Best Eco-Friendly Medical Scrubs for the Health Professional in 2025
Introduction: Why Choosing the Right Medical Scrubs Matters More Than Ever
Medical scrubs are more than just uniforms—they’re the foundation of every shift in the healthcare field. For today’s health professionals, scrubs must check multiple boxes: comfort, durability, functionality, and increasingly, sustainability.
Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, medical assistant, or surgeon, wearing eco-friendly medical scrub sets not only helps reduce your environmental footprint but also supports fair labor practices and offers high-performance comfort.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
What makes medical scrubs eco-friendly
How to choose the best scrubs for doctors
A review of top eco-friendly scrubs brands
Key features health professionals should look for
A detailed FAQ section covering colors, materials, and scrub codes
Let’s dive into the future of healthcare uniforms—where ethics, comfort, and innovation come together.
What Are Eco-Friendly Medical Scrubs?
Eco-friendly medical scrubs are designed for healthcare professionals who want to minimize their environmental impact without sacrificing performance, durability, or comfort. These scrubs are made with sustainable materials and produced through ethical manufacturing practices—offering a smarter, greener alternative to traditional uniforms.
Sustainable, High-Performance Materials
Top eco-friendly scrubs brands use innovative textiles that are kinder to the planet and ideal for clinical settings:
Recycled polyester (rPET): Repurposed from post-consumer plastic bottles, this fabric offers 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and colorfast performance.
TENCEL™ Lyocell: A soft, breathable, and biodegradable fiber made from sustainably harvested wood pulp—known for temperature regulation and antimicrobial properties.
Organic cotton: Grown without harmful chemicals or GMOs, this fabric is gentle on sensitive skin and supports regenerative farming practices.
These materials reduce carbon emissions, conserve water, and decrease reliance on virgin petroleum-based synthetics commonly found in standard medical scrubs.
Ethical & Responsible Production Standards
True sustainable scrubs are made with people and the planet in mind. When choosing a scrub brand, look for:
Fair wages and safe working conditions across the supply chain
Eco-conscious packaging that’s recyclable or compostable
Industry certifications like:
OEKO-TEX® (free from toxic substances)
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)
Fair Trade Certified (ensures social and environmental standards)
By supporting brands that prioritize ethical production, you help build a healthcare uniform industry rooted in responsibility, transparency, and sustainability.
Key Features of the Best Scrubs for Health Professionals
Comfort and Wearability for Long Shifts
When you’re on your feet for 8 to 12 hours—or longer—comfort isn’t optional. The best medical scrubs for healthcare professionals prioritize all-day wearability without compromising function.
Look for eco-friendly scrubs that feature:
4-way stretch fabric: Allows unrestricted movement whether you’re rounding, assisting, or charting
Tagless labels: Prevent chafing and irritation, especially under PPE or lab coats
Breathable, sweat-wicking weaves: Help regulate body temperature and reduce overheating
Soft-touch sustainable fibers: Like TENCEL™ or recycled poly blends that feel good against sensitive skin
The best scrubs don’t just “fit”—they move with you and keep you feeling fresh through every shift.
Functionality Designed for High-Stress Healthcare Settings
In high-pressure environments like ICUs, ERs, or surgical floors, scrubs need to be as hardworking as the professionals who wear them.
Smart design features to look for in eco-friendly scrubs:
Multiple utility pockets: Ideal for carrying pens, phones, stethoscopes, trauma shears, or gloves
Loop attachments: Built-in loops for ID badges, access cards, or key rings
Reinforced seams and bar-tacking: Boost durability and reduce tearing during repeated wear and washing
Zippers, snaps, or magnetic closures: Provide quick access to tools without fuss
These design elements ensure that sustainable medical scrubs support not just the planet—but your performance.
Style Meets Professionalism
Today’s eco-friendly scrubs brands are challenging the idea that medical uniforms must be bland or boxy. You can be professional and polished while still wearing recycled or organic materials.
Modern style upgrades include:
Tailored fits and contoured seams: Offer a clean, structured silhouette that enhances mobility
Jogger scrub pants and v-neck or mock wrap tops: Bring fashion-forward appeal to clinical wear
Professional color options: Navy, charcoal, ceil blue, and black—colors commonly approved in hospital dress codes
The best scrubs for doctors, nurses, and health professionals combine function, fashion, and eco-consciousness, making it easy to look good while doing good.
Best Eco-Friendly Scrubs Brands in 2025
With more healthcare professionals demanding scrubs that align with ethical values and environmental sustainability, a new generation of brands is rising to meet the challenge. These brands offer thoughtful design, innovative fabrics, and reliable performance—all while reducing waste and supporting fair production.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of four leading eco-friendly scrubs brands that are redefining what it means to get dressed for work in medicine.
LAGO Scrubs – Premium Performance and Sustainability
LAGO is a performance-driven scrubs brand built by healthcare professionals who understand exactly what the job demands. Every piece is designed to meet the realities of long shifts and high expectations, without compromising on sustainability.
Price Range: $32–$46
Materials: Recycled plastic bottles with 4-way stretch
Fabric & Function
Made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastics, LAGO scrubs provide advanced stretch, breathability, and moisture-wicking. The fabric is ideal for extended wear and demanding clinical environments.
Fit & Style
Tailored cuts, modern jogger options, and inclusive sizing make LAGO both flattering and functional. Gender-neutral fits and clean color palettes align with professional standards across departments.
Sustainability Standards
Eco-friendly packaging
Ethical manufacturing practices
Diverse leadership and supply transparency
Best Fit For: Physicians, surgeons, and full-time clinicians who need high-performance gear with an eco-conscious foundation.
Barco One – Built for High-Intensity Healthcare Environments
Barco One has become a trusted name in high-mobility medical settings where quick movement, durability, and sweat control are essential. Their scrubs are purpose-built for healthcare professionals who thrive in fast-paced roles.
Price Range: $17–$45
Materials: Recycled polyester blend with performance tech
Fabric & Function
Barco One scrubs offer lightweight, breathable wear with moisture-wicking and anti-static features. The brand’s standout 7-pocket pants provide room for everything from phones to trauma shears.
Fit & Style
A practical and slightly sporty silhouette allows free movement while maintaining a sharp, uniform-ready appearance. Optional layering pieces like zip vests add versatility.
Sustainability Standards
Uses recycled synthetic fibers
Suggests GuppyFriend bags to reduce microplastic pollution
Committed to low-waste production and packaging
Best Fit For: ER staff, ICU nurses, surgical techs, and any role that demands durable, functional scrubs that move as fast as you do.
Mediclo – Ethical, Comfortable, and Conscious
Mediclo is a standout brand for those who want premium comfort with a purpose. With a focus on soft, plant-based materials and ethical transparency, Mediclo makes it easy to look and feel good—inside and out.
Price Range: $39–$59
Materials: TENCEL™ Lyocell
Fabric & Function
TENCEL™ is known for being ultra-soft, breathable, and biodegradable. It’s temperature-regulating, making Mediclo scrubs ideal for those with sensitive skin or PPE-related discomfort.
Fit & Style
Sleek, minimalist, and modern. Mediclo scrubs lean toward a more fashion-forward look with streamlined silhouettes that never restrict movement.
Sustainability Standards
Transparent supply chains
Fair wages and verified safe production environments
Biodegradable fabric with lower environmental footprint
Best Fit For: Dermatologists, family physicians, medical educators, or any clinical staff looking for luxury-level comfort with clear ethical sourcing.
Skechers by Careismatic – Budget-Friendly and Built to Move
Skechers scrubs blend affordability with surprising performance. Designed for healthcare workers who want sustainable basics without paying a premium, this line delivers comfort, style, and utility at an accessible price point.
Price Range: $15–$37
Materials: Recycled polyester
Fabric & Function
Durable enough for daily wear, these scrubs feature moisture resistance and comfortable stretch. Elastic waistbands and breathable weaves support movement throughout the shift.
Fit & Style
Athletically inspired, Skechers scrubs include design accents like contrast trim, side vents, and jogger-style pants. They’re available in a wide range of colors and sizes.
Sustainability Standards
Uses post-consumer recycled fibers
Budget-conscious, eco-minded production
Prioritizes mass accessibility over niche exclusivity
Best Fit For: CNAs, phlebotomists, nursing students, or med techs seeking affordable, practical, and responsibly made scrubs.
How to Choose the Best Medical Scrubs for Doctors
For doctors and healthcare professionals, scrubs aren’t just clothing—they’re work gear. The right pair must combine fit, functionality, and long-lasting durability. Here’s what to look for when choosing the best medical scrubs for doctors and clinical staff.
Fit & Form: Designed for Movement and Professionalism
Scrubs for doctors must balance comfort with a polished, clinical look. You need a uniform that supports fluid movement between high-stakes procedures and patient consults, while still appearing sharp and clean.
What to prioritize:
Slim, tailored fits that maintain a professional silhouette without restricting movement
Breathable fabrics that allow airflow and reduce sweat under lab coats or PPE
Low-profile cuts that sit smoothly under white coats and outer layers, preventing bulk or bunching
Shape-retention properties that keep the scrub set structured throughout long shifts and multiple wears
This ensures you not only look the part, but stay physically comfortable during high-focus work.
Utility & Storage: Function Built into Every Seam
Healthcare professionals carry tools—often more than you’d expect. From phones and pagers to trauma shears, alcohol wipes, and ID badges, modern scrubs must offer organized and discreet storage that doesn’t interfere with movement.
What to look for:
At least six pockets total between top and pants, including deep side, chest, and cargo options
Hidden compartments for valuables like smartphones, credit cards, or medical notes
Magnetic or snap closures for quick-access items that still need secure fastening
Reinforced stitching or bartacking at pocket stress points to prevent wear and tear
This level of built-in utility allows you to carry what you need, where you need it—without compromising on style or function.
Durability: Built to Withstand Daily Wear and Tear
A great pair of scrubs shouldn’t start to fray or fade after a few washes. Look for scrubs engineered for long-term performance, especially if you’re in a high-wash, high-wear clinical setting.
Key durability indicators:
Machine-wash tolerance of 50+ cycles without losing stretch, softness, or color
Fade- and wrinkle-resistance for a clean, pressed look every shift—without ironing
Shape memory and fabric recovery to prevent sagging, bagging, or warping after long wear
Reinforced hems and seams, especially in stress-prone areas like knees, elbows, and underarms
Durable, well-constructed scrubs are an investment—not just in your comfort, but in your professionalism and presentation.
Most Common Scrub Colors in Hospitals (and What They Mean)
In hospitals and clinical environments, scrub color isn’t just about style—it often signals role, department, or level of authority. Choosing the right color not only aligns with hospital policy but also supports professional identity and patient comfort. Here’s what each common color typically represents:
Navy Blue: The Gold Standard for Medical Authority
Navy scrubs are one of the most commonly worn colors among physicians, specialists, and general medical staff. They’re clean, polished, and easy to keep looking sharp. Navy also conveys a sense of trust, professionalism, and calm—ideal for building patient confidence during exams and consultations.
Best for: Doctors, specialists, family medicine, outpatient clinics
Ceil Blue: The Surgical Classic
Ceil blue scrubs are a staple in surgical settings due to their high visibility under bright lighting and contrast with bodily fluids. The color promotes a sterile, clinical appearance while helping reduce eye fatigue during long procedures. Its calming tone is also preferred in high-stress environments.
Best for: Surgeons, OR nurses, surgical techs
Hunter Green: The Operating Room Favorite
Hunter green scrubs are another popular choice in operating rooms. This deeper green tone reduces glare under surgical lights and is said to ease visual strain. It also helps mask stains better than lighter shades. Many hospital systems designate green specifically for surgical departments.
Best for: Surgical teams, trauma units, critical care departments
Black: Bold, Modern, and Clinical
Black scrubs are increasingly popular in emergency and ICU departments, as well as in private medical practices like dermatology or aesthetics. The color projects a modern, minimalist look that stands out without feeling overly formal. It’s also excellent at hiding stains and wear.
Best for: ER teams, ICU staff, anesthesiologists, cosmetic and private practice professionals
Grey: The Neutral Utility Option
Grey scrubs are often used to distinguish support staff and technical roles within a hospital. The color is professional yet understated, and it’s commonly assigned to lab techs, imaging departments, and administrative clinical support. Its neutrality helps it blend across departments.
Best for: Radiologists, lab technicians, admin medical staff, interns
Medical vs Surgical Scrubs: What’s the Difference?
While the terms medical scrubs and surgical scrubs are often used interchangeably, they serve very different purposes in clinical environments. Understanding the distinction is essential—especially when choosing the right set for your role or facility.
1. Use Case: Routine vs. High-Sterility Settings
Medical scrubs are worn in everyday clinical environments such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, dental offices, and labs. They’re designed for comfort, mobility, and professional appearance but aren’t sterile.
Surgical scrubs, on the other hand, are worn by surgical teams inside operating rooms. These must meet sterility requirements to prevent infection during invasive procedures and are either disposable or laundered in a controlled facility.
2. Sterility and Hygiene Protocols
Medical scrubs are typically laundered at home or in commercial washers and are not sterile. They’re suitable for general contact but not for open-body procedures.
Surgical scrubs are sterilized under strict protocols and must be stored, handled, and worn according to infection control guidelines. Staff often change into surgical scrubs once inside a sterile environment.
3. Design and Color Variety
Medical scrubs come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and fits. You’ll find options with jogger pants, v-necks, mock wraps, and even designer cuts tailored to specific roles or preferences.
Surgical scrubs are usually more uniform and basic in appearance. Most hospitals use standard colors like ceil blue or green for easy identification and stain masking.
4. Fabric and Durability
Medical scrubs are typically made from more durable and stylish fabrics like recycled polyester, TENCEL™, or cotton blends. These are built to last through dozens of washes while maintaining color and shape.
Surgical scrubs are often made of lightweight, fluid-resistant materials. Many are disposable or constructed for short-term use in sterile zones. Some reusable versions are still lighter and more standardized than general medical scrubs.
Summary Table
| Feature | Medical Scrubs | Surgical Scrubs |
|---|---|---|
| Use | General daily clinical wear | In operating rooms for sterile procedures |
| Sterility | Non-sterile | Sterile; laundered under controlled settings |
| Design | Wide range of styles and colors | Basic designs; limited to hospital-assigned colors |
| Fabric | Durable, breathable, often stylish | Lightweight, sometimes disposable or fluid-resistant |
Why Sustainability in Healthcare Uniforms Matters
The healthcare industry is one of the largest consumers of textiles globally, and with millions of professionals wearing scrubs every day, the environmental toll adds up fast. Most conventional scrubs are made from virgin polyester or synthetic blends that contribute to carbon emissions, plastic waste, and unethical labor practices.
Switching to eco-friendly medical scrubs is a small but powerful way for health professionals to reduce their environmental footprint—while still meeting the high demands of their work environments.
1. Reduces Carbon Emissions and Resource Waste
Sustainable scrubs made from recycled polyester, TENCEL™, or organic cotton require less energy, water, and fossil fuels to produce. By choosing scrubs made from repurposed or regenerative materials, you help minimize greenhouse gas emissions and slow the depletion of non-renewable resources.
2. Diverts Plastic from Landfills and Oceans
Scrubs made from recycled plastic bottles (rPET) give new life to waste that would otherwise pollute waterways and fill landfills. Each set of recycled scrubs can repurpose 6–10 bottles, helping to fight plastic pollution directly through your wardrobe.
3. Promotes Greener, More Responsible Healthcare Systems
Eco-conscious scrub choices send a message. They signal to hospitals, suppliers, and peers that sustainability matters—even in the high-pressure world of healthcare. Choosing sustainable uniforms sets a new standard and contributes to broader hospital initiatives around waste reduction, LEED certification, and ethical procurement.
4. Supports Fair Trade and Ethical Labor
Many eco-friendly scrubs brands prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and transparent supply chains. This helps shift the garment industry—especially medical apparel—toward more humane and equitable practices, ensuring that your purchase supports dignity, not exploitation.
Leading by Example in Healthcare Sustainability
Every mindful decision counts. By choosing scrubs that are ethically made and environmentally sound, doctors, nurses, and health professionals can model sustainable behavior without sacrificing function, performance, or budget. It’s not just what you wear—it’s what it says about your commitment to both patient care and planetary health.
Conclusion: Smart Scrubs for Smarter Healthcare
Choosing eco-friendly medical scrubs isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about aligning your professional gear with your personal and organizational values. Today’s top scrubs combine what matters most:
Modern, ergonomic fit designed for clinical performance and long hours
High-performance materials that are breathable, durable, and sustainably sourced
Ethical manufacturing that supports fair labor and transparent supply chains
Long-term value, offering more washes, better comfort, and less waste
Whether you’re replacing a worn-out set, curating your daily rotation, or sourcing scrubs for your entire practice or department, you now have the knowledge to make smarter, more sustainable decisions.
Healthcare is about care in every sense. That includes caring for the environment, the people who make your uniforms, and your own comfort on the job.
Upgrade with intention. Choose scrubs that work as hard—and as consciously—as you do.
Go green. Feel good. Work smart—one set at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best brand depends on your priorities. LAGO is praised for its balance of sustainability, style, and durability—made from recycled plastic with a performance fit. Barco One is trusted in fast-paced environments for its 7-pocket designs and quick-dry fabrics. Mediclo is favored for its ultra-soft TENCEL™ fabric and ethical supply chain. All three are excellent for health professionals who want reliable, eco-friendly medical scrubs.
Doctors typically need scrubs that combine structure, stretch, and storage. Barco One is great for high-mobility roles like ER or hospitalists due to its comfort and technical details. Mediclo offers breathable luxury, making it ideal for long outpatient days or consult-heavy roles. LAGO offers the most complete package with professional fits, sustainable materials, and pocket-smart designs suited for both clinics and surgical environments.
Most doctors wear navy blue, black, or ceil blue scrubs. These shades are widely accepted in hospitals, align with professional color codes, and help differentiate departments. Navy blue is most common in general practice, ceil blue is traditional in surgical areas, and black is used in ICU, ER, or private clinics for a sleek, modern appearance.
Black scrubs are typically worn by professionals in emergency medicine, intensive care, anesthesiology, or cosmetic specialties. Some hospitals assign black to staff who need to stand out from general medical teams. The color is also favored in clinics focused on aesthetics or private care due to its modern, polished look and resistance to visible stains.
Surgical scrubs are sterile or sterilized uniforms worn exclusively in the operating room. They are often laundered in controlled environments and follow strict infection control protocols. Medical scrubs are worn throughout hospitals and clinics for daily duties; they are non-sterile, more customizable in design and color, and often washed at home or commercially.
The best fabrics combine performance and sustainability. Recycled polyester blends offer excellent stretch, moisture control, and resistance to wrinkles or fading. TENCEL™ Lyocell provides softness, breathability, and is ideal for those with sensitive skin or long working hours. Both fabrics support durability and are frequently used by eco-conscious brands.
Grey scrubs are commonly worn by lab technicians, radiology staff, phlebotomists, and administrative clinical support. The neutral color distinguishes support roles from direct care providers like nurses or doctors. In some hospitals, grey is also used for interns, students, or float staff to visually separate them from permanent teams.
