Why 1XL Scrubs Are Having a Moment (And Why That Matters)
Ever notice how clothing sizes seem to jump from "slightly too small" to "way too big" with nothing useful in between? If you've struggled to find scrubs that actually fit, you're definitely not alone.
Lately, we've been seeing more healthcare workers specifically looking for 1XL scrubs. Here's why this size is becoming so popular and what it might mean for your scrub shopping.
The Problem with Standard Sizing
Most scrub manufacturers stick to traditional sizing: Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2XL, and so on. But real bodies don't always fit neatly into these categories.
If you've ever tried on an XL that felt too snug across the chest but a 2XL that was swimming on you everywhere else, you know exactly what I'm talking about. It's like the clothing industry decided there's no one between these two sizes, which is obviously not true.
Why Bodies Change (And That's Normal)
Healthcare workers deal with plenty of body changes over the course of their careers. Shift work affects metabolism. Stress impacts weight. Pregnancy changes everything. Injuries might affect mobility and comfort needs.
Your scrubs should work with these changes, not against them. Having sizing options that actually accommodate real life makes a huge difference in how comfortable and confident you feel at work.
The Maternity Factor
Here's something interesting: a lot of the demand for 1XL scrubs comes from healthcare workers who are pregnant. During pregnancy, your body changes in ways that don't always fit standard maternity sizing guidelines.
Some people find 1XL works better than dedicated maternity scrubs because it provides room where needed without looking obviously like maternity wear. Plus, you can often continue wearing them postpartum when your body is still adjusting.
When Regular Sizing Doesn't Work
There are plenty of reasons someone might prefer 1XL over XL or 2XL:
Natural body proportions that fall between standard sizes. Maybe XL is perfect in length but too tight in the chest, or 2XL has the right room but the sleeves are too long.
Preference for fit varies from person to person. Some healthcare workers prefer their scrubs a bit looser for comfort during long shifts, while others like a more fitted look.
Layering needs change with seasons, roles, and facility temperature. Sometimes you want extra room for an underscrub or light jacket.
Activity level affects what feels comfortable. If you're constantly moving, bending, and reaching, you might want more room than someone in a less active role.
The Fabric Technology Bonus
What's really nice about the 1XL options available now is that they're not just bigger versions of basic scrubs. The White Cross CRFT and Healing Hands WORKS collections bring serious performance features.
Moisture-wicking means you stay drier during busy shifts. 4-way stretch gives you freedom of movement. Breathable fabrics prevent overheating. Fluid resistance protects against spills.
These features matter whether you're wearing XL or 1XL or any other size. But having them available in hard-to-find sizes makes a real difference for people who've been struggling with fit.
Why This Size Is Hard to Find
Most retailers don't carry 1XL consistently because it's considered a "specialty" size with lower demand. But that creates a chicken-and-egg problem: people can't buy what's not available, so demand looks artificially low.
The healthcare workers who need 1XL often end up settling for XL (too tight) or 2XL (too loose) because those are the only options. But when 1XL is available, there's definitely interest.
Finding Your Right Fit
If you think 1XL might work for you, it's worth trying. Different brands fit differently, so a 1XL in one brand might feel different from another.
Things to consider:
- Where do your current scrubs feel too tight or too loose?
- Do you prefer more or less room for movement?
- Are you planning for any body changes?
- What's most important: length, width, chest room, hip room?
The Bigger Picture
The growing interest in 1XL scrubs reflects something important: healthcare workers deserve clothing that actually fits their bodies and their needs. Scrubs shouldn't be something you have to "make work." They should just work.
Whether that's 1XL or any other size, the goal is the same: comfortable, professional clothing that helps you do your job without fighting against your uniform all day.
Because honestly, you have enough to worry about at work without your scrubs adding to the stress.