FAQ - Medical Fabrics

FAQ – The best fabrics in the medical sector

Below you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about medical fabrics used in medical clothing. The information covers material properties, weights, certificates, care, and the differences between polyester–cotton, polyester–viscose, blends with spandex and 100% cotton.

Which fabrics are most commonly used in medical clothing?

The four most popular groups of materials are:

• polyester–cotton – durability and resistance to washing,
• polyester–viscose – softness and elegance,
• polyester–viscose–spandex – elasticity and freedom of movement,
• 100% cotton – natural, breathable, highly hygienic.

How do polyester–cotton fabrics differ from 100% cotton?

Polyester–cotton fabrics are more durable, crease less and withstand industrial washing better. 100% cotton is more natural, breathable and gentler on the skin, but requires more careful care.

What are the advantages of 100% cotton in medical clothing?

• high breathability – ideal for warm work environments,
• natural composition – skin-friendly,
• comfort during long shifts,
• medical white – classic and elegant,
• can be dyed in many colours.

Is 100% cotton available in colours?

Yes – medical cotton is available in classic white and many other colours. White dominates in medical facilities, while colours are popular in private practices as well as in tunics and work trousers.

What is the weight of 100% cotton fabric?

The most common fabric weights are:

• 130–150 g/m² – lightweight shirting fabrics,
• 150–180 g/m² – standard weight,
• 180–200 g/m² – stronger fabrics with higher durability.

Can medical fabrics be washed at 95°C?

Yes – most materials in the polyester–cotton and polyester–viscose groups are suitable for washing at temperatures up to 95°C. For 100% cotton, 40–60°C is usually recommended, unless the manufacturer allows higher temperatures.

What certificates do medical fabrics have?

• PN-EN ISO 13688 – protective clothing / general requirements,
• CEN/TS 14237 – textiles for medical facilities,
• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 – no harmful substances,
• hygiene tests and safety studies.

Do medical fabrics shrink after washing?

Polyester–cotton and polyester–viscose practically do not shrink. 100% cotton may shrink by 2–5%, which is typical for natural fibres.

Do the colours of medical fabrics fade?

Fabrics certified with OEKO-TEX® are highly resistant to:

• light,
• abrasion,
• sweat,
• industrial washing.

Which is more breathable: viscose or cotton?

Cotton provides the highest breathability. Viscose also wicks moisture well and gives a cooling effect.

Are fabrics with added spandex durable?

Yes – modern polyester–viscose–spandex blends are resistant to deformation, stretching and intensive fibre work.

For which garments is polyester–cotton best suited?

• doctor’s coats,
• scrub tops,
• medical trousers,
• clothing for medical staff with increased durability requirements.

For which applications is viscose recommended?

• representative clothing,
• private practices,
• premium clinics,
• tunic-style shirt cuts.

Which material is best for slim and jogger cuts?

The best choice is polyester–viscose–spandex thanks to its exceptional elasticity and fit.

Which fabric is best for summer?

100% cotton and lighter polyester–viscose blends.

Which fabric is best for winter?

Heavier polyester–cotton with a weight of approx. 200 g/m².

Are medical fabrics suitable for printing?

Yes – polyester–cotton, polyester–viscose and 100% cotton work very well with DTF printing.

Do you have other questions?

Contact us: ModernBHP Contact