Best Fabrics for Medical Scrubs 2025 | B2B Guide

Introduction: Why Fabric Choice Is Critical in 2025

Learn how Medlooms manufactures scrubs.

For retailers, clinics, and private-label scrub stores, selecting the right fabric determines:

• Customer satisfaction and comfort

• Durability and lifespan of scrubs

• Brand reputation and repeat business

• Profit margins and pricing strategy

Healthcare professionals want scrubs that are:

• Stretchy and breathable

• Wrinkle-resistant

• Durable after 60+ washes

• Comfortable for long shifts

• Professional-looking

This guide will help you choose the best fabrics for medical scrubs, compare options, understand which fabrics sell best for retail and bulk orders, and give tips for fabric care to maximize lifespan.

1. What Fabric Are Medical Scrubs Made Of?

Most scrubs use one of these primary categories:

Polyester-Spandex Blends (Most Popular)

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• Composition: ~92% Polyester, 8% Spandex

• Features: Lightweight, stretchable, fade-resistant, wrinkle-free

• Best For: Retailers, private-label brands, clinics needing durable, low-maintenance scrubs

Cotton-Polyester Blends (Traditional Choice)

• Composition: 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton

• Features: Soft, breathable, affordable, moderate durability

• Best For: Bulk hospital orders, budget-conscious buyers

Rayon/Modal Blends (Premium Softness)

• Composition: ~73% Rayon, 23% Polyester, 4% Spandex

• Features: Luxury feel, excellent drape, high comfort

• Best For: Boutique stores, premium private-label collections

Customize your boutique scrub collection.

100% Polyester Performance Fabrics

• Features: Sweat-wicking, antimicrobial, cooling technology

• Best For: Hospitals with hygiene protocols or surgical staff

Order hospital-grade scrubs.

2. Comparison Table: Fabric Features & Retail Suitability

3. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Scrub Fabrics

Durability

Essential for bulk buyers; repeated washing should not shrink or fade the scrubs. Poly-Spandex blends are most durable.

Stretch & Comfort

4-way stretch fabrics reduce strain during long shifts. Rayon and spandex blends excel in comfort.

Breathability

Cotton or Rayon blends excel in hot climates. Essential for hospital staff working long hours.

Wrinkle Resistance

Polyester-rich fabrics stay crisp, reducing ironing and returns.

Price & Margins

Cotton-poly blends are low-cost; Poly-Spandex has higher perceived value. This affects retail positioning and profit.

Fabric Care Tips

Proper care maximizes lifespan and reduces shrinkage or pilling:

• Wash scrubs in cold water to preserve color

• Use mild detergents

• Avoid high heat in dryers; air-dry when possible

• Do not bleach unless fabric allows

• Iron only if necessary (most poly-spandex blends are wrinkle-free)

Download scrub care guide.

4. Fabric Trends & What Sells Best in 2025

Polyester-Spandex (Most Popular)

• Stretch + wrinkle-free = high customer satisfaction

• Retailers report higher repeat sales with this fabric

Rayon/Modal (Premium Segment)

• Soft touch and drape = boutique appeal

• High margins, popular for private-label stores

Poly-Cotton Blends (Budget-Friendly)

• Hospitals and bulk buyers prefer these

• Affordable, easy to source, good margins

100% Polyester Tech (High Hygiene)

• Sweat-wicking, antimicrobial, odor-resistant

• Hospitals & surgical units prioritize hygiene features

See hospital case studies.

5. FAQs

Q1: Are polyester scrubs hot or uncomfortable?

A: Modern polyester blends with spandex or moisture-wicking technology are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, even for long shifts.

Q2: Which scrub fabrics last the longest?

A: Poly-Spandex blends are the most durable, often lasting 600+ washes without significant fading or seam damage.

Q3: What is the ideal GSM for scrubs?

A: 150–170 GSM is optimal: structured but breathable for daily wear.

Q4: Are antimicrobial scrubs worth the investment?

A: Yes, especially in hospitals or surgical units. Polyester-based antimicrobial fabrics reduce bacterial growth and odor.

Q5: Cotton vs Polyester – which should I sell?

A: Cotton blends are soft and breathable; polyester blends are durable and wrinkle-free. For retail profit, poly-spandex is usually preferred.

Q6: How do I care for scrubs to make them last longer?

A: Wash in cold water, use mild detergent, air-dry if possible, avoid bleach, and iron only when necessary.

Q7: Which weave types are best for durability?

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A: Twill and poplin weaves offer the best balance of strength and comfort for scrubs.

Choosing the right fabric is critical for customer satisfaction, repeat sales, and profitability. Medlooms recommends:

• Poly-Spandex (92/8) – durable, wrinkle-free, high retail demand

• Poly-Cotton (65/35) – budget-friendly, breathable

• Rayon/Modal Blends – premium soft feel for boutique collections

• 100% Polyester Tech – antimicrobial, moisture-wicking, hospital-grade

Get Samples & Wholesale Pricing Today:
Contact Medlooms to request fabric swatches, pricing, and private-label options. Make your store the destination for high-quality, durable, and professional scrubs.