What to Wear Under Scrubs: The Ultimate Guide
*This post contains affiliate links/ Updated from original post on 2/01/19
Many medical professionals appreciate the gift of wearing medical uniforms to work each shift. And who can blame them? After all, they are as comfortable as a set of pajamas, and they take the guesswork out of what to put on for the day. They can also save you a lot of cash you would otherwise spend on clothing over time.
Some medical institutions require a specific color or brand of scrubs. This can offer additional benifits – both for staff and visitors. Assigned scrub colors help patients and other staff understand what you do.
For example, when I was a nurse at UCLA Medical Center, all nurses wore navy blue, the CNAs wore army green, our ER techs wore ceil blue, and anyone who worked in radiology wore brown. Assigning a scrub color helps patients and family members to know what you do when you walk into their room, which can help alleviate a lot of confusion.
When I worked at a medical spa, all clinicians wore grey, navy, and black. Patients automatically knew who the clinicians were, and it gave the office a more professional, streamlined look.
Needless to say, scrub uniforms are great for many reasons. But unfortunately, they don’t leave a lot of room for individuality. You may even begin to feel lost in a sea of medical staff, and after a while, that might feel a little boring.
But there are other ways to project your own style that are both functional and fashionable. And it may also help you out if you are wondering what to wear under scrubs in winter to keep your body temperature up on your 6 am commute.
What do Nurses Wear Under Scrubs?
There is a common term that RNs and other medical professionals use to explain what goes underneath their scrub uniforms: “underscrubs.”
Underscrubs are precisely what they sound like they would be – clothing designed to be worn under a medical uniform They are often as comfortable as the uniform themselves, durable to last hundreds of washes (depending on the brand), can add a flair of color, and keep you comfortable in the coldest operating rooms and medical units.
(Many of these long sleeve t-shirt styles can be worn alone as workout gear. So, if you work out, you will definitely get your money’s worth on many of these items!)
How We Choose This List of Under Scrubs
When deciding which under scrubs brand to feature, we’ve looked at a number of factors. We look for well-known and trusted brands in the medical field. We also consider comfort, breathability, durability, and style features when making our selections. Additionally, we find out what other RNs like you have to say about the under scrubs they prefer to wear.
We hope that with this guide, you’ll be able to find and create an under scrub that will keep you comfortable and stylish while on the job! Best of luck in your search!
What To Wear Under Scrub Tops?
There are several reasons why healthcare professionals may want undergarments under their scrub shirts:
Scrub tops are designed to fit loosely and provide coverage, but they can still expose areas of the body, such as the back or chest, that a healthcare worker may not want to show. Wearing long sleeve undershirts can provide added coverage and prevent accidental exposure.
Overall, wearing under scrub shirts is essential for maintaining comfort, hygiene, and professionalism in the healthcare setting.
Underscrub Long Sleeve T-Shirt
One of the best ways to ensure you have an under scrub long sleeve t-shirt ready for each shift is to buy them in packs of 3 or 5.
#1. Adar Long Sleeve Underscrub for Women (3 Pack)
Why We Love These Long Sleeve Undershirts
- Made of a blend of 65% polyester and 35% Cotton, which makes this long sleeve t shirt lightweight and easy to care for.
- The long sleeve t shirt has a classic fit, which means it’s designed to flatter a range of body types.
- These long sleeve scrub undershirts provide a soft base layer with great stretch – which makes them a great everyday choice. It has long sleeves and is knitted, which adds to its comfort factor.
- These soft scrub undershirts have a beautiful crew neckline with tonal stitching, which adds a touch of elegance. It’s also tagless, so you won’t have to deal with an itchy tag on the back of your neck.
Additional Info
- These long sleeve t-shirts come in packs of three in a variety of different colors
#2. Sivvan 2 Pack Women’s Comfort Long Sleeve T-Shirt/Underscrub Tee
Why We Love It
- Made of a blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, which makes it sturdy and durable.
- The shirt has a classic fit that’s designed to flatter a range of body types.
- The shirt has a double stitched crew neckline, which adds durability and a touch of style. It’s also tagless at the neck for comfort, which means you won’t have to deal with an itchy tag rubbing against your neck.
- The shirt is easy to care for with a machine wash.
Additional Info
- The long-sleeve t shirt comes in a variety of solid colors, so you can choose the one that best fits your style and preference. Comes in a pack of three.
#3. Neleus Women’s 3-Pack Workout Clothes Compression Running Shirt
Why We Love These
- The long sleeve t-shirt is made of a blend of 90% polyester and 10% spandex, which makes it stretchy and comfortable.
- It’s machine washable, which makes it easy to care for.
- The shirt’s super-soft fabric delivers incredible all-day comfort, which means it’s great for extended periods without feeling uncomfortable.
- The shirt’s moisture transport system wicks sweat to keep you dry and light during your workout.
- The shirt’s stretch fabric allows for a natural range of motion, which means you can move freely during your shift.
- This long sleeve t-shirt is suitable for all seasons
Additional Info
- The long sleeve t shirt size is comparably smaller, so it’s important to check the size chart of the third picture to select the appropriate size. For a tighter fitting long sleeve t-shirt, you can order your regular size, but if you want a regular fit, you should order one size up.
- Available in a variety of colors
What to wear under scrubs pants?
There are many options for you to stay warm under your scrub pants. A pair of breathable yoga pants, thermal underwear, or form-fitting spandex shorties are always a safe bet. You want to make sure that your scrubs are loose enough for the material to fit underneath your scrub pants.
Underscrub Leggings
#1. Under Armour Women’s Compression Leggings Pants
Why We Love These
- Made of 87% polyester and 13% elastane
- Dual-layer fabric with a brushed interior for warmth and a fast-drying exterior
- Moisture-wicking material helps keep you dry and comfortable
- ColdGear construction traps heat for added warmth
- Welded seams reduce chafing and irritation during intense activity
Additional Info
- Compression fit provides an ultra-tight, second-skin feel
#2.Under Armour Men’s Armour Heatgear Leggings
Why We Love These
- Made of 84% polyester and 16% elastane
- Imported product with pull-on closure and machine washable
- Strategically placed mesh panels increase ventilation where it’s needed most
- Moisture-wicking material helps to keep you dry and comfortable
- Wide elastic waistband with wordmark detail offers a comfortable, secure fit
- Updated gusset design provides ultimate support and comfort
Additional Info
- Includes a Drop-in Strength Pocket on the right side for easy storage
- Compression fit provides an ultra-tight, second-skin feel.
#3. Cadmus Women’s High Waist Spandex Yoga Shorts
Why We Love This
- Made of a blend of 85% polyester and 15% spandex.
- Has an elastic closure for a secure fit.
- The fabric is designed with 4-way stretch and is not see-through, making it ideal for activities like yoga, exercise, fitness, or everyday wear.
- The flatlock seams reduce chafing and increase comfort, and the gusseted crotch provides more freedom of movement.
- The fabric is quick-drying and sweat-wicking, which helps keep you dry and comfortable during your workout.
Additional Info
- The leggings feature two pockets that are large enough to hold a phone, card, or key securely.
- Comes in a pack of three and in a variety of colors.
What to wear under white scrubs?
In all honestly, white scrubs have never made a lot of sense to me. Studies have shown that when a nurse wears white scrubs to see a child on a pediatric unit, they appear scarier and even more intimidating than RNs in colorful scrubs with cartoon or holiday themes. Not to mention that they also clearly display every blood and bodily fluid stain, which looks pretty gross from a patient’s perspective.
Even more importantly, though, depending on the material, white scrubs can sometimes show your underwear! If that is the case, put on something neutral so that details of what is underneath your outfit won’t show through.
Even though white scrubs can be a pain, many institutions and nursing schools require white scrubs as part of their medical uniform. But the good news is that there are still options you can put on under your scrubs to stay warm and comfortable.
A white under scrub will help keep you warm without breaking the rules. But if your workplace or school allows it, consider a colorful under scrub so you can stand out from your peers.
#1. Adar Underscrubs for Women 3 Pack – White Long Sleeve Underscrub Comfort Tee
Why We Love These
- The product is made of a blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton.
- It has a pull-on closure.
- The long-sleeved shirt is designed to be soft and comfortable, providing a comfortable fit for women.
- The fabric is extra soft and silky, providing an additional layer of comfort.
Product Details
- It features a beautiful crew neckline with tonal stitching and is tagless for added comfort.
Compression Sleeves
Since my early nursing days, I have been a big fan of compression socks when I worked as a novice nurse on a neuro/trauma unit. Unfortunately, I didn’t start wearing them religiously underneath my scrubs until the middle of my first pregnancy.
#1. Calf Compression Sleeves for Men & Women
Why We Love These
- It maintains calf muscle stability during exercise or running to avoid varicose veins, shin splints, and restless legs syndrome.
- The kinesiology taping technology provides support, stability, and pain reduction throughout the calf.
- The footless compression socks are ideal for jobs that require you to be on your feet a lot.
- The calf compression sleeves come with a true graduated medical compression strength of 20-30mmHg, which helps improve performance while alleviating leg pain, inflammation, and swelling.
Additional Info
- To determine the proper size, measure the thickest part of your calf circumference, and refer to the sizing chart image.
#2. Rymora Leg Compression Sleeve, Calf Support Sleeves Legs For Men & Women
Additional Recommended Reading: The Best Compression Socks For Nurses
Why We Love These
- The calf compression sleeves for both men and women are made of high-quality materials that are safe and certified.
- These sleeves have a tailored blend of 54% nylon, 39% polyester, and 7% elastane.
- The ergonomic calf support helps relieve leg fatigue by activating the natural pain-relief mechanism of the body.
- The calf sleeves are breathable and have 3D ventilation, which is enabled by elastic, lightweight fabrics. They absorb and vent any sweat or water instantly for comfortable wearing.
Product Details
- These footless compression sleeves come in a variety of colors
Compression Socks
The most obvious thing that you might expect a nurse to wear underneath their scrubs is compression socks. You can find them in all different colors and patterns, ranging from silly (like bugs bunny or polka dot) to festive (like Halloween or Christmas themed), and everything in between.
I rarely see a nurse in a boring pair of compression socks. Why would they, when it is one of the few ways medical workers can bring some unique style to their medical uniform?
#1. Compression Socks For Women
Why We Love These
- The socks are made of 85% nylon and 15% polyester.
- The socks have mismatched designs that are colorful and fun.
- The toe and heel portions of the socks are reinforced for added support and comfort, making them durable and fashionable.
- The material of the compression socks has been upgraded to include 85% nylon, which provides greater flexibility and durability.
- The socks are form-fitting, lightweight, and breathable, and they provide premium support, comfort, and relief while maintaining joint stability.
- Compression techniques have been scientifically proven to relieve varicose veins, calf compression, and leg swelling issues. The compression and support are perfectly located on the heel, foot, calves, and toe areas, ensuring maximum comfort and stability.
Additional Info
Many doctors and trainers recommend compression socks, as they improve blood circulation and relieve leg pain by providing pressure that gradually decreases along the legs.
What to Wear Under Scrubs?
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Wear Under Scrubs
What should I wear under scrub tops?
Under your scrub top, you can wear comfortable and breathable clothing such as a t-shirt, undershirt, or scrub undershirt. It is recommended to avoid wearing bulky or heavy clothing as it can cause discomfort and restrict movement.
What to wear under scrub pants?
You can wear comfortable undergarments such as long underwear or compression leggings under scrub pants. It’s important to choose undergarments that fit well and do not bunch or cause discomfort during movement.
Are under scrubs comfortable?
Under scrubs can be comfortable if you choose the right fabric and fit. Look for undergarments made from soft, breathable materials such as cotton or moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics. Make sure to choose a size that fits well without being too tight or loose.
Should nurses wear compression socks?
Compression socks can provide several benefits for nurses who spend long hours on their feet. They can help improve blood flow, prevent swelling and fatigue, and reduce the risk of varicose veins.
What are the best long sleeve undershirts?
When it comes to determining the best quality long sleeve undershirts, personal preferences and needs can vary.
Factors such as fabric type, fit, comfort, scoop neck vs v neck, and intended use should be considered based on your specific needs and climate. It’s a good idea to read reviews, try different styles and brands, and select the one that suits you best.
Best Under Scrubs For Nurses Advice
I hope this article helped you answer the question, “What do I wear under my scrubs?” One final tip you might find helpful is to bring your scrubs with you to the store so you can try your under scrubs on with your uniform before you commit to buying.
Thanks for stopping by!
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