If you work in healthcare, chances are your scrubs go through a lot - long shifts, frequent washing, and maybe a few spills or stains. Keeping them looking neat and professional can be a challenge, you have to wash and dry them after each shift, but then you’re often left with wrinkles.
Wearing wrinkly scrubs to work is better than wearing dirty scrubs, but it’s still not ideal. So, what can you do when you get your scrubs out of the dryer and they’re creased and crinkled? Can you iron scrubs? Yes, at least usually, but there are a few things you should know first.
We’ll explain how to iron scrubs without damaging the fabric, and also give you some pointers on how to get wrinkles out of scrubs without an iron. By following these tips, you’ll show up every day looking polished, stylish, and oh-so professional.
Pro tip: Some scrubs are more prone to wrinkles than others. Poppy Scrubs premium scrubs are made from an anti-wrinkle fabric, which means you can wear them straight from the dryer! Shop Poppy Scrubs and save precious hours without sacrificing your professionalism!
Can You Iron Scrubs Without Damaging Them?
So, can you iron scrubs? Not all scrubs can withstand direct heat, so it’s important to understand different scrub materials before you plug in the iron. Here’s what you need to know about ironing scrubs.
What are the Risks of Ironing Scrubs?
Ironing scrubs incorrectly can cause several issues, including fabric damage, discoloration, or even shrinking. Many scrubs are made from synthetic blends, like polyester or spandex, which can melt or develop a shiny texture if exposed to high heat.
Do scrubs shrink if you iron them? Not usually, but too much ironing can weaken the scrubs fabric over time, which makes it less durable. You might find that constantly ironing your scrubs also makes them less soft and comfortable, they can become a bit scratchy from too much heat damage.
How to Check the Fabric Label
Before you learn how to iron scrubs, check the care label inside them. It provides specific instructions on whether ironing is recommended. If you see a crossed-out iron symbol, don’t iron your scrubs! Don’t worry, we’ll have some tips on how to get wrinkles out of scrubs without an iron later in the article.
Can you iron scrubs if you see a symbol of an iron with one or two dots? Yes - this indicates that low or medium heat is ok for your scrubs, but that high heat shouldn’t be used. If you see this symbol on the care label, iron your scrubs with caution and don’t leave the iron on one area for too long.
If you see a symbol of an iron with steam, this suggests that steam is safe and may be better for your scrubs than using direct heat. The fabric label will also explain how to wash scrubs, which is important to prevent your scrubs from fading or shrinking.
Scrubs That Shouldn’t Be Ironed
What are scrubs made of that means they can’t be ironed? Scrubs made from heat-sensitive materials should never be ironed, including those with a high percentage of polyester, spandex, or specialty moisture-wicking fabrics. They can warp, melt, or degrade under high heat.
Some scrubs are also treated with wrinkle-resistant finishes, which can break down if exposed to direct ironing. For these types of scrubs, it’s best to use a garment steamer or remove wrinkles by hanging them to dry properly after washing.
When is Ironing Scrubs Necessary?
While many modern scrubs are designed to be wrinkle-resistant, there are times when it’s important to learn how to iron scrubs. Here are a few situations when ironing your scrubs is necessary.
Professional Appearance Matters!
There are many different jobs that wear scrubs, and they all require you to have a professional appearance. In healthcare, looking neat and well-groomed is just as important as wearing clean scrubs.
Wrinkled, unkempt scrubs can give off an unprofessional impression, which may impact the confidence that your colleagues and patients have in you. If your workwear is wrinkled after washing or drying, learning how to iron scrubs can help you look more polished.
First-Time Wear After Unpacking
Brand-new scrubs often come folded in packaging, leaving noticeable creases and wrinkles on the fabric. Even if the material is wrinkle-resistant, these fold lines may take time to disappear on their own.
It’s always a good idea to wash new scrubs before you wear them, and if they’ve been folded for a long time, you can iron them as well. Just make sure you double-check the care label to make sure the fabric is safe to iron.
After Line-Drying Scrubs
Air-drying your scrubs is a great way to keep the fabric in good condition and prevent your scrubs from shrinking, but it can also leave you with stiff or wrinkled scrubs. Can you iron scrubs after they’ve been line-dried? Yes, as long as the care label says it’s safe to do so.
For Special Occasions or Professional Events
If you’re attending a professional event, like a medical conference, job interview, or hospital meeting, ironing your scrubs can help you look extra-professional. A wrinkle-free uniform shows attention to detail, helping you make a great impression. Even if you don’t iron scrubs regularly, doing so for special occasions can make a difference.
How to Iron Scrubs: Step-by-Step Guide to Ironing Scrubs
Since scrubs are often made from synthetic blends, it’s important to use the right techniques to prevent shrinking, scorching, or shine marks. Follow this step-by-step guide to safely and smoothly iron your scrubs.
Prepare Your Scrubs for Ironing
Before you start ironing, make sure your scrubs are clean and slightly damp. If they’ve already dried, lightly mist them with water using a spray bottle - this helps the fabric relax and makes ironing easier. Set up your ironing board on a stable surface and ensure your iron is clean to avoid transferring stains onto your scrubs.
Best Temperature Settings for Ironing Scrubs
Different scrub fabrics require different heat settings. Always check the care label first, but as a general guideline, you can use medium to high heat for cotton scrubs, or low heat for polyester or synthetic blends.
If you have wrinkle-resistant or moisture-wicking fabrics, use low heat with steam. If you’re not sure what’s best for your scrubs, start with a lower temperature and gradually increase as needed to avoid damaging the fabric.
Protecting Your Scrubs While Ironing
To prevent burning or shine marks, place a thin cloth or pressing cloth between the iron and your scrubs. This is especially important for synthetic fabrics that can melt under direct heat. If your iron has a steam function, using steam instead of direct heat can also help smooth out wrinkles without causing damage.
Ironing the Scrub Top
Start with the scrub top, ironing one section at a time. Lay the top flat and gently iron the collar first to create a neat edge. Then lay the sleeves flat, pressing lightly to remove wrinkles. If the sleeves have cuffs, iron them carefully for a crisp finish.
Work your way down the front and back of the top, smoothing out wrinkles with long, even strokes of the iron. Pay special attention to ironing the pockets, as they can easily crease.
Ironing the Scrub Pants
Next, it’s time to iron your scrub pants. Can you iron scrubs with an elastic waistband? Yes, but try to avoid pressing it too hard with the iron to prevent it from stretching. If there’s a drawstring on your scrubs, make sure it doesn’t get caught in the iron.
For the legs, lay one leg flat at a time and iron in long, smooth strokes from the top down. If you prefer a crisp look, you can add a slight crease down the front of the legs. Press gently around pocket areas to maintain their shape while removing wrinkles.
Now What?
Once your scrubs are ironed, hang them up immediately to prevent new wrinkles from forming. If you need to store them, fold them neatly and place them in a drawer or wardrobe. If necessary, you can use a garment steamer before wearing them to remove any remaining creases.
How to Get Wrinkles Out of Scrubs Without an Iron
What if you don’t own an iron, or the care label instructs you not to use an iron on your scrubs? Don’t worry, you won’t have to go to work in wrinkly scrubs! Here are some tips on how to get wrinkles out of scrubs without an iron.
Steam as an Alternative to Ironing
Using steam is one of the best ways to remove wrinkles without direct contact with heat. A garment steamer works well on most scrub fabrics, including polyester blends and moisture-wicking materials.
To steam your scrubs, hang them on a hanger in an open space. Hold the steamer a few inches away and move it in slow, downward strokes. Once you’re done, allow the scrubs to dry completely before you wear them.
If you don’t have a steamer, you can create a similar effect by hanging your scrubs in the bathroom while taking a hot shower. The steam will help relax the fabric and smooth out minor wrinkles, and it gives you an excuse to stay under the hot water for an extra minute!
Quick Fixes for Wrinkled Scrubs
If you need to remove wrinkles fast, lay your scrubs flat, place a damp (not soaking) towel over them, and press gently with your hands to smooth out creases. Another option is tossing your scrubs in the dryer with a damp washcloth for about 10 minutes on a low setting to help relax the wrinkles.
You can also try the hairdryer technique, by lightly misting your scrubs with water and using a hairdryer on a low heat setting. Hold it a few inches away from your scrubs while smoothing out the wrinkles with your hands.
Choosing Wrinkle-Resistant Scrubs
If you want to avoid wrinkles altogether, investing in wrinkle-resistant scrubs can save you so much time and effort. Many brands (including Poppy Scrubs) offer scrubs made from polyester blends or treated fabrics that stay smooth even after washing and drying.
Look for moisture-wicking fabrics, which are often less prone to wrinkling, and four-way stretch material, which helps prevent deep creases from forming. Wrinkle-resistant scrubs don’t just save you time, they also last longer because the fabric fibers aren’t constantly being damaged by high heat. Win-win!
Upgrade Your Work Wardrobe at Poppy Scrubs Today!
At Poppy Scrubs, we know your time is precious! Using a high-tech wrinkle-resistant material was important to us, to keep you looking neat and professional without having to put hours into your appearance.
Whether you choose our form fitting scrubs or our jogger styles, all our women's scrub pants and women’s scrub tops are made from wrinkle-resistant, breathable fabrics, with 4-way stretch for added comfort and to prevent creases from forming.
Our stylish scrubs are designed to move with you, keeping you comfortable and calm even when work gets stressful. With pockets in all the right places and cuts that are actually flattering, there’s nowhere better to find your new favorite wrinkle-resistant scrubs!
Check out our great selection of fade-proof scrub colors, including charcoal scrubs, royal blue scrubs, emerald green scrubs, and so many more! And if you need an extra layer, our timeless women’s scrub jackets are the perfect addition to your outfit, without compromising your ability to move!
Don’t waste time ironing wrinkles out of your collar when you’re already running late - enjoy an extra 10 minutes in bed (or a much-needed second cup of coffee) by switching to Poppy Scrubs!
Wrapping Up Our Guide on How to Iron Scrubs
Keeping your scrubs wrinkle-free is an important part of looking professional at work, but ironing takes time and usually reduces the lifespan of your scrubs. Rather than slaving away with the steam, why not wear wrinkle-resistant scrubs instead?
Poppy Scrubs can save your hours every week, while making sure you still look sharp and fresh on the job. Our durable, practical, and stylish scrubs can be worn right out of the dryer, and you’ll still look and feel your best all shift long.
Looking for luxurious scrubs without high maintenance? You’ll find them right here at Poppy Scrubs!