How to Care for Your Professional Uniform to Make It Last

A quality professional uniform is an investment — and like any investment, it pays to look after it. Whether you're a nurse, vet nurse, dental assistant, beauty therapist, or spa professional, the right care routine will keep your uniform looking sharp, fitting well, and performing at its best for years rather than months.

Our Fabric Options

At Designs by Rosalie, all uniforms are made from premium NZ-selected fabrics. We offer three options to suit different needs and seasons:

  • 100% Polyester Mechanical Stretch (Medium Weight) — our most popular choice. The stretch comes from the weave itself — a slight natural give without any Lycra or elastane. No-iron, durable, and moves with your body all day long.
  • 100% Polyester Breathable/Antibacterial (Summer Weight) — ideal for warmer months or heated environments. Lightweight and fresh-feeling.
  • Polyester/Viscose (Medium to Heavy Weight) — a classic blend with a slightly more structured feel, great for cooler environments or those who prefer a heavier fabric.

Care instructions are similar across all three, but always check your garment's care label for specifics.

1. Wash at the Right Temperature

Clinical and professional uniforms often need to be washed at higher temperatures for hygiene purposes — typically 60°C or above for healthcare and veterinary environments. All three of our fabric options are designed to handle this without shrinking or losing their shape.

  • Always check the care label before washing for the first time
  • Wash uniforms separately from personal clothing
  • Turn garments inside out to protect the outer surface and preserve colour
  • Use a gentle detergent — harsh chemicals can break down fabric fibres over time

2. Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine

Wash uniforms with enough room to move freely in the drum — overloading means garments don't get properly cleaned and the fabric takes more mechanical stress than necessary.

3. Skip the Tumble Dryer When You Can

  • Hang uniforms to air dry on a hanger to help them keep their shape
  • Dry away from direct sunlight, which can fade colours over time
  • If you do use a dryer, use a low heat setting and remove promptly

All our polyester-based fabrics dry quickly, so air drying is rarely inconvenient.

4. No Ironing Required — But If You Do...

One of the best things about our fabrics is that they're essentially no-iron. Hang them up after washing and they'll smooth out on their own.

  • Use a low to medium heat setting if ironing is needed
  • Iron inside out to protect the fabric surface
  • Avoid steam directly on embroidered logos or embellishments

5. Store Uniforms Properly

  • Hang rather than fold where possible to prevent creasing
  • Keep uniforms separate from everyday clothing to maintain hygiene standards
  • Allow uniforms to air out after a shift before storing in a closed wardrobe

6. Deal With Stains Promptly

  • Rinse with cold water immediately — hot water can set protein-based stains
  • Apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly to the stain before washing
  • Avoid bleach on coloured fabrics as it will strip the colour

7. Know When It's Time to Replace

Signs it's time for a new uniform include fabric that has thinned or pilled, colour that has faded noticeably, seams that have started to fail, or a fit that no longer feels right. A well-cared-for quality uniform should last 2–3 years of regular use.

Invest in Quality, Make It Last

At Designs by Rosalie, we make uniforms for nurses, vet nurses, dental professionals, beauty therapists, spa staff, and more — all made to order in New Zealand from premium fabrics built to go the distance. View our fabric choices here, then browse our collection or contact us for a custom order.

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