Stretch scrubs get their give from the fabric itself, usually a small amount of spandex blended with polyester and sometimes rayon. Other scrubs use a poly-cotton blend, which can feel more traditional. Knowing how to read the fabric label is the quickest way to pick scrubs that feel the way you want on a long shift.
This guide breaks down the main scrub fabric types we carry, what the numbers on the label mean, and how to choose between them.
What Makes Stretch Scrubs Stretch?
There are two common ways scrub fabric gets its flexibility:
- Spandex in the blend. Spandex (also called elastane) is a stretchy fiber. Even a small percentage blended with polyester lets the fabric stretch and recover as you move.
- Mechanical stretch. Some fabrics have no spandex but are constructed to give a little. The Wink WorkFlex pieces we carry are a poly-cotton blend with mechanical stretch.
You’ll also see the term four-way stretch. In general, it means the fabric stretches both lengthwise and crosswise, rather than in one direction only. In our catalog, the Women’s V-Neck Jogger Scrub Set from the Premium Stretch Collection, the Jaanuu Xenos petite scrub pants and the Vel Endeavor men’s jogger pants are all described with four-way stretch.
Polyester Spandex Scrubs
Polyester spandex scrubs are the backbone of our stretch lineup. These styles are made of 93% polyester and 7% spandex:
- Women’s Cool Stretch Jogger Scrub Set
- Women’s Essential Cool Stretch Jogger Scrub Set
- Women’s Ultra-Soft Luxe Stretch Jogger Scrub Set
- Women’s Cool Stretch V-Neck Cargo Top and Pant Set
- Men’s Luxe Stretch Jogger Scrub Set
- Men’s Stretch Multi-Pocket Cargo Scrub Set
Because the blend includes spandex, these sets have noticeable stretch, which many people like for squatting, reaching and moving quickly. They also tend to be cut in modern shapes, like joggers with knit or ribbed cuffs and athletic or tapered fits. If you want scrubs that move with you, this is a good place to start.
Poly-Rayon-Spandex Blends
Some stretch scrubs add rayon to the mix. Rayon is often chosen for a soft, smooth hand. Two examples from our shop:
- The Women’s Stretch V-Neck 2-Pocket Scrub Set is 77% polyester, 20% rayon and 3% spandex, with a modern, slightly relaxed fit.
- The Jaanuu Xenos Women’s Essential Knit-Waist Scrub Pants – Petite are 76% polyester, 18% rayon and 6% spandex, with four-way stretch.
These blends sit between pure polyester spandex and poly-cotton. If you like stretch but want a slightly different feel, they’re worth a look.
Poly-Cotton Scrubs
Poly-cotton scrubs are a long-standing choice in healthcare. Our poly-cotton styles are 65% polyester and 35% cotton:
- Women’s Mock Wrap Scrub Set
- Unisex 2-Pocket Scrub Set
- Unisex Cargo Solid V-Neck Scrub Set
- Wink WorkFlex Women’s V-Neck Scrub Top, Unisex Chest Pocket V-Neck Scrub Top and Unisex Cargo Scrub Pant (with mechanical stretch)
Without spandex, the plain poly-cotton sets have less give than stretch scrubs, so fit matters more. The unisex BP101 and BP102 sets run large, so check our size guide before you order. Many people like poly-cotton for its classic look and structured drape, and the unisex sets feature triple-reinforced seams.
100% Polyester Jersey
One more fabric type in our catalog: the Vel Endeavor Men’s 6-Pocket Double Cargo Jogger Scrub Pants are made of 100% polyester single jersey and described as four-way stretch. Jersey is a knit fabric, which is why it can stretch without spandex. These pants pair that knit with covered elastic jogger cuffs and six pockets.
How to Choose the Right Scrub Fabric Type
Start with how you move and what you like to feel against your skin, then narrow it down:
- You want maximum stretch: look for polyester spandex scrubs or a blend described as four-way stretch.
- You want stretch with a different hand: try a poly-rayon-spandex blend.
- You prefer a classic, structured look: choose a poly-cotton blend, or a poly-cotton with mechanical stretch for a bit of give.
- You’re between sizes: stretch fabrics are generally more forgiving, while non-stretch fabrics reward a precise fit.
It also helps to read the fabric label the same way every time. Fibers are listed from the largest share to the smallest, so a label that reads 93% polyester, 7% spandex is mostly polyester with a small amount of stretch fiber. When two styles look similar online, comparing those numbers side by side is often the quickest way to tell them apart.
Fabric is only one part of the picture. Pockets, waistband and leg style matter too. Our guide to scrubs for nurses covers the full checklist.
Caring for Stretch Fabrics
Whatever the fabric, always follow the care label on your garment first. A few general habits help most scrubs stay looking their best:
- Wash similar colors together.
- Turn scrubs inside out before washing.
- Skip bleach on colored scrubs.
- If the label allows tumble drying, a lower heat setting is a gentle choice for blends with spandex.
For a full routine, see how to wash scrubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are polyester spandex scrubs stretchy?
Yes. Spandex is a stretchy fiber, so scrubs that blend it with polyester have noticeable stretch. Our 93% polyester, 7% spandex sets are a good example.
What is the difference between poly-cotton and stretch scrubs?
Poly-cotton scrubs blend polyester with cotton and usually have less give unless they are made with mechanical stretch. Stretch scrubs include spandex or a stretchy knit construction, so they flex more as you move.
Do stretch scrubs need special washing?
Follow the care label on your garment. In general, washing similar colors together, turning scrubs inside out, avoiding bleach on colors and using lower dryer heat when the label allows are good habits.
The best scrub fabric is the one that feels right for your body and your workday. Compare fabric content on each product page, and enjoy free shipping on all US orders while you find your favorite.
