How to Wash and Iron Nursing Scrubs: A Daily Care Guide

Keeping nursing scrubs looking sharp comes down to the right wash temperature, a suitable detergent and careful ironing. If you follow the care label inside each garment and build a few simple habits, you can avoid most problems like fading, shrinking and pilling.

For a healthcare worker who is on the move all shift long, a uniform is more than clothing: it is one of the most important tools of the working day. This guide walks you through the practical steps of daily care, from washing and ironing to storage and small repairs.

Before You Wash: Read the Label and Sort

Not every uniform is made from the same fabric. Cotton, polyester and blended fabrics each react differently to heat and detergent, so your first step is always to check the care symbols on the inside label. For a general overview of fabric types, see our fabric properties page.

A little preparation before washing goes a long way:

• Empty the pockets: A forgotten pen, pair of scissors, note or face mask can damage both the garment and the machine.
• Sort by colour: Wash whites, light colours and dark colours separately. Navy, burgundy or teal can release dye in the first few washes.
• Close zips and snaps: An open zip can snag other items and pull the fabric.
• Turn garments inside out: This is especially helpful for embroidered and printed uniforms, as it protects the logo and the surface colour.

If your workplace has its own laundering and hygiene rules for uniforms, those rules always come first.

Machine Washing: Temperature, Detergent and Cycle

The highest temperature allowed on the label is not necessarily the one you should always use. Too much heat can fade coloured scrubs and shrink some fabrics. Choosing a cycle that matches how soiled the garment is, without exceeding the label limit, is the most balanced approach.

Choosing a detergent

Use a colour-safe detergent for coloured uniforms and a detergent made for whites on white garments. Measure carefully: too much detergent leaves residue that can make fabric stiff and dull. Go easy on fabric softener as well, since it can leave a film on some fabrics.

Don't overload the machine

A packed drum means garments don't move freely, which leads to a poorer wash and more creasing. Leaving enough room for the scrubs to tumble makes a real difference to both cleanliness and ironing time.

Drying: Preventing Shrinkage and Creases

For most uniforms, hanging them up to air dry is the safest option. Give each piece a good shake as soon as it comes out of the machine and put it on a hanger; many creases will drop out on their own. Avoid leaving dark colours in direct sun for long periods, as this can cause fading. A shaded, well-ventilated spot works best.

If you use a tumble dryer, make sure the label allows it and choose a low heat setting. Taking the garment out while it is still slightly damp makes ironing much easier.

Peg trousers neatly by the hems or waistband, and hang tops on a hanger that fits the shoulder line. Thin wire hangers can leave marks on the shoulders, so wider hangers give better results. For trousers with an elastic waist, avoid hanging them by a stretched waistband so the elastic keeps its shape.

Ironing: A Neat, Professional Look

Set the iron temperature according to the fabric; the number of dots in the iron symbol on the care label tells you what is safe. Slightly damp fabric releases creases more easily.

1. Start with the collar and cuffs, as these have the biggest effect on how the uniform looks.
2. Move on to the shoulders and back.
3. Carefully iron the front panels and around the pockets.
4. For trousers, iron the waistband first, then the legs.

Never iron directly over embroidery or prints. Turn the garment inside out and place a thin cloth over these areas to protect the logo and name embroidery. You can learn more about decoration methods on our embroidery and printing page.

Storage and Everyday Routine

Hanging your ironed uniform rather than folding it means it will be crease-free for your next shift. If you work long or frequent shifts, rotating several sets is both practical and reduces wear on each one.

• Keep clean and worn uniforms in separate places.
• Fix loose seams or missing buttons before the damage spreads.
• When you notice fading, pilling or loss of shape, start planning a replacement.

Keeping a folded spare set in your work bag is another good habit. If your uniform gets soiled or wet during a shift, you can change quickly and stay presentable for the rest of the day. Carry the spare in its own bag or compartment so it stays separate from your other belongings.

When it is time for new uniforms, browse our nursing uniform styles to find the cut and colour that suit your team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should I wash nursing scrubs at?

The right temperature depends on the fabric. Follow the care label inside the garment and never exceed the limit it shows. If your workplace has specific laundering rules, follow those first.

How do I iron an embroidered uniform?

Turn the garment inside out and lay a thin cloth over the embroidered area before ironing. Avoid pressing the iron straight onto the embroidery, which can flatten the threads and make them shiny.

Will new dark-coloured scrubs bleed dye?

Dark fabrics can release some dye in their first washes. We recommend washing new dark uniforms separately from whites and light colours for the first few cycles.

With the right washing, careful drying and a little attention when ironing, your nursing scrubs will stay neat and professional for longer. If you are planning new uniforms for your team, simply send us the product code of the style you like on WhatsApp and we can go over colours, sizes and embroidery details together.