Blue Sky Scrubs - Wear This, Not That: Scrub Colors Explained

Jan 18

Wear This, Not That: Scrub Colors Explained

Have you ever wondered why there are so many color variants when it comes to scrubs? You may think that it is simply a fashion choice, but in reality there is much more to it.

When it comes to uniforms, many hospitals color code their employees according to which area of the hospital they work in. Others, however, allow their employees to choose their own scrubs colors and patterns.

There are, however, some commonalities in what the different color scrubs mean. Below, we will attempt to explain the most common color groupings and why hospitals color-code their employees.

Why Color-Code?

On the one hand, it makes complete sense to allow employees to choose their own scrubs colors and patterns, as they will be the ones spending their workdays in them, and it can be a fun way for employees to express themselves in a high-pressure work environment.

On the other hand, the lack of color coordination can also become confusing as it can be difficult to quickly distinguish between employees. Patients in distress are more likely to remember a staff member by their uniform color rather than by their name.

What Are The Traditional Meanings?

Like most things, some colors go back a long way, and they have traditional meanings in a hospital setting. While many hospitals do not follow these color traditions, they are interesting to know and it can be a helpful guide when choosing your scrubs.

Black scrubs are a formal and trendy choice amongst many medical students and cosmetology students because they exude seriousness and sophistication. However, by the nature of this color, it can sometimes have a negative effect on the wearer too, making them feel somewhat melancholic and less enthusiastic.
Brown scrubs are a neutral and down-to-earth choice, however, astonishingly they are also everyone's least-favorite color of scrubs. Research shows that this is due to its unfortunate association with bodily functions. Although brown is a non-threatening color, it is not a common choice.
Purple scrubs are perhaps considered less professional but they are an excellent choice when working with children. You may also see Nurse Aids wearing purple, and those working in the nursing field may also consider it.
Blue is one of the most popular scrub colors as this color is thought to encourage trust and ease anxiety. Blue is a soothing color and it can help calm down anxiety and even lower blood pressure.
Green is widely known to evoke feelings of healing and peace, and on a more practical level, it also hides stains much better than other colors. Green is very gentle on the eyes and it has been proven to lower blood pressure. Unsurprisingly, green is also the prime color used for painting hospital walls.
Yellow is a cheerful color that helps bring joy, but research shows that looking at the color yellow for a long time can affect the patient’s heart rate. Yellow is a common color to use amongst employees working in hospice care, as it does help to uplift mood.
Orange is an excellent choice for the fall and just as joyful as yellow. Children in particular like bright colors in a hospital setting.
Red is very uncommon because it is associated with blood and warning signs.
Burgundy is a universally flattering color and it is an excellent alternative for anyone who would prefer red scrubs.
White is a very traditional choice of scrubs and this color is widely worn around the world. Unfortunately, white is rather unforgiving when it comes to stain removal. White can also cause eye strain and headaches when looked at for a prolonged period of time.
Pink shows love and a nurturing feeling and they are a great choice especially on pediatric wards.

There are some scrubs colors that have deeper meanings which are rooted within hospital culture and history.

Green or Blue Scrubs

More often than not, you will see surgeons wearing green, blue, or teal scrubs and there is a fascinating reason behind this. In the past, surgeons and most doctors wore pure white. However, in the early 20th century, it was discovered that wearing green is easier on a surgeon's eyes, and unlike white scrubs, they do not cause eye strain and headaches

Furthermore, it has been discovered that green and blue make their eyes more sensitive to the color red, which in a hospital setting, especially in operating theaters, is extremely useful to both the surgeon and the patient. From a purely fashion point of view, green and blue also compliments most skin tones.

Medium and Dark Blue Scrubs

If a hospital color-codes its employees, it is prevalent for doctors to wear medium or dark blue scrubs. This is because it helps them stand out amongst others but it also helps to associate them with surgical teams closely.

Blue is an authoritative color that draws the eye, and it helps patients easily recognize people who can help if they are in distress. The color choice also allows other hospital employees to recognize who is best fit to help in a medical crisis.

White Scrubs

Like we previously mentioned, white scrubs were a common choice in the past for nearly all hospital workers. However, this changed throughout the 20th century. Despite this, many still associate white scrubs with nurses because it helps promote the general feelings of order, authority, and purity. When the nursing profession was purely female orientated, it does explain why this color became prevalent throughout history. Although white has been the preferred choice of the medical profession throughout history, it is also the most unforgiving color when it comes to removing stains.

Let Us Help Get You the Right Scrubs

With all of the choices out there, there’s no need to get stuck with boring scrubs or ones that simply aren’t comfortable. Instead, you can choose the type of scrubs that work best for you and then choose from designs that match your unique personality.

At Blue Sky Co., we have been creating awesome scrubs for over 15 years. Blue Sky is 100% fair trade and authentically made, and there is nothing we love more than supporting medical professionals.

Because nothing but the best is acceptable for our medical professionals, we offer a 100% money-back guarantee on all of our products. If, for any reason, our products didn’t meet your expectations, we will exchange or issue a refund within 30 days of your original purchase date.

If you’re ready to start wearing hand-made, ultra-comfy scrubs designed exclusively for you, check out the shop and find the best scrubs available, just for you.

David Marquardt