Finding the best scrubs for men is the same as finding the perfect balance between utility, durability, and comfort. It should have the right fit and feel that it does not impede your work.
They should also look great and represent your own sense of style and personality.
Moreover, the best scrubs will be so well built, everyday washing and regular use are not an issue. It does not fray or tear, nor will the color fade over time.
Wearing High Quality Scrubs is Essential
Working in the healthcare industry requires highly technical skills and knowledge. It will do you well to be able to create opportunities to let your individuality shine through. Do it best with a great set of scrubs.
With the flourish of online stores, you now have more options to look for the best scrubs for male nurses. It may seem to be a tedious process of picking and choosing between available choices, but it's always essential to want to make sure you get the best out of everything.
In this guide, we will be going through all the key aspects to think about when it comes to purchasing the best scrubs for men.
Different Types of Scrubs
Before we go any further, let us first learn to differentiate the various types of men s scrubs.
Medical Scrubs
These are the typical scrubs you see when you pay a visit to any medical facility. They are worn by medical professionals and healthcare practitioners and somewhat serve as a uniform, though scrubs are not limited to this purpose.
In hospitals, scrubs are sometimes color-coded to identify departments and roles. In Pediatrics, scrubs come in colorful prints and patterns to help ease the young patients' minds, and of course, their parents.
Medical scrubs are made to be worn again and should therefore handle wash-and-wear.
Surgical Scrubs
These are the type of scrubs worn by surgeons and other healthcare professionals alongside them. The operating room is a sterile environment; this is why surgical scrubs are mostly disposable to avoid the spread of microorganisms that lead to complications during the operation.
Surgical scrubs are usually green or blue. These colors are the opposites of red on the color wheel, giving the color red a better pop during operation. It also quickly hides bloodstains.
Lab Coats
Still considered scrubs, lab coats are usually worn by doctors running tests or conducting consultations in clinics. Lab coats are white, long-sleeved affairs and require much more aftercare compared to the other two.
Aside from looking respectable and professional, the lab coat also serves as an extra layer of protection to your scrubs. They are made from the same material and have pockets to boot. Lab coats should still be comfortable for you to wear.
Scrub Pants
Jogger Pants
Jogger pants were initially made for exercise. But as the fashion trend grew more mainstream, it has become a piece that has integrated into everyday wear, including uniforms and scrubs. Jogger pants are widest at the hip and taper down to a close fit on the ankle.
They are designed with elastic bands around the hip, and on the ankles and are form fitting. Joggers are for a more modern and casual approach when it comes to wearing scrub pants.
Cargo Pants
As the name suggests, these types of pants come in ready to carry some cargo. It is designed with many pockets in mind: side pockets, back pockets, and patch pockets. The cargo scrubs are the very definition of functionality at the workplace, carrying several necessary materials such as trauma shears or clipboards without making trips back and forth from the nurse's station or office.
Standard Pants
These are the typical, no-frills, no non-sense run-of-the-mill scrub pants. Of course, they have been redesigned to accommodate modern fit and style, but that's it. It's a trusty pair of scrub pants that gets the job done.
These kinds of pants are commonly found with button-up closures and functional fly zips. Straight cut and nothing fancy, they are a staple to everyday wear, even in the medical field.
What to Look for in Men's Scrubs
Fabric
First, there are several fabrics manufacturers use to make scrubs for men. Some of these materials shrink after putting them in the washer.
Look into fabrics like pre-shrunk cotton and polyester to avoid shrinkage. There are also acrylic, rayon, and nylon, to name a few more.
Other fabrics are made of thin material. People who often get hot at work think it is better to purchase scrubs made with this kind of fabric. But light materials are quick to fray and tear with regular use.
If you intend to buy one, look for those reinforced with double-needle stitching to ensure durability.
The best scrubs for men come applied with antimicrobial properties. There are also scrub tops with anti-wrinkle features.
Neckline in Scrub Top
Similar to wearing a t-shirt, a scrub top is comfortable with the right neckline. Feel the difference between wearing a V-neck from a crew neck. It matters because how you feel wearing one while moving about helps you remain comfortable at work.
Do note that sometimes a v-neck may be too low or too wide and may come off as being too loose or casual for work. On the other hand, a crew neck may hug too tight around the neck for comfort and irritate the skin.
Nonetheless, choosing the right neckline for men s scrubs should leave you feeling great.
Waistband Closure
A drawstring waistband is an ideal waistband closure for men s body types.
You will be able to adjust and secure the fit of your scrubs with a drawstring waistband. It is pretty necessary to have a fixed pair of pants to stay on your waist.
Some scrub pants also have an elastic waistband. This is synonymous to comfort as it is easy to pull up and remain in place. It is typical for the elastic waistband to be partnered with a drawstring waistband for double the support and comfort.
A button-up closure is also another option in picking scrub pants. It is a classic model that seems a little rigid for work. Button-up closure doesn't stretch the same way elastic waistbands do. the buttons also tend to pop after a while, needing attention and repair.
It would be wise to pick a pair of pants that have a combination of waistband closures. It helps keep your pants securely hugging your waist, no matter how much you pull them; or how many carried items weigh on them.
Moisture-Wicking Technology
Running hot and sweaty at work is a regular occurrence. The best men know to look for scrubs that help keep the body cool and comfortable at all times.
A set of scrubs with moisture-wicking technology is one that is designed to remove moisture from the skin, distribute it throughout the surface of the fabric, and let it evaporate into the air.
Wearing a material that wicks away moisture makes physical activity comfortable as it allows your body to regulate temperature. It also prevents your clothes from being damp and sticky afterward.
Moisture-wicking technologies go hand in hand with breathable fabrics.
Under Scrubs
Under scrubs provide additional coverage and protection. They are made from the same material as scrubs and provide the functionality men need in high-performance environments like the medical field.
These fit close to the body and work well to regulate temperature wherever you are.
A regular undershirt will absorb sweat and remain damp underneath your scrub top. While under scrubs will wick away moisture to keep you dry at all times.
Furthermore, putting on an under scrub also extends the life of your scrub tops as they no longer have to carry a load of its features and functions solely.
Pockets
Pockets are vital. They are number one.
Nurses and other medical professionals know how innately important it is to have a pocket available at all times. Being busy at work means being also away from desks and stations. That is why having a pocket to put in essential items is such a blessing.
Bring along little treats for kids, carry tapes and bandages for quick work, hang pens and identification on loops, and so on. Pockets are important lifesavers to a nurse and a top feature to have in mind.
Look for scrub tops and pants that at least have one pocket. Cargo pants are even better choices because they have more storage space.
Style
To consider style in men s scrubs is to look into how meticulously designed for comfort and function a set of scrubs is made.
A scrub top features side vents for breathability, a back yoke that drapes the rest of the fabric comfortably without being too tight and wrinkled. It should have a wide shoulder, smaller hips, and looser sleeves for a wide range of motion.
You can also check if the fabric has stretch to give room to grow.
Meanwhile, a pair of scrub pants should be form-fitting without being too tight. It should have the correct length and keep itself from falling. It is great to be comfortable when wearing them and still look professional at work.
Color
Next to design, color plays several roles in scrubs for men.
Colors help with the mood of the patients. Seeing neutral colors calm down a person; they begin to relax and are more amenable to the conversation. Children also respond positively to printed and colorful scrubs.
Another purpose for color is the ease of identifying each other in a large crowd. Color is also part of the uniform and can vary from one facility to another.
It also hides away unsightly stains that cause discomfort and unease to others.
Fit
Most importantly, the fit of men s scrubs projects how you look to the rest of the people.
Not only that, having baggy scrubs impede motion. Having scrubs for men that are too tight only brings discomfort.
Unisex scrubs are usually raised concerning fit. There are various unisex options available in the market today. They are best for hospitals to keep in stock and distribute to everyone regardless of gender, but for personal use, always choose scrubs made for men.
A modern form-fitting affair will go a long way with how you project yourself to others and how well the suit works for you at work.
The 10 Best Scrubs for Men
1. Grey's Anatomy by Barco
Yes, Grey's Anatomy is indeed related to the show. This brand offers modern and innovative designs that always come out looking and feeling premium.
This V-neck scrub top features moisture-wicking capabilities through its arcdry technology that will leave you fresh and comfortable throughout the day.
This scrub top is made with a sturdy mix of polyester and rayon. The polyester helps keep the material significantly sturdier, so you can continue to wear the scrub top without worrying about it fraying and tearing any time soon. The rayon helps with improving breathability and makes your shirt feel more comfortable against your skin.
For function, it comes with a three-pocket design, with the addition of a pen slot and a bungee loop to hang ID cards and the like. The Grey's Anatomy logo is also patched along the sleeve pocket for emphasis.
True to size, the scrubs range from x-small to 5x-large and will fit you perfectly.
Lastly, this scrub top comes in eleven muted colors to choose from.
2. Carhartt Men's Ripstop Utility Scrub Top
The Carhartt Men s Ripstop Utility line is sturdy thanks to its reinforced threads woven into a blend of cotton and polyester. And while this innovation makes the fabric strong, the scrub top manages to remain soft and breathable.
On the other hand, this scrub top needs a little more attention than usual, being made mostly of cotton. The fabric blend needs the occasional ironing. Nonetheless, this men s scrub is excellent for those with sensitive skin with its reduced polyester ratio.
It also features a tag less label to prevent irritants.
The Carhartt Men s Ripstop Utility scrub has a v-neck design, with a bi-swing at the back yoke for a better range of motion and side vents for further breathability. It also comes with a chest pocket and a pen slot, with the logo attached to it.
This scrub design also gives you an extra inch and a half of material at the back of the top for added coverage.
This line of scrub tops offers a dozen different colors for you to choose from and fit sizes from x-small to 3x-large.
3. Cherokee Workwear Professionals Scrub for Men
The Cherokee Workwear line of medical scrubs' main selling point is the unique combination of cotton, polyester, and spandex. This polyester blend equates to high durability, good breathability, and some stretch without restricting movement.
This v-neck scrub top also comes with a roomy chest pocket and an instrument loop to hang items necessary in the medical field.
It has a modern fit appropriate for men of varying heights and sizes and comes in various colors that range from Caribbean blue, Espresso, and Hunter to Olive, Pewter, and Black.
The scrub top is made to take into account enough ventilation even during a warm climate. Meanwhile, the texture is delicate and smooth yet thick enough to withstand everyday use.
Scrub pants from the Cherokee Workwear line are also available and are sold separately. With this, you can choose matching pairs without any difficulties.
Fit sizes range from x-small to 2x-large.
4. Dickies Dynamix Men's V-Neck Scrub Top
The Dickies Dynamix scrub for men has one of the unique designs on this list. First, it's got a reinforced rib knit V-neck design with a bungee loop attached to it for essentials. Other than a chest pocket, the top features a side pocket with a zipper closure for a more secure, easy to access storage.
Inspired by workout apparel, the scrub top is made from a fabric blend of polyester and spandex, with a four-way stretch that is soft, stretchable, and breathable with moisture-wicking capabilities and allows a wide range of movement.
Made mostly with polyester, the fabric does not wrinkle nor shrink easily, and the color stays vibrant for a long time compared to mostly cotton-based fabric. Mixed with spandex, its got enough stretch to move and grow with you and still feel comfortable to wear.
There are thirteen color palettes to choose from in the Dickies collection.
Men will appreciate the ode to athleisure with this scrub top from Dickies. Partner it with a great pair of jogger pants to complete the look.
Men s fit sizes x-small up to 5x-large.
5. BARCO ONE 5-Pocket Reinforced V-Neck Top
If we want to talk about pockets, the Barco One has five.
There are indeed five pockets in this scrub top. It has so much functionality in the form of storage; it is a standout. The scrub top features pockets designed and secured in the chest. It comes with a zipper enclosure, media storage with a cord keyhole, a bungee loop, and a secret pocket inside to keep in more important things.
Aside from the pockets, the scrub top is produced from a combination of polyester and spandex. It also has anti-static properties and soil-resistant technology. The back yoke is also perforated for proper ventilation.
It has several classic colors to offer and has several fit sizes available. This scrub top is one part of a set of three. You can purchase matching scrub pants and a lab coat, each sold separately.
6. M&M SCRUBS Men Scrub Set
We have the M&M men s scrub set as our first pair of v-neck top and cargo pants on the list.
The pair of scrubs is a combination of polyester and cotton, with a 65:35 ratio. This set gives more premium to its durability and can stand regular use, while it also features some breathability to still keep you comfortable throughout your day.
This men s scrubs take pride in its double-needle reinforced stitching that keeps the material from easily tearing and fraying, giving you a lasting, sturdy pair you can wear for a long, long time.
There are a total of seven pockets shared between the top and the pants and a variety of colors you can pick from. The top has one chest pocket and a pair of patch pockets. The pants have two cargo pockets, a scissor pocket on the right leg, a cellphone pocket.
The pants are held up by an elastic drawstring closure, with a tapered cut for a more contemporary fit and feel. Moreover, the M&M men s scrubs have fit sizes that start at 2x-small to 5x-large that tend to run large. It is suggested to order a size smaller than yours.
7. Unisex Dagacci Scrubs
This is a unisex pair of scrub top and pants made of cotton and polyester.
Daggaci Unisex Scrubs are designed with a natural stretch technology that allows for a full range of motion without giving up stretch and comfort. It has a boxier, roomier fit top and a simple straight cut pant to accommodate all shapes and sizes as a unisex scrub set.
This scrub set has a total of five pockets shared between the top and pants. Aside from the chest pocket, the scrub top also has two patch pockets.
Meanwhile, the cargo pants have three pockets supported by an elastic waistband, with an additional drawstring closure to keep your pants hanging and secured while still carrying your paraphernalia.
This pair of scrubs come in a wide range of colors, twenty-two in fact, that there's bound to be a set for you. The Dagacci Unisex scrubs for men and women take pride in being a brand that produces high-quality comfortable pieces at a fraction of the cost.
Fit sizes start from small to 2x-large.
8. Landau Unisex V-Neck Scrub Set
It is great to stock up on unisex scrubs whenever possible, especially the more prominent the practice.
The Landau Unisex V-neck has a unique and reversible top. It has one chest pocket and dolman sleeves to give room for movement.
The pull-up pants are secured by a drawstring waistband, with a classic rise and a straight leg cut. It also features two more pockets at the back.
Landau's Unisex scrub set is made with a blend of combed cotton and polyester, with reinforced stitching to give you that solid yet comfortable fit.
Combed cotton is a softer version of cotton that is further treated after it is spun and picked. The outcome is a cotton that is of higher quality, giving more comfort and durability.
With nineteen available colors to choose from, the Landau Unisex Scrub Set is great to have at the workplace. Landau also boasts size options for petite and tall, aside from its x-small to 5x-large pieces.
9. Figs Tansen 2.0 Jogger Style Athletic Scrub
For scrub pants, we have the Figs Tansen 2.0 Jogger Scrubs. Its got durability, comfort, and stretch in a tailored slim fit pair that still keeps a professional look.
The knit yoga waistband is supported by a drawcord closure that helps you keep your pants up at all times. It also offers smart storage with its five pockets. You can easily bring everything you need with you, from surgical scissors to blood pressure apparatuses.
Figs provide their signature FIONtechnology in their fabrics that applies a four-way stretch and moisture-wicking combination to the scrubs.
The fabric is a combination of polyester, rayon, and spandex; these are usually found in sportswear.
The Figs Tansen Jogger Scrub is a refreshing and comfortable way to bring a modern fit and style into the workplace.
10. Cherokee Men's Original Cargo Scrubs Pants
A perfect partner to the Cherokee Workwear scrub top listed earlier, this pair of medical scrub pants are made with the same material and come in the same colors as its top.
Its got a cargo pocket, a back pocket, and slash pockets on the sides. The pants are midrise and supported by an elastic waistband with a drawstring closure for added security.
The cotton-polyester blend gives the same durable and comfortable feeling as its partnered top. The cotton makes the fabric soft and breathable while the polyester gives it the durability it needs for every day use.
The men s pull-up pants have an elastic waistband and a functional zip fly. It has twenty color schemes to match with any top you want to purchase.
What You Need to Know
We may have helped you narrow down your choices for male scrubs to a select few, but it doesn't stop there.
Take the time to learn a few more things and be a little more particular about your purchases.
The Benefits of Wearing Scrubs
Being part of the medical or healthcare industry, wearing scrubs is a regular and vital part of your everyday ensemble.
It is a functional uniform and a sign of your profession.
Aside from being identified as medical professionals, there are other benefits for men to wear a medical scrub.
Cut Cross-Contamination
A sterile environment requires sterile medical equipment and people, medical textile included. Wearing a pair of scrubs helps decrease cross-contamination among people and objects. It helps keep any bacteria at bay and isolated into a bubble.
Body fluids like sweat, saliva, blood, urine, and even stool carry bacteria that may cause further infections and complications.
By wearing scrubs before entering a sterile environment, you ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
A Practice of Cleanliness
Medical facilities that provide you with a set of scrubs take the time to sanitize and disinfect your uniforms. Donning the scrubs is vastly safer and cleaner than coming into work with your day clothes.
Facilities like hospitals definitely apply antimicrobial agents to your scrubs to make sure no harmful outside elements are brought inside.
As already emphasized above, a sterile environment is paramount.
Purposefully Functional
Like how essential a mobile phone is to everyday life, the best scrubs should carry many functions to aid you throughout the day.
Typically, a scrub top features breathable options, stretch materials, pockets for storage, and space to allow a range of motion. Some have antimicrobial properties, while others have anti-wrinkle.
Pants carry the same purpose and should remain in place; it does not hike up or fall under any circumstance. It should also refrain from restricting your movement.
Others are marketed with anti-soil, or anti-static. Some may have more pockets and have roomier sleeves and perforated back yokes.
Do not settle for regular pieces when several others offer unique features at the same price.
Pocket-Friendly Price
Purchasing a scrub set should not burn a hole in your pocket. Quality should also not be equal to its price.
It does not mean that if the set is inexpensive, it's bound to crumble and break after a couple of uses.
Luckily, this mindset is far from the reality where medical scrubs are concerned. For a fraction of a cost, you can purchase at least one set for you to use.
But of course, if you can properly assess that the item is worth the price it offers, go for it. At the end of the day, your pair of scrubs are an investment you should spend on.
Easy Access
This is where one pocket or more should come in handy.
Pockets promote convenience to carry all the necessary items you need to bring with you going from one patient to the next. It saves you trips to the office and gives you the time to attend to more important matters.
Usually, a scrub top will have a chest pocket that can accommodate a pager, a pen, identification, and other small things. This easy access gives you the ease of mind as well.
Feel like a Prince
A fabric of quality is made to make you feel comfortable no matter the situation.
Regardless of shape and size, the best scrubs for men will be able to give you the right fit and feel.
The best scrubs are tailored to give you the most comfort while at work. It comes from the combination of fabrics used and stitched together that grants the wearer a wonderful time while still looking professional at all times.
Fabrics like cotton, polyester, rayon, and spandex are pre-dominant in the market, and with good reason. Any fabric blend made with these offers a great balance between comfort and function without compromising quality and style.
A Clear Standout
With a scrub set, people outside your profession can easily pick you out from the crowd. They'll know who to approach and ask for help with their concerns.
There is a wide range of available colors when it comes to scrubs. Coordinating color and function is also easy to do for larger facilities like major hospitals. Typically, in the medical field, each department and role is assigned a color. This is an easy telltale to avoid confusion when looking for the appropriate medical professionals to address your specific need.
The best men know how to capitalize on merging the importance of looking great and enjoying a functional uniform.
Caring for Your Scrubs
After much talk about looking for durable and lasting scrubs, caring for your scrubs will still go a long way. Caring and cleaning your scrubs is not only essential to keep appearances, but it is also vital to stay sterile.
Here is a couple of simple steps to follow in giving your scrubs an extended life:
Check the Label
First, check to see if there are specific items you need to factor in when caring for your scrubs. Some fabrics entail special care and attention.
For example, cotton tends to shrink, turn polyester inside out to prevent snagging, hang spandex to dry, and rayon is usually best to hand wash.
Nonetheless, the best scrubs usually blend these fabrics and come out more durable than just one fabric. They are bound to be safe with machine washing.
Pre-Treat Your Scrubs
It is best to pre-treat newly purchased scrub sets. This helps in setting the color and preventing them from fading fast. To pre-treat them, soak your new scrubs in cold water mixed with half a cup of vinegar. Leave them for a while before throwing them in the machine washer.
Wash Separately
Avoid mixing your scrubs with your regular clothes. This stops cross-contamination from spreading into your other laundries. Washing your medical uniforms also involves more stringent disinfection than average.
Color-safe Stain Removers
Acquiring stains is a regular occurrence at work. Getting soiled with bodily fluids like blood, sweat, spit, and more are all in day's job. It is practical to address the stain first before washing. Apply color-safe bleach and other stain removers to maintain the vibrancy of your scrub's colors while still removing the stains.
Wash for a Large Load
Ensure to set the wash load to large when washing scrubs. Even if you are washing only a few pieces, scrubs need enough room to move around. It would be advisable to have more than one set of scrubs so you can wash them together instead.
Wash First in Cold Water
Prepare your first wash with cold water and regular detergent. Remember to turn your clothes inside out to prevent them from getting caught in the washer.
Usually, one wash is enough to clean your scrubs. Check if any stains remain before moving on to the next step. You may repeat this step if there are still stains present.
Wash Next in Hot Water
Again, make sure that there are no more stains on your scrubs before moving to this step. The hot water will set in any stains and will be much more difficult to remove.
Prepare hot water and mix in color-safe bleach next. Bleaching with hot water disinfects your scrubs.
Ironing is Best
Though scrubs now have anti-wrinkle properties, it is still advisable to iron out your uniforms to thoroughly kill bacteria. Give your clothes a quick run-through under the heat of iron for rapid disinfection.
Store Separately
Prepare a separate storage for your scrubs to keep them fresh and away from contamination. It does not necessarily mean getting a whole new dresser. Rather, have clean, dry clothes bags for them.
Wear Scrubs Only at Work
It bears repeating, avoid infecting others with microorganisms from work. Similarly, don't bring in bacteria from the outside. Working in healthcare means being in a sterile environment. Bacteria will cling to fabric. It needs to be kept clean and free from anything that might affect people's health and well-being. Wear only your work clothes while at work. And change into regular clothes afterward.
Perfumes, Lotions, and Creams
Unless necessary, don't use perfumes, lotions, and similar items while at work. It may cause an adverse reaction to the people you interact with. Likewise, the fabric on your scrub may stain with the chemicals in your perfume and lotion.
Apply them instead after work and on regular clothes.
One Last Push
We intend that you find the best scrubs for men. But if you are still mulling over a few things, here are our best picks from among the ten we listed above:
Pick the Dickies Dynamix Men's V-Neck Scrub Top. Its got such unique design men will surely appreciate.
The appeal is in the modern cut and fit, which brings it to today's style of celebrating athleisure. It addresses the needs for function, comfort, and durability. It also has excellent color schemes to go with what you need for yourself and work.
Pair the scrub top with Figs Tansen Jogger Pants to complete the look.
With stretchable and breathable fabric, the jogger pants bring out an easy, comfortable look without trying.
Its knit yoga waistband, supported by a drawstring, features pockets that you need.
All in all, both pieces mesh well together and look best in being modern and up to date. It exudes confidence and comfort in the workplace.
Final Thoughts
The task was long and arduous. There were a lot of things to learn in the journey to find the best scrubs for men.
From finding the correct elements and function to picking from narrowed down choices to even learning how to care for your scrubs properly, this has been loaded with insight all because we want to make sure that you find the perfect pair for you.
Scrubs are vital to your work. Having the best set, with the best fit for comfort and function, and come in material and color that best matches you and your workplace is priority number one.
Being able to differentiate various elements that go with your scrub is rewarding. Because knowing full well how a piece benefits you with regard to its feel and purpose, gives you an early advantage that lasts all day.
As men, looking and feeling great will show in the work you do. You feel comfortable, and it shows. People react positively toward you, and your workmates will want to emulate you. Be the role model that you are and lead the way to looking and feeling amazing at work.
So, take your time and soak in all the information. Try out each and every pair that passes your standards. When you're ready, you will surely know which one in the market is the best scrubs for men.