Fit & sizing
Scrub sizes XS to 3XL explained
S, M, L, XL. The letters look universal, but anyone who has bought clothes from two shops knows they are not. A “Large” in one brand can fit like a “Medium” in another. With scrubs, which you will wear for hours at a stretch, that difference matters.
This post explains what the letters mean, why they vary, and how to use them without getting caught out.
What the letters stand for
| Letter | Means |
|---|---|
| XS | Extra small |
| S | Small |
| M | Medium |
| L | Large |
| XL | Extra large |
| XXL or 2XL | Double extra large |
| 3XL | Triple extra large |
Each step up adds a set amount to the chest, waist and hip. The exact amount is decided by the maker, which is why you always need the maker’s own chart.
Why sizes differ between brands
A size label is a shortcut to a set of measurements. Different makers:
- Base their sizes on different body shapes.
- Cut some styles roomier than others, even within one brand.
- Use different amounts of “ease”, the extra room added so you can move.
So your size depends on both your body and the cut. In our range, a shaped women’s top and a straight unisex top in the same letter will feel different, because the unisex cut is roomier.
Our size ranges
- Women’s V-Neck Scrub Set: XS to 3XL.
- Men’s / Unisex Round-Neck Scrub Set: S to 3XL.
- OT Green Surgical Scrub Set: XS to 3XL, unisex.
- Doctor Coat: XS to 3XL.
- Lab Coat: XS to XXL.
- Scrub Cap: free size, with a tie-back to adjust.
The exact chest, hip and length for each size are on the size chart.
Using the letters sensibly
- Treat your usual size as a starting guess, not an answer.
- Measure your chest and hips and compare with the chart.
- Check both top and pant. Many people are one size on top and another below.
- If you sit between two sizes, choose the larger. Scrubs need room for bending and lifting.
- Think about layers. If you wear a vest or thermal underneath, or a coat on top, allow for it.
The ends of the range
XS suits petite frames. In the shaped women’s set, it keeps the top from looking like a tunic. Pant length may still need a small hem.
3XL gives generous room in the chest and hips. If you need more room in one piece only, mix sizes: we make single tops and single pants on request.
If you are at either end and unsure, it is worth asking before ordering.
Sizes for groups
For hospitals and nursing colleges, size planning is part of the setup. Staff and students choose their own size on a private ordering page, and when the weekly batch arrives, size exchanges are handled at the delivery point on delivery day. You can read more on our for institutions page.
Wrap-up
The letters are only labels. What matters is how your measurements line up with the chart for the item you want. Measure once, keep the numbers on your phone, and look up your letter on the size chart each time you order.
