Best Scrubs for Nursing & Medical Students in Australia (2026 Guide)
Nursing and medical students need scrubs that can handle long shifts, busy wards and constant movement — without blowing the student budget. From your first clinical placement to final-year rotations, the right scrubs help you stay comfortable, look professional and meet placement dress-code requirements.
At Infectious Clothing Company, we outfit thousands of Australian nursing, medical and allied health students every year. This guide explains the best scrubs for students in 2026, what to look for, and the brands most commonly chosen by students nationwide.
Key Takeaways – Student Scrubs in Australia
- Choose scrubs that are comfortable, easy-care and placement-approved.
- Stretch fabrics with moisture-wicking are ideal for long clinical shifts.
- Stick to solid colours like navy, black, ceil blue, teal and charcoal unless told otherwise.
- Top student favourites include Wink, Cherokee, Dickies and Biz Care.
- Most students need at least 2–3 sets for regular placements.
- Shop student-friendly options in our Nursing & Medical Student Supplies collection.
What Nursing & Medical Students Should Look For in Scrubs
1. Comfort for Long Clinical Shifts
From 12-hour clinicals to back-to-back tutorials, comfort is non-negotiable. Look for scrubs made from breathable fabrics with built-in stretch so you can bend, lift and move freely.
Polyester–spandex blends are especially popular with students because they are lightweight, flexible and quick-dry.
2. Easy-Care, Quick-Dry Fabrics
Student life doesn’t leave time for ironing and special care. The best student scrubs are:
- Machine washable
- Wrinkle-resistant
- Colourfast
- Durable for frequent washing
3. Practical Pockets
On placement you’ll carry ID cards, pens, phones, gloves and notepads. Scrub tops and pants with secure pockets reduce clutter and distraction.
4. Placement-Approved Colours
Most Australian universities and hospitals specify simple colour palettes for students. The most common colours include:
- Navy
- Black
- Ceil blue
- Teal
- Charcoal
Best Scrub Brands for Students in 2026
Wink W123 – Top Pick for Comfort & Stretch
Best for: comfort, flexibility and long shifts
Wink W123 scrubs are consistently chosen by students for their soft, stretchy fabric and athletic feel.
Wink Boundless – Ideal for Hot-Weather Placements
Best for: warm climates and high-movement roles
Lightweight, breathable and quick-drying — ideal for Queensland, NSW and WA placements.
Cherokee – Professional, Modern Fits
Best for: polished, tailored appearance
Cherokee scrubs are popular with students who want a clean, professional look while staying comfortable.
Dickies – Durable Scrubs That Last
Best for: durability and heavy clinical use
Dickies scrubs are inspired by workwear and perform well across multiple years of study.
Biz Care – Great for Cohorts & Uniform Programs
Best for: consistent sizing and group supply
Biz Care scrubs are commonly used by universities, TAFEs and student cohorts that require uniform consistency.
How Many Scrub Sets Do Students Need?
- 2–3 sets for regular weekly placements
- 1 extra set for spills or simulation labs
- Additional sets for intensive or rural placements
Should Students Get Their Scrubs Embroidered?
Some students choose embroidery for clarity and professionalism. Common options include:
- First name
- Role (e.g. “Nursing Student”)
- University logo (with approval)
Learn about custom embroidery for scrubs →
FAQs – Scrubs for Nursing & Medical Students in Australia
What colour scrubs should nursing and medical students wear?
Most placements require solid colours such as navy, black, ceil blue, teal or charcoal.
How many scrub sets do I need for placement?
Most students need 2–3 sets plus one spare.
Are student scrubs tax deductible?
They may be deductible depending on circumstances. Always check current ATO guidance.
Can you outfit an entire student cohort?
Yes. Infectious Clothing Company supplies uniforms for student cohorts, clinics and hospitals Australia-wide.
