How to Shrink Scrubs: Do Scrubs Shrink When You Wash Them?

We’ve all been there - you order a new pair of scrubs, only to find that they’re boxy, too long, baggy, and just generally unflattering. Why is it so hard to find scrubs that fit right and look flattering?!

If you find yourself with big, unflattering scrubs that don’t make you feel confident or professional, one option is to try to shrink them. We’ll explain how to shrink scrubs in this article, but be warned - shrinking scrubs is difficult to control. Sometimes your scrubs don’t shrink at all, and sometimes they shrink way too much.

If you don’t want to go to the hassle of trying to shrink scrubs, we’ve got a better solution! Treat yourself to a new pair of luxury scrubs from Poppy Scrubs. Our size charts are accurate, our cuts couldn’t be more flattering, our colors rock, and there’s a style to suit everyone. Get yours today!

Can You Shrink Scrubs if They’re a Bit Too Big?

So, can you shrink scrubs if they don’t fit properly? Sort of. You can try, and sometimes it works, but there are a few things you should be aware of first. Here’s what you need to know before you start shrinking scrubs in the dryer.

Do Scrubs Shrink When You Wash Them or Dry Them?

Do scrubs shrink when you wash them? The short answer is: It depends on the material, because there are so many different types of scrubs. What material are scrubs made of? Most scrubs are made from cotton, polyester, or a blend of both, and each reacts differently to heat.

100% cotton scrubs are more likely to shrink when exposed to hot water and high dryer temperatures, especially during the first wash. Polyester scrubs, on the other hand, are more resistant to shrinking because they’re a synthetic material designed to maintain its shape.

If your scrubs are a cotton-poly blend, the results of shrinking shrubs get even more unpredictable. Some blended scrubs won’t shrink at all, while others shrink a little bit, but generally not enough to actually alter the size or make them fit you any better.

Potential Risks of Attempting to Shrink Scrubs

Shrinking scrubs might give you a more tailored fit, but there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind. Too much heat can damage the fabric, causing it to weaken, fade, or making your soft scrubs not so soft after just one wash.

For stretchy scrubs or scrubs with a stretch component, like jogger scrubs, high heat can reduce their elasticity, making them uncomfortable or restricting movement. Plus, some scrubs may shrink unevenly, leading to a fit that’s tight in some areas and still loose in others.

Situations Where Shrinking Scrubs on Purpose Makes Sense

Shrinking scrubs intentionally can make sense if you’ve purchased a pair that’s only slightly too big and you want to avoid the hassle of returning them, having them altered, or learning how to hem jogger scrubs. Some people also try it if they’ve lost weight and don’t want to invest in a whole new work wardrobe.

That said, shrinking scrubs should be saved for situations where you only need to make your scrubs a little bit smaller. If your scrubs are way too big, trying to shrink them probably won’t help turn them into flattering, fitted scrubs.

How to Shrink Scrubs That Are Too Big: 3 Methods for Shrinking Scrubs

If you still want to try shrinking your core scrubs for a more tailored fit, there are a few different ways you can go about it. Here’s how to shrink scrubs in the dryer, plus a few other techniques you can try at home.

Using Hot Water and a High Heat Dryer

One of the easiest ways to shrink scrubs is by washing them in hot water and then drying them on high heat. Start by turning your scrubs inside out to reduce the risk of color fading or damage to any prints or logos.

In terms of how to wash scrubs to shrink them, wash your scrubs in a washing machine using the hottest water setting. If you have a top-load machine, use a smaller load size to ensure they’re fully submerged in hot water.

Next, it’s time to learn how to shrink scrubs in the dryer. Set your dryer to the highest heat setting available, and let your scrubs tumble dry until they’re completely dry.

This works best for cotton scrubs, which respond well to heat. If your scrubs are a cotton-poly blend, you may need to repeat this process multiple times to shrink your scrubs, and even then, you might not get the results you’re hoping for.

Boiling Water Method

If you need more dramatic shrinking, the boiling water method can work wonders, particularly for scrubs made of 100% cotton. This method is more intensive and should only be used when you want to significantly downsize your scrubs.

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil on your stove. Submerge your scrubs in the boiling water for 10–15 minutes. Use a long utensil (like tongs) to push the fabric down and ensure it’s completely soaked. Carefully remove the scrubs and place them in the dryer on high heat until fully dry.

The boiling water causes the fibers to constrict more than a standard hot water wash, resulting in more shrinkage. However, this method is harsh, and can weaken the scrubs fabric. It’s best to only try this if you already tried the hot water and dryer method above.

Ironing for Minor Adjustments

If you only need a minor adjustment in size or want to target specific areas (like tightening a sleeve or waistband), using an iron can be an easy way to shrink certain spots without affecting your entire scrub top or pants.

Dampen the areas you want to shrink with a spray bottle of water, and make sure the fabric is evenly wet but not soaking. Set your iron to a medium-high heat setting. For extra safety, you might want to place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the scrubs to prevent direct contact.

Press the iron firmly on the damp areas and hold for a few seconds, moving slowly across the fabric and applying even pressure. Continue until the dampened areas are dry and slightly shrunken.

Rather Than Shrinking Scrubs in the Washer or Dryer, Get a Set That Fits at Poppy Scrubs!

We’ve talked about how to shrink scrubs, but we’ve also explained that it rarely gives you the results you’re looking for. If you want a pair of fashionable scrubs that fit you properly, look flattering, and don’t need shrinking, there’s only one place to go - Poppy Scrubs!

Why Shop Our Scrubs?

First of all, you won’t find more comfortable scrubs than ours. Our breathable, 4-way stretch fabric is flattering without being too tight, allowing you to move without restriction. And with a no-slip yoga-style waistband, you won’t find yourself constantly adjusting your scrubs pants!

Poppy Scrubs are designed by a nurse, which means they’re the perfect combination of comfort, style, and functionality. You’ll have pockets in all the right places, you’ll love our waterproof scrubs material, and these will be the most durable, long-lasting scrubs you’ve ever met.

Our Most Popular Colors and Styles

You’ll find women’s scrub pants and women’s scrub tops at Poppy Scrubs in an amazing range of scrubs colors, including:

Before you choose your scrubs colors, remember that some workplaces have rules about who wears different scrubs. Make sure you understand who wears black scrubs, the green scrubs meaning, and the difference between galaxy blue vs royal blue scrubs.

If you’re wondering how to wear scrubs fashionably, you’ll find the best jogger scrubs here at Poppy Scrubs. And if you’re not sure what to wear under scrubs, check out our cute compression socks for nurses - stay pain-free and stylish with our adorable prints!

How to Prevent Scrubs From Shrinking

Sometimes you want to shrink your scrubs, but other times, you really don’t want your scrubs to shrink when you wash them! Let’s take a look at how to prevent scrubs from shrinking when you wash them.

Proper Laundry Techniques

The way you wash and dry your scrubs has a big impact on their lifespan and ability to retain their original size. In terms of how to prevent scrubs from shrinking when you wash them, here are some tips:

Wash your scrubs on a gentle cycle in cold water, especially if they’re made from cotton
Use a mild detergent, as harsh detergent can weaken fabric fibers
Avoid high dryer heat or air-dry your scrubs by hanging them up
Don’t leave your scrubs in the dryer for longer than necessary

As long as you pay attention to how you wash and dry your scrubs, you shouldn’t have to deal with any unwanted shrinkage.

Choosing Scrub Materials Less Prone to Shrinking

Another way to prevent scrubs from shrinking is by being selective about the fabric type when you’re buying new scrubs. Pay attention to the materials, and remember that jogger scrubs vs regular scrubs can be made of different materials.

Polyester is a synthetic material that is highly resistant to shrinking, even when exposed to high heat. Many scrubs made from polyester blends offer durability and wrinkle resistance, making them a reliable choice that shouldn’t shrink.

Scrubs that contain a blend of spandex or other stretch fibers also tend to retain their shape well. They provide flexibility and comfort without the risk of shrinking, even after multiple washes.

If you prefer the feel of cotton scrubs but don’t want to risk your scrubs shrinking, you might want to look for options labeled as “pre-shrunk.” These scrubs have undergone a special treatment process to minimize shrinking, giving you the comfort of cotton without the shrinkage.

Final Thoughts on How to Shrink Scrubs That Are Too Big

If your scrubs are too big, there are a few things you can do to try to shrink them. However, it’s almost impossible to turn big, baggy, unflattering scrubs into a pair of professional-looking, tailored scrubs by shrinking them.

Rather than trying to transform your scrubs, why not just treat yourself to the best-fitting, most comfortable scrubs out there? At Poppy Scrubs, we have accurate sizing, different leg lengths to choose from, and the most comfortable material imaginable.

A comfy pair of scrubs that fits you properly can make you feel so much more confident on the job - get the best scrubs for women from Poppy Scrubs today!

And for more scrubs tips, check out our other guides: Are jogger scrubs still in style, how to wear jogger scrubs, and how to wear compression socks with jogger scrubs.