Washing scrubs at home is straightforward. A key method involves using warm water and adding white vinegar during the wash cycle.
Keeping your medical scrubs clean and sanitary is crucial. For home washing machines, one effective technique recommended is to wash scrubs in warm water and add white vinegar.
Step-by-Step Home Scrub Washing
Here's a simple breakdown based on best practices for home washing:
1. Prepare Your Scrubs
Before washing, check pockets and remove any items. It's often recommended to turn scrubs inside out to protect the color and fabric surface during the wash cycle.
2. Select the Right Temperature
According to guidelines, for home washing machines, warm water is around 90 degrees F. This temperature is ideal for cleaning fabrics effectively without causing significant fading or shrinking, helping to maintain the integrity and appearance of your scrubs over time.
3. Add Detergent and Vinegar
Add your regular laundry detergent according to the product instructions. For enhanced cleaning and fabric care, add a half-cup of white vinegar to the load.
- Why Add Vinegar? Adding white vinegar serves multiple purposes when washing scrubs:
- It helps to set the color, minimizing dye bleeding.
- It keeps the fabric feeling soft.
- Vinegar can also act as a natural deodorizer and mild disinfectant.
4. Run the Wash Cycle
Start your washing machine using the selected warm water setting. Choose a standard wash cycle appropriate for durable fabrics.
5. Drying Your Scrubs
After washing, you can either hang your scrubs to air dry or tumble dry on a low heat setting to prevent shrinking and damage to the fabric.
Quick Reference Table
| Step | Action | Detail / Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Check pockets, turn inside out | Protects fabric and color |
| Water Temperature | Use warm water (~90°F) | Cleans effectively without excessive fading/shrinking |
| Additions | Add detergent + add white vinegar | Detergent cleans; Vinegar sets color & softens fabric |
| Drying | Air dry or tumble dry on low heat | Prevents shrinkage and fabric damage |
By following these steps, which incorporate using warm water and white vinegar, you can effectively clean and maintain your scrubs at home.
