Are scrub caps worth it?

Yes. Reusable scrub caps are a worthwhile investment for healthcare professionals. They are more comfortable than disposables for long shifts, allow personalisation with your name and role for team identification, and are better for the environment — each reusable cap replaces over 100 disposable alternatives per year. Our 100% cotton caps can be machine washed at 60°C, meeting NHS infection control standards.

How do I choose the right size scrub cap?

Measure around the widest part of your head, above your ears and eyebrows, using a soft tape measure. Our scrub caps come in sizes XS (52cm) to 2XL (69cm). If you are between sizes, we recommend sizing up for comfort. Visit our sizing guide at medicuscaps.com/pages/scrub-caps-sizing-guide for detailed instructions and a size chart for each style.

What is the difference between a surgical cap and a scrub cap?

The terms are used interchangeably. A surgical cap (or theatre cap) refers to any head covering worn in the operating theatre to contain hair and reduce contamination. Scrub cap is the informal term used across healthcare settings. Both meet the same infection control standards when made from appropriate materials and washed at 60°C.

What is the difference between Euro and regular scrub caps?

A Euro-style scrub cap (also called a pixie or fitted cap) sits closer to the head with a shorter back, while a regular bouffant-style cap has more room to tuck in longer hair. At Medicus, our Bandana style is a classic tie-back with full coverage, our Captain is a fitted tie-back with structured front similar to a Euro style, and our Elastic Backed is a no-tie slip-on.

Are scrub caps mandatory in UK hospitals?

Head coverings are required in operating theatres across UK hospitals to maintain sterile conditions. While specific policies vary by NHS trust, most require theatre staff to wear caps that fully contain hair. Many trusts now actively encourage reusable cotton scrub caps as a sustainable alternative to disposable options, provided they are washed at 60°C between uses.

What are the best scrub caps for long hair?

For long hair, we recommend our Bandana (tie-back) style which offers the most room to tuck hair in comfortably. The generous cut accommodates ponytails, buns, braids, and locs. For extra hair protection, add a satin lining which prevents breakage, reduces frizz, and maintains protective hairstyles during long shifts. Available in sizes up to 2XL (69cm).

Sample Box – Try Before You Buy (Bulk Samples Too) scrub cap

Scrub Cap Sample Box – Try Before You Buy (Bulk Samples Too)

From £4.00

Scrub Cap Sample Box – Try Before You Buy (Bulk Samples Too)

From £4.00

Every head is different — don't guess your size. Because every Medicus cap is custom-made and orders are final, the Sample Box lets you try real caps at home first. It works on a simple deposit scheme: what you pay acts as a refundable deposit, and UK returns are completely free.

How It Works

Build your box — start from the £4 base price, then add the styles and sizes you'd like to try as add-ons. Your payment acts as a refundable deposit.
Try them at home — test the fit, comfort and fabric on your own head, on shift or off.
Send them back free (UK) — use the prepaid UK return label included with your box.
Deposit refunded — once your samples are back, your deposit is returned. Trying costs you nothing.
Order with confidence — pick your designs knowing exactly which style and size fits. Save 10% automatically when you buy 3+ caps.

Details

Contents: Your choice of style samples including Bandana, Captain, Elastic Backed, and specialty options
Material: 100% cotton
Sizes: Representative samples from XS-2XL range (52-69cm heads) (view sizing guide)
Care: machine wash at 60°C in line with NHS uniform guidance
Production: Made to order in Sheffield, UK – 1-6 working days depending on customisation
Colours: Samples from 30+ professional shades on hand and over 90+ for bulk orders
Digital passport: every cap carries a sewn-in QR code linking to its own Medicus cap passport
Delivery: UK Royal Mail Tracked 48 from £3.99, faster options at checkout, worldwide shipping available

For Teams & Bulk Orders

Complete evaluation: Test comfort, fit, and durability across different staff members and head sizes
Department comparison: Assess various styles for different clinical environments
Team identification: Preview custom embroidery with name and role options
Infection control: All samples meet NHS washing guidelines when properly laundered

Make It Yours

Name and role embroidery – permanent identification in the font, colour and placement you choose (text size guide)

ID band – contrasting band so colleagues can read your role across the theatre

Satin lining – protects hair and reduces friction on long shifts

Flux peak – a small brim that keeps theatre lights out of your eyes

Mullet – a contrasting band colour for quicker laundry sorting

Animal ears – fabric ears that match the print, a favourite on children's wards

Made by people, not robots.

Giving the most options at competitive prices.

Carbon costed and designed with sustainability in mind.

100% Cotton With OTEX 100 Certifications.

This product is crafted with quality materials to ensure durability and performance. Designed with your convenience in mind, it seamlessly fits into your everyday life.

We strive to process and ship all orders in a timely manner, working diligently to ensure that your items are on their way to you as soon as possible.

We are committed to ensuring a positive shopping experience for all our customers. If for any reason you wish to return an item, we invite you to reach out to our team for assistance, and we will evaluate every return request with care and consideration.

Handmade to order in Sheffield, England. Dispatched in 2–3 working days. Royal Mail tracked delivery from £3.99, with next-day and priority options at checkout.

Delivery to

Every cap is made to order, so allow production time on top of the delivery window. Delivery details

Related products

Contact Medicus Scrub Caps

At Medicus Caps, we offer bulk orders of high-quality, sustainable scrub caps in sizes and styles to suit any need. Our custom options allow you to personalise your caps with printed fabric or embroidered logos and names.

All of our caps are designed and manufactured in the UK under one roof for the highest quality control and include latex-free elastic options. We also have an end-of-life recycling programme for responsible disposal. Choose Medicus Caps for all of your sustainable scrub cap needs.