If you've searched for scrub caps, you've seen the words "bouffant," "surgical cap," "skull cap" and "Euro" used almost interchangeably. They're not quite the same thing. Here's what a bouffant cap is, and how it compares to other styles.
What is a bouffant cap?
A bouffant cap is a roomy, rounded head covering with an elastic or gathered edge. It puffs up slightly ("bouffant" comes from the French for "puffed") so it can hold all of your hair, including long or thick hair, buns and ponytails.
You've probably seen disposable bouffant caps, the thin paper-like caps used in operating rooms, labs, food service and cleanrooms. There are also reusable cloth bouffant caps, which are usually more comfortable and much nicer to look at.
A cotton Euro bouffant ponytail cap in lime citrus print. Shop this one
Bouffant vs surgical cap vs scrub cap
| Style | Fit | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Bouffant / Euro Ponytail | Roomy, gathered at the back | Long, thick or curly hair, buns and ponytails |
| Euro | Close-fitting with an elastic back | Short to medium hair |
| Tie Back (surgical / skull cap) | Fitted, adjustable ties | Short hair, or anyone who wants a custom fit |
"Scrub cap" is the umbrella term for all of these. "Surgical cap" usually means a fitted tie-back or skull-cap style, the kind surgeons traditionally wear.
Who should wear a bouffant cap?
If you have long or thick hair and regular caps give you a headache or slide off, a bouffant or Euro Ponytail style is usually the answer. Your hair goes into the roomy pouch at the back instead of being squashed under a tight band. Read more in the best scrub cap for long, thick hair and scrub caps for curly and natural hair.
Medical mouse Euro bouffant cap. Shop this one
Apple orchard Euro bouffant cap. Shop this one
Disposable vs reusable bouffant caps
Some areas, like certain ORs and sterile compounding rooms, require disposable bouffants or have specific rules about head coverings, so always follow your facility's policy. Where cloth caps are allowed, a reusable cotton cap is softer, breathes better and can last for hundreds of shifts with good care. See reusable vs disposable scrub caps and how to wash a scrub cap.
Add a satin lining
For long or textured hair, an optional satin lining inside your bouffant cap can reduce friction, frizz and breakage over long shifts. Here's why nurses love it.
Shop our Euro Ponytail (bouffant) caps and more in our handmade scrub caps.
FAQ
What is a bouffant cap used for?
A bouffant cap covers and contains all of your hair. It's used in operating rooms, labs, food service and other places where loose hair needs to be kept covered.
Is a bouffant cap the same as a scrub cap?
A bouffant is one style of scrub cap. It's roomier than Euro or tie-back caps, so it's best for long or thick hair.
Are bouffant caps good for long hair?
Yes. Their roomy, gathered shape holds a bun or ponytail comfortably without the tight squeeze of a fitted cap.
Can I wear a cloth bouffant cap in the OR?
It depends on your facility. Many ORs allow laundered cloth caps, but some areas require disposable caps, so check your policy.