Nanny uniform

[Anonymous]

A prospective nanny candidate has offered to wear a uniform (i.e., medical scrubs) to work in our home each day. I said that was not necessary when she first mentioned in phone screen; she suggested it again in a subsequent in person interview. She is approximately 50 years old and previously worked in a medical setting. Should I just tell her to dress as she wishes and let her decide? I am unsure of the etiquette as this is my first nanny hire. Thanks in advance.

[Anonymous]

Of course she should dress as she likes.

[Anonymous]

Maybe she doesn't want to get spit up and such on her real clothes. I'd tell her that if we hire her, we respect her as a professional and she should wear whatever makes her comfortable. I'd make sure she knows we don't supply uniforms.

[Anonymous]

Perhaps she feels much comfortable in scrubs because they are loose-fitting (perfect for running around all day in!) as well as something she can get food, dirt, snot, etc. on + won't have to worry about it.

If this is what she prefers, then I would give her the green light. Some nannies may just feel comfortable in these types of clothes vs. their regular clothes.

Overall, let her know she is free to wear whatever makes her comfortable since a comfortable nanny equals a happy nanny.

[Anonymous]

Do you have a newborn, OP? The point of scrubs is to NOT bring dirt, germs, pollen, etc in from the outside. I am sure she was talking about changing into scrubs once she got to your house. No, it is not necessary and actually not good for a healthy newborn to be so isolated from the "real" world.

[Anonymous]

If it is a newborn, scrubs can make sense

My opinion with uniforms and nannies, I do not like looking like medical staff when caring for children

Why?

Because kids do not like the doctor place and I would not want my charges comparing me to the doctor's office

[Anonymous]

She may have worked with other families that required it. I would tell her thank you for the offer, but we'd prefer you be comfortable and please feel free to where what you think its best. It may be a financial issue and that is all she owns if she came from a medical setting.

[Anonymous]

OP here. I have a newborn. I will just tell her to dress as she likes and see what happens. It's not a big issue for me, so long as she will be comfortable in our home--so whatever she wears (within reason) is good with me. Thanks all.