Uniforms might seem simple at first but when you’re the one in charge of choosing, ordering, or wearing them, all kinds of questions start to come up. What fabric holds up best in a busy workplace? How many uniforms should each staff member have in their wardrobe? Is it okay to mix different styles or colours? If you’ve ever felt unsure, you’re not alone.
We hear these questions all the time from businesses of all sizes. That’s exactly why we put together this simple FAQ guide to give you clear, straightforward answers without all the confusing terms. Whether you’re placing your first uniform order or just looking to improve what you already have, this guide is here to help you make smart choices that feel right for your team and your brand.
1. How Many Uniform Sets Should Each Staff Member Have?
As a general rule, we recommend giving each team member at least three to five sets of uniforms. This allows for rotation during the week and ensures they always have a clean set ready to go, even if laundry gets delayed. If your staff work longer shifts, do physical work, or get dirty often (like in hospitality or trades), consider providing more sets.
Think of it this way: the more prepared your team is, the better they’ll feel showing up to work. Having enough uniforms reduces stress and helps everyone maintain a neat, professional appearance every day with no excuses. It also reduces wear and tear on each set, helping the uniforms last longer overall.
We often suggest more tops then bottoms – so if they are working five days then provide 3 full sets with an extra two tops.
2. What’s the Best Fabric for Daily Wear?
When it comes to daily use, breathable and durable fabrics are key. Cotton-poly blends are a great all-rounders as they’re soft, wrinkle-resistant, and hold up well after frequent washing. If your team works in hot environments or stays on their feet all day, moisture-wicking or lightweight performance fabrics might be a better fit.
It’s worth thinking about what your staff’s role and taskses each day. Are they moving around a lot,working outdoors? Comfort and durability should go hand in hand. Choosing the right fabric doesn’t just affect how the uniform looks, it also helps your team stay cool, comfortable, and focused throughout the day.
3. Can We Mix Styles but Still Look Cohesive?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, many businesses do. Mixing styles can work well as long as there’s a shared element that brings everything together like colour, branding, or overall fit. For example, your front-of-house staff might wear button-downs, while back-of-house wears polos, but in the same colour palette.
This approach lets you design uniforms that suit each role while still looking unified. It’s all about creating a smart balance between individuality and brand consistency. That way, everyone can wear what’s practical for their role without losing the team look
4. How Long Does a Uniform Order Take?
It depends on the complexity of your order, but a typical timeline is around 4 to 6 weeks from final approval to delivery. If you’re ordering custom pieces, adding logos, or tailoring the fit, that might add a bit of time but it’s worth it for the end result.
Need something faster? Ask your supplier about express options or ready-made pieces. Some suppliers have stock ready to go or offer quicker turn around for simpler orders. Just be sure to plan ahead as much as you can, especially if you’re preparing for a big opening or event.
5. Can Uniforms Be Tailored for a Better Fit?
Yes! Tailored uniforms are a great way to help your team feel more confident and comfortable. Whether it’s adjusting sleeve lengths, hemming pants, or tweaking the fit around the waist, these small changes can make a big difference.
Some suppliers (like us!) even offer made-to-order sizing or flexible fits to suit different body types. A good uniform should feel like it was made for the person wearing it not the other way around. And when a uniform fits well, it naturally looks more polished, too.
6. What’s the Easiest Way to Manage Uniforms for a Large Team?
Keeping track of uniforms for a big team can be tricky, but it gets easier with the right systems in place. Start by keeping a uniform list per employee with sizes and quantities. You can also assign labels or codes to each set for easier tracking.
Some companies choose to work with a uniform supplier who offers managed services handling orders, replacements, and even deliveries. This saves time and helps avoid miscommunication or stock issues down the line. It also helps keep things consistent, even as your team grows.
7. How Often Should Uniforms Be Replaced?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but a good guideline is to review uniforms every 12 to 18 months. Heavy use or tough environments might call for more frequent replacement, especially if the fabric fades, stretches, or starts looking worn.
Sometimes it’s not just about wear and tear it’s also about keeping your brand looking fresh. A new cut or colour can give your team a boost and keep your business looking current. Nothing worse than faded and worn out looking uniforms.
8. What Branding Options Are Available?
You’ve got a few great choices when it comes to adding your logo or brand touch. Embroidery is durable and professional-looking perfect for polos, aprons, and jackets. Screen printing or heat transfer is great for bigger designs or lighter fabrics.
You can also play with trims, contrast buttons, or custom labels to make your uniform stand out. Adding small touches like these helps build brand personality and makes your uniforms feel custom without going overboard.
9. How Do I Care for Uniforms Properly?
The secret to longer-lasting uniforms is good care. Always check the care label first some fabrics are low maintenance, while others may need cold washes or air drying. Encourage staff to follow washing instructions, especially if the uniforms have logos or delicate finishes.
It’s also helpful to educate your team on proper care, especially during onboarding. A little extra care goes a long way. You’ll not only keep your uniforms looking sharp, but also save money on replacements over time.
10. Can You Help Us Design Our Uniform from Scratch?
Yes, and it’s one of our favourite things to do! Designing from scratch means we can work with you to build something unique that suits your brand, your team, and your budget. Whether you’ve got a clear idea or don’t know where to begin, we’ll guide you through it.
From choosing styles and colours to testing samples and finalising fits, we’re with you at every step. The result? A uniform your team will want to wear and one that speaks volumes about your brand.
