How to Iron Scrubs (And Whether You Even Need To)

Men's and women's scrubs take a lot of wear and tear, so they naturally need frequent washing. And after a long shift, the last thing any healthcare professional wants to do is iron a new set for the next day.

This begs the question: Is it actually necessary to iron scrubs? And if so, what's the most efficient way to do it? Or, are there options where the iron can stay out of it? Read on to find out!

Do Scrubs Need to be Ironed?

We'll start on a happy note: Many modern scrubs are designed to be low-maintenance. So, in many cases, ironing is minimal.

However, some fabrics like to crease and wrinkle (cotton scrubs, we're looking at you), so it really depends on the material your scrubs are made from.

Additionally, if you work in a setting where you have to maintain a highly polished look, then ironing will enable you to attain that professional appearance.

It's all in the care label

The fastest way to know if ironing scubs is on the agenda is to look at the care label. This will tell you:

• The fabric the scrubs are made from
• Washing instructions
• Recommended ironing temperature
• Whether the garment can handle steam
• Any warnings about heat

How to Iron Scrubs

Ironing scrubs isn't complicated, but it does require a little technique.

Start with clean, slightly damp scrubs and set your iron to the correct temperature based on the fabric. Work on a flat surface and avoid pressing too hard, especially on synthetic materials.

The key is to focus on the most visible areas rather than every detail. This will save you time and keep the process efficient.

Scrub tops

For the top:

1. Begin with the neckline and shoulders
2. Smooth out the front panel, especially around the pocket areas
3. Press sleeves to remove creases
4. Finish with the back panel

Don't iron directly over logos, embroidery, or prints. If your scrubs feature a design, turn them inside out to avoid damage and shine marks.

Scrub pants

For the pants:

1. Begin with the waistband and flatten it out
2. Run the iron down each leg, front and back, to remove wrinkles
3. Don't create creases like formal trousers; they will end up looking strange

Pay attention to areas that bunch up easily, like behind the knees and around drawstrings.

General Ironing Guidelines for Different Scrub Fabrics

Different fabrics call for different approaches. Here are the guidelines for each type:

• Cotton: Cotton wrinkles easily. For best results, use a medium heat setting with steam. Iron while damp, and don't leave the iron in one spot for too long.
• Polyester: Polyester is somewhat wrinkle-resistant, but not totally. Use a low heat setting, as high heat can melt the fabric or leave marks. Another option is to cover with a damp cloth and iron the cloth, as this will protect the fabric.
• Polyester blends: These are the most common scrub fabrics and need the least amount of ironing (if at all). Keep the iron on low heat and don't stretch out the fabric too much so the garment retains its shape.
• Other blends: Some scrubs use cotton blends and other compositions. The rule of thumb is to iron according to the most delicate fabric. So, if your scrubs contain synthetic fabrics, keep the heat low.

Alternatives to Ironing Clean Scrubs

Don't want to iron? We don't blame you!

There are other options to consider.

Steaming

Steaming is surprisingly fast and efficient. And since it doesn't involve direct heat, it's safe for pretty much any type of fabric, including synthetic blends.

A handheld steamer works best because the setup is minimal and you can concentrate it on specific areas. Just add water, hang up your scrub tops and pants, and get to work.

Another option, though less efficient, is to hang your scrubs in a steamy bathroom. The hot water will release wrinkles, but it's not so good at getting rid of stubborn wrinkles.

Choosing wrinkle-resistant scrubs

The easiest option is to invest in wrinkle-resistant scrubs.

Dr. Woof scrubs, for example, are made from a blended stretch fabric (74% Polyester, 20% Rayon, 6% Spandex) that resists fading and holds its shape, even after multiple washes.

And for those working in environments with frequent spills or fluid exposure, our scrubs are designed with fluid resistance, so accidental splashes are easier to wipe away instead of soaking into the fabric.

Best of all? Less ironing and no more wrinkled scrubs! You can build a more sustainable wardrobe that takes less effort to maintain.

Keeping Your Scrubs Wrinkle-Free (Without Ironing)

It's not just an iron that will result in wrinkle-free vet-med scrubs. Here are some additional scrub care tips designed to help healthcare professionals keep their attire in top shape:

• Wash scrubs in warm or cold water and always turn them inside out
• Tumble dry on a low heat setting
• Remove the scrub top and pants from the dryer the moment the cycle ends
• Shake them out before hanging or folding
• Hang scrub tops immediately and carefully fold pants over a hanger to prevent creases
• Try to avoid overstuffing drawers with folded sets of scrubs, as compressed fabrics will crease

How to Save Time When Managing Multiple Sets of Scrubs

If you’re rotating through back-to-back shifts, ironing each set individually can quickly become unrealistic.

A better solution is to batch your scrub washing/ironing and get it all done in one session. Here's how:

• Set aside one short session to wash and prep all your scrubs at once.
• When they're done in the dryer, immediately take them out, and separate them by type (scrub tops and pants).
• Smooth them out while they’re still warm. This alone can prevent the need for ironing in many cases.
• If you have scrubs that need extra attention, focus on quick touch-ups rather than ironing every part. A quick press on the front panel or neckline can do the trick without turning it into a full-on mission.
• Hang complete scrub sets together so they’re ready to grab and wear.
• Keeping a few extra sets in rotation means you always have clean ones ready to grab.

Less Ironing, More Comfort

Wrinkle-free scrubs are possible with careful washing and ironing. Or, if you prefer, you could save time and invest in wrinkle-resistant apparel.

All Dr Woof scrub tops and pants are created with input from healthcare workers, not fashion designers. Our breathable fabric blend, along with VetCore™ easy-care fabric on our vet scrubs, is as easy to take care of as it is comfortable to wear. And the iron? Most days, you can leave it in the closet.

FAQs

Can scrubs be ironed?

Yes, scrubs can be ironed, but always check the care label first. Use the correct heat setting based on the fabric to avoid damage, especially with synthetic materials.

Do Dr. Woof scrubs need ironing?

In most cases, no. Dr. Woof scrubs are made from a wrinkle-resistant fabric blend that holds its shape through repeated washing, so they typically come out of the dryer ready to wear. Smoothing them out while still warm and hanging them right away keeps them looking sharp without needing an iron.

How to unwrinkle scrubs fast?

The fastest way to unwrinkle scrubs is to steam them. The steam penetrates the fabric fibers to remove or reduce wrinkles.

If you don't have a steamer, place your scrubs in a steamy bathroom, or toss them in the dryer with a wet cloth for a few minutes.

How to iron a nursing uniform?

To iron a nursing uniform, check the label and use the right temperature. Focus on visible areas like the top, sleeves, and front panels. Keep it neat, not overly pressed.

Is it better to steam or iron scrubs?

Whether steaming or ironing is better depends on the fabric and your preference. Steaming is faster and safer for most materials, while ironing gives a sharper finish. For everyday use, steaming usually wins on convenience.