Best Fit for You: Different Types of Scrubs

In the medical world, scrubs have always been the point of focus due to being a sort of protective barrier against multiple pathogens and contaminants.

It also wouldn’t be wrong to think that different types of scrubs don’t matter, but the truth is a little bit complex. Have you ever seen your doctor or even nurses wearing scrubs with various colors and styles? If scrubs truly were just meant only for protection clauses, then how come those prestigious and well-read medical staffs are breaching this limited use case?

There are some scrubs that are meant to be worn by doctors and are highly sterilized for operation theater. However, nurses, too, have a wide variety ranging from ones used in hospice to even those used in general consultation wards. 

All scrubs are meant for a specific reason, and this blog aims to do just that: guide you through the vast world of medical apparel for nurses and help you make an informed choice for perfect comfort and confidence.

Historical Importance: Why Are There Different Kinds of Scrubs?

Historically, medical apparel such as scrubs were not a thing, but traditional white gowns were used. However, amidst World War I, people soon realized that gowns were quick to bloodstain and were a dreadful sight to patients. 

This, along with that comfortability factor, made them highly disliked. That’s when the idea of modern scrubs was introduced. These replacements to gowns would confer high sterility and can be disposed of when needed without worrying much about costs. 

After this, many textile designers, with the help of doctors, decided to change the traditional white color regime of medical apparel and introduced calming colors of greens and blues for better communication between patients and medical staff, along with lesser eye strain when working under white lights during surgeries.

Later, different layout styles, such as V-necks, Slim-fit tops, and many others. Depending on the situation on hand or, in better words, “Intensity of Job,” these scrubs were categorized into some types, which are specifically meant for doctors, and some types of scrubs, which are meant just for nurses and other healthcare staff.

Note: White color is still mostly preferred in diagnostic and research labs.

Must-Have Types of Scrubs for Nurses

As stated beforehand, Scrubs have been categorized on the basis of exposure to harmful agents. Some types are great for general hospice, while other scrubs are meant for highly specific purposes. 

Owing to the uniqueness of different kinds of scrubs, we have made a well-researched list of the most worn and popular scrubs:

• Classic Scrubs:

Most classic scrubs are unisex designs with a comfortable and looser fit, prioritizing ease of movement during long shifts. These have been an absolute staple in healthcare for decades now and are also made of high-quality poly-cotton, which can withstand regular washing and autoclaving (‘Strelization technique using high-pressure penetration’). 

However, when discussion shifts to those comfortable bottoms, they often come with a drawstring waistband for adjustability, depending upon the need.

Quick Info: Some kinds of scrubs for women are tapered and a little bit form-fitting.

• Modern Cut:

Compared to classic scrubs, the modern take is all about form-fitted short-sleeve designs that are made using advanced fabric blends for:

• Enhanced Stretch
• Moisture-Wicking
• Wrinkle-Free
• Stain-resistance

All of the above features make these scrubs highly practical for just about all medical hazards. Modern scrubs also come with strategic pockets and yoga-style waistbands for bottoms, in short. Modern scrubs are fashion-forwarding yet functional.

–> Which Scrubs Are Better, Classics or Modern?

Although both aim to serve similarly, modern scrubs are often coated with antimicrobial and odor finishes, which are always a plus in any nurse or doctor’s mind. However, the choice still depends on personal preference; consider classic for timeless practicality and modern scrubs for contemporary work fashion.

• Men’s Scrubs: 

Men’s scrubs are made specifically with wider tops for more space and breathability factor, and you might find it shocking, but some women nurses actually prefer to wear these scrubs over others due to their roomy straight fit and wider sleeves, which are especially usable when your routine is hectic as it gets in a pediatric clinic.

These types of scrubs mostly, if not all the time, come in neutral colors such as navy, gray, and black for that no-nonsense appearance.

• Mock-Wraps:

A popular scrub design that combines practicality with secure fitting and, when made with stretchy fabrics, offers excellent flexibility, allowing nurses to bend, reach, and stretch without any worry. 

Another likable thing about mock wraps is their crossover neckline, which gives the illusion of traditional wrap dresses. A mock wrap, like any other modern scrub, features two patch pockets at the bottom but sometimes includes a fabric loop for holding instruments.

• Sometimes, scrub manufacturers include rib-knitted panels either on the back or side for extra comfort, along with unique stitching details for further fashion enhancement.

Fun Fact: The faux crossover design is just a clever seaming technique. In no shape or form can you adjust the ties.

• V-Neck:

V-neck scrubs are perhaps the most iconic style in healthcare apparel. Just as its name suggests, these scrubs are characterized by their ‘V’ shaped neckline, which can vary from a shallower to a more modest cut. 

But you may question yourself: what is so vital about V-neck scrubs that almost every healthcare worker has at least worn them once? All of its popularity and serviceability is owed to its ease of putting on and off, which is crucial in hospitals generally treating trauma injuries. V-necks are also great for accommodating long and short-sleeves under scrubs for varying temperatures.

However, the interesting thing about these scrubs is they can be incorporated into different kinds of scrubs. So, really, that’s all to it: A scrub with a V-neck.

• Round Neck:

If you are tired of V-necks and want something a bit different, then maybe round neck scrubs are for you. These scrubs provide a minimal yet classic look and offer more modest coverage. Round neck scrubs, when worn,  are seen as highly professional and trustworthy because of a simple, no-frills neckline.

See this table for a quick comparison between Round-Neck vs. v-neck scrubs:

• Y-Neck Scrubs:

Y-neck scrubs are like V-necks but extend a little bit down either in the form of a vertical panel or a placket that comes with either a zipper or buttons. This type of modern scrubs is made chiefly using performance fabrics like polyester or Lycra for that 4-way stretch. Y-shaped neckline scrubs are worn mainly by people who want a styling statement of a V-neck but with a higher secure fitting.

Snap Vs Button Closure: 

Snap closure and buttoned scrubs are two different kinds of scrubs for men and women. Both types might seem similar, but their uniqueness totally separates them. 

On one side, snap closures are highly valued for their exceptional speed and ease of use along with built-to-last quality, but when compared to button closure scrubs, they mostly tend to win out because buttons, unlike snap-ons, are not fast and are prone to tear offs which is something not acceptable in professional medical settings. 

Yet still, many doctors and even nurses lean towards button-closure scrubs due to their traditional look and secure fitting. However, despite differences, both types are usually made with a 65:35 poly-cotton blend, which is responsible for the added comfort, breathability, and moisture-drying properties of these scrubs.

Quick Tip: Snap Closure Scrubs are best suited for situations where chances of contamination are high as they can be taken off quickly, and Button Closure Scrubs are for healthcare staff who are always in a hurry and need a promising unfastening solution.

Which Scrub is for you?

Selecting the right scrub type can be tricky because most scrubs are meant to serve a very similar purpose; however, given those niche disparities, one style can dominate other styles depending on the factors listed below!

• Fit & Style are crucial aspects before buying any set of scrubs. Think about what kind of protective solution you want. Classic scrubs are usually best for long shifts where comfort is a must-have, whereas modern cuts are the ones that offer a stylish look while maintaining the necessary serviceability of scrubs.
• Another very important thing is to consider specific types of scrubs for body types and intensity of movement. For ease, check out this table!
• Fabric is also an important factor. Go for Cotton-made scrubs if you are working in hotter climates, but opt for polyester-made scrubs for higher durability, as they can withstand regular washing routines. Spandex, a stretchy material, is helpful for services where flexible body movements are needed.

However, always opt for scrubs that are moisture-wicking and are antimicrobial coated.

• Make a list of your required functionality and features for a scrub. This list should include a number of pockets, closure styles, and even waistbands for different kinds of scrubs pants. Depending on the need, these intricacies can vary from simplicity to complexity.
• No matter the type, Scrubs are meant for extended duty hours. So always get yourself the one that feels most snug and comfy. 
• However, when durability is concerned, draw a quick analysis of your job and then buy scrubs accordingly as there are times when harmful toxin exposure is at an all-time high, and you need to dispose of your scrubs, but there are also jobs where hazard exposure is minimal, meaning you can get to wear your durable scrubs for a long time. It really is just a money-saving trick.
• However, all of these points are irrelevant if the place you work at has dress codes and professional requirements. In that case, you can request the management for scrubs that are best suited for you.

Final Verdict: Enhance Your Confidence With Scrubs

Although scrubs are utilitarian, they are one other thing before anything else: a type of garment, and all garments add up to our appeal and general outlook. Most hospitals and clinics have a standard of scrubs, but it’s also essential to understand how all scrubs are not meant for everyone. Think of it like this…

• Scrubs are part of SOPs in healthcare, and what exactly would happen if they are not right fitted or even comfortable? It will bring down the morale of nurses and even doctors. 
• Looking decent and well-put together is also crucial in public health sectors, and ever since the dawn of the textile industry, many custom clothing manufacturers have designed multiple types of medical garbs, each equipped with a distinct fashion statement without sacrificing their serviceability and usefulness. 
• If you are someone who works in a leisure environment, then without thinking about anything else, get yourself a new pair of scrubs, but if you are working in strict protocols, then encourage your management and even executives to read this blog for further awareness.

PLCM is a high-capacity manufacturer who is always ready to serve hospice and other medical fields with our finest scrub collection. For more information, you can click here. 

Common Questions About Types of Scrubs

Are men’s and women’s scrubs different?

Yes! Men’s and women’s scrubs differ in fit and style, but most common scrubs are often unisex, meaning they can be worn by just about anyone.

Do all scrubs come with antimicrobial properties?

No, only specific scrubs are coated with antimicrobial finishes, and these scrubs are often used in highly toxic fields such as Diagnostic Labs and Research Centers. Your typical day-to-day scrubs are just durable and stretchy fabric sewn together.

What’s the typical lifespan of a good-quality scrub?

If taken care of properly and worn as it should, a typical nursing scrub can last from 6 months to 2 years. However, depending on the work conditions and hazard exposure, the lifespan of different types of scrubs can vary dramatically.