How to Prevent Pilling on Your Scrubs

Keeping your scrubs clean isn’t just about looking sharp on shift—it’s about preserving hygiene, comfort and durability in one of the most demanding work environments. Your scrubs go through a lot, from long hours and spills to high-friction contact points. And when pilling starts to appear, it can make even premium workwear look tired before its time.

So, what causes pilling, and how can you prevent it? In this guide, we’ll break down the causes and offer practical, expert-backed care tips to help you reduce pilling, treat stains, and keep your scrubs looking fresh for longer.

The good news is that with a few simple adjustments to your washing routine and how you wear your scrubs, you can dramatically reduce and extend the life of your medical workwear.

How to care for your scrubs

What Causes Pilling on Scrubs?

Pilling happens when the fabric fibres rub together and break, creating tiny, fuzzy balls on the surface of garments. It is particularly common in high-friction zones like the front of the tops, the inner thighs, and the underarms.

Here are a few everyday causes of pilling:

1. Leaning Against Counters or Desks

Standing against counters during your shift can cause repeated friction, especially at the front of your top or tunic. Over time, this weakens the fibres and leads to pilling.

2. Low-Waist Fit Scrub Pants

If you wear your scrub pants low on the hips, the crotch can sit too low, increasing rubbing between the thighs. A handy fix? Flip the waistband once to reposition the crotch seam and reduce inner-thigh friction.

3. Washing With Rough Fabrics

Scrubs washed alongside heavy or coarse fabrics like towels or denim are more likely to pill. These fabrics create friction in the wash cycle, breaking down scrub fibres prematurely.

4. Overloading the Washing Machine

When your washer is packed tight, there’s more garment-on-garment friction, less water flow, and a higher chance of pilling.

5. High-Heat Drying

Drying on high heat can cause fabrics—especially synthetics or stretch fibres—to degrade faster, making them more susceptible to pilling.

How to Prevent Pilling (and Help Scrubs Last Longer)

These simple strategies can help prevent pilling and protect your investment in high-quality scrubs:

✅ Follow Care Labels

Always read the care label before you wash. For example, the Wink W123 range recommends:

  • Cold machine wash with like colours on a gentle cycle

  • Tumble dry on low and remove promptly

  • Cool iron if needed

  • Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals

Different blends (cotton, polyester, spandex) all respond differently to heat, detergent, and friction, so tailored care is key.

✅ Wash Inside Out

Turning scrubs inside out protects the outer fabric, reduces friction during the wash cycle, and helps preserve colour.

✅ Choose Gentle Detergents

Use a mild, healthcare-safe detergent to clean fabrics without stripping or irritating fibres. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can leave residue that reduces breathability and accelerates pilling.

✅ Air Dry or Use Low Heat

Air drying is ideal for maintaining fabric integrity. If using a dryer, stick to a low-heat setting and don’t overload the drum.

✅ Store Properly

Once clean, scrubs should be folded neatly or hung up to prevent wrinkles and maintain their shape. They should also be kept in a clean drawer or garment bag to avoid dust or odours. For bonus freshness, use lavender or cedar sachets.

Washing and caring for your medical scrubs in Australia

 

How to Handle Tough Stains Before Washing

Scrubs often encounter hard-to-remove stains. Here’s how to tackle them before washing:

  • Blood: Rinse in cold water, then apply hydrogen peroxide or saltwater

  • Medication: Use rubbing alcohol or dish soap to break down the stain

  • Bodily fluids: A baking soda paste works well here

  • Ink: Dab with hand sanitiser or rubbing alcohol

Always treat stains before throwing your scrubs in the wash to keep them looking their best.

Fabric-Specific Tips

Some fabric types need a little extra attention:

  • Cotton blends: Wash cold with a gentle detergent to prevent shrinkage

  • Polyester blends: Resistant to wrinkles but still best washed cold to preserve colour

  • Spandex/stretch fabrics: Avoid high heat to maintain flexibility

  • Moisture-wicking fabrics: Skip fabric softeners—they interfere with performance

When It’s Time to Say Goodbye

Even the best scrubs have a limit. Replace your uniforms when you notice:

  • Thinning or fraying fabric

  • Set-in stains that won’t budge

  • Fading, sagging or loss of structure

  • Persistent odour after washing

Wearing worn-out scrubs can affect your professional appearance and reduce comfort during long shifts.

Final Thoughts: Care More, Pill Less

By understanding what causes pilling and avoiding it, you’ll get the most out of your scrubs—both in looks and longevity. Gentle washing, proper fit, and fabric-friendly habits can make all the difference. Whether you're rocking Cherokee, Wink, or Dickies, taking care of your scrubs is one small way to take care of yourself.

Infectious Clothing Co. Quality Scrubs Brands, 5 Star Customer Service, Dependable, Reliable Australian scrubs supplier

March 26, 2025 — Pete Doran
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