You do not need to redesign everything
Changing uniform supplier can feel more complicated than it should. A dental practice may already have approved colours, garments, embroidery positions and staff preferences. The sensible approach is to document what already works before deciding what needs to change.
Step 1: list the current garments
Record the supplier, style code, colour and staff role for every garment currently in use. Include scrub tops, trousers, reception wear, knitwear and outer layers where relevant.
Step 2: separate 'must keep' from 'can improve'
Some elements may need to remain identical because staff already own part of the range. Others may be open to replacement because of availability, fit, price or durability concerns.
Step 3: document the branding
Keep a copy of the approved logo artwork and note where it appears on each garment. If staff names or job titles are used, record the exact format.
Step 4: compare like for like
A supplier change should first establish whether the existing garment can still be sourced. Where it cannot, compare alternatives by appearance, fabric, fit, colour availability and price rather than selecting a replacement solely because it looks similar online.
Step 5: standardise the future order
Once the range is agreed, keep one master specification for future starters and replacements.
LMU Uniform Switch Service
Love My Uniform can review the garments your practice currently uses and help match the range. Start with our Uniform Switch Service or see our Dental Uniforms page. When quantities and requirements are known, request a business quote.
Use a staged comparison
First identify the current product codes, colours, role assignments and branding. Then compare potential replacements against the requirements that matter: fit, movement, pockets, care instructions, size range and repeat availability. A visual match alone is not enough if the replacement behaves differently in use.
Sample the highest-risk changes
Prioritise samples where the fabric, cut or colour is changing, and include wearers across roles and sizes. Review the garment after washing in line with its care instructions. Keep comments against the exact style and size so the decision can be audited later.
Plan the handover
Set an agreed date or replenishment rule for moving to the new range. Decide whether old and new garments may be worn together and for how long. Transfer the approved logo artwork, thread colours, finished size and placement into the new specification.
Confirm the reorder process
Before the first full order, test how new-starter and replacement requests will be placed. A supplier change is successful when the second order is straightforward, not only when the first delivery arrives.
Compare quotations on the same basis
Make sure each proposal covers the same garment quantities, size assumptions, branding positions, logo setup, delivery and VAT treatment. Ask how larger sizes, repeat orders and unavailable products are handled. This prevents a low headline garment price from hiding additional administration or decoration costs.
Keep the accepted quotation with the approved sample record and specification. When the next order is placed, check that the product code and branding details still match rather than relying only on the familiar garment name.
