Top 15 Best Scrubs For Plus Size Nurses

9 Min Read Published June 13, 2023
Top 15 Best Scrubs For Plus Size Nurses

Looking for plus-size scrubs? We got you — we’ve rounded up plus-size scrubs options with all the features that nurses can use on the job, from Spandex fabric to pockets to cargo scrub pants to fit all your tools. 

Plus, we’ve included breathable scrubs with just that perfect amount of stretch fabric, comfortable fit, and elastic waist to fit a variety of different body types. Whether you’re looking for mid-rise, stretch, baggy, jogger, or fitted plus-size scrubs, there are styles to match what you need on the job. Nurses need scrubs that offer both stretch and comfort on the job, so here are our favorite picks for plus-size scrubs.

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1. Iflex Jogger Scrubs for Women

These jogger scrubs feature a knit waistband and tapered cuff legs for a comfortable fit and tailored silhouette. They’re available in sizes XXS to 2XL and the petite inseam is 27 1/2” if you are looking for petite scrub pants. The scrubs are pull-on, but they also have a small zippered pocket on the back of the waistband, presumably to hold something like a car key, chapstick, or smartwatch. 

“I have been in an epic struggle to find a pair of joggers for my chubby little legs,” wrote one Amazon shopper. “These are amazing. The material is stretchy enough that it hugs the areas that are tight without feeling like my calves are about to be strangled to death. Super comfy and a perfect length.”

There are also two wide side pockets that reviewers say are plenty big enough for a phone but no belt loop for a stethoscope, Vocera,  or monitoring device. Reviews do mention that these scrubs tend to run extra big, so keep that in mind when ordering. Amazon, Price: $35-$37

2. Cherokee Prints V-Neck Scrub Top 

This V-neck scrub top comes in sizes XXS to 5X in certain prints and is as breathable as you could want out of a top. Nursing is a physically demanding job and you need a scrub top that’s stretchy and baggy enough to let you move without unwanted exposure while remaining professional. Plus, there are two welt pockets so you don’t have to worry about seams coming apart even if you stuff them full of all the tape, pens, and tools you need. 

Reviews from people who own this top mention they love its comfort—most likely due to the Spandex-Polyester blend fabric— as well as the many color options to choose from. “Super cute & comfy, first I’m picky. I'm plus size and have lots of tops.. this top is super comfortable and light highly recommended,” wrote one. Amazon, Price: $22

3. HeartSoul Zip Front Scrub Vest with Detachable Hood

I gotta say, I am loving the look of this scrub vest as well as the added comfort factor the hood would provide, especially on night shift. But because nurses are always thinking about these sorts of things, don’t worry—the hood is also completely detachable. 

The scrub vest comes in white, black, gray, or blue and in sizes up to 3X and also contains pockets that shoppers say are big enough to carry a smaller phone in them. It’s always best to check the individual scrub size chart and fit guide for the scrub brand you’re purchasing, but if you want a general idea, a size 3X in scrubs generally fits a size 26-28. 

“I have [worn] a lab jacked to cover my tattoos for years but as a nurse, it can get hot quickly,” wrote one reviewer. “ I purchased this vest to wear with an under-scrub long sleeve, and it’s perfect! Flattering, and lightweight for a busy workday. Plenty of deep pockets, and it’s still professional. I won’t ever go back to wearing a lab jacket.” Amazon, Price: $37

4. Dickies Retro Women Scrubs Top V-Neck

The Dickies retro V-neck scrub top provides more of a fitted look but still comes in sizes up to 3X. It features six percent Spandex for a lot of stretches and has stitched side seams that extend from the pockets to the shoulders that provide a fitted look. They’re also anti-microbial, have four-way stretch, and have a patch pocket on each side. Choose from eight different colors for what the brand calls an “edgy, vibrant, cool, and youthful” look. Amazon, Price: $24-$28

5. Dickies Xtreme Stretch Mid-Rise Drawstring Cargo Pants

These Dickies scrub pants provide a few of nurses' favorite things: they’re mid-rise, drawstring, cargo, and stretchy. What more can you ask for in scrub pants, honestly? They come in about one million different colors and have both tall and petite sizing up to 2X. Plus, you get four pockets total and a snap closure to hang a stethoscope or scissors. All of the reviews on the Scrubs and Beyond site are glowing and many even mention another huge advantage of these pants is that they’re wrinkle-free, so no ironing or steaming is required. Scrubs and Beyond, Price: $18

6. Grey's Anatomy Spandex Stretch Drawstring Cargo Jogger Pants

I may have never watched the show, but I will certainly get behind supporting these Grey’s Anatomy drawstring jogger scrub pants because they look pretty much perfect. Not only do they come in colors like pink, white, and wine, but they’re ultra-soft, feature a mid-rise fit, and have tons of nurse-friendly features like seven total pockets, soil release, and built-in anti-odor protection. Oh, and some colors come in up to size 3X. Maybe those Grey’s Anatomy doctors actually do know what they’re doing after all, even if they spend most of their time unrealistically starting IVs on the show. Scrubs and Beyond, Price: $38

7. Barco One Jewel Neck Warm-Up Jacket

For nurses looking for more coverage (hello 2 AM on night shift), this warm-up jacket offers comfort, protection from bodily fluids and spills, and sizes up to 4X. The scrub jacket is made from 50% polyester, 43% recycled polyester, and 7% spandex, so it’s both comfortable and stretchable. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, moisture-wicking, and wrinkle-resistant for the inevitable times you will end up tossing it on a chair at the nurse’s station. Scrubs and Beyond, Price: $43

8. Philosophy Mock Wrap Ribbed Panel Top

 

Nurses of all body types will appreciate the stretch and style this mock-wrap scrub top from Philosophy offers. It’s V-neck and comes in sizes up to 5X, along with many bright color options. Not only is this scrub top fashionable, but for functionality, you also get two front pockets and a bungee I.D. loop. “Great top. Fits a curvy figure,” wrote one reviewer. “No weird extra fabric in the small of the back. Stretch panels follow the curves nicely.” Scrubs and Beyond, Price: $35

9. Figs Catarina One-Pocket Scrub Top

If you ever wondered if Figs scrubs fit plus size, the answer is absolutely yes. For instance, this Catarina scrub top comes in sizes up to 6X, which is more size-inclusive than many scrub tops marketed exclusively as plus-size. It’s a modern V-neck design with a side slit for comfort and breathability. The one drawback to this top, however, is that there’s only one pocket on the chest area. Wear Figs, Price: $38

10. Jaanuu Women's 1-Pocket Tuck-In Scrub Top

This scrub top comes in sizes up to 3X and has the interesting feature of an ID badge clip under the arm sleeve, so your ID badge then dangles near your deltoid. Having never actually worn my ID there, I am intrigued by the idea that it’s out of the way but I still wonder about the practicality.

Nonetheless, this is a scrub top that’s built to be different, both in design, with a crew neck and look, thanks to side slits meant for tucking. Just like the Figs, however, you only get that one lonely chest pocket and no functional top pockets. Jaanuu, Price: $30

11. Landau Forward 5-Pocket Rib Knit Waistband Cargo Pant

To give you the pockets you’re lacking if you choose the Jaanuu or Fig tops, the Landau Forward offers five pockets in their cargo scrub pants. One of the pockets is even zippered, so no precious cargo will be lost. These pants come in up to size 2X in tall and up to 3X in petite. They also feature a super comfy wide pull-on waistband and are designed to keep their shape even after countless wears and washes. Scrubs and Beyond, Price: $32

12. Vince Camuto Rounded Hem Chest Pocket V-Neck Top

Nurses of all shapes and sizes will appreciate the curved hem that ensures this V-neck scrub top stays put while still offering plenty of room for movement and stretch. Tuck it in or wear it loose, but stay professional either way. There’s only one chest pocket, but the top also features the shoulder ID badge holder. Comes in sizes up to 3X. Scrubs and Beyond, Price: $18

13. WonderWink Thrive Cargo Jogger Pant

Pull-on, cargo, elastic waistband, and a jogger style: it’s the scrub pant that has it all. With six pockets, water-repellent fabric, and an interior belt loop, these scrub pants are also made for function. They’re made of 100% polyester and come in petite and tall sizes up to 3X. “My new favorite scrub pants!!!” wrote one reviewer, adding: “Super soft, nice wide waistband that stays up nicely when tied.” Scrubs and Beyond, Price: $37

14. Carhartt Cross-Flex Utility Boot-Cut Cargo Pants

For nurses eschewing those trendy tapered joggers, enter the Carhart bootcut cargo scrub pant. This style of scrub pants was all the rage when I graduated nursing school back in 2008 and with convenient features like eight pockets, including an instrument loop, I can definitely see them making a comeback. Scrubs and Beyond, Price: $33 

15. Cherokee Infinity Zip Front Warm Up Jacket

Maybe you aren’t comfortable wearing a traditional scrub top and prefer a T-shirt with a scrub jacket. This lightweight front zip up jacket is the perfect addition to any nurse’s wardrobe. There are hidden pockets with zipper closures that are perfect for stashing supplies as well as your cell phone. It boasts a contemporary fit with a waistband made of stretch rib knit. The jacket does tend to run on the slightly larger size and has sizing up to 5X.  Scrubs and beyond, Price: $39.99

FAQs

What brand is best for plus-size scrubs?

Figs, Dickies, and Cherokee are all popular brands for plus-size scrubs. 

Do scrubs for plus-size nurses have belt loops? 

Some scrubs for plus-size nurses do have belt loops, but not all. 

Is it difficult to find scrubs for plus size? 

No, many brands offer plus-size scrubs and Figs has sizing in some scrub styles up to 6X. 

Chaunie Brusie
BSN, RN
Chaunie Brusie
Nurse.org Contributor

Chaunie Brusie, BSN, RN is a nurse-turned-writer with experience in critical care, long-term care, and labor and delivery. Her work has appeared everywhere from Glamor to The New York Times to The Washington Post. Chaunie lives with her husband and five kids in the middle of a hay field in Michigan and you can find more of her work here

Education:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Saginaw Valley State University

Expertise:
Nursing, Women's Health, Wellness

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