Why Does My Doctor Wear a Bow Tie? A Hygienic and Safe Choice

Why Do Doctors Wear Bow Ties? A Hygienic Fashion Choice Rooted in Experience

Hi, I'm Emma, founder of Arsenic and Old Lace, and I’ve spent the last several years working closely with medical professionals to hand craft bow ties that work not just stylistically—but practically—in high-pressure healthcare environments.

Over time, I noticed a recurring question:"Why do so many doctors choose bow ties over traditional neckties?"It’s not just a quirky fashion statement—there’s real logic and evidence behind it. And after hearing firsthand from countless healthcare workers, I want to share what I’ve learned.

My Experience Working with Medical Professionals

At Arsenic and Old Lace, many of our loyal customers are doctors, surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare workers. I've listened to their stories and learned why something as simple as a tie can impact patient care and workplace hygiene.

In their world, every decision is made with health and safety in mind—even their clothing. That’s why more and more are switching to bow ties.

Hygiene: The Number One Priority

In a clinical setting, maintaining a clean, sterile environment is non-negotiable. Traditional neckties hang low and often brush against patients, beds, and equipment—sometimes without the wearer even noticing.

Several doctors have told me that they’ve stopped wearing neckties altogether after seeing how easily they could become contaminated. Bow ties, on the other hand, stay tucked neatly out of the way, reducing the risk of spreading pathogens.

A 2004 study published in the British Medical Journal even found that doctors’ neckties can harbor harmful bacteria—yet they’re rarely washed. Bow ties reduce this exposure simply by design.

Practical in Urgent Situations

In emergency medicine, time is everything. Many doctors have shared how much easier it is to quickly remove a bow tie when suiting up in PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Whether it’s an emergency or a last-minute procedure, being able to swiftly don a gown or mask matters.

A Symbol of Care and Cleanliness

Bow ties have quietly become a symbol of commitment to sterile practice in many hospitals. When patients see a doctor in a bow tie, it sends a subtle but powerful message:

“This doctor thinks about the details—even the ones that help protect my health.”

In fact, I’ve received emails from patients saying how much they appreciate when their physician wears one of our bow ties. It sparks conversation, builds trust, and reminds them that their doctor truly cares.

Leading by Example

Doctors who wear bow ties often lead by example. I've seen it firsthand—when one physician makes the switch, others often follow. It’s a small change, but one that signals professionalism, responsibility, and attention to detail.

The Eyam Bow Tie: A Tribute to Selfless Medicine

One of our most beloved pieces is the Eyam bow tie, named after the village that self-quarantined during the plague to protect others. It’s become a quiet badge of honour among medical professionals—a reminder of sacrifice, compassion, and care.

Our Eyam bowtie

Where Style Meets Safety

At Arsenic and Old Lace, I’ve spent years sourcing and curating a range of high-quality bow ties that are designed with healthcare workers in mind. Whether you prefer a pre-tied option for convenience or a self-tie for tradition, our collection offers comfort, elegance, and most importantly—practicality for the medical environment.

Browse our full bow tie collection.

A Final Word from Me

Bow ties aren’t just stylish—they’re strategic. Through my personal experience working with medical professionals, I’ve seen how something as small as a tie can influence hygiene, trust, and even patient outcomes.

So, next time you see a doctor in a bow tie, know this:It’s not just fashion.It’s a conscious choice for health, safety, and care.

With love and appreciation,

Emma

Founder, Arsenic and Old Lace

About Arsenic and Old Lace

We’re a UK-based boutique specialising in handcrafted bow ties, known for our attention to quality, service, and customer connection. Trusted by healthcare professionals across the country, our mission is to blend function, tradition, and elegance—without compromise.

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