How to pick a Lab Coat?

Doctors began using lab coats between 100 and 200 years ago to protect their skin and clothing from hazardous chemicals. Since then, the lab coat has been an essential piece of clothing for all professionals working in medicine and the life sciences. 

Now, a lab coat, doctor's coat, or professional coat is one of the most vital attributes to the professional performance of doctors, nurses, dentists, hygienists, lab technicians, clinical staff, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals – to look professional and polished in a crisp white coat. 

A well-designed coat will not only enhance your operational efficiency but also help you create a good image in your workplace. Besides the image that a lab coat portrays, it is there to protect you from hazards and medical waste that come with the job.

Some essential tips to consider in choosing a coat that fits you comfortably and perfectly: 

Stitching / Fitting 

As a healthcare professional, you are constantly on the move, walking, crouching, bending, and performing other physical activities. You need to ensure that your coat is comfortable to wear, especially during extended working hours.  

The quality of the stitching will determine whether the coat can sustain and enhance these kinds of movements. There should be enough room on the shoulders to allow you to reach above your head without pulling the coat up and constricting you; you do not want so much room that it hangs on you. 

A coat made to last must have reinforced seams and back tacks at typical stress points. Check whether it features topstitching on the back, shoulders, and elbows, as this will make your coat much more durable after multiple washes. 

Having the coat front sewn down means you don’t have to worry about the facing peeking out and getting in the way when caring for patients, working in the lab, or working on a medical device. 

Material / Fabric 

Typically, healthcare professional coats are made of a combination of cotton and polyester. 

Cotton is the most common material used for professional coats as it is lightweight, comfortable, breathable, and durable.  However, cotton wrinkles easily. 

Polyester is resistant to stains and does not wrinkle easily.  

The combination makes the medical coat more durable, comfortable, and stain-resistant while maintaining its shape over time. 

Alternatively, you can opt for a coat made of 100% pure cotton, renowned for its super-soft feel against the skin. 

There is a diverse range from light to heavyweight in the pure cotton and cotton-polyester choices. When selecting a medical coat, consider the material based on your preferences and the climate in your work environment. 

If you work in a chemistry lab, you must choose a coat that is stain-resistant. It should be able to absorb or prevent chemical spills, as well as medical waste and fire-retardant solvents, when working with hazardous and flammable liquids. 

Design / Style 

A white coat is professional attire for doctors, nurses, lab technicians, clinical staff, and other healthcare professionals. The coat’s style, therefore, should reflect the wearer’s job. You should look for:

A coat designed for optimal functionality and ample storage, allowing it to house a variety of tools and equipment for your convenience during work and featuring large exterior pockets and interior pockets to carry essentials like pens, a pad, a stethoscope, and other tools, allowing you to care for patients anytime and anywhere easily.

A coat designed to make you look stylish in the workplace. Your body shape and your style preferences are two critical factors to consider when picking a medical coat.

For example, your height will determine the correct length for the coat, and the ideal jacket should fall to your knee or slightly above it.

The design of the coat should be made to flatter your body shape. 

Women seeking a flattering cut can opt for a lab coat with pleating below the bust, slimming vertical seams, or details at the waist, which will flatter your curves with professional subtlety. If you have athletic frames, a lab coat with a flat waistband with pleating and other details on the inner seams and pockets will bring a feminine touch to a professional look. 

Customize / Personalize 

A tailored coat can create a perfect fit for your body. You can rely on trusted healthcare apparel manufacturers and suppliers that offer customized sizing, as well as alterations for sleeve and coat lengths. 

To give a personal touch to your professional attire, consider having your medical coat tailored with embroidery, adding unique colors, or customizing your size. For customized sizing, the right supply company should be able to tailor the correct sleeve and coat length to fit you perfectly.