The UK Guide To NHS Hospital Scrubs
Hospital Scrub Colours in the NHS
Scrubs worn across the NHS can vary depending on the hospital and the individual Trust. In most UK hospitals, scrubs are unisex, loose-fitting, and commonly available in shades of blue or green.
The NHS in England spends approximately £23 million each year on uniforms, with the cost per garment varying across the country because each NHS Trust uses different styles and colours.
You might have wondered what these different scrub colours represent and which staff members wear them. Below, we take a closer look at hospital scrubs in the UK and how different colours are typically used.
Why Hospitals Use Different Scrub Colours
Many NHS hospitals use colour-coded scrubs to help staff and patients quickly recognise different aspects of a team member.
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The department someone works in
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Their professional role
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The hospital or NHS Trust
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Sometimes seniority or specialist roles
At Interweave Healthcare, we stock 6 popular scrub colours: Mid Blue, Mid Green, Misty, Cobalt Blue, Raspberry and Navy Blue.
Our NHS and other medical customers quite often choose blue scrubs, which is why we offer 3 different blue shades to choose from, along with grey, green and red.

Who wears what?
There are four core colour groups you might see for NHS Healthcare uniforms:

Because NHS hospitals operate independently, colour systems can vary from one Trust to another. For example, University Hospitals Bristol‘s identification guide explains that within their Emergency Department, you will see the following:
- Emergency Department Nurse and Sisters – Navy Blue Scrubs
- Emergency Department Staff Nurses – Royal Blue Scrubs
- Emergency Department Assistant Nurses – Grey Scrubs
This is a great example of scrubs differentiating different roles within one department. Scrubs are most commonly worn in Emergency Departments and Theatres due to their durable, comfortable composition.
Many hospitals will have a large supply of scrubs in a variety of colours and sizes for emergency medicine. Whereas other medical professionals in the hospital may wear uniforms such as tunics or smart clothing.
Interweave Healthcare Scrubs
Whether you are purchasing scrubs for your NHS Trust, a private clinic, or personal use, Interweave Healthcare offers a wide range of options designed for comfort and practicality.
Typically, you will see shades of blue and green scrubs in hospitals. As well as white coats, smart dress, or tunics with different coloured piping. If you are starting work in a hospital, your specific workplace will provide you with your uniform guidelines.
For hospitals, clinics, or large teams, bulk ordering discounts are also available.
Our scrubs are available in:
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Sizes XS–3XL
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Six professional colours
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Matching tops and trousers
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Mix-and-match sizing options

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