How to remove iodine stains from medical uniforms?

Entering the medical profession involves more than just books, on-call shifts, and endless coffee breaks. It also brings up a very specific and quite common question: What scrubs should you buy when you're a medical student? It's not a minor decision, because you're going to use them a lot, in very different contexts and, almost certainly, under pressure. Here's a clear guide, designed from the student's perspective , not from a marketing standpoint. Prioritize comfort above all else. As a student, you'll spend hours on your feet, walking between departments, taking notes, and going in and out of operating rooms or consulting rooms. An uncomfortable scrub is quickly noticeable. Seeks: Fabrics lightweight and breathable Some flexibility , however minimal. Soft seams that won't chafe with movement You don't need the most technical model on the market, but you do need one that doesn't restrict your movement. Correct fit: not too loose, not too tight It's tempting to buy very loose scrubs "to be comfortable", but in clinical practice that can backfire. A good fit: It makes it easier to move without getting caught up in the details. It gives a more professional image. Prevent the uniform from looking sloppy If you're between sizes , think about how you'll use it: long days, sometimes with a robe on top, sometimes without. Colors: Please check the guidelines before purchasing Many colleges and hospitals They require specific colors. For students: navy blue, operating room green, gray, or even white. Before choosing: Check your school's regulations Ask upper-year students Avoid bright colors if you're unsure. Choosing the right color from the start saves you from having to buy another uniform later. Durability: you'll wash them more than you think Between practices, guard duty, and inevitable accidents, student scrubs go through the washing machine constantly. Notice that: The fabric should not be too thin. The color does not fade easily Maintains its shape after several washes You don't need to invest in the most expensive scrub, but you should avoid those that become deformed after the third use. Pockets: more important than they seem Pens, notebooks, cell phones, IDs, scissors… as a student you always carry things. A functional scrub typically has: At least one pocket at the top Two or more in the pants Deep pockets that don't empty when you bend over It may seem like a minor detail, but in everyday life it makes all the difference. Don't buy too many at the beginning Many students buy several scrubs before starting and then discover that: The hospital uses a different color. The adjustment doesn't convince them They prefer a different type of fabric Realistic recommendation: start with 1 or 2 games , try them out in practice and adjust your choice afterwards. Professional image from day one Even though you're still learning, you're already part of the clinical environment. A clean, well-fitting uniform appropriate to the setting conveys respect, seriousness, and commitment. Choosing the right scrubs as a medical student isn't about fashion, it's about feeling comfortable, following rules, and focusing on learning , which is the most important thing at this stage. At Jelrisofit, we offer exclusive student discounts. Enjoy 15% off on our discount page. If you're a student, click the " Student Exclusive " link to access this exclusive offer.

Ink stains are among the most common in medical settings: pens exploding in pockets, caps that don't close properly, or a lapse in routine. Although they seem impossible to remove, most can be eliminated using the correct methods. Here's a clear and effective guide to recovering your scrubs without damaging them. Why is ink so difficult to remove? The ballpoint pen ink is formulated to attach to surfaces and resist water. When it falls on fabrics such as cotton, polyester, or blends, it penetrates quickly and adheres to the fibers, requiring products that dissolve it without affecting the uniform's color. What to do immediately after the accident Quick action prevents the ink from spreading: Pat dry with a paper towel without rubbing. Place a clean cloth under the fabric to prevent the stain from soaking through. Do not use hot water (it spreads the stain). Do not put the garment in the dryer before cleaning it. This prepares the fabric for the appropriate treatment. Effective methods for removing ink stains 1. Isopropyl alcohol: the fastest and safest method It is the most recommended treatment for fresh ink. How to apply it: Moisten a cotton ball or cloth with alcohol. Dab the ink onto the stain, allowing it to transfer to the cotton. Repeat until the color fades. Wash the garment as usual. It works well on polyester scrubs or blends. 2. Hairspray (fixative spray) It contains alcohols that help dissolve dried ink. How to use it: Spray directly onto the stain. Leave on for 1–2 minutes. Rub gently with a cloth. Rinse with cold water and wash. Ideal when you don't have alcohol on hand. 3. White vinegar + liquid detergent Gentler option for delicate fabrics or sensitive colors. How to use it: Mix 1 part vinegar and 1 part detergent . Gently rub the stained area. Leave on for 10 minutes. Wash normally. Helps loosen medium-sized stains without discoloring the fabric. 4. Baking soda (for stubborn stains) It serves as a gentle exfoliant when residue remains. How to use it: Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain. Rub in circular motions. Rinse and wash. Not recommended for very dark or delicate scrubs, as it can damage the fabric if rubbed too much. 5. Professional stain removers If the dye takes days or the garment is expensive: Use enzymatic products. Oxygenated treatments. Specialized stain removers for ink. They are a good option for high-end uniforms or sensitive colors. Tips according to the type of fabric Cotton It absorbs more ink. → Alcohol + detergent is the most effective. Polyester or blends It expands less, but retains pigments. → Alcohol or hairspray work very well. Elastic fabrics Avoid rubbing too hard. → Use gentle methods like vinegar + detergent. Mistakes that worsen the stain Avoid these steps if you want to save your uniform: Rub firmly at first (the ink will spread). Add hot water. Mixing chlorine with ammonia (dangerous). Use a dryer before removing the stain completely. Once the ink is set with heat, it is almost impossible to remove. How to prevent ink stains on your uniform Use bulletproof pens (pressurized pens or sealed gel pens). Store pens in external pockets or accessory pouches. Always close the lid before putting it in your pocket. Avoid using pens or liquid inks during the day. Small habits that extend the lifespan of your scrubs.

Keeping medical uniforms in good condition isn't always easy: they're washed frequently, worn for long periods, and need to maintain a professional appearance. One of the most common questions is whether they can be put in the dryer without damaging them. The short answer: it depends on the type of fabric . Not all uniforms behave the same way in the heat. Below you will find a clear and practical guide to avoid damage, prolong the life of your scrubs and keep them spotless for longer. Can medical uniforms go in the dryer? It depends on the fabric. There is no universal answer. Some materials withstand heat well, while others are easily damaged. Modern uniforms are made with technical blends that combine comfort, elasticity and resistance, but they still have limitations when it comes to temperature. That's why it's essential to know what type of fabric you're using before putting it in the dryer. Reaction of each type of fabric to machine drying 1. Polyester: the safest and most resistant Scrubs with a high polyester content are the least likely to be damaged. They don't usually shrink. They maintain their shape. They dry quickly. The only thing to avoid: excessive heat. High temperatures can harden the fabric and reduce its lifespan. 2. 100% Cotton: the most delicate and with the highest risk of shrinkage All-cotton uniforms are comfortable, but they face two problems in the dryer: Noticeable shrinkage Loss of softness If you decide to machine dry them, it should always be at the lowest temperature, although natural drying is ideal. 3. Polyester + cotton blends: dryer safe, but with care This type of fabric is the most common in inexpensive scrubs. They can go in the dryer, but: Heat can deform the mixture Cotton fiber can shrink if the heat is high Polyester can become stiff over time Golden rule: low temperature drying. 4. Fabrics with elastane/spandex: enemies of heat Any uniform with extra elasticity should never be exposed to high heat . Elastane is easily damaged and, once affected, the garment: It loses elasticity It loosens It becomes permanently deformed Low temperature or air drying is ideal. Common damage that a dryer can cause Even when the fabric "tolerates" the dryer, the following problems may occur: Shrinking in chest, sleeves or length Hardening or rough texture Color fading in dark uniforms Deformation in necks or seams Breaking of the thread over time Quartering of the print or embroidery Using a dryer doesn't always ruin scrubs, but it does accelerate their wear and tear. How to use a dryer without damaging your medical uniforms ✔ Use low temperature always The number one enemy is the heat. ✔ Put the uniforms in laundry bags Reduces friction and protects seams. ✔ Dries only up to 80% Then finish air drying. This prevents shrinkage and loss of shape. ✔ Turn the garments inside out Protects colors, pockets and embroidery. ✔ Do not mix scrubs with towels or fabrics that shed lint Lint clings especially to dark uniforms. When is it best NOT to use a dryer? 100% cotton uniforms Garments with a high percentage of elastane Newly embroidered or printed scrubs Thin or aged fabrics New uniforms in bright colors (may fade) If your uniform falls into one of these categories, avoid the dryer to prolong its lifespan . How to extend the lifespan of your medical uniforms Wash with cold or lukewarm water Use mild detergents Avoid excessive use of fabric softener (it damages elastic fibers) Dry in the shade whenever possible Check the manufacturer's label before any drying. Proper care ensures your scrubs maintain their shape, color, and comfort for much longer.