Scrub Hat

The origin of scrub hats

Scrub hats were originally designed in the 1800s when traditional nurse caps became a standard requirement for medical personnel. It had a very stiff brim and the cap was made of cotton and polyester. In the 1900s the need for scrub hats started to rise as head coverings were required in surgical operations. They are also called "surgical caps". Nowadays, global manufacturers offer custom-designed scrub hats with selected breathable materials depending on the buyer's preferences.

Purpose of scrub hats

A scrub hat will cover a user's ears, forehead and the nape of their neck. All medical staff especially nurses and doctors are required to wear scrub caps in all medical settings. Its purpose is to prevent germs from spreading between medical staff and patient, and to protect the health of both the staff and patients. They are not only required in hospitals, nursing homes, and private clinical settings but they are also an alternative to wearing a hairnet for workers in food and beverage industries. Anyone who wishes to keep their hair out of the way while working on high-touch surfaces often wears a scrub cap. Whichever environment scrub hats are used in, they must be washed regularly to prevent germs and dirt.

Types of scrub hats

There are reusable and disposable scrub hats. Disposable scrub caps are less expensive; they often come in a pack of 10 or more with light blue or white color. They are made of nonwoven fabric, lightweight and for one-time use only. They are typically seen in surgical procedures. Some disposable surgical caps are not as comfortable as reusable ones and they may not be as stretchy; some other disposable caps have laces so that users can adjust the size of the brim.

Reusable scrub hats can be custom-made and custom designed with more comfortable materials like cotton or synthetic materials. Cotton surgical hats are more breathable and washable.

Ponytail scrub caps is another modern design for users with long hair. It has a small hole and a pouch so that users can tuck their low ponytails or buns into the back of the cap.

In the market today, scrub caps for women and men have a wide variety of patterns including unisex patterns, from cartoon images, floral to polka dots and stripes. Buttons can be attached if needed in a custom request, especially in ponytail scrub caps. Laces are preferred in both men and women's caps because they help adjust sizes easily.