How to Wash Medical Scrubs: Removing Stains & Protecting Antimicrobial Fabric

A healthcare professional neatly folding freshly washed, crisp MedArmour medical scrubs in a modern laundry room.

Quick Answer: 5 Steps to Wash Medical Scrubs 

  1. Pre-treat stains immediately: Apply a targeted stain remover or cold water to blood, ink, or ointment stains before they set. 

  1. Turn scrubs inside out: This protects the outer colour from fading and reduces friction on antimicrobial coatings during the wash cycle. 

  1. Wash in cold water: Use cold water (unless dealing with a biohazard that requires heat) to prevent shrinking, fading, and setting protein-based stains. 

  1. Use a mild, colour-safe detergent: Avoid harsh bleaches or fabric softeners, which can strip away antimicrobial treatments and moisture-wicking properties. 

  1. Tumble dry on low or air dry: High heat can damage spandex blends and shrink cotton. Dry on low heat and remove promptly to prevent wrinkles. 

Deep Cleaning & Stain Removal for Healthcare Workers 

Working a 12-hour shift means your scrubs are bound to encounter spills and stains. Knowing how to handle them is key to expanding the lifespan of your workwear. 

  • Blood Stains: Never use hot water, as it will cook the proteins and set the stain permanently. Soak the garment in cold water mixed with a little hydrogen peroxide or a specialised enzyme cleaner. 

  • Ink Stains: Rubbing alcohol or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer works wonders. Dab the stain with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol until the ink lifts, then wash normally. 

  • Ointments and Lipids: Pre-treat oil-based stains with a heavy-duty liquid dish soap. Let it sit for 10 minutes to break down the grease before tossing it in the washing machine. 

Protecting Antimicrobial Fabric 

Many modern scrubs are treated with antimicrobial technology to resist bacteria and odours. To protect these specialised fabrics: 

  • Skip the Fabric Softener: Softeners leave a waxy coating on the fabric fibers, effectively blocking the antimicrobial treatment from doing its job. 

  • Avoid Chlorine Bleach: While bleach kills germs, it aggressively degrades synthetic fibers and strips away protective coatings. Opt for colour-safe oxygen bleach if a deeper clean is necessary. 

By following these simple steps, your scrubs will remain vibrant, hygienic, and intact shift after shift.