Did you know?
Scrubs are quickly becoming the standard uniform in optical practices, offering a mix of comfort, hygiene and professional style that suits the reality of modern eye care.
Between consultations, frame adjustments, screening tests and lab work, opticians need uniforms that are practical, easy to care for and present a calm, clinical image that inspires trust.
Optician scrubs: here is everything you need to know, from fabric and fit to colours, pockets, branding and the best scrub styles for optical clinics.
Quick snapshot for busy opticians: Look for scrub tops and trousers with stretch, breathable fabrics, at least one chest pocket, hip pockets and easy-care materials that wash well at higher temperatures. Choose colours that match your brand and keep your team recognisable at a glance.
Why do opticians wear scrubs?
Opticians and optical assistants are on their feet most of the day, moving between pre-test rooms, consulting spaces, dispensing tables and the workshop. Scrubs have become popular because they combine:
- Comfort for long days of standing, bending and adjusting frames
- Hygiene with fabrics that tolerate frequent washing
- Professional appearance that reassures patients and families
- Practicality with pockets for tools and accessories
Tip: If your work involves edging, glazing or repairs, choose scrubs that do not catch easily on machinery and have secure pockets for small tools.
What should opticians look for in scrubs?
Opticians tend to look for scrubs that support the way they actually work. Key points to consider before ordering include:
- Soft, stretchy fabric that moves with you during refractions and frame fittings
- Useful pockets for PD rulers, pens, cloths, labels and small tools
- Professional colours that align with the practice brand
- Easy-care material that washes and dries quickly
- Breathable designs that work well in warm testing rooms
Many optical practices choose embroidery with the practice name and role (Optometrist, Dispensing Optician, Optical Assistant) so patients know who is who at a glance.
Why the right scrubs matter for opticians
Good scrubs do more than tick a dress code box. They support the way you work, help you stay focused and contribute to the patient experience in the practice.
- Comfort and focus: if your uniform digs in or pulls, you will notice it all day.
- Hygiene and safety: scrubs that wash easily at higher temperatures help manage infection control.
- Professional image: coordinated scrubs give a calm, clinical impression that builds trust.
- Clear team roles: colour codes and embroidery help patients identify optometrists, opticians and support staff quickly.
Colour coding idea for optical teams: Optometrists in navy, dispensing staff in teal and reception in a lighter shade such as ceil or wine. This keeps the practice coherent but still visually clear.
1. Koi Cureology Stasis Scrub Top (Men) - performance and structure for optical clinics
The Koi Cureology Stasis scrub top in Caribbean is ideal for male opticians and optical assistants who want a clean, modern silhouette that still feels comfortable for full days in the clinic. The technical fabric offers stretch, while the design keeps a sharp, structured look at the front of house.
This top works well for opticians who want a smart, tailored look without sacrificing comfort. The Caribbean colour is vibrant without being loud, and the fabric handles frequent washing.
2. Koi Cureology Aura Scrub Top (Women) - soft, breathable and flattering
The Koi Cureology Aura scrub top in wine is a great choice for female opticians and optical assistants who need a soft, drapey fabric that still looks sharp. The V-neck, subtle shaping and lightweight feel make it ideal for long days in warm consulting rooms.
The Aura top is ideal if you want something that feels almost like casual wear but still looks professional. It is easy to care for, holds its colour and works well tucked in or worn loose.
Fit tip for opticians: If you work a lot at the dispensing table or adjusting frames, look for tops with a bit of stretch at the shoulders and sleeves so you can reach comfortably without pulling.
How many scrub sets does an optician need?
In most optical practices, opticians find that three to five sets of scrubs work best. This allows for:
- One set to wear
- One set ready to go
- One or more sets in the wash
If your practice follows strict infection control protocols or you work across multiple sites, you may want extra sets so you never need to compromise on hygiene.
Care and washing tips for optician scrubs
Scrubs in optical settings may come into contact with make up, hand sanitiser, lens sprays and dust from edging or repairs. To keep your uniforms fresh for longer:
- Wash scrubs separately from everyday clothes where possible
- Follow label guidelines for temperature, but aim for a hygienic wash
- Treat stains such as pen, foundation or polish as quickly as you can
- Hang to dry to reduce creasing and prolong fabric life
Good to know: Many modern scrub fabrics are designed to be low maintenance. Plenty of opticians hang their scrubs straight from the wash and do not need to iron them if they are shaken out and dried correctly.
Frequently asked questions about optician scrubs
Here are some of the common questions opticians and practice managers ask when choosing scrubs for their teams.
What colours are best for optician scrubs?
Navy, black, charcoal, teal and wine are popular choices because they look professional and work well with most practice branding. Lighter shades such as ceil can feel fresh but may show stains more quickly.
Do all staff in an optical practice need to match?
They do not have to match exactly, but coordinated colours help patients recognise the team. Many practices choose one base colour and then vary the style slightly by role, for example optometrists in jackets and other staff in simple tops.
What fabric is best for optician scrubs?
Opticians usually prefer light to mid-weight fabrics with some stretch, good breathability and easy care. Blends that resist creasing and hold their colour after repeated washing are ideal for busy clinics.
How many sets of scrubs should an optician own?
Three to five sets is a good starting point. This gives you enough to rotate through the week without worrying if one set is in the wash or has been stained during a particularly busy day.
Can optician scrubs be embroidered with the practice logo?
Yes. Embroidery is a simple way to add your logo and staff names, which helps with brand recognition and makes it easier for patients to identify who they are speaking to.
Ready to upgrade your optical uniform?
Whether you are setting up a new practice, refreshing your existing uniforms or bringing your team into one coordinated look, investing in the right scrubs will make a noticeable difference in comfort and patient perception.
Explore some of the most popular scrub ranges for opticians:
- Koi Cureology - soft, modern scrubs for all day wear
- Koi Solis - performance fabric with a premium feel
- Koi Next Gen - sleek, athletic styling with stretch
