Let's be honest, in the fast-paced world of healthcare, your scrubs are more than just a uniform—they're a critical piece of your professional toolkit. And what makes them truly indispensable? Pockets (or sometimes, the lack thereof).
In the heat of a shift, a well-placed pocket can be the difference between a smooth workflow and a frantic search. At Uniform Stores, we understand that pocket utility is key, which is why we carry a massive range of styles from top vendors. We offer a deep selection so you can find the perfect configuration.
It's time to stop treating your pockets like a cluttered junk drawer and start seeing them as a strategic, organized utility belt.
The Ultimate Pocket Directory: Carrying Your Shift
Pockets are differentiated by placement, size, and security features. Understanding what each pocket is for—or when no pockets are necessary—helps you build the perfect, efficient loadout for your workday.
- Chest Pockets: The absolute essential, typically found on the upper front of a scrub top. These are perfect for quick-access items like pens, penlights, and ID badges. Because they are placed high, they are ideal for tools you need to grab one-handed.
- Lower Patch Pockets: These are the workhorses, appearing as large, square compartments on both scrub tops and occasionally scrub pants. They are great for bulkier supplies like rolls of tape, small packets of gauze, or alcohol swabs. Pro Tip: Look for styles with divided patch pockets for better internal organization.
- Inside Pockets: These are the ultimate security features, most often found built into the lining or interior panel of a lab coat or scrub jacket. Because they are completely hidden when the garment is zipped or buttoned, they are perfect for safeguarding valuable personal items like a wallet, keys, or personal phone while keeping them out of sight and secure against your body.
- Hip Pockets: Located just below the waistband of scrub pants, these pockets feature a slanted or curved entry that makes slipping your hands or grabbing items quick and natural. They are ideal for immediate storage of your keys, lip balm, or small, non-critical supplies.
- Side Seam Pockets: These pockets are sewn directly into the vertical seam line of a garment (tops or pants). This placement offers a very streamlined, clean look that doesn't break the silhouette. They are a discrete option for storing flat, small items.
- Cargo Pockets: Primarily located on the side of scrub pant legs, these are the foundation of mobile storage. Large and often bellowed, they can handle glove boxes, small notebooks, or even a blood pressure cuff. Crucial Feature: Look for secure closures (snaps or zippers) to prevent items from falling out when you sit.
- Back Pockets: Situated on the rear of scrub pants, these are great for flatter items you need but don't access constantly. They are best used for securing personal wallets, ID cards, or small, durable reference cards you want to keep close but out of the way.
- Tablet Pockets: A modern necessity for digital charting and mobile communication! These pockets are specifically designed to safely and securely hold small to medium-sized tablets (like a mini or standard model) or larger report sheets. They are typically deep are most commonly found on scrub jackets or full-length lab coats.
- Zipper Pockets: Their key feature is maximum security, making them ideal for carrying money, vehicle keys, or sensitive electronics without the risk of them spilling out when you bend, run, or sit.
- Welt Pockets: A sleek, minimalist pocket usually sewn into the garment fabric, often seen on the rear of pants. They are distinguished by a narrow, finished opening. They offer a more professional, streamlined look and are generally used for flat items like a badge reel, personal card, or small notepad.
- No Pockets: A critical option for specialized or sterile environments. Zero-pocket scrubs ensure the highest level of infection control by eliminating potential catch points or places where contaminants might be inadvertently carried. These are often required for staff who gown up and use external storage systems.
Your Pocket Strategy: Organization for Efficiency
It's not just about the number of pockets, but how you use them (or whether you use them at all).
- Determine Your Needs: Your environment dictates your pocket needs. If you work in a sterile zone, filter for No Pockets. If you're a floor nurse, maximize your Cargo and Lower Patch space.
- Assign a Purpose: Designate pockets for categories. For example: Right Cargo = Clean Supplies; Left Cargo = Tools; Chest Pocket = Personal/Quick Access.
- Utilize Security Features: If your scrubs feature zipper closures, snaps, or reinforced slots, use them for your most critical or valuable items, ensuring they don't fall out when you move quickly or bend over.
Explore Your Perfect Pockets
Ready to find the scrubs that truly carry their weight—or simply maintain sterility?
Check out all scrub wear on our website and use the "Pocket Description" filter on the left to select your ideal pocket requirement and discover your next essential uniform! Need a specific number of pockets? You can filter by "Pocket Count" as well!