How to Wash Scrubs: A Guide For Machine and Hand Washing

Every shift scrubs are subjected to bacteria, germs and bodily fluids - washing them correctly is imperative for hygiene and safety, and also to extend the life of them too. 

Whether you’re new to the healthcare field or looking to improve your scrubs care routine, understanding the best practices for washing scrubs can make a significant difference. 

Properly washing your scrubs involves pre-treating stains, choosing the right detergent, and using appropriate washing and drying methods. This ensures that your scrubs remain clean, comfortable, and professional-looking, helping you to maintain the highest standards of healthcare.

Understanding how to wash scrubs correctly can help prevent the spread of infections and maintain the integrity of your workwear. Whether you’re laundering them at home or taking advantage of workplace facilities, this guide will provide you with the essential steps to keep your scrubs in top condition. 

How often to wash scrubs?

Washing your scrubs frequently is crucial for maintaining hygiene and ensuring a professional appearance. 

Wash scrubs after every shift: The consensus among healthcare professionals is that scrubs should be washed after each shift. This practice helps eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants that you may have been exposed to during your workday?.

Additional Considerations

  1. Exposure to Contaminants: If your scrubs are heavily soiled or have been exposed to bodily fluids, infectious materials, or other hazardous substances, it’s imperative to wash them immediately after use to prevent the spread of infection and maintain safety standards?.

  2. Odours and Stains: Regular washing also helps manage odours and stains, which can affect the fabric’s integrity and your professional appearance. 

  3. Backup Scrubs: Having multiple sets of scrubs allows you to always have a clean pair ready while others are being washed. This rotation is especially useful in busy healthcare environments??.

On-Call or Emergency Shifts

For healthcare workers who are on call or work in emergency settings, it may be practical to wash scrubs even more frequently, especially if you’re moving between different clinical environments or coming into contact with highly contagious patients??.

Guidelines for Home and Workplace Laundering

  1. At Work: If your workplace provides laundering services, it’s often recommended to use these services as they use hospital-grade cleaners that are more effective at disinfecting scrubs.

  2. At Home: When washing scrubs at home, follow proper guidelines to ensure they are thoroughly disinfected, using the appropriate water temperature, detergent, and drying methods?.

How to wash scrubs in the washing machine

Washing your scrubs in the washing machine is a convenient and effective way to clean them when done correctly. Here are our tips to ensure they’re like new every time you clean them. 

Check care labels 

Always start by checking the care labels on your scrubs. These labels provide specific washing instructions, such as recommended water temperatures and any special care considerations. 

Separate your scrubs 

To avoid cross-contamination and protect the fabric, wash your scrubs separately from your regular laundry. It’s best to have a separate load just for your scrubs??.

Pre-Treat Stains

Inspect your scrubs for any stains before washing them. Pre-treat them using a suitable stain remover. For blood stains, use cold water and soap or hydrogen peroxide. Avoid using bleach on coloured scrubs; instead, use colour-safe bleach or white vinegar. 

Select the Right Detergent

Choose a mild detergent that is effective against contaminants but gentle on fabric. Antimicrobial detergents are ideal for scrubs. Avoid heavy fabric softeners as they can reduce the fabric’s performance, especially if it's antimicrobial or liquid-repellent??.

Set the Correct Water Temperature

  • Hot Water: Use hot water for heavily soiled scrubs to kill bacteria, but be cautious as it can cause colours to fade and fabrics to shrink.

  • Warm Water: A good middle ground for effectively removing dirt and bodily fluids without being too harsh on the fabric.

  • Cold Water: Ideal for brightly coloured or delicate fabrics, although it might not kill all bacteria without pre-treating stains?.

Load the Washing Machine

Turn your scrubs inside out to prevent pilling. Place the scrubs in the washing machine, ensuring not to overload it. This allows the detergent to work effectively and prevents wear and tear?.

Add Detergent and Optional Vinegar

Measure your detergent according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For disinfection and to help set colours, add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle.

Choose the Appropriate Wash Cycle

Select a gentle cycle to protect the fabric. If your scrubs are heavily soiled, a more robust cycle may be necessary, but always follow the care label instructions?.

Drying Your Scrubs

  • Air Dry: Air drying is the gentlest method, helping to preserve the fabric’s integrity. Hang the scrubs in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, to prevent fading.

  • Tumble Dry: If using a dryer, opt for a low heat setting to avoid shrinkage and fibre damage. Remove the scrubs promptly to prevent wrinkles??.

Additional Tips

  • Inspect After Washing: Check for any remaining stains or odours before storing the scrubs. If they are wrinkled, follow the care label’s instructions for ironing.

  • Storage: Store clean scrubs in a dry, clean place to keep them ready for your next shift.

How to wash scrubs by hand

Washing scrubs by hand is an effective way to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and well-maintained, especially if you need to take extra care with delicate fabrics or specific stains. Here’s a detailed guide on how to wash scrubs by hand:

1. Prepare Your Scrubs

Check care labels to follow the instructions given here and separate your scrubs from your other laundry. Pre-treat any stains using a stain remover. 

2. Fill the sink

  • Fill the sink with water; the temperature of the water should match the level of cleanliness needed. Hotter water is going to be better to kill any bacteria, however, this can sometimes cause wear and colour-running of the scrubs. 

3. Add Detergent

  • Add a mild detergent to the water. For an extra boost, especially if dealing with strong odours, you can add a small amount of white vinegar.

4. Soak the Scrubs

  • Submerge the scrubs in the soapy water. Let them soak for about 15-30 minutes. This helps loosen any dirt and contaminants.

5. Wash by Hand

  • After soaking, gently agitate the scrubs in the water. Rub the fabric against itself, focusing on areas with stains or heavy soiling. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric.

6. Rinse Thoroughly

  • Get rid of the soapy water and use fresh, lukewarm water to refill the basin. Use this water to rinse the scrubs, it might be best to leave the tap running to ensure that all the soap is removed.

7. Dry the Scrubs

  • Press Out Water: Gently press out excess water from the scrubs. Avoid wringing them out, as this can damage the fabric.

  • Lay Flat to Dry: Lay the scrubs flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel up with the scrubs inside to absorb excess water.

  • Air Dry: Hang the scrubs to air dry, preferably in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Additional Tips

  • Use Gloves: If you have sensitive skin or if the scrubs are heavily soiled, wear gloves to protect your hands.

  • Avoid Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can reduce the effectiveness of antimicrobial properties in some scrubs.

  • Check for Stains Before Drying: Ensure all stains are removed before drying. Stains can set in once dried, making them harder to remove later.

Properly washing your scrubs is essential to maintaining hygiene, ensuring longevity, and preserving their professional appearance. 

By using our guidelines, you can maintain the quality and cleanliness of your scrubs, ensuring they are ready for the demanding environments you face in the healthcare industry.