The CO2e of washing your Medicus scrub caps

Factoring for home washing. Efficient washing plays a massive role in how sustainable the scrub caps are. Washing just 1 scrub cap on it’s own would be 0.135kg CO2e per wash per cap whereas filling a 7KG washing machine to max capacity would be 0.00058Kg CO2e per wash per cap. A half load would be 0.00115KG CO2e per wash per cap. One study found a single layer SMS gown had an impact of 0.1426kg CO2e [Source] and which takes about 1.9m to make of fabric [Source] meaning you could get 7 disposable scrub caps out of that same material. Using the same data would mean 0.021KG CO2e per scrub cap. Max Loads = 1.755kg CO2e (83.58 Disposables)Half Loads = 3.51kg CO2e (167 Disposables)Single Cap Wash = 7.02kg CO2e (334 Disposables) Anything below single cap washing would make the surgical caps more sustainable then disposable scrub use based on our survey data of the average caps being 2 caps per working day.

2 September 2023 2 min read

Row of front-loading washing machines in a laundromat by a window

The CO2e Impact of Washing Your Medicus Scrub Caps

Scrub caps play a vital role in medical uniforms, serving both hygienic and functional purposes. However, like all clothing, you should consider their environmental impact. This blog examines the carbon footprint of washing your Medicus scrub caps, offering insights into how this process contributes to your overall environmental footprint. Understanding these impacts will help you make more informed decisions about caring for your scrub caps while maintaining both cleanliness and sustainability. Learn more about the environmental impact of laundry.

The Basics of Medicus Scrub Caps

Medicus scrub caps come in various styles and sizes, typically weighing around 30 grams for the larger sizes. These caps are made from comfortable, durable materials such as 100% cotton or hemp. Healthcare professionals often rotate multiple scrub caps throughout the week, allowing for regular washing without overloading the laundry process. Learn more about sustainable fabric choices for healthcare uniforms.

The Carbon Footprint of Washing Medicus Scrub Caps

To understand the carbon footprint of washing your Medicus scrub caps, consider the following factors:

Washing Machine: We assume a standard 7KG washing machine.
Energy Consumption: The average energy consumption is 58 kWh per 100 washes. Discover more about household energy consumption here.
CO2 Emissions: In the UK, electricity generation emits 0.23314 kg CO2e per kWh. Therefore, washing your Medicus scrub caps results in an average carbon footprint of approximately 0.135 kg CO2e per wash. Read about UK electricity and its CO2 emissions.

Medicus Caps are designed to last — reducing waste, cutting costs, and outperforming disposables. 100% cotton. Reusable. Made in the UK.