NURSING SCRUBS MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2025-2032)

Global Nursing Scrubs Market Size and Forecast – 2025 to 2032

The Global Nursing Scrubs Market is estimated to be valued at USD 3.12 Bn in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 5.31 Bn by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9% from 2025 to 2032. This steady growth is driven by increasing demand from healthcare facilities worldwide, supported by rising healthcare expenditures and expanding nursing populations. Innovations in fabric technology and comfort-oriented designs also contribute significantly to the market expansion during this period.

Key Takeaways of the Global Nursing Scrubs Market

• In 2025, top wear scrubs represent the most prominent category in the global nursing scrubs market, accounting for an estimated 42.2% of the market share.
• Within the gender segmentation, male scrubs lead with a projected share of 45.5% in 2025.
• Disposable scrubs are expected to dominate the usability segment, accounting for 55.6% of the market share in 2025.
• North America is expected to lead the market, holding a share of 39.3% in 2025. Asia Pacific is anticipated to be the fastest-growing region, with a market share of 23.5% in 2025. 

Market Overview

Market trends indicate a strong shift towards sustainable and antimicrobial nursing scrubs, reflecting growing awareness about hygiene and environmental impact within healthcare settings. Additionally, the integration of smart textiles equipped with sensors for monitoring health vitals is gaining traction, offering enhanced functionality. Customization and stylish designs are increasingly preferred by healthcare professionals, further spurring the market growth. The market also benefits from increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure, especially in emerging economies, driving higher demand for quality nursing apparel.

Currents Events and their Impact

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Segmental Insights

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Nursing Scrubs Market Insights, By Product Type - Top wear scrubs lead owing to their essential role in healthcare professionals’ daily attire and versatility

Top wear scrubs stand out as the most significant segment in the global nursing scrubs market with an estimated market share of 42.2% in 2025 primarily because they represent the most visible and functional component of the typical healthcare uniform. Nurses and other medical staff wear top wear scrubs as the primary garment that provides both comfort and professional aesthetics during long, demanding shifts. The design of top wear scrubs typically prioritizes breathability, ease of movement, and quick drying, which are crucial factors in environments where hygiene and rapid response matter.

In November 2021, Livinguard, a Swiss-based leader in self-disinfecting hygiene technology, launched its first Nursing Scrubs collection made with an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered textile that continuously kills 99.99% of bacteria, offering long-lasting hygienic protection along with comfort and style. The new line of scrubs, underscrubs, and lab coats is hypoallergenic, wash-durable, and designed with practical features like multiple pockets, setting a new standard for healthcare apparel by combining safety, fashion, and functionality for medical professionals.

Another driver behind the dominance of top wear scrubs is the customization aspect. Healthcare institutions and staff often seek tops in varied colors, styles, and fabric blends to match dress codes, designate departments, or foster team identity. This encourages manufacturers to innovate with fabrics that offer moisture-wicking properties, antimicrobial treatment, and enhanced durability without compromising comfort.

Nursing Scrubs Market Insights, By Gender - Male scrubs dominate due to increased male participation in the nursing profession and functional design tailored to men

The male scrubs segment is expected to lead the gender-based division primarily due to the evolving demographics of the healthcare workforce with a share of 45.5% in 2025, where there has been an encouraging surge in the number of male nurses and medical staff globally. This trend is reshaping the market demand, as more men enter nursing roles and require scrubs that fit their particular body shapes, preferences, and comfort needs. Unlike unisex scrubs, which prioritize a generic fit, male scrubs typically provide better tailoring with adjustments in dimensions such as shoulder width, torso length, and sleeve length, making them more appealing to men and encourage brand loyalty.

Additionally, male scrubs often emphasize a balance between practicality and professional appearance, incorporating features such as reinforced stitching, extra pocket space for carrying instruments, and fabric choices that withstand rigorous use while maintaining comfort. The growing recognition of male healthcare workers encourages manufacturers and healthcare institutions to stock separate male scrubs lines, thereby further boosting this segment's prominence.

Nursing Scrubs Market Insights, By Usability - Disposable scrubs’ dominance remain driven by growing infection control protocols and convenience in high-risk medical settings

Disposable scrubs have gained the largest share within usability segmentation as healthcare institutions prioritize infection control and operational efficiency with an estimated share of 55.6% in 2025. These scrubs address the critical need for minimizing cross-contamination risks in hospitals, clinics, and surgical theaters by offering single-use garments that are discarded after each shift or patient interaction. The growing awareness about healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) globally has made disposable garments an indispensable part of hygiene protocols, propelling their adoption across various medical environments.

The convenience factor of disposable scrubs plays a significant role, as they eliminate the need for laundering and reduce the associated costs and logistics for healthcare providers. Facilities can thus maintain stringent cleanliness without investing heavily in laundry infrastructure or risking incomplete sterilization. This is particularly crucial in emergency wards, isolation units, and during outbreaks or pandemics, where rapid garment turnover is a frontline defense against pathogen spread.

Regional Insights

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North America Nursing Scrubs Market Analysis and Trends

North America’s dominance in the global nursing scrubs market, with an estimated share of 39.3% in 2025, is driven by the region’s well-established healthcare infrastructure. This growth is driven by a strong presence of leading medical textile manufacturers and stringent regulatory standards that emphasize uniform quality and hygiene. The high density of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities coupled with rising workforce demand sustains consistent product adoption. Government policies focusing on healthcare accessibility and infection control protocols further propel market stability. Prominent companies, such as Cherokee Uniforms, Grey’s Anatomy by Barco Uniforms, and Landau, actively innovate with antimicrobial fabrics and ergonomic designs, reinforcing North America’s stronghold in the market.

In January 2020, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing AACN, a national voice for academic nursing, partnered with Scrubin Uniforms, a leading provider of healthcare apparel, to offer nursing schools, faculty, staff, and students access to customized nursing scrubs and uniforms at discounted rates.

Asia Pacific Nursing Scrubs Market Analysis and Trends

Asia Pacific exhibits the fastest growth due to rapid urbanization, increasing healthcare accessibility, and expanding medical tourism hubs. The region is expected to account for a market share of 23.5% in 2025. Emerging economies such as India, China, and Southeast Asian nations are investing heavily in healthcare infrastructure upgrades, fueling the demand for durable and cost-effective nursing scrubs. Government initiatives to improve healthcare outcomes and the rise in private-sector healthcare providers create a favorable market environment.

Additionally, growing awareness about hygiene and infection prevention among healthcare professionals enhances scrub adoption. Key industry players like Dickies (Asia operations), Medline Industries, and local textile manufacturers focus on scalable production and affordability. Trade facilitation policies and increasing exports from Asia Pacific countries further accelerate market growth in the region.

Global Nursing Scrubs Market Outlook for Key Countries

U.S. Nursing Scrubs Market Trends

The U.S.’ nursing scrubs market is characterized by high consumer preference for technologically advanced, comfortable, and protective scrubs, influenced by its highly regulated healthcare system. Major players such as Cherokee, FIGS, and Grey’s Anatomy dominate retail and institutional sales channels. Their investments in fabric technology such as antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties meet the stringent demands of infection management and wearer comfort. Supply chain resilience and partnerships with hospitals and healthcare networks play a critical role, enabling widespread distribution across the country.

In February 2023, Taara, a U.S.-based online retailer specializing in modern healthcare apparel, introduced a sustainable line of Nursing Scrubs made from Bluesign-approved recycled fabrics that meet OEKO-TEX standards, combining eco-friendly technology with durability and style. The scrubs feature water-repellent, stain-release, and 4-way stretch properties along with chic designs, extra pockets, and elegant detailing, with founder Mr. Michelle Mastrangelo highlighting her vision to fill the market gap for eco-friendly scrubs while empowering healthcare professionals to support sustainability.

China Nursing Scrubs Market Trends

China continues to lead the Asia Pacific region’s surge in nursing scrubs demand, driven by heavy government investment in healthcare modernization and urban hospital expansions. Domestic players, such as Jiangsu Uniform Garment Co., Shanghai Jihua Medical Uniforms, and Guangzhou Dikang Medical Supplies, are expanding production, while global entrants like Medline Industries and Cherokee Uniforms leverage China’s textile strengths to provide diverse, affordable apparel.

Growth in public and private hospitals, along with the expansion of nursing education institutions, sustains steady demand. E-commerce leaders, such as JD.com and Alibaba’s Tmall, are helping brands extend reach into tier-2 and tier-3 cities, deepening market penetration.

India Nursing Scrubs Market Trends

India’s nursing scrubs market is expanding alongside its growing healthcare infrastructure and rising employment of nursing professionals in both urban and rural settings. Increasing medical tourism and government schemes enhancing rural healthcare delivery increase the demand for uniform healthcare apparel. Domestic companies, including Bata Industrial and local textile firms, offer competitively priced scrubs to cater to a vast demographic. Moreover, the country’s evolving supply chain networks and the rise of private hospitals create opportunities for market penetration.

In April 2025, ID Overseas Private Limited in Bangalore, India introduced its Protect U Premium Plus and Ultimo Nursing Scrubs for India and the U.A.E, offering locally made, high-performance uniforms designed for comfort, durability, and functionality.

Germany Nursing Scrubs Market Trends

Germany’s nursing scrubs market is shaped by strict regulatory standards that prioritize hygiene and durability in healthcare uniforms. Domestic brands like Engelbert Strauss, Hartmann Group, and Bierbaum-Proenen supply high-quality medical apparel, while international players such as Koi Footwear and Dickies serve specialized niches.

The European Union’s trade integration ensures efficient cross-border distribution and regulatory consistency, while government emphasis on sustainable textiles has encouraged companies like Greiff and Weitblick to introduce eco-friendly scrub lines. The presence of Germany’s large hospital network, university hospitals, and research centers further drives product innovation and continuous upgrades in fabric performance.

End User Feedback and Unmet Needs in the Nursing Scrubs Market

• End users in the nursing scrubs market consistently highlight comfort, durability, and ease of movement as top priorities, especially among frontline healthcare professionals who wear scrubs for long shifts. Many hospital procurement teams report that newer antimicrobial and stretch-fabric scrubs have significantly improved staff satisfaction by combining functionality with a professional appearance. For instance, a large U.S. hospital system noted that switching to moisture-wicking, odor-resistant scrubs not only boosted staff morale but also reduced uniform replacement costs over time, showing how product innovation can deliver both clinical and financial benefits. On the other hand, concerns remain around the lack of consistent sizing across brands and the high upfront cost of premium-quality scrubs. Feedback from several regional hospitals in Southeast Asia indicates that while staff appreciate the quality of imported brands, budget constraints limit widespread adoption, forcing them to rely on lower-cost alternatives that often compromise on comfort or durability.
• Unmet needs in the market point toward affordability, customization, and sustainable sourcing. Nurses and hospital administrators alike express the demand for scrubs that balance cost efficiency with advanced features, such as integrated antimicrobial protection and ergonomic design. There is also a growing call for more inclusive sizing and gender-neutral designs to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse workforce. Addressing these gaps could open new avenues for manufacturers to differentiate themselves, whether through scalable customization platforms, eco-friendly fabric technologies, or flexible pricing models tailored to institutional buyers. By aligning product development with these user-driven insights, companies can not only capture new market segments but also foster stronger brand loyalty and long-term partnerships with healthcare providers worldwide.

Market Players, Key Developments, and Competitive Intelligence

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Key Developments

• In June 2025, Simply Scrubs Australia, a leading online retailer of comfortable medical uniforms, launched its 2025 Christmas Nursing Scrubs collection in Perth, designed to bring festive cheer to healthcare workers during the busy holiday season. The limited-edition range blends bright holiday prints with the company’s focus on comfort, durability, and professional functionality.
• In July 2024, Australian hospitals, known for their focus on staff well-being, launched the Fun Day Friday initiative allowing nurses to wear fun-printed scrubs every Friday. The program aims to lift morale, foster a cheerful environment for both patients and staff, and strengthen community spirit, with hospital leader’s hopeful it will bring positivity and relaxation to hardworking healthcare teams at the end of the week.
• In August 2023, Kindthread, a leading provider of medical uniforms, launched its new White Cross CRFT collection of Nursing Scrubs, designed to combine comfort, style, and advanced fabric technology. Kindthread, based in Arizona, U.S focuses on sustainable fashion using plant-based and recycled fibers, ensuring scrubs that are both eco-friendly and fluid-resistant.
• In February 2023, Fabletics, a direct-to-consumer apparel company known for its activewear, launched its first Nursing Scrubs collection featuring a 12-piece line of tops, bottoms, underscrubs, and jackets in multiple colors, designed with insights from over 6,500 medical professionals and priced between USD 29.95 and USD 69.95 for its VIP members, with the brand also pledging to donate 25,000 scrub sets to U.S. healthcare workers.

Top Strategies Followed by Global Nursing Scrubs Market Players

• Established players lead the market by heavily investing in research and development to innovate high-performance nursing scrubs that meet the evolving demands of healthcare professionals. These companies focus on integrating advanced textiles, such as moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and stretchable fabrics, to enhance comfort, durability, and safety. In addition to product innovation, they form strategic partnerships with leading industry stakeholders and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to reinforce their presence in key markets.
  • In April 2021, Moxie Scrubs, a U.S.-based direct-to-consumer apparel brand created by nurses for nurses, partnered with the American Nurses Association ANA, the oldest nursing organization in the world, to celebrate National Nurses Month 2021 during the Year of the Nurse and Midwife by offering ANA members gift cards toward its nurse-designed Nursing Scrubs. The collaboration highlighted Moxie Scrubs’ modern, comfort-focused designs and reinforced both organizations’ mission to recognize, support, and empower nurses for their vital role in healthcare.

• Mid-level players in the global nursing scrubs market adopt a somewhat different strategy, concentrating on offering cost-effective solutions that carefully balance quality with affordability. Their primary target is the price-sensitive segment of healthcare providers and institutions, including clinics and small hospitals in developing economies. By optimizing production processes and sourcing materials efficiently, these players deliver scrubs that meet essential functional needs without the premium pricing of industry leaders.
  • In October 2023, Uniforms World, a U.S.-based scrubs brand, launched its new 309TS series of Nursing Scrubs made with a polyester-spandex blend designed for comfort, durability, and performance, featuring anti-bacterial, anti-wrinkle, anti-absorbent, and anti-static properties to support long working hours of healthcare professionals and students.

• Small-scale players in the nursing scrubs market distinguish themselves by targeting niche segments and introducing innovative products tailored to specific user requirements. These companies often leverage cutting-edge technologies like 3D knitting, customization platforms, or eco-friendly materials to create differentiated offerings that appeal to particular professional groups or regional preferences.
  • In July 2022, Banner Ironwood Medical Center, a part of Banner Health, launched its first Camp Scrubs in Queen Creek, giving six middle school students a week-long hospital experience to inspire future health care careers amid a nursing shortage.

Market Report Scope

Nursing Scrubs Market Dynamics

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Nursing Scrubs Market Driver - Growing Healthcare Workforce Worldwide

The expanding global healthcare workforce is a significant driver propelling the nursing scrubs market forward. As populations age and healthcare access improves worldwide, the demand for medical professionals including nurses, doctors, and allied health workers—has surged, necessitating increased supply of essential medical apparel. Nursing scrubs serve as a fundamental uniform within healthcare settings, providing not only comfort and functionality but also ensuring hygiene and professionalism. The rise in nursing education programs, government initiatives to bolster healthcare infrastructure, and growing emphasis on patient care quality have collectively contributed to the steady influx of healthcare personnel. This enlargement of medical staff inherently boosts the need for reliable, durable, and comfortable nursing scrubs that accommodate long working hours and frequent washing.

In May 2025, the WHO, along with FIGS, a U.S.-based premium medical apparel company, and Cherokee Uniforms, a leading global scrub brand, emphasized the growing link between workforce expansion and rising demand for nursing scrubs. The WHO and International Council of Nurses reported that the global nursing workforce increased from 27.9 million in 2018 to 29.8 million in 2023, though inequities remain as most nurses are concentrated in wealthier countries while low- and middle-income nations struggle to train and retain staff. This imbalance underscores the need for sustainable solutions, with apparel makers such as Barco Uniforms, known for eco-friendly innovations, and Jaanuu, a modern medical wear company, expected to help meet the surging global demand for functional and sustainable nursing apparel.

Nursing Scrubs Market Opportunity - Rising Demand for Sustainable and Eco-friendly Fabrics

The global nursing scrubs market is witnessing a significant shift toward sustainability as hospitals, clinics, and healthcare workers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly apparel. Growing awareness about the environmental impact of traditional textile production, coupled with government regulations on sustainable sourcing, is driving manufacturers to explore alternatives such as organic cotton, bamboo fiber, and recycled polyester. These fabrics not only reduce the carbon footprint but also offer breathable, durable, and comfortable options for healthcare professionals who require long hours of wear. Additionally, antimicrobial and fluid-resistant properties are being integrated into eco-friendly materials to ensure that performance is not compromised.

In September 2023, Blue Sky Scrubs, a leading provider of medical scrubs, introduced its new sustainable collection called EcoCare Scrubs at the Sustainable Healthcare Expo in New York, U.S. showcasing eco-friendly designs made from organic and recycled materials. The company’s launch highlighted the growing demand for environmentally responsible healthcare apparel, offering healthcare workers comfort and functionality while reducing environmental impact, with attendees getting a first look at the innovative line during the event.

Analyst Opinion (Expert Opinion)

• The nursing scrubs market is being shaped by a mix of strong demand drivers and evolving challenges. Growing emphasis on infection control, sustainability in healthcare textiles, and technological innovations such as antimicrobial fabrics and stretchable blends are pushing adoption across hospitals and clinics worldwide. Rising healthcare expenditure and regulatory support for hygiene standards are further creating opportunities for both established players and emerging brands. However, the market also faces challenges from fluctuating raw material costs and the need for continuous product innovation to meet the demands of a diversifying workforce. Conferences such as MEDICA in Germany, Arab Health in Dubai, and the American Nurses Association conferences have, over the last few years, provided platforms where textile innovations, global nursing workforce needs, and sustainable apparel strategies have been discussed, playing a key role in guiding policy and industry priorities.
• Recent initiatives underscore the direction this market is heading. For instance, companies like FIGS, Cherokee, and Medline have launched eco-friendly and performance-enhanced scrubs, responding to growing calls for comfort and sustainability. Protect U introduced new scrub lines in India and the U.A.E to cater to regional needs, while governments in Europe have promoted policies emphasizing sustainable textile sourcing, indirectly shaping procurement decisions in hospitals. Pilot projects in the U.S. focusing on antimicrobial uniforms in high-risk hospital wards and e-commerce platforms expanding into tier-2 and tier-3 cities in Asia Pacific are also redefining access and product penetration. Together, these developments illustrate how real-world collaborations, policies, and market initiatives are actively influencing the growth trajectory of the nursing scrubs market.

Market Segmentation

• Product Type Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Top Wear Scrubs
  • Bottom Wear Scrubs
  • Full Set Scrubs
  • Specialty Scrubs (e.g., maternity, plus-size)
• Gender Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Male Scrubs
  • Female Scrubs
  • Unisex Scrubs
• Usability Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Disposable Scrubs
  • Reusable Scrubs
• Material Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Cotton
  • Polyester
  • Cotton-Polyester Blend
  • Spandex/Stretch Fabric
  • Sustainable/Eco-Friendly Fabrics (e.g., organic cotton, recycled materials)
• End User Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Hospitals
  • Clinics
  • Ambulatory Surgical Centers
  • Long-Term Care Facilities and Nursing Homes
  • Home Healthcare Providers
  • Diagnostic and Imaging Centers
• Distribution Channel Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Offline
  • Online
• Regional Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Mexico
    • Rest of Latin America
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • U.K.
    • Spain
    • France
    • Italy
    • Russia
    • Rest of Europe
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • ASEAN
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
    • GCC Countries
    • Israel
    • Rest of Middle East
  • Africa
    • South Africa
    • North Africa
    • Central Africa
• Key Players Insights
  • Careismatic Brands Inc.
  • FIGS Inc.
  • Barco Uniforms Inc.
  • Jaanuu Inc.
  • Wink Scrubs (Superior Group of Companies)
  • Adar Medical Uniforms
  • Landaal Uniforms
  • Koi Design LLC
  • Uniform Advantage Inc.
  • Medline Industries LP
  • LifeThreads LLC
  • Healing Hands Scrubs
  • Scrubstar (Walmart brand)
  • Maevn Uniforms Inc.
  • Mobb Medical Ltd.

Sources

Primary Research Interviews

Industry Stakeholders List

• Hospital procurement managers
• Scrubs and medical apparel manufacturers
• Textile material suppliers for healthcare fabrics
• Hospital infection control officers
• Retail and e-commerce medical apparel distributors
• Product development managers in healthcare clothing companies

End Users List

• Registered nurses in public hospitals
• Nurses in private clinics and specialty hospitals
• Medical students and trainee nurses
• Surgical staff (surgeons, scrub nurses, anesthetists)
• Home healthcare professionals
• Long-term care and nursing home staff

Government and International Databases

• World Health Organization (WHO) – Global Health Workforce Statistics
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) – Occupational Employment and Wage Data for Nurses
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Healthcare Infection Control Data
• Eurostat – European Union Healthcare Employment Data
• Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare – Nursing Workforce Reports
• OECD Health Statistics

Trade Publications

• Healthcare Purchasing News
• Textile World
• Apparel Insider
• Just-Style (Textile & Apparel Industry Insights)
• Healthcare Hygiene Magazine
• Hospital Management Journal

Academic Journals

• Journal of Nursing Management
• American Journal of Infection Control
• Textile Research Journal
• Journal of Advanced Nursing
• International Journal of Nursing Studies
• Clothing and Textiles Research Journal

Reputable Newspapers

• The New York Times (Healthcare Section)
• The Guardian (Health & Society Coverage)
• The Wall Street Journal (Healthcare Business)
• Financial Times (Healthcare and Retail Insights)
• The Washington Post (Healthcare Trends)
• Reuters Health

Industry Associations

• American Nurses Association (ANA)
• International Council of Nurses (ICN)
• Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC)
• American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)
• European Federation of Nurses Associations (EFN)
• Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN)

Public Domain Resources

• Free Access Biomedical & Nursing Research
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Medical Textile Approvals and Guidelines
• National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
• World Bank Open Data – Healthcare Employment and Spending
• National Health Service (NHS) Digital (UK)
• OpenGrey – System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe

Proprietary Elements

• CMI Data Analytics Tool: Proprietary analytics tool to analyze real-time market trends, consumer behavior, and technology adoption in market
• Proprietary CMI Existing Repository of Information for Last 8 Years