How to Wash Scrubs Properly: Prevent Fading, Pilling & Early Wear (Healthcare Uniform Care Guide)

Healthcare uniforms are washed far more often than normal clothing — and small changes in wash routine can make a big difference in how long your scrubs stay looking new. If your scrubs fade faster than expected, feel rough, or develop pilling (small fabric balls), it’s usually caused by washing conditions and friction — not just the fabric itself.

Here’s a practical guide your team can follow to protect colour, texture, and shape.

1) Why scrubs fade or look “worn out”

The most common causes are:

  • Hot water and harsh wash cycles

  • Strong detergents (especially those with whitening/bleaching agents)

  • Direct hot sun drying for long periods

  • High spin and tumble drying heat

  • Friction during wash (washing with towels, denim, Velcro, or items with zippers)

Even when fabric quality is consistent, repeated friction on the same areas (waistband, hips, underarms) can lead to early wear over time.

2) The best way to wash scrubs (step-by-step)

Use this as your “standard scrub wash routine”:

Before washing

  • Turn scrubs inside out (reduces surface abrasion and protects colour)

  • Close zippers/buttons on other items to avoid snagging

  • If possible, separate scrubs from towels/jeans (high friction items)

Wash settings (recommended)

  • Gentle cycle

  • Cold or low-temperature water

  • Mild detergent (avoid strong/whitening/bleach detergents)

  • Avoid long soaking, especially for coloured scrubs

✅ If you must wash mixed loads, use a laundry bag to reduce friction damage.

3) Drying tips (this is where most fading happens)

  • Air-dry in shade whenever possible

  • Avoid drying under direct hot sun for long periods (sunlight accelerates colour fading)

  • If using a dryer, choose low heat and avoid over-drying

4) How to reduce pilling (fabric balls) and friction wear

Pilling is usually caused by friction — especially during machine washing.

To reduce it:

  • Wash scrubs separately or with similar smooth fabrics

  • Avoid washing together with:

    • towels

    • denim

    • Velcro items

    • rough knitwear

  • Use gentle cycle + low spin

  • Consider a laundry bag for frequent machine washes

5) Stain removal (without damaging colour)

For stains, avoid aggressive scrubbing that roughens fibres.

  • Rinse stain ASAP with cold water

  • Use a mild stain remover or gentle soap

  • Dab/press rather than hard scrubbing

  • Wash normally after pre-treating

⚠️ Avoid bleach unless the fabric/care label explicitly allows it.

6) Quick scrub care checklist for teams (easy to share)

  • ✅ Wash inside out

  • ✅ Gentle cycle, cold/low temp

  • ✅ Mild detergent

  • ✅ Avoid towels/jeans/Velcro/zip items

  • ✅ Laundry bag if needed

  • ✅ Dry in shade, avoid hot sun

  • ✅ Avoid high heat tumble drying

Recommended Healthcare Uniforms (JonJes)

Explore our Healthcare & Medical collection:

FAQ

1) Can I machine wash scrubs every week?
Yes — but use gentle cycle, mild detergent, and avoid high heat/drying under hot sun to reduce fading and wear.

2) Why does the waistband area wear out faster?
That area experiences more friction from movement and washing. Washing inside out, using a laundry bag, and avoiding rough mixed loads helps.

3) Should I use fabric softener?
A small amount may help softness for some fabrics, but avoid heavy use if your workplace requires strict hygiene practices. Always follow care label guidance.

Need help choosing scrubs for your team?

If you’re ordering uniforms for a clinic, lab, or healthcare team, contact JonJes for sizing advice, team quantities, and lead time.