Fabric & Care
In the fast-paced world of healthcare, how your scrubs fit can make a big difference in how you feel and how you show up for your shift. Baggy scrubs can feel bulky, distract you during patient care or look less professional. A more tailored fit, on the other hand, can boost your comfort and confidence.
If your scrubs are feeling a little too roomy, shrinking them at home might be an easy way to get a better fit without making a trip to the tailor.
Whether you’re aiming for a sleeker silhouette or trying to downsize slightly oversized scrubs, this guide will show you how to safely shrink them at home, plus give you long-term options for getting that perfect fit.
Types of Scrub Materials
Scrubs come in all kinds of fabrics, and how they shrink—or don’t—depends on what they’re made of. If you’re exploring new options, check out our women's nursing scrubs or browse fresh styles in scrub pants and tops to compare fit and fabric:
- Polyester: Durable and colorfast, but doesn’t shrink much, even with heat.
- Spandex blends: Super stretchy and flexible, but usually hold their shape no matter what.
- Rayon and modal: Soft and silky, but delicate—they can shrink unpredictably and need gentle care.
Always check the care label before trying to shrink your scrubs. Cotton-rich blends are your best bet for successful shrinking at home. For polyester-heavy scrubs, tailoring might be the better route.
Techniques for Shrinking Scrubs
Before trying any of these methods, double-check your scrubs’ care label to make sure it’s safe for heat washing or drying.
Shrinking with Boiling Water
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then remove it from the heat.
- Fully submerge your scrubs and let them soak for 5–20 minutes, depending on how much you want them to shrink.
- Give them an occasional stir with tongs or a wooden spoon to keep the heat even.
- Carefully wring out the excess water, then either air dry or tumble dry on high heat.
Safety Tip: Wear gloves and handle the hot water carefully to avoid burns.
Using a Dryer to Enhance Shrinkage
- After washing, toss your scrubs in the dryer on high heat.
- Dry them completely, then check the fit.
- Repeat if needed—but avoid too many high-heat cycles, which can wear out the fabric.
Post-Shrink Care Tips
Once you’ve got the fit you want, help keep your scrubs in great shape:
- Wash in cold water to help maintain their size. Learn more about how to wash your scrubs here.
- Hang dry or use a low-heat dryer setting to avoid more shrinkage.
- Store them neatly folded or hang them up to prevent warping.
- Use a fabric refresher spray or a steamer to keep your scrubs looking crisp and professional between washes.
When to Consider Professional Tailoring
If your scrubs are heavy on polyester, or just don’t fit quite right even after trying to shrink them, it might be time to think about professional tailoring. A local alteration shop can help tweak both scrub tops and pants, giving you a more custom fit without having to replace your whole uniform.
For scrub pants, a tailor can:
- Take in or let out the waistband
- Taper the legs for a slimmer look
- Shorten the inseam so the hems don’t drag or bunch
For scrub tops, they can:
- Take in the sides or underarms for a closer fit
- Shorten the overall length or adjust the hemline
- Add darts to shape the waist or bust
Simple tailoring is often more affordable than buying a brand-new scrub set, and it’s a great way to keep your uniform looking polished and professional. It’s especially helpful if you fall between standard sizes or just want a more flattering silhouette.
DIY Tailoring Tips
If you’re comfortable with a needle and thread, you can try a few simple tweaks at home to improve the fit of your scrubs:
- Take in side seams using a basic straight stitch
- Shorten pant legs with a hem gauge and iron-on hem tape. (see our step-by-step guide on how to hem scrub pants)
- Add darts in the back to shape the waist
All you’ll need is a matching thread, some pins, a measuring tape and a few basic sewing tools. A little DIY effort can go a long way in making your scrubs feel more tailored and comfortable.
Fitted Scrub Styles That Skip the Shrink
Ready-to-Wear Tailored Scrubs
If shrinking or sewing your scrubs feels like more hassle than it’s worth, there’s good news: plenty of scrubs come tailored right off the rack.
Styles from the Healing Hands Quest Collection are a great example, combining performance fabrics with a modern, athletic cut. They offer:
- Tapered jogger scrub pants and slim-fit tops
- Soft, breathable stretch for all-day comfort
- A polished, professional look without the bulky feel
These scrubs are designed for high mobility and a confident silhouette, so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for a sleeker fit. Whether you’re navigating tight clinical spaces or leading patient rounds, a fitted style can help you feel sharp and move with ease.
Shop Fitted Scrubs
Why Fit Matters in Everyday Scrubs
A good pair of scrubs should let you move freely while still looking polished and professional. Scrubs that are too loose can bunch up, drag on the floor or just feel sloppy. On the flip side, scrubs that are too tight might restrict your movement or leave you uncomfortable during long shifts.
The right fit helps you feel comfortable and confident, from patient rooms to rounds.
If your current scrubs feel oversized or shapeless, it might be time to explore more streamlined options. Healing Hands offers scrub tops and pants that flatter your shape while keeping you comfortable all day. It’s proof that scrubs can be both functional and feel as great as activewear.
Get the Fit That Works for You
Well-fitting scrubs can completely change how you feel on the job, giving you more freedom to move, a sharper look and an extra boost of confidence. Whether you’re trying DIY shrinking, heading to a tailor or upgrading to performance-driven styles, your scrubs should work as hard as you do.
Pick what makes you feel strong, capable and ready to take on the day. And if you’re looking for more ways to level up your scrub style, check out our guide on how to make scrubs flattering.