is non-negotiable in the medical field. But frequent washing doesn’t have to wear out your scrubs.
- Water temperature: Warm or cold is best unless otherwise noted. Hot water can shrink cotton and fade colors.
- Cycle setting: Use a gentle cycle to avoid fabric stress and pilling.
- Detergent: Go for a mild, color-safe detergent. Antibacterial formulas are a bonus, especially during flu seasons or outbreaks.
Avoid overloading the washing machine. Your scrubs need room to move around and get properly cleaned.
- Say No to Bleach (Most of the Time)
Bleach may seem like the ultimate germ-killer, but it can weaken fibers and destroy colors over time. Unless your scrubs are solid white and bleach-safe (check that label!), use non-chlorine alternatives.
Oxygen-based bleach or vinegar can disinfect and brighten without damage. MedStitch.pk also offers color-stable scrubs that are bleach-safe—but always double-check the label before pouring.
- Dry Right – Air-Dry or Tumble with Care
After a good wash, how you dry your scrubs makes a big difference.
- Air-drying is the gentlest option. Hang scrubs on a clothesline or drying rack to reduce wear and shrinkage.
- Tumble-drying on low heat is also acceptable. High heat breaks down fibers and causes fading.
Remove your scrubs from the dryer promptly to avoid wrinkles. If they’re slightly damp, hang them up—this prevents static and helps them finish drying with fewer creases.
- Ironing 101 – Professional Polish
A clean pair of scrubs can still look unkempt if they’re wrinkled. While many modern scrubs are wrinkle-resistant, some still need a little TLC.
- Use a warm iron on cotton or cotton-blend scrubs.
- Avoid direct heat on logos or embroidery—place a cloth between the iron and the fabric.
- Lightly mist the fabric with water if it's extra wrinkled.
Looking sharp is part of feeling confident and professional. A little effort goes a long way.
- Rotate Your Scrubs – Build a Weekly Wardrobe
Wearing the same scrubs every day accelerates wear and tear. Build a rotation with at least 4-5 pairs to allow each set to fully dry and rest between washes.
At MedStitch.pk, we recommend planning your scrub wardrobe by color and occasion. For example:
- Brighter colors for pediatric wards
- Classic navy or grey for administrative days
- Lightweight fabrics for summer shifts
- Layered sets for colder months
Rotating scrubs keeps each set fresher longer and adds variety to your workweek.
- Store with Intention – Fold, Don’t Stuff
Once clean and dry, scrubs should be stored properly to maintain their shape and freshness.
- Fold neatly and store in a dedicated drawer or locker.
- Use drawer dividers or shelf organizers to separate colors and types.
- Store with lavender sachets or cedar blocks to keep them smelling fresh.
Avoid tossing clean scrubs into a gym bag or work tote—they’ll wrinkle, pick up odors, and lose that freshly-laundered feel.
- Disinfect Your Washing Machine – The Overlooked Step
Your washing machine deals with a lot when it handles your scrubs. Body fluids, bacteria, and pathogens can build up over time. Clean it monthly to ensure it stays fresh and effective.
- Run an empty hot wash with 2 cups of vinegar or a machine cleaner.
- Wipe down the inside drum and rubber seals.
- Leave the door open after each wash to prevent mildew.
A clean machine equals clean scrubs—inside and out.
- Upgrade When Needed – Know When to Say Goodbye
Even the best scrubs don’t last forever. If you notice thinning fabric, stubborn stains, or a loss of stretch, it might be time to refresh your wardrobe.
At MedStitch.pk, we’re always updating our collections with modern fits, breathable fabrics, and bold new colors to keep you looking and feeling your best. Don’t hesitate to replace old pairs that no longer meet your professional standards.
Final Thoughts from MedStitch.pk
Caring for your medical scrubs doesn’t have to be a chore—it’s a ritual of respect for your profession and for yourself. When you treat your scrubs well, they reward you with longer wear, more comfort, and a sharp appearance that speaks volumes.
At MedStitch.pk, we design our scrubs with longevity, comfort, and style in mind. By following these simple care tips, you’re not just extending the life of your scrubs—you’re investing in your daily performance and confidence.