Scrubs are the standard uniform for healthcare professionals, offering comfort, ease of movement, and practicality. However, what you wear under your scrubs can significantly impact your comfort throughout long shifts. Whether you're facing winter chills or summer heat, choosing the right base layers is essential.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best options for what to wear under scrubs, with seasonal recommendations for scrubs for women and men. We’ll also discuss the benefits of leggings and other layering pieces to keep you comfortable all year round.
What Are Scrubs?
Scrubs are lightweight, loose-fitting garments designed for medical professionals. Originally introduced to maintain hygiene in operating rooms, they have become the standard nurse uniform and also worn by doctors, dentists and other healthcare workers.
Made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton and polyester blends, scrubs are easy to clean and durable. They typically consist of a V-neck or round-neck top, paired with drawstring pants. While scrubs prioritize function over fashion, many brands now offer stylish, well-fitting options for scrubs for women and men.
Since scrubs are often thin and unlined, choosing the right undergarments is key to staying comfortable during long shifts.
What to Wear Under Scrubs in Summer
Summer heat can make scrubs feel stifling, especially in busy hospitals or clinics. The right undergarments should keep you cool, dry and comfortable.
1. Cooling Slip Shorts
Slip shorts (also called scrub shorts) are a summer essential. These lightweight, moisture-wicking shorties prevent chafing and keep you dry down there. Our Cooling undershorts fit all body types and heights, are available in six lengths and are made with our signature sweat-wicking material. They help lower your body temperature by up to one degree and ensure you never experience swamp butt while on the job.
Why Wear Them?
- Reduces sweat buildup
- Prevents thigh rub
- Provides modesty under thin scrub fabric
Material Matters:
- Look for breathable mesh panels
- Avoid 100 percent cotton (retains moisture)
- Spandex blends offer flexibility
2. Moisture-Wicking Tank Tops
A seamless, sweat-wicking tank top under your scrub top helps manage perspiration.
Best Options:
- Bamboo fabric (naturally antimicrobial)
- Polyester-spandex blends
- Racerback styles for better airflow
3. No-Show Socks and Breathable Underwear
Avoid cotton socks — they trap sweat. Instead, choose:
- No-show moisture-wicking socks
- Mesh-lined underwear for airflow
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Scrub Undergarments
- Avoid bulk: Bulky layers can make scrubs fit poorly and restrict movement
- Prioritize moisture control: Sweat-wicking fabrics prevent odor and discomfort
- Check dress codes: Some hospitals have rules about scrub colours or undergarment visibility
- Invest in quality: Since you wear scrubs daily, durable undergarments are worth the cost.
Pro tip: Our Cooling shorties double as underwear with a knit-in cotton crotch, meaning you don’t have to layer a panty underneath.
What to Wear Under Scrubs in Winter
Winter shifts can be challenging, especially if your workplace has fluctuating temperatures. You may arrive feeling cold but easily warm up during a hectic shift. Wearing the right layers under your scrubs helps regulate body temperature without adding bulk. Here are some top choices:
1. Thin Thermal Leggings
A pair of thin, moisture-wicking leggings under scrub pants provides extra warmth without restricting movement or causing you to overheat. Look for leggings that are snug but not too tight. Our Cooling leggings provide a temperature-regulating layer under your scrubs — thin enough that you won’t even notice them while creating a base layer that helps you keep your cool (literally) when things get busy at work.
Benefits:
- Regulates body heat while allowing airflow
- Prevents static cling with scrub fabric
- Smooth fit avoids bunching under loose scrub pants
2. Long-Sleeve Undershirts
A fitted, long-sleeve undershirt made from moisture-wicking fabric keeps you warm without adding bulk. Opt for a stretchy material that moves with you.
Best Fabrics:
- Merino wool (naturally temperature-regulating)
- Thermal cotton blends
- Synthetic moisture-wicking fabrics
3. Compression Socks
Cold floors and long hours on your feet can lead to poor circulation. Compression socks improve blood flow while keeping your legs warm.
Pro tip: Choose knee-high socks to prevent drafts under your scrubs.
Choosing what to wear under scrubs depends on the season, your workplace temperature and personal comfort. In winter, thin leggings and thermal layers keep you warm, while summer calls for cooling slip shorts and breathable fabrics.
Whether you prefer scrub shorts for chafe-free movement or moisture-wicking undershirts for temperature control, the right undergarments make a difference in your workday comfort. By selecting the best base layers, you can stay focused on patient care — without distractions from sweat, cold or discomfort.
Upgrade your nurse uniform or healthcare work outfit with smart layering, and enjoy a more comfortable shift, no matter the weather.
