If you work in the healthcare industry, whether you’re a surgeon, a nursing assistant, or anything in between, you’re familiar with medical scrubs. You probably have several pairs in your drawers at home right now.
When choosing scrubs, factors like breathability and how easy they are to clean are some of the most important things to keep in mind. However, the color of your scrubs can also send a unique message to your colleagues and patients.
Learn about seven well-known scrub color codes and the meaning behind each one below.
1. Black
Black scrubs have a professional and slightly formal feel. If you want to present yourself as a more serious employee, wearing black is a good choice.
As a bonus, black scrubs do an excellent job of hiding stains and are flattering for most people. You won’t have to worry about them clashing with your shoes or other accessories, either.
2. Brown
If you’re looking for neutral-colored scrubs but want a break from black, varying shades of brown can be good alternatives.
Brown scrubs signify that you are a down-to-earth and trustworthy employee. You give it to people straight and don’t get caught up in workplace drama.
3. Purple
Purple is a fun color for scrubs, which is why it’s often chosen by healthcare workers who spend a lot of time with children. Some people consider it to be less professional than other colors, but kids may feel safer with a nurse or doctor who dresses in something more vibrant and cheerful.
4. Blue
Blue is one of the most popular colors for medical scrubs. It’s associated with trustworthiness and dependability and can also help minimize anxiety (which is abundant in most healthcare settings).
Doctors typically wear dark blue scrubs, whereas nurses and nursing assistants wear lighter shades of blue to distinguish themselves from higher-ranking employees.
5. Green/Teal
The colors green and teal are often associated with peace and healing, making them excellent choices for healthcare workers. These colors are particularly popular among surgeons, who like them because stains don’t show through green or teal as easily as they do through other colors.
6. Pink
Pink is another fun color that many people associate with nurturing and caring for others. Nurses and healthcare workers who care for children often choose pink scrubs, as do those who care for women (such as those who work in the labor and delivery unit of a hospital).
7. Burgundy
Burgundy scrubs are a good alternative to red scrubs — which are rarely seen in healthcare settings because of their association with blood and accidents.
They’re great for days when you want to take a break from black or brown scrubs. However, they’re still relatively neutral and professional and won’t feel too flashy.
Bonus Scrub Shopping Tips
Choosing the right color of medical scrubs can help you put out the right kind of message to your coworkers and patients. Along with the color, though, you should also consider other factors when shopping for scrubs.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind to find the best scrubs for your busy workdays:
Prioritize Pockets
Pockets are a healthcare worker’s best friend!
When shopping for scrubs, look for pairs that have deep pants pockets and at least one pocket on the top. You’ll use these pockets for everything from your stethoscope to stickers for hesitant young patients.
Check the Fit
Always try your scrubs on before you buy them (especially if you’re buying a new brand or style).
Your scrub top shouldn’t be too loose or baggy, as that may cause it to get in the way when you work. If the pants are too baggy, you’ll also find yourself constantly pulling them up or trying not to trip over the legs.
Avoid tops and pants that are too tight as well. Tightness in the shoulders can interfere with your mobility, and too-tight pants put you at risk of dealing with an embarrassing rip in the middle of a shift.
Make sure you move around in your scrubs when you try them on, too. Bend over, stretch to the side, walk around, and see how they feel. If you can easily perform movements like those you’d do on the job, they’re likely a good fit.
Focus on Function Over Fashion
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look nice and wear cute or trendy scrubs to work. However, make sure you don’t prioritize fashion over function.
Always try your scrubs on and be honest about how they fit and how practical they are. If you’re constantly pulling at them or adjusting them during your shift, you won’t be able to focus on your patients.
Find Unique Ways to Show Your Personality
Even if you’re not wearing the most fashion-forward scrubs, you can still find unique ways to showcase your personality at work. For example, look for a pair with a cute design or layer a short-sleeved scrub top over a patterned long-sleeve top.
You can also show off your style by wearing cute stud earrings that won’t get in your way and necklaces that can easily be tucked into your scrub top. A fun lanyard for your hospital badge is another easy way to distinguish yourself from your coworkers.
Buy Multiple Pairs
As a healthcare worker, you put your scrubs through a lot during every shift, whether you’re running around the emergency room or assisting with hours-long surgeries.
Buy several pairs of scrubs so you always have a clean set without any holes or stains. If you find a style or brand that you particularly like, consider buying scrubs in multiple colors or patterns so you always have your favorites on hand.
Shop for the Right Scrubs Today
These days, there are tons of different colors and styles of medical scrubs to choose from.
Now that you know the different scrub color codes and their meanings, you can choose the most appropriate colors for your position and goals as a healthcare worker. Follow the guidelines discussed above to find the right scrubs today.
