When you work in the medical field, cleaning your scrubs can be a difficult task.
Healthcare professionals know that clean scrubs aren’t just about appearance—they’re about safety, comfort, and professionalism. From blood and sweat to chemical and biological contaminants, scrubs face some of the toughest stains and residues out there. Learning how to clean scrubs properly ensures they remain sanitary, durable, and odor-free. Here’s how to handle even the most difficult cleaning challenges.
Pre-Treat Biological Stains Immediately
When working in healthcare, stains from blood, sweat, or other biological materials are common—and they should be addressed as soon as possible. The key is to pre-treat before washing.
- Rinse with cold water: Never use hot water first—it can set protein-based stains like blood. Instead, rinse the area in cold running water to remove as much as possible.
- Use an enzymatic cleaner: Apply an enzyme-based stain remover designed to break down proteins, such as those found in blood or other bodily fluids. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before laundering.
- For persistent stains: Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with one part water and dab it on the stain (test a hidden area first to avoid discoloration).
Wash Scrubs Separately from Regular Laundry
Scrubs should never be washed with regular clothing. They often carry pathogens and contaminants that need special treatment.
- Sort by color: To prevent fading or bleeding, wash light and dark scrubs separately.
- Use a disinfecting detergent: Choose a healthcare-grade or antimicrobial laundry detergent. Products containing hydrogen peroxide or sodium hypochlorite (color-safe bleach) are ideal.
- Temperature matters: Wash scrubs in hot water (at least 140°F) to kill bacteria and viruses, unless fabric care instructions say otherwise.
Add a Disinfecting Boost
Even with detergent, some pathogens can survive. Add one of the following to your wash cycle for extra sanitation:
- White vinegar (1 cup): Helps neutralize odors and kill bacteria naturally.
- Oxygen-based bleach: Safe for colored fabrics and effective against organic stains.
- Commercial laundry sanitizer: Ideal for healthcare workers dealing with infectious materials.
Dry on High Heat
Heat is a critical step in disinfection. After washing, dry your scrubs on the highest heat setting allowed for the fabric. The heat helps destroy remaining microbes and ensures complete sanitation.
If you hang dry, make sure they’re fully dry before folding or wearing to prevent bacterial growth from moisture.
Iron or Steam for Extra Sterilization
Many healthcare facilities require wrinkle-free scrubs, but ironing can also serve another purpose—extra heat sterilization. Ironing or steaming scrubs on high heat can help kill lingering microorganisms that may have survived washing and drying.
Handle Scrubs Safely at Home
If you bring work scrubs home:
- Designate a separate hamper or bag for scrubs only.
- Avoid shaking dirty scrubs to prevent airborne particles.
- Wash scrubs immediately after your shift to minimize contamination risks.
- Clean your washer with a cycle of hot water and bleach after washing contaminated scrubs.
When to Replace Your Scrubs
Even with the best care, scrubs wear out over time. Fading color, thinning fabric, or lingering odor are all signs that it’s time to replace them. Cleanliness is vital in healthcare settings—fresh scrubs reflect both hygiene and professionalism.
Clean Scrubs Keep You Safe & Healthy
Knowing how to clean scrubs correctly helps maintain both personal and patient safety. Regular washing, disinfection, and safe handling practices ensure your uniforms look sharp and remain sanitary—no matter how demanding your shift is.
Whether you’re a nurse, doctor, technician, or support staff, investing a few extra minutes in proper scrub care makes all the difference in maintaining a clean, professional image and a healthier work environment.
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