Choosing the right uniforms isn't just about style – it's about how your team works, how your patients feel, and how your brand is perceived.
So, scrubs or polos?
The real answer: it depends.
At Arrow, we know one size doesn't fit all. Some clinics need a clinical-first, hygienic appearance. Others want to balance professionalism with warmth. And many? They want both.
Let's break down what each option offers – and how you can create a cohesive, high-performing uniform system that supports every role in your clinic.
What Matters Most in a Clinic Uniform?
Before we dive into scrubs vs polos, let's look at what really influences uniform choice:
- Staff roles: Front desk vs back-of-house? Clinical vs administrative?
- Comfort & movement: Are staff seated most of the day, or on their feet, lifting, bending, and reaching?
- Brand image: What message do you want your uniforms to send?
- Patient experience: How do your uniforms make patients feel?
- Wash & durability: Are garments being washed daily or weekly?
The best uniform setup considers all of these factors – not just aesthetics.
When to Choose Scrubs
Scrubs are designed with performance and hygiene in mind. They're the go-to for teams who need:
- High movement and flexibility
- Frequent, hot washing
- A clinical, professional appearance
- Functional features like deep pockets
Scrubs are common in:
Medical, dental, physiotherapy, aged care, and veterinary settings – anywhere health and hygiene come first.
When to Choose Polos
Polos offer a different kind of professionalism. Ideal for:
- Customer-facing, front-of-house roles
- A more approachable, less clinical appearance
- Uniforms that mix and match easily
- A branded, polished team look
Polos are common in:
Reception, admin, retail clinics, and allied health. Think chiropractic, optometry, or wellness centres that want a relaxed yet professional image.
The Good News: You Don't Have to Choose Just One
Here's where it gets exciting: with NanoStretch fabric, you can mix and match scrubs and polos – without sacrificing cohesion.
NanoStretch offers:
- Consistent comfort and performance across both styles
- A unified colour palette for your full team
- Stretch, breathability, and easy care across garments
So whether you're wearing a scrub top or a polo, your team still looks, and feels, like one!
Why It Matters: Patient Perception
Uniforms don't just serve your team. They shape how patients perceive you.
- Scrubs feel: Clinical, hygienic, professional
- Polos feels: Friendly, modern, approachable
By using the same fabric and colours across both, you ensure trust and consistency – no matter who your patient is speaking to.
Branding & Role Clarity
Uniforms are more than clothes – they're your clinics brand in motion. Here's what clinics love most about our dual-style approach:
- Clear role distinction (clinical vs admin)
- A defined uniform system across the team
- One fabric feel for staff comfort and unity
- Embroidery and colour-matching for a polished finish
Pro tip: Pick one fabric range (like NanoStretch) to avoid mismatched textures and tones – it makes a big difference in professionalism.
Our Recommended Setup for Most Clinics
Looking for a reliable formula? Here's a winning structure many clinics use:
- Clinical team: NanoStretch scrubs
- Admin/reception team: NanoStretch polos
- Unified branding: Matching embroidery and colours
This setup delivers maximum comfort, function, and visual cohesion.
Still Deciding? We Can Help
Not sure which uniform setup suits your team best? That's what we're here for/.
Our uniform specialist can guide you through:
- NanoStretch options for every role
- Colour matching across styles
- Embroidery and branding
- Sizing and fitting advice
You don't need to compromise on comfort, cohesion, or style. With Arrow, you can have both.
Two Styles. One Cohesive Look.
Whether your team wears scrubs, polos – or both – Arrow Uniforms helps you create a seamless, functional, and professional image that fits your brand.
Let's build your perfect uniform system, together.
Contact us today to explore NanoStretch scrubs and polos for your clinic.