Medical scrubs are more than just uniforms they are an essential part of healthcare hygiene and professionalism. For doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals, maintaining clean, fresh, and long-lasting scrubs isn’t just about appearance; it’s about ensuring safety and comfort throughout long shifts.
In this scrub care and wash guide, we’ll walk you through how to maintain hygiene and increase the longevity of your medical scrubs so they look and feel new after every wash.
Why Proper Scrub Care Matters
Medical scrubs are exposed to bodily fluids, stains, and pathogens daily. Neglecting proper wash and care routines can cause bacteria buildup, color fading, and fabric damage.
Proper maintenance ensures:
- Better hygiene and protection from contaminants.
- Longer fabric life and color retention.
- Professional appearance for your healthcare role.
Your medical scrubs deserve as much care as you put into your patients.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Medical Scrubs
Let’s break down the process to wash scrubs properly from pre-treatment to drying.
Step 1 – Pre-Treat Stains Immediately
The sooner you treat stains, the easier they are to remove.
Quick Tip:
Use a gentle stain remover or mild detergent to pre-treat visible stains like blood, iodine, or ink. Avoid bleach it can weaken the fibres and cause discoloration.
Step 2 – Separate Colors Before Washing
Always wash dark and light scrubs separately. Mixing colors may cause color bleeding, especially in new scrubs. At Hirawats, our scrubs are colorfast, but separating loads still helps maintain vibrancy longer.
Step 3 – Use the Right Water Temperature
Use warm water (30–40°C) it’s hot enough to remove contaminants but gentle on fabric. Avoid boiling water it can shrink or damage polyester-cotton blends.
Step 4 – Use a Mild, Antimicrobial Detergent
Choose a mild, antibacterial detergent that removes germs without damaging fibers.
Avoid fabric softeners they can leave residues that trap bacteria.
Add ½ cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle — it naturally disinfects and eliminates Odor.
Step 5 – Disinfect Properly
After washing, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent and bacteria are removed.
For added protection, you can soak scrubs in a diluted disinfectant solution for 10 minutes before washing.
Step 6 – Drying and Ironing
Air-dry scrubs in sunlight whenever possible sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant, If using a dryer, set it to low or medium heat. Ironing not only makes scrubs look crisp but also kills remaining microorganisms.
How Often Should You Wash Your Medical Scrubs?
You should wash your scrubs after every shift no exceptions. Even if they look clean, bacteria and contaminants can cling to the fabric.
Pro Hygiene Practice:
Keep at least 3–4 pairs of scrubs from Hirawats so you can rotate them and always wear a fresh set.
Explore durable and hygienic options in the Hirawats Medical Scrubs Collection.
Tips to Maintain Longevity of Your Scrubs
Here are a few pro-care habits to keep your scrubs looking new for months (or even years):
- Avoid Overloading the Machine: Overloading prevents proper cleaning.
- Turn Scrubs Inside Out: Protects the outer surface and color.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to gentle, healthcare-grade detergents.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Prevents odors and bacterial buildup.
- Handle with Care: Avoid wearing scrubs outside hospitals or labs to reduce contamination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned healthcare professionals can unknowingly damage their scrubs. Avoid these mistakes:
- Using bleach or strong detergents frequently.
- Skipping disinfection after working with infectious patients.
- Drying at high heat — it weakens fibers and shrinks the fabric.
- Ignoring manufacturer’s care instructions — always follow the label.
Why Choose Hirawats Medical Scrubs?
Hirawats’ scrubs are made with premium, breathable, and easy-care fabric that stands up to long shifts and frequent washes.
What Makes Hirawats Scrubs Different?
- Fade-Resistant Colors: Stay vibrant even after 50+ washes.
- Antimicrobial Finish: Keeps you hygienic and fresh.
- Wrinkle-Resistant Fabric: Always looks professional.
- Affordable & Durable: Premium quality at the best value.
Check out the Hirawats Medical Scrubs Collection for top-rated doctor and nurse uniforms.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining hygiene and longevity in medical scrubs is simple when you follow a consistent care routine. By treating stains promptly, washing correctly, and using gentle detergents, you can extend the life of your scrubs — saving money and ensuring you look sharp every day.
When you choose Hirawats, you get premium-quality scrubs designed for performance, comfort, and easy maintenance.
