November 20, 2025

How many uniforms does a clinic need? A practical guide to calculating the ideal quantity

In a clinic, having enough uniforms isn't just about professional image; it also impacts hygiene, staff safety, and the efficiency of daily operations. If you're organizing the operation of a medical practice or planning a bulk purchase, here's a clear guide to help you determine how many uniforms a modern clinic actually needs.

1. Why a clinic needs enough uniforms

A good uniform plan prevents many day-to-day problems. These are the main reasons:

Mandatory hygiene: each professional must always have a clean set available to avoid cross-contamination.
Professional image: neat and uniform uniforms increase patient confidence.
Efficient workflow: If uniforms get dirty mid-shift, there should be ready-made alternatives without interrupting service.
Unforeseen situations: blood stains, chemicals, vomit, or emergencies that require immediate change.

2. What factors determine how many uniforms a clinic should have?

Not all clinics need the same amount. These factors are key:

Number of employees: doctors, nurses, assistants, receptionists, assistants.
Type of service: dentistry, pediatrics, aesthetics, physiotherapy, minor surgery, etc.
Washing frequency : whether it is washed daily, weekly, or if an external service is used.
Long or rotating workdays : shifts of 10 to 12 hours usually increase wear and tear on clothing.
Likelihood of stains: some specialties stain more than others.

3. Recommended number of uniforms according to the size of the clinic

Here's a basic guide that works for most practices:

Small clinics (1–5 employees)

3–4 games per person
2–3 backup sets for the office

Medium-sized clinics (6–15 employees)

4–5 games per person
5–8 backup sets

Large or multi-service clinics (more than 15 employees)

5 or more games per person
10–15 backup sets

Backup uniforms are important for rotation, emergencies, or when the wash cycle is delayed.

4. Adjustments according to the area or specialty

Not all areas have the same requirements. Here are some recommendations:

Dentistry: Higher risk of exposure to blood, saliva, and chemicals. Requires more changes.
Pediatrics: stains, vomiting, and frequent accidents.
For emergencies or minor procedures: it is preferable to have more fluid-resistant and stain-resistant uniforms .
Reception and administration: less wear and tear, they can use fewer games.

5. How many backup uniforms should a clinic have?

A clinic should have additional uniforms equivalent to 20–30% of the total number of employees.

These uniforms are used for:

New employees in training
Visiting Professionals
Unforeseen accidents
Laundry delays
Damaged garments

6. How to plan the annual budget for uniforms

Although each clinic has different needs, a simple formula helps to estimate expenses:

Consider replacing 1–2 games per person per year due to natural wear and tear.
If you use higher quality uniforms, their lifespan is longer and the cost decreases.
In bulk purchases, the savings can be significant.

At JelriSoFit®, we offer personalized service for clinics: from size and color consultations to large order planning. No matter the size of your practice, we can help you organize a strategic and efficient purchase.