Tips for Sizing Scrubs
Wearing scrubs is a necessity for many different professions in the healthcare field. Whether you’re a doctor, a nurse, a specialist, or another healthcare worker, getting the right scrubs that fit perfectly can help you be the best at what you do.
Take Measurements
In order to get the proper size of custom scrubs, you may need to take your measurements in advance. Bust or chest, waist, height, hip, outside leg, and inseam measurements can help you ensure that the size of the scrub you order will fit correctly. Size charts often include specific measurements, which will allow you to compare them to your own measurements and determine the best size to choose.
To measure correctly, follow these tips:
- Bust or chest—Take measurements both around the top of your body at the shoulder blades as well as under the arms and across the fullest part of the chest.
- Waist—Take the waist measurement at your natural waistline.
- Hip—Take the measurement at the fullest part of the hips, standing with feet together.
- Inseam—Measure the inside of the leg starting at the groin area.
- Outside leg—Start at the natural waist and measure to the length you want your scrub pants to be.
- Height—Have someone else measure your height while you stand up straight without shoes.
Determine Unique Sizing Needs
Your measurements will also help determine unique sizing needs, such as petite, tall, or plus sizes.
- Petites—Ladies who are less than 5’4” will likely need petite size scrubs.
- Tall—Ladies who are over 5’7” are likely to need tall scrubs for women.
- Plus—Ladies who usually wear a size 18 or larger may need plus size scrubs.
- Big/Tall—Men who usually wear a 2XL or larger may need Big/Tall scrubs.
Look at the Style of Scrubs to Help Determine Fit
Scrubs come in an array of different styles, so taking a good look at the specific cut and design will also help you decide on the right fit. Some styles are looser designs, while others have a more tailored fit. The more tailored the fit of the scrubs, the more precise your sizing will likely need to be for them to fit properly.
Understand the Fabric
Another aspect that plays a part in how scrubs will fit is the fabric content. Some scrubs have no give or stretch, while others are made up of fabric blends that include a small percentage of spandex for a bit of stretch. If you know that the scrubs material will have some give to it, then it may impact the size you choose. Understanding the fabric content will also help determine if the scrubs may shrink after washing; if that’s the case, then you may need to buy a larger size to compensate. Cotton/polyester fabric blends are not likely to shrink when washing, so consider getting a blend like this as you want to get the right size without having to worry about shrinkage.
Consider the Details
There are different details that scrubs may have that may also involve fit. A scrub top with side vents will allow for ease of movement, so you can be more precise with your sizing. Scrub bottoms with drawstring waists will help ensure that the waist can be adjusted to your body.
Look for Scrubs with Options for Inseams
Having the correct inseam measurement is essential for a scrub pant. Consider brands that not only have the option for a specific size but also allow you to choose your inseam length for the ideal fit. This ensures that the scrub pants will be comfortable and correctly aligned to your body.
Length Matters
Scrubs that are too short or too long can be a big problem. Scrubs that are too short won’t look professional and can expose the legs to hazards. Scrubs that are too long are also unprofessional-looking, plus they could pose a tripping hazard to patients and healthcare workers alike. Look for brands that offer free hemming with your scrub purchase to make sure that your pants look professional and have a safe, customized fit.
Read Reviews to Get the Right Scrub Sizing
Another tip that can help healthcare professionals when sizing scrubs is to read reviews from past customers to learn more about the fit of women’s and men’s scrubs. They can provide their experiences with specific brands and will often state whether they run large, small, or true to size. Having this information can further assist in the sizing process in case you need to go up or down a size depending on the brand.
Find Scrubs that Fit Your Unique Body Shape
It’s important doctors, nurses, and other health professionals have the close, comfortable fit they need in scrubs. Knowing how to size scrubs properly will help you to get the professional-looking fit that matches your unique body shape.