Indigo Vs. Navy Scrubs: Best Color For Medical Professionals

Scrubs come in a rainbow of colors, but two of the most popular options are indigo and navy. These deep blue shades are staples in many hospitals and medical clinics.

But what’s the difference between indigo and navy scrubs? And which color is better for medical professionals? This comprehensive guide examines the pros and cons so you can decide which blue is best for you.

A Brief Comparison Table

Factor	Indigo Scrubs	Navy Scrubs
Color Tone	Vibrant, deep blue with purple undertones	Dark blue with less purple undertones
Style Options	Fewer brands and styles available	Wide range available
Formality	Less formal for some clinical settings	Considered professional standard
Stain Resistance	Hides stains well, but not as good as navy	Dark color hides most stains very well
Cost	Typically more expensive than navy	Affordable, with many budget styles
Availability	Growing in popularity but still less common	Readily available at most medical uniform suppliers
Care	Can fade faster with washing	Color holds up better to frequent washing
Work Settings	Ideal for surgery and procedures	Suited for clinics, nursing, labs, healthcare admin, etc.

What Is The Difference Between Indigo And Navy Scrubs?

Indigo and navy are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct shades of blue.

Indigo is a rich, deep blue with hints of violet. It’s the dye originally extracted from the leaves of the Indigofera plant to color fabric.

Navy is a darker blue with less purple undertones. It got its name because it resembles the dark blue color of sailor uniforms.

So in summary:

• Indigo is brighter with more purple/violet tones
• Navy is darker with less violet undertones

This subtle color variation is why some medical professionals may prefer one over the other. Read on to see the key factors in choosing indigo Vs. navy scrubs.

Pros And Cons Of Indigo Scrubs

Here are the benefits and drawbacks of choosing indigo colored scrubs for medical settings:

Pros of Indigo Scrubs:

• Vibrant and eye-catching color
• Distinctive look compared to standard navy
• Indigo dye has natural antibacterial properties
• Color hides stains well
• Pairs nicely with professional white coats

Cons of Indigo Scrubs:

• Less formal than navy for some clinical settings
• Still shows some stains compared to black scrubs
• Limited style and brand options in indigo
• Color can fade faster than navy with washing

Overall, indigo scrubs are ideal for medical professionals who want an attractive uniform that stands out from the usual navy. The vibrant indigo shade looks crisp when paired with white coats and can boost morale.

Also Read: Figs Dark Harbor Vs. Navy Scrubs: Which Should You Choose?

Pros And Cons Of Navy Scrubs

Now let’s examine the upsides and downsides of choosing classic navy blue scrubs:

Pros of Navy Scrubs:

• Timeless, professional color option
• Matches most clinic uniform guidelines
• Darker color hides stains better than indigo
• Wide range of navy scrub styles and brands
• Navy dye color holds up well to frequent washing

Cons of Navy Scrubs:

• Less unique than indigo scrubs
• Can blend in with black scrubs in dim lighting
• Slightly duller shade than richer indigo
• Not as eye-catching for staff who want to stand out

Navy is the safe, standard scrub color for medical settings. It’s professional and practical, but some find it boring. Overall, navy is ideal for staff who want a traditional uniform look.

Key Factors In Choosing Indigo Vs. Navy Scrubs

When deciding between indigo and navy, keep these key factors in mind:

Clinic Dress Code

Check if your employer has a mandated scrub color. Navy is included in most dress codes. Indigo may require special approval.

Personal Preference

Think about which color you find most attractive and uplifting to wear. Your scrubs should make you feel confident and professional.

Role and Department

Consider your medical specialty. Indigo may suit surgery teams who want to pop. Navy is traditional for clinics, labs, etc.

Stain Resistance

Navy holds up to stains slightly better. But indigo’s antimicrobial properties also discourage bacteria growth.

Cost and Availability

Navy scrubs offer more budget-friendly styles. Indigo has fewer options but is growing in popularity.

Also Read: Differences Between Mediclo And Figs Scrubs.

Best Practices For Indigo And Navy Scrubs

To get the most out of your blue scrubs, keep these tips in mind:

• Wash in cold water and hang dry to prevent fading
• Use a color-protecting detergent to maintain vibrancy
• Don’t bleach or use fabric softener, as this can break down dyes
• Store scrubs properly in drawers or hung up to avoid wrinkles
• Avoid keeping pens, gloves, etc. in pockets that could leak ink or dirt
• Invest in a few sets of scrubs and rotate them to prolong wear

Proper care will keep both indigo and navy scrubs looking like new. Having multiple sets also lets you launder scrubs after just one or two wears to prevent stains and odors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Also Read: Choose Between Charcoal And Pewter Scrubs.

Conclusion

With their deep blue tones, both indigo and navy are professional options for medical scrubs. Indigo stands out more with its bright violet hue but can fade faster. Traditional navy is dark and practical, if a bit dull for some. Consider your workplace dress code, desired look, and laundry regimen when choosing between the two colors.

And be sure to properly care for your scrubs to keep them looking crisp while you provide vital healthcare services. With the right blue scrubs and care, you can focus on your patients while feeling confident in your appearance.