Working in healthcare can expose nurses and other professionals to countless pathogens and contaminants that cling to your scrubs throughout your shift. Learning to properly disinfect your nursing scrubs at home eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses that will protect both your health and your investment in quality garments. After driving home from a long shift, follow these cleaning tips to prepare your scrubs for another day at the hospital.
Pre-treat Stains Immediately
Address blood, bodily fluids, and medication stains as soon as you get home. Before throwing your clothes in the wash, rinse the affected area with cold water, then apply hydrogen peroxide or an enzyme-based stain remover. Allow the treatment to sit for 15 minutes before washing.
Use Hot Water for Maximum Disinfection
Once the fabric is ready, wash your scrubs in the hottest water temperature the fabric can handle, typically 140°F or higher. Hot water kills bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms more effectively than warm or cold water. For scrubs with blended fabric materials, check the care label first to avoid damaging synthetic blends that may require slightly cooler temperatures.
Add Antimicrobial Detergent or Bleach
Choose a heavy-duty detergent with antimicrobial properties or add chlorine bleach to white scrubs. For colored scrubs, use color-safe bleach or add white vinegar to boost disinfecting power. While you pour in your cleaning solution, measure carefully, as too much bleach can weaken fabric fibers and cause premature wear.
Separate Scrubs from Regular Laundry
As a closet organization tip for healthcare workers, designate specific hampers and storage areas for work uniforms and everyday apparel. Washing your nursing scrubs separately from your family’s clothing and personal items prevents cross-contamination and allows you to use stronger disinfecting agents without worrying about damaging delicate fabrics.
Extend the Wash Cycle Duration
To properly disinfect your nursing scrubs at home, select a longer wash cycle for a thorough cleaning and adequate contact time with disinfecting agents. The extended agitation and soaking time break down stubborn contaminants and fully penetrates the fabric with the cleaning agents.
Dry on High Heat When Possible
Use the highest heat setting your scrubs can tolerate in the dryer. High temperatures provide an additional layer of pathogen elimination. If you need to airdry your garments, choose a sunny outdoor location where UV rays provide natural disinfection.
Store Clean Scrubs Properly
Once completely dry, store your clean scrubs in a closed closet or dresser drawer away from contaminated items. Avoid leaving them in laundry baskets or open areas where they might collect dust, pet hair, or other contaminants before your next shift.
Healthcare workers should disinfect and thoroughly clean their scrubs after every shift to maintain proper hygiene standards. Deep cleaning once or twice weekly, especially around high-contact areas, will further prevent any contaminants from entering your home. Establishing this consistent routine prepares you for demanding work weeks and prevents costly replacements for years to come.
