Managing your scrub wardrobe might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of a healthcare career, but it’s more important than you might think. From keeping a polished, professional appearance to maintaining good hygiene, the number of scrubs you own can significantly impact your day-to-day routine. If you’re constantly worrying about running out of clean scrubs or dealing with scrubs that are too worn out, it’s time to rethink your strategy. So, how many sets of scrubs should you really have? Let’s break it down.
How Many Sets of Scrubs Should I Have?
When deciding how many scrubs you need, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on several factors unique to each healthcare professional’s life. Here are three key considerations to help you figure out the perfect number for your scrub collection.
Your Work Schedule
Your work schedule is one of the most significant factors in determining how many sets of scrubs you need. If you're working full-time with 4-5 shifts a week, it’s wise to have at least a week’s worth of scrubs. That means about 5-7 pairs, so you’re never scrambling to find a clean set before heading to your next shift. If you work part-time or are on-call, your needs will be different. For those with a 2-3 shift schedule, around 3-4 pairs could suffice, allowing you some flexibility between laundry days.
And for those whose schedules are all over the place—like rotating shifts or the occasional double—having extra pairs handy can save you the stress of doing laundry multiple times a week or, worse, running out of scrubs entirely.
Department-Specific Requirements
Different departments often have varying requirements when it comes to scrubs. If you’re working in a high-contamination area, like emergency departments, you’ll likely need more scrubs compared to someone working in a less exposure-prone area like general outpatient care. In such settings, scrubs can get stained or contaminated quickly, necessitating more frequent changes. Some departments might even require specific types of women’s scrubs or men’s scrubs, which can further increase the number needed in your rotation.
Laundry Frequency
Another big factor is how often you’re willing—or able—to do laundry. If you’re someone who doesn’t mind tossing a load in every few days, you can get by with fewer scrubs. But if you’re like most healthcare workers with a hectic schedule, laundry might only happen once a week. In that case, having a more extensive rotation of scrubs will keep you from scrambling. A good rule of thumb is to plan for enough scrubs to last you from one laundry day to the next, with one or two extras for emergencies.
Ideal Number of Scrubs Based on Role and Routine
Now that we’ve covered the key factors, let’s get specific about the number of scrubs you should aim for, depending on your role and routine.
For Full-Time Healthcare Workers
If you’re clocking in 4-5 shifts a week, you should aim for at least 6-7 pairs of scrubs. This allows for one pair per shift with a couple of extras to spare. Life happens—an unexpected stain or spill, or maybe even a forgotten load of laundry—so having those extras ensures you’re always prepared. Cherokee scrubs offer reliable, comfortable, and durable options that make it easy to stock up without breaking the bank.
For Part-Time or On-Call Workers
For those working fewer shifts or on a more sporadic schedule, about 3-4 pairs of scrubs should be sufficient. It gives you enough to rotate between without the burden of having too many scrubs sitting in your closet. Keep in mind, though, that it’s always a good idea to have at least one or two extras on hand for sudden calls to cover shifts.
For Specialized Healthcare Roles
In specialized roles, where exposure to fluids or contaminants is higher, consider investing in scrubs with additional features. Having 5-7 specialized pairs could be more beneficial, especially if they’re designed to be worn repeatedly without losing quality.
Keeping Track of Wear and Tear
No matter how many scrubs you have, it’s crucial to regularly assess their condition. Stains, thinning fabric, or stretched-out waistbands aren’t just a nuisance—they’re unprofessional and can affect your comfort and confidence at work. Get into the habit of checking your scrubs for signs of wear and tear, and when they start looking tired, it’s time to replace them.
Cherokee scrubs are built to last, but even the toughest fabric has its limits. By keeping an eye on the condition of your scrubs, you’ll always maintain a polished, professional appearance.
Sustainability in Scrub Usage
Investing in high-quality scrubs that last longer is not just smart—it’s sustainable. Cherokee scrubs offer durability and affordability, which means you don’t have to keep buying new pairs every few months. But what do you do with scrubs that are no longer suitable for professional wear? Consider repurposing them for household chores, donating them to animal shelters or even using them in craft projects. There are many ways to give your old scrubs a second life, reducing waste and promoting a more sustainable approach to your wardrobe.
Balancing Quantity with Quality with Cherokee
Finding the right balance between having enough scrubs to get you through the week and not overstocking your closet can be a bit of a juggling act. With Cherokee, you don’t have to compromise on quality or affordability. You get reliable, durable scrubs that stand up to the rigors of your workday without costing a fortune. Investing in a rotation of Cherokee scrubs means fewer headaches about laundry, a consistently professional appearance and knowing you have scrubs that are up to the task—every time you step into your workplace.
Top-Selling Cherokee Scrubs to Consider
To help make your decision easier, here’s a look at some of the top-selling Cherokee scrubs that have become favorites among healthcare workers:
These options provide a good mix of comfort, durability and style, making them reliable choices to add to your scrub wardrobe. Whether you're looking for women's scrub tops, men's scrub tops or nursing scrubs, you'll find options that suit your needs.
So, how many scrubs should you own? Enough to keep your routine smooth, your appearance sharp and your mind at ease. With Cherokee, you’re not just buying scrubs. You’re investing in comfort, durability and peace of mind.