What to wear under scrubs - A complete guide

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Feeling comfortable as you do your job is of the utmost importance, especially when you’re working 12-hour shifts. Scrubs are designed to be comfortable for all-day wear, but that doesn’t stop you from feeling the cold at times. Knowing what you can and can’t wear under your scrubs is important for helping to keep a sterile environment in medical spaces. 

Scrubs are designed to implement a sanitary workplace and offer a uniform, polished look to medical professionals. 

But, it’s important to note that not everyone in medical environments can wear other items underneath their scrubs, such as operating room teams who need to reduce the risk of contamination. 

However, there are other medical departments that allow for additional items to be worn under your scrubs, as pathogens aren’t as much of a risk factor in these areas. 

Here, we discuss what to wear under your scrubs, what to avoid, and the best base layers to ensure comfort all day long. 

What to wear under your scrubs 

What you wear under your scrubs depends on the effect that you’re trying to achieve, are you looking for an extra layer of protection or additional coverage, or would you like extra warmth from a base layer? The answer to this will help to determine what’s best to wear underneath your scrubs. Here are some ideas: 

  • Under scrubs tops: These are pieces designed specifically for wearing underneath your scrubs. They’re typically made from breathable fabrics yet still provide added layers of warmth. 

  • Well-fitted vest top: If you want to conceal underwear or add another layer without too much heat, you could wear a well-fitted vest top that stays in place under your scrub top. 

  • Cycling shorts: You could add a pair of cycling shorts underneath your scrub trousers for added comfort and protection against chaffing or as a way of concealing any knicker lines. 

  • Thermal underwear: During the colder months, you may benefit from wearing thermal underwear to help keep you warm. This base layer is ideal for cold medical environments if you’re likely to spend time in them. 

How do I choose the ideal undergarments for my scrubs? 

Now that you know the types of garments to consider wearing under your scrubs, here are some suggestions for finding the perfect fit, colour and type. 

When it comes to your specific workplace, it’s always best to ensure that you adhere to their guidelines, so make sure you check with someone senior that you’re able to wear these items before you purchase them. You don’t want to waste your money. 

Colour 

You’ll likely have a set colour of scrubs that you can wear for work, so you’ll need to stick to those. 

When it comes to finding items to wear underneath your scrubs, you’ll either want to choose the same colours, maybe just in different shade variants or lighter colour options, or stick to nude or white if your scrub colour is light. 

Don’t wear dark base layers if your scrubs are light, as you’ll likely be able to see them through and isn’t particularly flattering. 

Fit 

Scrubs are designed for the wearer to feel free and comfortable while carrying out their job. They shouldn’t feel restrictive in any way and should certainly not prohibit movement. Under scrub clothing should be fitted in the same way. This means that they should fit snuggling against the body but should also be flexible enough to allow freedom of movement. 

These are items that should be layered seamlessly under your scrubs. 

Type 

This will come down to personal preference and the environment you’re working in. If you want your scrubs to keep you warm, you’ll need thermal base layers. If you want an added layer of protection, you'll need something a little lighter that’s seamless and comfortable. 

If you choose a long-sleeve undershirt, you need to make sure that it sits at your wrists or can easily be pushed up so you can keep your hands clean and clear. 

What to wear under white scrubs 

If your scrubs are white or really light in colour, you might have the dreaded VPL situation. So, what should you wear under your white scrubs? Well, nude underwear is always going to be the best option. 

You might also prefer to wear nude or neutral coloured spandex or cycling short, as well as a seamless top or vest, to add a base layer of coverage. 

Of course, you don’t want something that is too restrictive. To create a flawless silhouette, look for items that are seamless or have no VPL. 

What should I avoid wearing under my scrubs? 

There are certain things you should avoid wearing under your scrubs, particularly if you’re not allowed to wear them within your department. 

But it’s also advisable to not wear things that are going to make you look unprofessional. So, ill-fitted items, heavily patterned pieces, loose-hanging hemlines or sleeves. Items that might interfere with you doing your job. It’s also best to avoid items that have uncomfortable or restrictive fabrics. 

Does my medical environment allow for items under scrubs? 

Unfortunately, not every medical setting will allow you to wear garments under your scrubs. 

This is done for hygiene reasons. It’s always best to speak to your employer or someone in a senior position who can assist you with whether or not you’re allowed to wear items under your scrubs. 

Under-scrub layers can be beneficial to the wearer, but in medical spaces, sanitation is of the utmost importance. So, you will always have to adhere to the rules. 

Finding the perfect balance between comfort, professionalism, and adherence to workplace policies is crucial when choosing what to wear under scrubs. 

What are you wearing your under scrubs pieces for? Which have you found to be the most comfortable and practical solutions?