Should Home Care Staff Wear Uniforms?

Care home uniforms: finding the right balance

The role of staff uniforms in care homes has been debated for years. Some residents and families love the reassurance and professionalism they bring, while others feel uniforms risk making the environment look too clinical.

In reality, the right uniforms can support both safety and a homely atmosphere. It all comes down to how they are designed, when they are worn and how staff present themselves.

The pros and cons of uniforms in care homes

How uniform colours can support wellbeing

The use of colour in uniforms can have a significant psychological impact on everyone in the care home. Different shades can be used in different areas or roles to subtly support wellbeing.

• Bright colours: Shades like yellow or orange can lift the mood, boost energy and create a cheerful atmosphere. These are great for activity rooms or communal lounges.

• Calming colours: Soft blues and greens help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. They work well in bedrooms, quiet rooms and personal care spaces.

• Warm tones: Peach and soft pinks create a welcoming and comforting feel, ideal for dining rooms or visiting areas.

• Neutral colours: Whites, beiges and light greys keep things looking clean, calm and organised, helping to reduce visual clutter.

What residents, relatives and staff think about uniforms

The debate is not just among managers. Families sometimes prefer a non uniform approach for a more homely feel, while others find it confusing if they cannot immediately spot who is staff.

Most care home staff still wear uniforms, but a growing number of services have relaxed their dress code for social activities and non clinical moments, in an effort to feel more like a home and less like a ward.

Insights from recent research

A 2021 study by Faith Frost and colleagues looked at how residents, relatives, visitors and staff felt about uniforms in care homes. One of the key findings was that preferences change depending on the type of activity.

• Formal uniforms: Preferred for personal care, physical assistance and clinical tasks, where trust, hygiene and professionalism matter most.
• Own clothes: Favoured for social activities, events and trips out of the home, where residents value a more relaxed, equal atmosphere.
• Polo shirts: Seen as a strong middle ground, smart enough for care but informal enough to feel friendly and approachable.

Name badges and clear identification

The research also highlighted how important clear name badges are, especially when PPE covers part of the uniform. Badges that show the staff member’s first name in large, readable text were the most helpful for residents.

 

Fun badge reels and accessories can also add a bit of personality, which helps staff feel more like themselves while still being easy to identify.

Care home uniforms that work in the real world

The best solution is usually a flexible dress code. Formal uniforms for care tasks, practical polo shirts for activities and the option for more relaxed clothing on outings can give residents the reassurance they need without losing the warmth of a homely setting.

 

High quality fabrics, practical pockets and thoughtful cuts all make daily tasks easier and help staff feel confident and comfortable at work.

Care home uniform ideas from Happythreads

At Happythreads, we offer a wide range of care home uniforms, polo shirts and accessories from leading brands such as Koi and Orange Standard. Here are two modern sets that work brilliantly in care homes.

1. Koi Basics Becca scrub top and Holly scrub trousers

This classic navy set is ideal for everyday wear in care homes. The Becca top offers a flattering V neck shape with useful pockets, while the Holly trousers provide a comfortable fit with plenty of storage for keys, pens and notes. The fabric is soft, easy to wash and holds its colour shift after shift.

 

2. Koi Cureology Arthro scrub top and Neuro scrub trousers

For teams that want a smarter, more premium look, the Koi Cureology Arthro top and Neuro trousers in rich berry are a great choice. The fabric feels like high end sportswear while still offering the durability and easy care needed in a busy care environment.

 Mixing colours and styles across your team can   help distinguish roles while still keeping an   overall cohesive, welcoming look.

 Ready to refresh your   care home uniforms

 The question is not whether staff should wear   uniforms, but how to choose ones that support   infection control, dignity and a genuinely   homely atmosphere. With the right colours,   fabrics and fits, uniforms become part of what   makes your care home feel safe, calm and welcoming.

Shop care home uniforms at Happythreads

Resource: Frost, F. (2021). Study on care home uniforms and perceptions among residents, relatives and staff.