Top 10 Best Practices for Choosing Healthcare Scrubs: Investing in Your Clinical Team

For healthcare professionals, scrubs are not just clothing—they are essential gear. The right uniforms directly impact comfort, performance, and safety during demanding shifts.

Drawing from industry best practices, here are the top 10 things you must consider when selecting or refining your uniform program for your clinical team:

1. Uniforms Are Not One-Size-Fits-All

A diverse healthcare team requires diverse sizing. Ensure your scrub program offers comprehensive fit options—including various cuts (e.g., modern fit, classic fit), petite, and tall sizes. Proper sizing is critical for mobility and comfort throughout a long shift.

2. Fabric Properties Matter (Especially in Scrubs)

The performance of your scrubs is paramount. Choose fabrics that are durable, moisture-wicking, breathable, and easy to sanitize. Look for materials that maintain their color and integrity after repeated industrial laundering cycles.

3. Functionality Is Key

Scrubs must support the fast pace of clinical work. Prioritize features like ample, well-placed pockets (for instruments, phones, and supplies), secure closures, and four-way stretch for unrestricted movement when lifting or reaching.

4. Style and Professionalism Instill Trust

While comfort is crucial, the uniform must project competence. Select modern, clean-lined scrub styles that present a professional image. When staff look sharp, patients feel more confident in their care.

5. Color and Logo Consistency Maintain a Unified Look

Consistency is key for brand identity and department recognition. Ensure every garment—from scrub tops and pants to outerwear—uses the exact approved color and high-quality, standardized decoration of your facility's logo.

6. Employee Input Is Invaluable (The Wearer Knows Best)

Before committing to a style, let your staff test and provide feedback on different scrub brands and fabrics. A uniform that is comfortable and liked by the team will be worn with pride, not resentment.

7. Proper Fit Boosts Confidence and Performance

Scrubs that fit well eliminate distractions. Ill-fitting garments can restrict movement or look unprofessional. A proper fit ensures your clinical team feels confident and supported through physically demanding tasks.

8. Comfortable Employees Are Happy Employees

In healthcare, job-related stress is high. High-quality, comfortable scrubs reduce physical discomfort, which directly impacts employee satisfaction and morale. Happy, comfortable employees are more focused on patient care.

9. A Flexible Uniform Program Reduces Turnover

Discontent over mandatory uniforms can contribute to staff dissatisfaction. Offering a selection of pre-approved scrub brands and styles allows for personal preference while maintaining a unified look, significantly aiding employee retention.

10. Investing in Scrubs Is Investing in Your Team

By providing top-tier, comfortable, and functional scrubs, you show your team you value their well-being and hard work. This investment boosts morale, enhances professional appearance, and contributes to a positive workplace culture.

Ready to Streamline Your Healthcare Uniform Program?

A specialized uniform store simplifies the process of implementing these best practices for your large team. Consider our solutions (Essential or Enterprise) that offer:

• Wide Assortment: Access to 22+ leading scrub brands plus approved outerwear and accessories.

• Stipend Management: Easily issue automated, company-sponsored uniform stipends to cover employee purchases.

• Direct Delivery: Orders are automatically embroidered/personalized and shipped directly to employees' home or office, eliminating internal distribution headaches.

• Control: Employees only see the specific colors, styles, and logos they are authorized to purchase.

Let us manage the logistics so your team can focus on what matters most: patient care. Book a free demo of our platform today!