Buying scrubs for the first time? It sounds simple, but anyone who’s been there knows there’s more to it than just grabbing a pair in your size and hoping for the best.

Fit, fabric, function… if you get any of these wrong, you’ll feel it by the end of your shift. Whether you’re starting a new job in healthcare, beginning clinical placement, or just replacing an old uniform, your scrubs need to work just as hard as you do.

So, how do you choose the right ones?

What Scrubs Are Actually For

It might sound obvious, but let’s start here. Scrubs aren’t just a dress code. They serve a real purpose.

You’re moving constantly. You’re bending, lifting, and walking kilometres every day. Your scrubs need to move with you, not restrict you, not cling to the wrong places, and definitely not fall apart after two washes.

On top of that, they need to be:

  • Comfortable all day (and night)
  • Easy to clean (hello, stains)
  • Breathable and cool (especially in long shifts)
  • Professional looking
  • Functional – with enough pockets in the right spots

If your scrubs don’t tick all of those boxes, you’re going to notice. This is why you need to purchase your workwear from a reputable Australian scrub company, and you need to carefully consider the style, fit, and type of scrubs you’re going to purchase.

Choosing the Right Fabric

This is where most first-time buyers go wrong. Fabric matters. A lot. The wrong material can leave you sweating, itching, or freezing cold under the aircon. The right one feels like a second skin.

Here’s what to look out for:

Poly-cotton blends are common. They’re lightweight, breathable, and easy to care for. But if the polyester is too high, it can feel stiff or plasticky.

Spandex or elastane in the mix? That’s a good sign. It adds stretch, which means your scrubs will move better and be more forgiving in tighter areas like the shoulders and thighs.

Moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal if you run hot or work in busy, fast-paced environments. They help keep you dry even when the pressure’s on.

What you want is balance—something soft and breathable, with just enough stretch to make your shift easier.

Fit: Don’t Just Guess Your Size

A common mistake? Assuming scrubs are “one size fits all.” They’re not. Not even close.

Scrubs come in different fits—classic, tailored, slim, relaxed—and depending on the brand and cut, your usual size might not work.

Some tips:

  • Try before you buy, if possible. Sizes vary between brands.
  • Move around in them. Sit, bend, squat. If anything pulls, gaps, or digs in, it’s not the right fit.
  • Watch the waistband. Drawstring? Elastic? A combo? Choose what feels secure and stays put without cutting in.
  • Length matters. If your pants are too short, they’ll ride up. Too long? You’ll be stepping on the hem all day. Look for petite or tall options if you’re on either end of the height scale.

If you’re ordering online, check the sizing chart and reviews. And keep the tags on until you’ve tested the fit at home.

Pockets, Pockets, Pockets

You might think one or two pockets will do. They won’t. When you’re on the floor or doing rounds, you’ll quickly realise how much you rely on your pockets. Pen, scissors, phone, gloves, tape, alcohol swabs… it adds up fast.

Look for:

  • Chest pockets – Handy for pens and small notepads
  • Patch pockets – Deeper, perfect for gloves and wipes
  • Hidden pockets – Ideal for valuables or keys
  • Cargo pant pockets – If you’re someone who carries everything

Not everyone likes a bulky look, so try them on and see how they feel once filled. The goal is convenience, not turning your scrub top into a backpack.

Colour Codes and Dress Standards

Before you buy anything, check if your workplace has specific colour rules. Some hospitals and clinics assign colours to roles, for example, nurses in navy, physios in teal, admin in grey, and so on.

Even if there’s no rule, aim for professional tones. Bright patterns might look fun, but they won’t always be appropriate, especially in clinical settings where you want to look calm, clean, and competent.

Solid colours in navy, grey, black, or soft greens tend to be safe bets for most workplaces.

Easy to Wash, Hard to Wreck

You want scrubs that can handle a proper wash, often, and at high heat. Check the label before you commit. If they need delicate cycles or cold hand washing? Pass.

Your scrubs should be machine washable (ideally 60°C+), fade-resistant, wrinkle-resistant (so you don’t look rumpled by 10 am), and durable enough for multiple washes a week.

Avoid anything that needs special care. It won’t survive the reality of your work routine.

How Many Pairs Do You Actually Need?

This depends on your schedule, but here’s a good rule of thumb:

  • Working full-time? You’ll want at least 4 to 5 sets
  • Part-time or student? 2 to 3 sets should be enough

Try not to wear the same set two days in a row, even if it looks clean. Scrubs pick up bacteria, sweat, and odours quickly, especially in high-contact roles.

Rotate them, and always have a clean spare in your locker or car, just in case.

When They Feel Right, You’ll Know

Scrubs aren’t just workwear. When they fit right, breathe well, and actually make your day easier, you’ll notice the difference.

They’ll help you move better. Work better. Feel more confident on the job.

So don’t rush it. Take your time, try different fits, and focus on what actually matters to you on the floor, not what looks good on the rack.