How Many Scrubs Do You Actually Need? Building a Work Wardrobe
Most people need about 3 to 5 sets of scrubs — roughly one clean set per workday, plus a spare or two so you're never caught short on laundry day. The exact number depends on how many shifts you work a week and how often you do laundry. Here's a simple way to land on your number, and how to build a wardrobe that's easy to wear and easy to wash.
The simple formula
Start here:
Count your shifts per week.
Add 1–2 spares for laundry days, spills, and the set that's still drying.
That's your number.
YOU WORK… | AIM FOR |
2–3 shifts/week | 3–4 sets |
4–5 shifts/week | 5–6 sets |
6+ shifts/week | 6–7 sets |
If you do laundry less often, size up your count so you always have a clean set ready.
Build a mix-and-match wardrobe
You don't need every set in a different color. The easiest wardrobe is a small capsule you can mix:
Pick one or two colors — a signature shade (cobalt or teal) plus a neutral (black or navy).
Buy tops and pants you can swap across the week, so any top works with any pant.
Add one matched set for the days you want to look most polished with zero thought.
With a capsule, you get many outfits from a few pieces — and getting dressed before a shift takes seconds.
Sets or separates?
Matched sets look the most put-together and are the easiest grab-and-go — and at Ourz, a set is $98 versus $100 for the two pieces bought separately, so buying the set actually saves you money.
Separates let you size your top and bottom differently (great if your top and bottom sizes don't match) and mix colors freely. Ourz tops and pants are $50 each.
Most people do best with a couple of matched sets plus a few separates to mix in.
Build your workweek rotation
If you're building a dependable everyday scrub rotation, the Ourz Classic Jogger Set is a natural place to start. The Classic collection gives you versatile options that can move easily across your workweek while keeping the same comfortable, curve-conscious fit.
Start with the number of sets that matches your schedule, then build your rotation around the colors you'll reach for most.
Make them last
Buying a few sets only pays off if they last. Rotate them so no single set wears out, and follow simple care — wash cold, tumble low or hang dry, no bleach — to protect color and stretch. A rotation of five well-cared-for sets easily outlasts two sets worn constantly.
Frequently asked questions
How many scrubs do you need?
About 3–5 sets for most people — roughly one clean set per workday, plus a spare or two for laundry days. Work more shifts, and lean toward 6–7.
How many pairs of scrubs should I own as a new nurse or tech?
Start with 3–4 sets so you always have a clean pair while others are in the wash, then add more as you learn your routine.
Is it cheaper to buy scrub sets or separates?
At Ourz, a set is $98 versus $100 for the pieces separately, so a set saves a little. Separates cost $50 each and let you mix sizes and colors.
How do you build a scrub wardrobe?
Pick one or two colors, buy tops and pants that all mix and match, add a matched set for polished days, and keep a rotation so nothing wears out.
How often should you replace scrubs?
When they fade, thin, pill, or lose their stretch. Good care and a rotation of several sets stretch their life significantly.
Build your workweek rotation with the Classic Jogger Set or shop all products.
Written by Collena Robertson, DMD — founder of Ourz Scrubs, curve-conscious scrubs in sizes XS–3XL, sold as pieces ($50) and money-saving sets ($98).
Comments