For anyone who works in the medical industry, wearing scrubs is part of the job description. Scrubs are designed to be comfortable, hygienic, and durable in response to the challenges that workers in the medical industry face every day. 

With that being said, medical scrubs won’t last forever – particularly as scrubs need to be washed with every wear to ensure hygiene standards. So, how often should medical scrubs be replaced? 

Let’s look at the lifespan of medical scrubs and when to officially replace your scrubs to ensure your scrubs are keeping you and your patients safe, present professionally, and are comfortable for those long shifts. 

• June 26, 2025
  
• 4 min read
  

How Often Should Medical Scrubs Be Replaced?

Generally, medical scrubs should be replaced every six months to two years. Ultimately, it can depend on the quality of the materials, frequency of use, job role, and how the scrubs are cared for. 

Scrubs are a barrier and protective measure against the spread of germs – medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, surgeons, caregivers, dentists, and medical assistants, require high-quality scrubs to protect both themselves and patients. 

High-quality scrubs, such as those at Designs To You, utilise a blend of materials to ensure that medical scrubs are breathable, protective, and comfortable throughout the day. At Designs To You, our scrubs are crafted from FlexStretch, a material that offers added attributes, including moisture-wicking and easy cleaning, to protect healthcare workers and patients from potentially hazardous substances. 

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Scrubs

Frequency of Use

The most crucial factor affecting the lifespan of scrubs is the frequency of use. Keeping a clean and sanitary uniform is essential, particularly in the medical and healthcare industries, for protection and to maintain a professional appearance. However, washing scrubs regularly can wear the materials down faster. For this reason, full-time employees may wear through scrubs faster than part-time or casual workers. 

Quality of Medical Scrubs

The quality of your scrubs is also a significant factor. High-quality medical scrubs should last between one and two years before experiencing any sign of wear and tear. Scrubs should be able to withstand chemical spills, frequent washes, and long shifts. 

While high-quality medical scrubs may cost more than lower-quality scrubs initially, the materials will perform better and will require fewer replacements (saving money in the long term). Unlike high-quality scrubs, low-quality scrubs cannot withstand as much wear and tear and typically need to be replaced every six months or less. 

Job Role

There is a range of different job roles within the medical and healthcare industry, including pharmacists, radiologists, medical assistants, surgeons, nurses, and doctors (to name a few). Each job role description has different requirements, duties, and demands, which impact how much scrubs are put through daily. 

Job roles that involve constant exposure to bodily fluids, chemicals, and infections will require frequent changes and washing of scrubs, more often than other job roles. Between exposure and consistent washing, the lifespan of the scrubs can be significantly reduced. 

Care and Maintenance

As mentioned, washing scrubs is crucial to prevent the risk of cross-contamination and infection; however, the way you wash your scrubs can either reduce or extend the lifespan of the uniforms. 

To care for your scrubs properly, wash your uniform in cold water and air dry, rather than using hot water and a dryer. Proper care and maintenance of your scrubs can ensure they last longer and serve you well into your medical profession. 

Signs Your Scrubs Should Be Replaced

Keeping a close eye on the condition of your scrubs is vital for maintaining a professional image and ensuring they are functioning correctly. Generally, signs that your scrubs should be replaced include visible wear and tear.
These signs can include: 

• Colour fade
• Material rips easily
• Loose seams and threads
• Rips
• Stretching 
• Pilling
• No longer fit well or comfortably 

As Australia’s leading uniform providers, Designs To You specialises in designing and manufacturing healthcare uniforms to the highest standards - including medical scrubs. Our range of medical and healthcare scrubs is made from state-of-the-art fabrics to last comfortably and stylishly, not only till the end of your shift, but for years to come. 

Explore our range of high-quality medical scrubs designed for comfort, durability, and all-day performance.