12 Things Nurses Should Consider in Choosing Scrubs

Scrubs are the standard uniform for nurses across the US and much of the world. Some hospitals dictate color, cut, and fit; many let you choose your own. If the choice is yours, here's what to weigh before you buy.

1. Expensive vs. cheap

Buy quality, even if it costs more. You can't show up to a shift in linty scrubs, loose stitching, or washed-out color. One good pair beats three bad ones. Buying a known brand doesn't mean overspending either, since most run regular sales.

2. Basic vs. trendy

Some nurses are happiest in the same simple set every day. Others want to keep up with newer styles. Try different cuts on your day off and see what feels right. Finding your scrub takes some trial and error, and a look you feel good in is worth the effort.

3. Neckline

V-neck, mock wrap, round, square, scoop, split: there's no wrong answer as long as it fits comfortably and your employer allows it. Pick what you'll actually want to wear.

4. Chest pocket vs. none

Think about what you carry. If you use a chest pocket for a pen, penlight, or phone, keep it. If a loaded chest pocket strains your neck and shoulders, skip it. Men tend to rely on chest pockets more for pen and phone slots.

5. Patch pockets vs. none

You're carrying a stethoscope, alcohol pads, scissors, gloves, and more. Roomy patch pockets keep them handy. If you'd rather travel light and find pockets cluttered, go without. Some women's cuts drop pockets to keep a cleaner line.

6. White vs. colored

White looks clean but shows every stain, which comes with the job. If your employer lets you choose, learn their color scheme first. With no rule, strong dark shades like black, navy, brown, and maroon hide stains far better than light ones.

7. Dark vs. light colors

Green and blue are the colors you'll see most. Dark shades like black and navy tend to flatter plus-size frames; lighter colors draw the eye and can read larger. Shift the tone with the season or your mood if you like.

8. Long vs. short tops

Longer tops that skim the hips are forgiving if you're bottom heavy, but they suit taller nurses better and can make shorter people look shorter. Petite or plus-size nurses may need the length adjusted. A dress code may settle this for you.

9. Fit vs. loose

Scrubs run loose, but always try them on. What hangs well on the rack may not fit you. Buy your real size, not so baggy you can't move, not so tight they split. Well-fitting scrubs feel better and look more professional. If nothing fits right, a tailor can adjust them.

10. Side slits vs. none

Slits add airflow and range of motion, but they depend on top length. A short top with slits exposes your waist, so skip those. A longer top with slits makes back and front pockets easier to reach.

11. Drawstrings vs. buttons

Both adjust the fit to your body. The key point: pants shouldn't slide down when you bend and expose your underwear. A back tie or waistband helps hold everything in place.

12. Plain vs. embroidered vs. prints

Check your hospital's rules first. If allowed, embroider your name or initials on the top or sleeve for a personal touch, unless a nameplate pin is required. When mixing prints, anchor them with a solid: a printed bottom with a solid top that picks up one of its colors.