As a medical student, your scrubs are more than just a uniform; they are an essential part of your daily life in clinical settings.
The right scrubs can make a significant difference in your comfort, mobility, and even confidence as you navigate long hours in the hospital, attend lectures, and participate in hands-on training.
With so many options available, finding the best scrubs that offer the perfect blend of durability, functionality, and style can be overwhelming.
This article will guide you through the top scrubs for medical students, helping you make an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences.
Best Scrubs for Medical Students
- FIONx fabric: four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, antimicrobial.
- Stylish designs: modern, tailored fit.
- Comfort: optimal for long shifts.
- Size range: various body types and sizes.
- Durable: high-quality, easy maintenance.
- Affordable: budget-friendly quality.
- Comfortable fit: four-way stretch.
- Unisex design.
- Functional: multiple pockets.
- Sizes and colors: diverse options.
Best Overall: FIGS Scrubs
FIGS Scrubs are our top recommendation for medical students seeking the perfect combination of comfort, style, and functionality in their work attire.
Known for their exceptional quality and innovative designs, FIGS Scrubs cater to the unique demands of healthcare workers, providing garments that excel in both performance and aesthetics.
The FIGS Casma Scrub Top for Women is designed with a modern and flattering V-neck, creating a professional and stylish appearance.
Combines style and comfort with its tailored fit and signature FIONx fabric for optimal performance.
Tailored for a comfortable fit, this scrub top features a practical chest pocket, ensuring ample storage space for essential items.
Made with FIGS’ signature FIONx fabric, which is a blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex, the Casma Scrub Top offers four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial properties. This ensures that medical students remain comfortable, dry, and fresh throughout their clinical rotations.
The FIGS Zamora Jogger Style Scrub Pants for Women perfectly complement the Casma Scrub Top, offering a fashionable and functional take on traditional scrub pants.
Designed with an adjustable waistband, multiple pockets, and a jogger-style cuff, these pants provide both functionality and comfort.
Offers a modern design and superior comfort with its FIONx fabric and jogger-style fit.
Crafted from the same FIONx fabric as the top, the Zamora Jogger Style Scrub Pants ensure durability, breathability, and flexibility, making them a reliable choice for students who need to move and bend with ease during their rotations.
Overall, FIGS Scrubs provide an unbeatable combination of style, comfort, and practicality, making them our top recommendation for medical students who want to look and feel their best while providing exceptional care for their patients.
Budget Pick: Dagacci Scrubs Set Medical Uniform
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, the Dagacci Scrubs Set is an excellent choice.
Provides a budget-friendly, comfortable, and functional option for both men and women.
This unisex set is made from a comfortable blend of polyester and cotton, ensuring durability and breathability.
It includes a classic V-neck top with two roomy front pockets and pants with an adjustable drawstring waist, a back pocket, and two side pockets.
Available in a wide range of colors and sizes, the Dagacci Scrubs Set provides students with an affordable and reliable option for their daily uniform needs.
Best Scrub Set: Adar Pro Modern Athletic Scrub Set for Women
The Adar Pro Modern Athletic Scrub Set is perfect for students who desire a more modern and sporty look.
Combines fashion and functionality with a premium material blend and a tailored, athletic design.
This set includes a contemporary round neck top with a curved hem, two front patch pockets, and a hidden inner pocket for extra storage.
The pants feature a comfortable elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring, a zipper pocket, and two cargo pockets, providing ample space for essential items.
Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, the Adar Pro Modern Athletic Scrub Set offers a comfortable four-way stretch, moisture-wicking properties, and a wrinkle-resistant finish, ensuring medical students can maintain a polished appearance.
Cherokee Workwear Revolution Scrubs
Cherokee Workwear Revolution Scrubs are designed for medical students seeking a blend of style, comfort, and functionality.
The collection features high-quality garments that cater to the demanding nature of nursing work while maintaining a fashionable appearance.
The Cherokee Mock Wrap Scrubs Top WW610 is a modern take on the traditional scrub top, offering a flattering mock-wrap design that contours the body for a sleek, professional look.
Features a flattering mock wrap design, made from a comfortable and durable polyester-spandex blend.
This top includes two front patch pockets and an additional instrument loop, ensuring ample storage space for essential items.
Made from a durable blend of polyester and rayon with a touch of spandex, this scrub top provides excellent four-way stretch for maximum comfort and ease of movement throughout the day.
The Cherokee Drawstring Scrubs Pants WW120 are designed to complement the Mock Wrap Scrubs Top, providing both comfort and functionality.
Provides an adjustable fit with a drawstring waistband and a comfortable polyester-spandex fabric.
These pants feature an adjustable drawstring waistband and a half-back elastic waist, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for students of all shapes and sizes.
The pants also include two front pockets, a cargo pocket, and a back pocket, offering ample space to store instruments and other essentials.
Crafted from the same polyester, rayon, and spandex blend as the top, these pants ensure durability, breathability, and flexibility.
Med Couture Touch Women’s Scrubs
Med Couture Touch Women’s Scrubs offer a perfect blend of sophistication, comfort, and functionality, making them an excellent choice for medical students who want to look and feel their best.
The collection showcases a modern, fashionable design combined with practical features that cater to the specific needs of healthcare students.
The Med Couture Touch Women’s Scrub Top is designed with a contemporary V-neck and a flattering fit, creating a professional and stylish appearance.
Offers a stylish design, four-way stretch, and moisture-wicking properties for all-day comfort.
Made from a unique blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex, this scrub top offers four-way stretch, providing unmatched comfort and freedom of movement throughout the day.
The top features two spacious patch pockets, an additional small pocket, and a hidden accessory loop, ensuring ample storage space for essential items.
Combines fashion and functionality with a jogger-style design and premium fabric blend.
The Med Couture Touch Women’s Jogger Scrub Pants are the perfect complement to the scrub top, offering a modern and comfortable fit.
These pants feature a fashionable jogger-style design with a knit waistband, an adjustable drawstring, and rib-knit cuffs, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
Made from the same high-quality polyester, rayon, and spandex blend as the top, these pants ensure durability, breathability, and flexibility.
Dagacci Unisex 4-Way Stretch Jogger Scrub Set
The Dagacci Unisex 4-Way Stretch Jogger Scrub Set is designed for medical students who value comfort, durability, and versatility in their attire.
This set includes a stylish V-neck scrub top with two spacious front pockets for easy storage of essential items.
Offers comfort, functionality, and affordability for both men and women in a versatile jogger-style design.
The jogger-style scrub pants feature a comfortable elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for medical students.
Made from a high-quality blend of polyester and spandex, these scrubs offer a four-way stretch, allowing for unrestricted movement throughout the day.
Available in a wide range of colors and sizes, the Dagacci Unisex 4-Way Stretch Jogger Scrub Set is an excellent choice for those seeking a modern and comfortable scrub option.
Adar Pro Breakthrough Plus Scrub Set for Women
The Adar Pro Breakthrough Plus Scrub Set for Women is designed for medical students seeking a perfect balance of style, comfort, and functionality.
This set includes a flattering V-neck scrub top with princess seams for a tailored fit, as well as two large patch pockets and an inner pocket for ample storage space.
Combines style, comfort, and performance with a modern athletic design and premium fabric blend.
The scrub pants feature a comfortable elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring and a bootcut leg for a modern and professional appearance.
Made from a premium blend of polyester and spandex, the Adar Pro Breakthrough Plus Scrub Set provides a four-way stretch for maximum comfort and freedom of movement throughout the day.
With its fashionable design and practical features, this scrub set is an ideal choice for students who want to look and feel their best during clinical rotations.
Natural Uniforms Women’s Cool Stretch Jogger Scrub Set
The Natural Uniforms Women’s Cool Stretch Jogger Scrub Set is designed with comfort, functionality, and style in mind.
This set includes a contemporary V-neck scrub top with two roomy front pockets and a small inner pocket, providing ample storage space for essential items.
Provides a comfortable and stylish option with a cool stretch fabric, ideal for long shifts.
The jogger-style scrub pants feature a comfortable elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring and ribbed cuffs, ensuring a secure and fashionable fit for medical students.
Crafted from a high-quality blend of polyester and spandex, these scrubs offer a four-way stretch, ensuring optimal comfort and ease of movement throughout the day.
The Natural Uniforms Women’s Cool Stretch Jogger Scrub Set is a great option for healthcare professionals seeking a modern and comfortable scrub solution.
Barco Grey’s Anatomy Scrubs
- Top: Barco Grey’s Anatomy Women’s 71166 V-Neck Scrub Top
- Pants: Barco Grey’s Anatomy 4277 Women’s Scrub Pants
Barco Grey’s Anatomy Scrubs are designed for medical students who desire a perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality.
Inspired by the popular medical drama, these scrubs deliver both a fashionable appearance and practical features that cater to the unique needs of students and licensed healthcare workers.
The Barco Grey’s Anatomy Women’s 71166 V-Neck Scrub Top is designed with a modern and flattering V-neck, ensuring a professional and stylish look.
This scrub top features two spacious front patch pockets with an additional interior pocket, providing ample storage space for essential items.
Offers a professional and flattering fit with the comfort of soft and durable fabric.
Made from a premium blend of polyester and rayon, the 71166 V-Neck Scrub Top is not only soft and comfortable but also moisture-wicking, ensuring that students stay dry and comfortable throughout their rotation.
The Barco Grey’s Anatomy 4277 Women’s Scrub Pants perfectly complement the matching scrub top, offering a combination of comfort and functionality.
These pants feature an adjustable drawstring waistband with an elastic back, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
Combines functionality and comfort with a modern design and high-quality fabric.
The pants also include multiple pockets, such as two front pockets, a back pocket, and a cargo pocket, providing plenty of storage space for instruments and other necessities.
Made from the same high-quality polyester and rayon blend as the top, these scrub pants ensure durability, breathability, and comfort.
Best Scrubs for Female Medical Students
- FIONx fabric: four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, antimicrobial.
- Stylish designs: modern, tailored fit.
- Comfort: optimal for long shifts.
- Size range: various body types and sizes.
- Durable: high-quality, easy maintenance.
- Affordable: budget-friendly quality.
- Comfortable fit: four-way stretch.
- Unisex design.
- Functional: multiple pockets.
- Sizes and colors: diverse options.
These are our top recommended scrubs for women due to their exceptional comfort, style, and functionality. Figs Scrubs are known for their innovative designs, high-quality materials, and superior comfort, making them a popular choice among students.
Dagacci Scrubs Set Medical Uniform is an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet stylish and functional scrub set.
Meanwhile, the Adar Pro Modern Athletic Scrub Set for Women combines fashion and functionality with its tailored fit, modern design, and premium blend of polyester and spandex.
Best Scrubs for Male Medical Students
- FIONx fabric: stretch, moisture-wicking, antimicrobial.
- Modern designs: professional appearance.
- Comfort: optimal for long shifts.
- Size range: various body types and sizes.
- Durable: high-quality, easy maintenance.
- Affordable: budget-friendly quality.
- Comfortable fit: four-way stretch.
- Unisex design.
- Functional: multiple pockets.
- Sizes and colors: diverse options.
These are our top recommended scrubs for men in the healthcare industry due to their superior comfort, style, and functionality.
Figs Scrubs are highly regarded for their exceptional quality, innovative designs, and use of the signature FIONx fabric, which provides four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial properties.
Dagacci Scrubs Set Medical Uniform is an excellent choice for male students seeking a budget-friendly yet durable and comfortable scrub set.
Finally, the Adar Addition Go-Everyday Scrub Set for Men is another great option, as it combines practicality and style with its modern design and premium blend of polyester and spandex.
Best Lab Coats for Medical Students
- Polyester-rayon blend for lightweight comfort
- Wrinkle-resistant and easy-care material
- Modern, slim-fit design
- Three-button front closure
- Multiple pockets for essential tools
- Affordable without compromising on quality
- Polyester-cotton blend for breathability
- Classic, unisex design
- Notched lapel collar and front button closure
- Spacious pockets for storage
These are some of the best lab coats available due to their exceptional comfort, style, and functionality.
The Grey’s Anatomy 35″ Full-Length Lab Coat by BARCO offers an excellent blend of style and functionality, mirroring the sophistication of the TV show it’s named after.
With its soil release feature, it offers durability and ease of care, ideal for long hours in a medical environment.
The Natural Uniforms Professional Unisex 40″ Lab Coat stands out for its budget-friendly affordability without compromising on comfort or quality. It offers a sturdy polyester-cotton blend material and ample pocket space for tools.
Finally, the Adar Universal Unisex 39″ Lab Coat is lauded for its professional look and durable fabric, and its gender-neutral design makes it suitable for all. It’s a comfortable, breathable choice for those lengthy shifts and busy rotations.
Best Petite Scrubs for Medical Students
FIGS Scrubs are a top choice for petite healthcare professionals, as they offer a wide range of sizes and tailored designs that cater to smaller frames.
Combines style and comfort with its tailored fit and signature FIONx fabric for optimal performance.
The FIGS Casma Scrub Top and Zamora Jogger Style Scrub Pants are crafted from the signature FIONx fabric, which provides four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial properties.
These scrubs combine style, comfort, and functionality, ensuring that petite students look and feel their best while providing exceptional care for their patients.
How to Choose the Best Scrubs for Medical Students
Choosing the best scrubs for medical students can be challenging due to the numerous options available on the market.
To help you make an informed decision, consider the following factors when selecting the perfect scrubs for your needs:
- Material: The fabric used in the construction of the scrubs should be comfortable, durable, and easy to maintain. Common materials include polyester, cotton, rayon, and spandex blends. Look for fabrics that offer four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial properties to ensure comfort and hygiene throughout your shift.
- Fit and sizing: Scrubs should fit well and provide enough room for unrestricted movement. Make sure to consult sizing charts provided by the manufacturer and read reviews to get a better understanding of how the scrubs fit. Some brands offer unisex options, while others have separate designs for men and women.
- Style and design: Scrubs come in various styles and designs, such as V-neck, round neck, mock wrap, and more. Choose a style that suits your personal preferences and workplace requirements. Additionally, consider the type of pants you prefer, such as jogger-style, boot-cut, or straight-leg options.
- Pockets and storage: Medical students often need to carry essential items like pens, scissors, and medical instruments. Scrubs with multiple pockets and storage features can be beneficial in keeping these items organized and easily accessible.
- Color and patterns: Scrubs are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Depending on your workplace dress code and personal preference, you can choose from solid colors, prints, or even themed designs.
- Price and quality: Consider your budget when selecting scrubs, but don’t compromise on quality. Investing in high-quality scrubs can save you money in the long run as they tend to be more durable and comfortable. Look for a balance between affordability and quality, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
- Easy care and maintenance: Scrubs should be easy to clean and maintain. Opt for fabrics that are machine-washable, stain-resistant, and wrinkle-resistant to ensure that your scrubs stay fresh and professional-looking throughout your shift.
Note: By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best scrubs that meet your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that you remain comfortable, stylish, and professional while providing exceptional care for your patients.
FAQs About Scrubs for Medical Students
What are the Most Comfortable Scrubs for Medical Students?
The most comfortable scrubs for medical students typically feature a blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex, providing a soft feel, four-way stretch, and moisture-wicking properties.
Brands like FIGS, Med Couture, and Adar offer scrubs with these qualities, ensuring optimal comfort during long shifts.
How Often Should Scrubs Be Cleaned?
Scrubs should be cleaned after each shift to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of infection.
If you work in a high-risk environment or come into contact with bodily fluids, it’s crucial to clean your scrubs immediately after use.
Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to maintain the quality and longevity of your scrubs.
How Many Pairs of Scrubs Do Medical Students Need?
The number of scrubs a medical student needs depends on their schedule and personal preferences. Ideally, they should have enough pairs to last a week without needing to do laundry.
This typically means 3-5 pairs for full-time students or 1-3 pairs for those working part-time or on a more flexible clinical and classroom schedule.
What are the Best Materials for Scrubs?
The best materials for scrubs are typically blends of polyester, rayon, and spandex. These materials offer a combination of durability, breathability, and flexibility, ensuring comfort and functionality.
Additionally, they often feature moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties, which are essential for maintaining hygiene in healthcare settings.
What are the Best Scrubs for Medical Students with an Athletic Build?
The best scrubs for an athletic build are those that offer a tailored, modern fit and are designed with flexibility and comfort in mind.
Adar Pro Modern Athletic Scrub Set for Women and Adar Addition Go-Everyday Scrub Set for Men are excellent options, featuring four-way stretch, moisture-wicking properties, and a stylish design that flatters and accommodates an athletic build.
What are the Best Scrubs for Sweating and Hot Weather?
The best scrubs for sweating and hot weather are those made from lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable materials.
Look for scrubs that feature a blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex, as these fabrics provide excellent moisture management and breathability.
Natural Uniforms Women’s Cool Stretch Jogger Scrub Set is a great example, designed specifically to keep you cool and comfortable during hot weather and long clinical rotations.
Are Expensive Scrubs Worth it for Medical Students?
While expensive scrubs may have a higher upfront cost, they often provide better quality, comfort, and durability compared to more affordable options.
High-quality scrubs made from premium materials can save you money in the long run, as they tend to last longer and require less frequent replacement.
However, it’s essential to find a balance between affordability and quality to ensure you get the best value for your money.
What are Some Popular Brands of Scrubs for Medical Students?
Several brands offer high-quality scrubs well-regarded by medical students for their comfort, durability, and style. Some popular choices include:
- Figs: Known for their premium quality and stylish designs, Figs offer a range of options that are both comfortable and functional.
- Cherokee: A long-standing favorite, Cherokee is appreciated for its durability, comfort, and extensive variety.
- Greys Anatomy: A brand by Barco Uniforms, their scrubs are praised for their soft fabric and flattering fit.
- Jaanuu: Famous for their fashion-forward designs, Jaanuu offers scrubs that are durable, comfortable, and chic.
- Carhartt: Known for their rugged construction, Carhartt scrubs offer excellent durability and comfort.
- Dickies: Another classic choice, Dickies provides a good balance between affordability and quality.
Remember: The best choice depends on your personal comfort, style, budget, and the specific needs of your medical school or hospital environment.
Are There Any Regulations on Scrubs in Medical School?
Yes, regulations on scrubs vary by medical school and can include specific requirements on color, brand, cleanliness, and wear.
These rules may also differ across rotations, wards, or procedures. Students should familiarize themselves with their institution’s specific guidelines.
Are Antimicrobial Scrubs Necessary for Medical Students?
Antimicrobial scrubs, designed to hinder bacterial growth, can be beneficial in healthcare settings. However, they aren’t a replacement for proper hygiene practices.
Their necessity depends on individual circumstances, institutional policies, and personal skin sensitivities.
Therefore, while beneficial for some, they’re not universally necessary for all medical students.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best scrubs as a medical student is an investment in your education and future career. The right pair will not only meet the demands of your rigorous schedule but also provide the comfort and professional appearance necessary for success in the medical field.
By considering factors such as fabric quality, fit, and practical features, you can select scrubs that will serve you well throughout your training and beyond.
Remember, the best scrubs are those that make you feel confident and ready to tackle the challenges of medical school with ease.
Written by:
John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.
References
- Belkin NL. Use of scrubs and related apparel in health care facilities. Am J Infect Control. 1997.