Scrubs have come a long way from their humble beginnings in healthcare. Today, they’re not only practical uniforms but also symbols of professionalism, comfort, and even style in medical environments. With so many colours and styles available, choosing the perfect set of scrubs is both exciting and a bit daunting. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of scrub colours, the trends in scrub wear, and how to find the best colour that suits both you and your role.
From White to Wow: The Evolution of Scrubs in Healthcare
Scrubs didn’t always look the way they do now. In the early days, healthcare professionals typically wore white, symbolizing cleanliness and sterility. Over time, as hospitals became more advanced and infection control became critical, the white uniforms were replaced with practical scrubs. Initially, scrubs were simple, green or blue, and served the purpose of reducing eye strain under bright lights and reducing stains’ visibility.
Today, scrubs come in every colour imaginable, offering professionals a way to express their personalities and even enhance their patients’ experiences.
Why Does Scrub Color Matter?
The colour of your scrubs can have more impact than you might think. It affects the psychology of both the wearer and the people around them, particularly patients. Colours can evoke specific emotions and reactions, making it essential to choose shades that align with your role.
- Psychological Impact on Patients and Staff: Certain colours, like blue and green, have calming effects, which can help reduce anxiety in patients. On the other hand, bright colours may evoke energy, making them suitable for pediatric departments where creating a cheerful atmosphere is essential.
- Practical Benefits of Color Choice: Beyond psychology, some colours hide stains better than others, making them more practical in settings where spills and stains are common.
Calm, Cheer, and Confidence: What Each Scrub Color Says About You
Different colours evoke unique feelings and can even be strategically chosen based on the department or role. Here are some of the most popular scrub colours and what they signify:
Blue Bliss: Calm and Classic
Blue is a popular choice in healthcare due to its calming and professional vibe. Often associated with trust and stability, blue is a top choice for those working in high-stress environments, like emergency and surgical departments, where a calm atmosphere is essential.
Green – The Soothing Hue
Green represents growth, healing, and relaxation. It’s easy on the eyes and can offer a refreshing contrast to red tones often seen in medical settings. This makes it especially favoured by surgeons and operating room staff, who benefit from a calming colour that also helps reduce eye strain.
White – The Classic Clean Look
White, the traditional colour in healthcare, symbolizes cleanliness and purity. While less common in scrubs due to its tendency to show stains, it remains popular for lab coats and certain clinical roles where sterility and clarity are paramount.
Grey – The Modern Neutral
Grey scrubs have gained popularity for their sleek, understated look. They convey professionalism without drawing too much attention, making them ideal for administrative roles or outpatient care settings. Grey also pairs well with colourful accessories or undershirts for those who want to add a hint of style without compromising professionalism.
Purple – The Royal Touch
Purple is associated with royalty, compassion, and creativity. It’s becoming a favourite among healthcare professionals who want a touch of flair while maintaining a professional look. Light shades like lavender are calming and suitable for pediatrics, while deeper purples exude confidence and professionalism.
Burgundy and Wine – The Warm and Inviting Tones
Burgundy and wine-coloured scrubs offer a warm, welcoming look that is both professional and approachable. These shades are ideal for nurses and support staff who want to convey compassion and warmth, especially in patient-centred roles.
Picking the Right Scrub Color for Every Department
In many healthcare facilities, departments assign specific colours to make it easier to identify roles quickly. If your hospital or clinic has these colour codes, following them ensures you fit within the established system while helping patients recognise your role.
- Department Color Codes: Understanding department-specific color codes can guide your choices. For example, many nurses wear blue or green, while laboratory staff might wear white or grey to distinguish their role. Familiarize yourself with these standards to ensure you select a colour that aligns with your position.
- Colours for Various Responsibilities: Some roles benefit from specific colours that enhance functionality and identification. For instance, vibrant colours like pink or teal are common in pediatrics, creating a friendly and cheerful atmosphere. Meanwhile, surgical teams often wear calming colours, such as green or blue, to help maintain focus.
Fresh Looks for Every Season: Choose Colors That Pop All Year Round
Scrub colours, much like everyday fashion, are influenced by seasonal trends. Choosing a colour based on the season can add a refreshing twist to your look, whether it’s a lighter shade for summer or a deeper tone for winter.
- Trending Colors: Each year, new colors emerge in healthcare fashion. Recently, navy, olive, and maroon have become popular choices, adding style and variety to traditional scrub colours.
- Seasonal Choices: Warmer tones like burgundy and burnt orange are common in the cooler months, while lighter colours, such as mint green and sky blue, keep things fresh and cool in the summer.
Functionality and Comfort in Scrub Fabric
The colour of your scrubs is only part of the equation. Comfort, durability, and fabric quality are equally important, especially during long shifts. Choosing scrubs with breathable material ensures you remain comfortable throughout the day, and colour-retentive fabrics keep your scrubs looking fresh and wash after wash.
- Breathability and Quality: Look for scrubs that are breathable, especially if you work in a high-paced environment. Fabrics like cotton blends are excellent for comfort while maintaining a professional look.
- Colour Retention and Durability: Frequent washing can fade certain colours over time, so choosing colour-fast fabrics is crucial. Durable materials that retain colour well help your scrubs look new, ensuring you always present a polished appearance.
Accessories That Complement Scrub Colors
Accessories can add personality to your scrub ensemble while keeping it functional. Items like undershirts, shoes, and caps provide a simple way to incorporate colours or patterns that complement your scrubs.
- Undershirts: A neutral or matching undershirt can add warmth and style, without compromising the professional look of your scrubs. Opt for colours that coordinate with your scrubs for a cohesive look.
- Caps and Shoes: Coordinating caps and shoes with your scrub colour can create a well-rounded appearance. Be mindful of dress code policies, but don’t hesitate to add a splash of colour if allowed, especially in pediatric or general care settings where a cheerful touch is welcome.
Wear Your Scrub Color with Pride and Personality
Selecting the right scrub colour is about more than just preference—it affects how comfortable you feel, how others perceive you, and even how functional your outfit is for your role. By choosing colours that align with your role, setting, and seasonal trends, you can enhance your work experience and present a polished, professional look. From calming blues and greens to bold blacks and sophisticated greys, there’s a perfect shade of scrubs for every healthcare professional. Find the one that resonates with your personality and role, and step into your next shift with confidence and style.
Looking for the perfect scrubs? Selector Uniforms offers a wide selection of colours and styles designed to keep you comfortable and stylish at work. Reach out to us or download our healthcare catalogue today.