Best Care Practices for Lab Coats and Scrubs

Protecting Your Investment

A premium lab coat or set of scrubs can last years—if you treat it right. Here's how to keep your workwear looking and performing like new.

Washing Best Practices

• Turn garments inside out before washing to protect the outer finish
• Use cold or lukewarm water (below 40°C / 104°F) to prevent shrinkage and color fading
• Choose a gentle, color-safe detergent—avoid bleach unless specifically recommended
• Wash whites and colors separately to prevent dye transfer

Stain Removal Tips

Healthcare professionals deal with stains daily. Here's what works:

1. Act fast—the sooner you treat a stain, the easier it is to remove
2. Pre-treat with enzyme-based stain removers for protein-based stains (blood, food)
3. Hydrogen peroxide works well on white fabrics for tough stains
4. Avoid hot water on fresh stains—it can set protein-based stains permanently

Drying and Ironing

• Tumble dry on low heat or hang dry to preserve fabric integrity and fit
• Remove promptly from the dryer to minimize wrinkles
• Iron on medium heat if needed, using steam for stubborn creases
• Consider fabrics with wrinkle-resistant finishes (like WonderCoats' premium line) to skip ironing entirely

Storage

• Hang lab coats on broad, padded hangers to maintain shoulder shape
• Fold scrubs neatly or hang them—avoid cramming into drawers
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing

When to Replace

Even with excellent care, workwear has a lifespan. Replace items when you notice: - Persistent stains that won't come out - Fabric thinning or pilling - Elastic losing its stretch - Colors looking noticeably faded

Proper care extends the life of your garments by 2–3x, making premium workwear an even smarter investment.