How To Choose Medical Uniform Fabrics

When it comes to medical uniforms, there are a few different fabric options to choose from. And with so many choices, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll go over the different types of fabrics used for medical uniforms and the benefits of each. By the end, you’ll know exactly which fabric is right for you and your needs. So let’s get started!

Different Types Of Fabrics Available For Medical Uniforms.

Medical scrubs are widely used by doctors, nurses, and medical examiners throughout their daily schedules. They must be highly comfortable and made of softer materials than the average industrial uniform.

Whether you are looking for something soft and breathable or durable and stain-resistant, we have a fabric that will suit your needs.

There are a few different types of fabrics used for medical scrubs, each with its own set of benefits.

  1. Cotton is one of the most popular fabrics used for medical scrubs. It’s soft, comfortable, and breathable, making it ideal for long days spent in the hospital or clinic. Cotton is also relatively affordable, making it a popular choice for those on a budget.
  2. Another popular fabric choice for medical scrubs is polyester. Polyester is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and stain-resistant, making it a good choice for those who are hard on their clothes. It also doesn’t shrink or fade in the wash, making it a low-maintenance fabric choice. Polyester is also moisture-resistant and not particularly absorbent, so it traps sweat rather than absorbing it like cotton.
  3. Rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric comprised primarily of cellulose fibers derived from wood pulp and other chemicals. It’s soft, comfortable, and breathable like cotton, but it also has some added benefits. Rayon is absorbent and wicks moisture away from the skin, making it a good choice for those who tend to sweat a lot. It’s also hypoallergenic and can be worn by those with sensitive skin. It drapes well and appears soft and silky in general, but it isn’t very long-lasting.
  4. Polyester/cotton blends are also popular for medical scrubs. These fabrics combine the best of both worlds – the comfort of cotton with the durability of polyester. Polyester/cotton blends are wrinkle-resistant, stain-resistant, and shrink-resistant, making them a great choice for those who want low-maintenance scrubs.
  5. Polyester/Spandex blends are another popular choice for medical uniforms. They’re stretchy and breathable, making them comfortable to wear for long periods. They’re also moisture-wicking, which helps keep you cool and dry during hot summer months. Poly/spandex mixes are silkier and wrinkle-free than cotton/spandex or cotton/poly blends.
  6. Finally, there is bamboo. Bamboo is a relatively new fabric choice for medical scrubs, but it’s quickly becoming popular for its softness and comfort. Bamboo is also environmentally friendly, as it’s a sustainable material. However, bamboo is not as durable as other fabrics and can be more expensive.

How To Choose The Right Fabric For Your Needs.

Now that you know the different types of fabrics available for medical scrubs, it’s time to choose the right one for you. Here are the factors that you should consider when making your decision:

  • Comfort: If you’re going to be wearing your scrubs for long hours, comfort is important. Select a fabric that is soft and comfortable against your skin.
  • Durability: If you’re hard on your clothes, pick a fabric that is durable and won’t wear or tear easily.
  • Moisture Wicking: Consider a fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin. This will help keep you cool and dry during long shifts.
    Four healthcare workers in scrubs walking in corridor
  • Breathability: Choose a fabric that is breathable to avoid feeling suffocated in your scrubs.
  • Wrinkle-Resistance: If you don’t have time to iron your scrubs, choose a fabric that doesn’t wrinkle easily.
  • Stain-Resistance: If you’re prone to spills and stains, select a fabric that is stain-resistant.
  • Antibacterial properties:  Options to treat the fabric with an antibacterial finish are available. If you work with patients who have contagious illnesses, this may be a good option for you.
  • Price: Fabric choices range in price from budget-friendly options like cotton to more expensive options like bamboo. Choose the best fabric for your needs without breaking the bank.

Our Recommendation; Best Material For Medical Scrubs

Best Scrub Fabric for Surgeries: Disposable surgical scrubs are popular due to the fact that they can be worn just once and then discarded. They are also less likely to harbor bacteria since they are not usually washed. Single-use cotton-polyester blend in a lighter weight is the best fabric for surgical scrubs since it is breathable and comfortable.

Scrub Fabric With The Best Stain/Chemical Resistance: If you are looking for a scrub fabric that will resist stains and chemicals, then look for a polyester-based fabric. Polyester is known for being stain and chemical-resistant, so it is the ideal choice for medical scrubs.

Close Up Of Female Nurse Wearing Scrubs Putting On Sterile PPE Gloves

Summer Scrub Fabric for Hot, Dry Weather: Polyester/Spandex blend or polyester-cotton blends. If you’re looking for a summer scrub fabric that is cool and comfortable, we recommend a polyester/spandex blend. This type of fabric is lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for hot, dry weather. Polyester/spandex blends are also wrinkle-resistant, which is a bonus if you’re looking for scrubs that require little to no ironing.

Best Scrub Fabric for Winter and Dry Weather: Cotton/Polyester blend. A heavier-weight cotton-based fabric with a low percentage of polyester.  If you live in a colder, drier climate, we recommend a cotton/polyester blend fabric for your scrubs. This type of fabric is durable and will keep you warm and comfortable in cold weather.

Final Thoughts

At Absolute Apparel, we know the importance of having comfortable and stylish medical uniforms. That’s why we offer a wide variety of fabrics to choose from so you can find the perfect material for your needs. Whether you are looking for something soft and breathable or durable and stain-resistant, we have a fabric that will suit your needs. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you find the perfect fabric for your needs. Visit us online today or give us a call to learn more about our selection!

Share this story