What better way to support your fellow nurse colleagues than to shop at nurse-owned shops? Well, you can, because the nurse-owned shops in the USA are exploding.
From scrubs to accessories, the rise of the nurse entrepreneur has taken off–can we get a nurse high-five?
There is now an inspiring wave of small, boutique, but booming nurse-owned businesses that are selling products designed by nurses, for nurses.
These brands are not just side hustles either; they are projects that nurses have poured their hearts and souls into.
Why does supporting nurse-owned businesses matter?
When you shop at nurse small businesses, you’re doing more than buying a product. You are literally investing back into the nursing community and helping professionals like you help others.
Many of these nurse-owned shops:
- Donate to scholarships and mentorship programs
- Support diversity in healthcare
- Create inclusive, size-friendly apparel
- Reinforce wellness, healing, and self-care
- Advocate for better working conditions
- Sponsor community health outreach
When you buy from a nurse-owned business, think of it like this: every purchase becomes a tiny form of activism for a workforce that deserves more for all the time and dedication they put into their profession.
How nurse-owned businesses differ
Nurses bring something special to entrepreneurship because no one understands a nurse quite like a fellow nurse does.
Here are some advantages of buying from locally owned nurse shops:
- Greater insight into healthcare challenges: No one understands shift work soreness, 12-hour fatigue, PPE irritation, or the unique challenges of hospital culture quite like a nurse. When you buy their products, they are designed with a nurse’s needs in mind.
- Products tailored to nurse-specific needs: Think! Scrubs designed to move with you, planners built for 12-hour shifts, aromatherapy rollers to revive you during charting, or accessories durable enough for clinical wear.
- Giving back: Many nurse-owned shops run charitable arms, fund scholarships for nursing students, or reinvest profits into healthcare equity initiatives.
Categories of nurse-owned shops
To help you explore the world of nurse businesses, here are the most common categories:
- Apparel & uniform shops: Scrubs, jackets, compression socks—often size-inclusive, stylish, and created for real-world comfort.
- Self-care & wellness: Aromatherapy, skincare, relaxation tools, candles, planners, hydration helpers, and other burnout-relief items designed for shift workers.
- Medical gear & accessories: Badge reels, stethoscope accessories, trauma-shears organizers—built to last and infused with personality.
- Gifts & retail: Inspirational art, jewelry, mugs, journals, stickers, and celebration gifts for new grads, preceptors, and nurse friends.
Okay, now that you understand why nurse-owned shops matter and what they offer, let’s get to the fun part: Which nurse-owned businesses are trending in 2025!
1. Jaanuu Scrubs
If stylish, move-with-you scrubs had a fashion-forward fairy godmother, it would be Dr. Neela Sethi Young, pediatrician and co-founder of Jaanuu.
Known for their durability, premium fabrics, and flattering designs, Jaanuu continues to dominate conversations about the success of nurse entrepreneurs. Their new True Colors campaign highlights individuality, culture, and representation across healthcare.
Jaanuu isn’t just chic, it’s purpose-driven. The brand is committed to equitable workplace practices and uplifting real stories from frontline clinicians.
One study showed that “solid‑color scrubs (especially in certain hues) tend to be associated with more positive patient perceptions (e.g., competence, trustworthiness, professionalism) than printed scrubs or casual attire.” You will find plenty of these in Jaanuu's line of scrubs.
Jaanuu scrubs also come in an array of professional and stunning colors like fresh white, storm blue, alpine green, and deep olive.
If scrubs feel like your daily superhero cape, Jaanuu is the upgrade you deserve.
Why nurses love Jannuu Scrubs:
- Luxurious feel without sacrificing functionality
- Ultra-flattering fits and modern silhouettes
- A mission rooted in equity and representation
2. Riot Healers
Started by a community health nurse with a passion for justice, Riot Healers is the go-to for bold, meaningful apparel that speaks truth. The designs uplift healthcare workers and center human rights, social justice, mental health, and collective care.
Their shop features apparel, stickers, pins, tote bags, and accessories, all with empowering messages, such as “Health is a Human Right.”
Wearing Riot Healers feels like you’re part of a movement, not just a workplace.
Why nurses love Riot Healers:
- Empowering, unapologetic messaging
- High-impact designs with social purpose
- A brand fully rooted in community advocacy
If you’re looking for nurse-owned shops that truly give back, Riot Healers reinvests in health equity and educational outreach.
3. Stink Balm Odor Blocker
Every nurse has a “that smell” story, and Stink Balm is the hilarious (and genius!) solution we all wish we had sooner.
I mean, let’s admit, Nurses have to deal with a number of difficult odors, including body odors, vomit, urine, infection, and more. How do they deal with it? It’s got to be a superpower.
Stink Balm Odor Blocker was invented by an ER nurse who was tired of the overwhelming odors during patient care. This balm allows you to discreetly mask unpleasant smells without drawing attention.
Just swipe it under your nose, inhale the fresh scent, and continue being the heroic human you are.
Why nurses love Stink Balm Odor Blocker:
- Extremely practical
- Travel-friendly and discreet
- Designed for real clinical needs
This is one of the most useful nurse-created products and hands-down one of the best nurse-owned wellness products across all specialties.
4. Dope Scrubs
Dope Scrubs brings fashion, culture, and comfort together in a way traditional scrub brands just don’t. Founded by a nurse who sought to bring more style and identity to clinical uniforms, this brand embodies creativity and representation with every piece.
Expect modern cuts, bold colors, and fabrics that support your body during long shifts. Dope Scrubs is all about celebrating individuality within healthcare—they are truly the one of the “dopest” scrub brands out there.
Why nurses love Dope Scrubs:
- Trendy, expressive scrub designs
- Excellent fit and quality
- A brand with cultural depth and authenticity
If you’re searching for where nurses can buy gifts from nurse entrepreneurs, this brand has unforgettable options.
5. UNI Shoes
UNI Shoes focuses on comfort, sustainability, and ergonomic design, all of which are developed under the guidance of a nurse founder who understands the punishing nature of hospital floors. These shoes support posture, reduce joint stress, and help keep your feet energized through long shifts.
UNI Shoes also incorporates eco-friendly materials, making them a great choice for nurses who prioritize wellness and sustainability.
Why nurses love UNI Shoes:
- Footwear designed for 12-hour days
- Light, durable, and supportive
- A modern look that works beyond the unit
UNI is a standout in the nurse wellness shop category for good reason.
6. Purpose People
Purpose People is a warm, grounding, soul-soothing brand created to support nurses' mental health. With cozy apparel, affirming mugs, reflection journals, totes, and gentle reminders of worth, this shop is the emotional recharge many nurses need after overwhelming shifts.
Purpose People focuses on compassion, burnout awareness, and helping healthcare workers feel seen.
Why nurses love Purpose People:
- Thoughtful, comforting designs
- Mental health–focused mission
- Perfect gifts for stressed or burnt-out nurses
It’s also a great example of how nurse-owned shops give back to healthcare workers, as their mission centers on care and emotional support.
How to find and vet nurse-owned businesses
If you want to explore even more nurse-owned shops, here’s how to discover the best:
- Search social media hashtags on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, like #nurseowned #nursebusiness #nursemade #nurseentrepreneur
- Check community reviews on Reddit and other community websites because nurses are brutally honest (in the best way). If something works, you’ll know.
- Verify ownership, as most nurse businesses openly share the founder’s story—transparency is key.
Don’t have the money yet, or waiting for a discount to buy from a nurse-owned store?
Here are a few ways to support even without buying:
- Share their posts
- Leave reviews
- Tell coworkers
- Add them to gift guides
- Follow their pages
Support comes in many forms, and small businesses feel every bit of it. If you need a little extra cash, you can always pick up a few per diem shifts with Nursa to boost your income and maintain flexibility.
Frequently asked questions
Here is a recap of some places to buy authentic, nurse-owned products, along with answers to other frequently asked questions.
What are some gift ideas from nurse-owned shops?
Gifting a nurse is one of the best ways to say “thank you” for their hard-earned service to patient care.
Here are our picks from some top nurse-owned shops:
- Motivational apparel from Purpose People
- A Stink Balm stocking stuffer (everyone will thank you)
- A planner or journal from a nurse wellness shop
- Stylish scrubs or accessories from Jaanuu or Dope Scrubs
- Comfortable shift-friendly shoes from UNI Shoes
Are nurse-owned products generally higher quality?
Often, yes. This is because nurses create products based on firsthand experience; they tend to prioritize durability, comfort, and practicality. Many nurse-created products outperform big-box alternatives.
However, not all nurse-owned products are created equally. Sometimes, they can be gimmicky or insincere, so use discernment when shopping.
How do nurse-owned businesses reinvest in the nursing community?
Depending on the brand, a nurse-owned business is likely to give back to the nursing community, such as:
- Donations to nursing scholarships
- Funding mental health programs
- Investing in DEI initiatives
- Supporting new graduates
- Advocating for safe staffing and workplace rights
Treat yourself and another nurse
Whether you’re treating yourself or shopping for nurse colleagues, the world of nurse-owned shops is vast. It can be hard to know which products to choose from that are genuinely founded by a nurse and made with nurses in mind.
Luckily, you now have a list of brands that exist because an extraordinary nurse (like yourself) dared to dream beyond the bedside. Investing in a pair of quality scrubs or buying an accessory (or 2!) that makes your nursing shift brighter is always a good idea.
Looking to make a little side gig so you can buy yourself a new set of scrubs, shoes, or another nursing accessory you have been eyeing? Pick up PRN shifts with Nursa at a facility near you.
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