Choosing the best scrubs for your needs is essential for ensuring comfort, mobility, and durability during long shifts. The type of fabric your scrubs are made from affects all of these factors, so it’s crucial to make an informed decision. While some may prefer the comfort and breathability of cotton scrubs over polyester, advances in fabric technology have produced premium blends that offer the best of both worlds. Let’s explore the main types of fabrics used in scrubs and what each offers.
Why fabric choice is important when purchasing scrubs
Selecting the correct fabric type for medical wear is important for several reasons:
- Comfort levels: Stretchable synthetic blends like rayon and spandex offer flexibility for active healthcare professionals.
- Durability: Long hospital hours demand durable fabrics like polyester-rayon blends.
- Colour fastness: Frequent washing can fade some fabrics. Blends often hold colour longer.
How to choose the right fabrics for your scrubs
Primary considerations for medical scrub fabrics
When selecting scrub fabric, consider the following qualities:
- Fluid-repellent scrub fabrics: Essential for handling spills and maintaining sanitation. Look for moisture-wicking finishes.
- Antimicrobial scrub fabrics: Fabrics with antimicrobial properties reduce odour and inhibit bacterial growth, extending the scrubs' life.
- Fade-resistant scrub fabrics: Synthetic fibres like polyester retain colour better than natural fibres.
- Shrink-resistant scrub fabrics: Synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester resist shrinkage.
- Wrinkle-resistant scrub fabrics: Polyester is ideal for a neat appearance without ironing.
Types of fabric for scrubs
Cotton:
Cotton is made from the natural fibres of cotton plants and on its own contains no synthetic compounds. It’s one of the most common fabric types, and many traditional scrubs are made from 100% cotton. Here are some of the main characteristics of cotton fabric:
- Cotton fabric is generally known to feel very soft and comfortable on the skin. Though there are different types and qualities of cotton fabric.
- It’s very strong and durable, so it will last a long time.
- As cotton is a natural fibre, it feels very breathable to wear.
- A disadvantage of 100% cotton scrubs is that the colour tends to fade quite quickly so it doesn’t hold its colour vibrancy for very long.
Polyester:
Polyester is a term used for synthetic fabrics which were made using polyester fibres. Here are some of the main characteristics of polyester fabric:
- Moisture resistant but not moisture wicking
- Retains shape and drape, wrinkle resistant so minimal ironing
- Very durable
- Resistant to shrinking and stretching
- Quick drying
Rayon:
Also known as viscose, rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric in that it’s made from natural wood pulp or plant cellulose, but then has to go through a manufacturing process to turn it into fabric fibres. Here are some of the main characteristics of rayon fabric:
- Rayon is known to be breathable and moisture wicking,
- Fabric containing rayon is often stretchy.
- Comfortable and non irritating, this fabric has a smooth, comfortable texture that feels soft to the touch.
Spandex:
Spandex, also known as elastane, is a synthetic fabric best known for its considerable stretchiness. Usually small amounts of spandex fabric are mixed with other fabric fibres to create a comfortable, stretchy piece of fabric.
- Retains shape really well even after multiple wears, and will always bounce back to its original shape after being stretched.
- It’s lightweight but very durable fabric.
- Often used in close fitting garments or sports/performance clothing.
What to consider before choosing your scrubs
Performance requirements for medical scrubs
If your job requires a wide range of movement, choose scrubs made from stretchy fabric. Additionally, consider the temperature of your work environment. Scrubs that regulate temperature well will keep you comfortable throughout your shift.
Comfort considerations for medical scrubs
For long shifts, comfort is crucial. Opt for soft, non-irritating fabrics, and if you sweat a lot, choose moisture-wicking materials to stay dry and comfortable.
Finding the perfect fit for your medical scrubs
A professional appearance matters. Avoid fabrics that fade or shrink easily. Choose stretchy fabrics for different body shapes and consider various leg lengths for the best fit.
Best all year round scrubs
Koi Next Gen scrubs
- Fabric Composition: 73% polyester, 22% rayon, 5% spandex, weight 175 gsm
- Features: 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, durable, wrinkle-resistant, and colourfast.
Koi Cureology scrubs
- Fabric Composition: 100% polyester twill fabric
- Features: 360° stretch, moisture-wicking, durable, wrinkle-resistant, affordable, and stylish.
Best scrubs for warmer days
Koi Lite scrubs
- Fabric Composition: 100% polyester dobby stretch; rib trim 95% polyester, 5% spandex, weight 115 gsm
- Features: Lightweight, sport inspired, airy, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and no ironing required.
Koi Basics scrubs
- Fabric Composition: 95% polyester, 5% spandex, weight 125-130 gsm
- Features: Lightweight, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, affordable, and no ironing required.
Best scrubs for cold environments
Dickies scrubs
- Fabric Composition: 55% cotton, 45% polyester, weight 150 gsm
- Features: High quality, functionality, fashion-forward design, and long-lasting uniforms.
Orange Standard scrubs
- Fabric Composition: 65% polyester and 35% cotton mixture, 153 gsm
- Features: Exceptional fit and unmatched comfort, all at a great price.
Cherokee scrubs
- Fabric Composition: 78% Polyester / 20 % Rayon / 2% Spandex Twill (Revolution), 55% Cotton / 42% Polyester / 3% Spandex Twill (Core stretch), 65% polyester and 35% cotton (Originals)
- Features: Comfort, classic fit, high-performance fabric, a wide range of choices, abundant storage, and easy maintenance.
Koi Classics scrubs
- Fabric composition: 55% cotton, 45% polyester, weight 150 gsm
- Features: Soft, breathable, slightly heavier for warmth, and durable
Choosing the right fabric for your scrubs is essential for comfort, functionality, and professionalism. Our range of high-quality scrubs includes performance, stretchy, and breathable options. With modern, trendy styles available in various sizes, shapes, and lengths, you’re sure to find the perfect scrubs for your needs. Browse our bestsellers here.
If you’re unsure or need help with choosing the best scrubs for your needs, our friendly customer service team is happy to assist you.
Tags: Scrub fabric