Old scrubs in good shape are wanted, so donate them, sell them, or hand them down before tossing them. Free clinics, nursing schools, and medical mission groups all need usable scrubs, and nurses happily buy gently used ones. Worn-out pairs can become rags or get recycled as textiles.
Scrubs are sturdy and always in demand, so yours rarely need to hit the trash. Here is how to pass them on.
Donate Them
Clean scrubs with plenty of wear left help people who need them.
- Free and community clinics often need scrubs for staff and volunteers.
- Nursing and medical schools take them for students who cannot afford new sets.
- Medical mission and relief groups, such as MedShare and similar charities, send supplies where they are needed.
- Thrift stores and Buy Nothing groups rehome them locally.
Wash them first and make sure there are no name tags, logos, or stains that would rule them out.
Sell Them
There is a strong used-scrubs market, since they are pricey new. List clean sets on Poshmark, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace, and note the brand, color, and size. Popular brands in good condition sell quickly to students and new hires.
Repurpose Worn Scrubs
- Cut them into cleaning rags or shop towels, since the fabric is tough
- Use the material for craft projects, tote bags, or pet bedding
- Save buttons, drawstrings, and pocket fabric for repairs
Recycle the Rest
Scrubs that are too stained or torn to use should be recycled as textiles, not put in the regular trash or recycling bin. Look for a textile recycling drop-off, a clothing collection bin, or a store take-back program. While you are cleaning out the closet, our guides on old clothes and how to declutter your closet can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I donate used scrubs?
Free clinics, nursing and medical schools, medical mission groups like MedShare, and thrift stores. Wash them and remove any name tags or logos first.
Can you sell used scrubs?
Yes. Clean, name-brand scrubs sell well on Poshmark, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace to students and new hires. List the brand, color, and size.
How do you recycle old scrubs?
Use a textile recycling drop-off, clothing bin, or store take-back program. Do not put them in curbside recycling.
What can I do with worn-out scrubs?
Cut them into cleaning rags or shop towels, use the fabric for crafts or pet bedding, or save the buttons and drawstrings for repairs.