You should wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing without any metal when preparing for an MRI scan. Since MRI machines use powerful magnets, it’s important to avoid items with metal, such as zippers, buttons, and underwire bras, as these can interfere with the imaging process. For a smooth experience, opt for clothing like sweatpants, t-shirts, or medical gowns that are often provided by the facility.
General Guidelines on What to Wear for MRI Scans
You should follow these general guidelines on what to wear for an MRI scan to ensure safety and accuracy:
- Avoid Metal: Metal objects can interfere with the MRI machine, so avoid wearing clothing with zippers, buttons, snaps, or any metallic parts. This also includes jewelry, watches, belts, and underwire bras.
- Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing: Opt for loose, comfortable clothing such as t-shirts, sweatpants, and non-restrictive garments. Many medical facilities provide a gown for you to change into if needed.
- Leave Accessories at Home: Jewelry, piercings, glasses, and hairpins must be removed before the scan to avoid issues with the magnetic field.
- Comfortable Footwear: If you’re allowed to wear shoes, ensure they do not have any metal components, such as steel-toe shoes or those with metallic accents.
- Medical Implants and Devices: If you have medical devices like pacemakers, hearing aids, or metal implants, inform the technician beforehand as some may affect the MRI scan.
What to Wear for MRI of the Back?
You should wear loose, comfortable clothing without any metal when preparing for an MRI of the back. Opt for garments such as sweatpants and a t-shirt, or the facility may provide a medical gown.
Since the MRI machine uses strong magnets, clothing with zippers, buttons, or any metallic parts should be avoided. It is also important to remove any jewelry or accessories that contain metal, including belts or underwire bras, to avoid interference during the scan.
What to Wear for an MRI of the Hip?
You should wear loose, non-restrictive clothing without any metal for an MRI of the hip. Opt for items like sweatpants, shorts, or leggings made of fabric that doesn’t contain metal.
Since metal can interfere with the MRI’s magnetic field, avoid clothing with zippers, snaps, or buttons in the hip area. You may also be asked to wear a hospital gown provided by the facility. Additionally, make sure to remove any accessories, such as belts or jewelry, before the scan to prevent interference.
What to Wear for MRI of the Knee?
Here are the key guidelines on what to wear for your knee MRI:
- Loose-fitting pants or shorts: Opt for sweatpants, athletic shorts, or leggings that do not have any metal parts.
- Avoid metal accessories: Remove jewelry, belts, or any other metal items before the scan.
- Footwear without metal: If you are allowed to wear shoes, make sure they do not have any metal parts like eyelets or zippers.
- Medical gown: The facility might provide a medical gown if your clothing is not suitable for the MRI.
- Comfortable and non-restrictive: Ensure your clothing is comfortable and does not restrict movement to help you stay relaxed during the scan.
What to Wear for an MRI Brain Scan?
You should wear loose, comfortable clothing without any metal for an MRI brain scan. Since MRI machines use strong magnets, it’s important to avoid clothing with zippers, buttons, or any metal components. Here are some key guidelines on what to wear for your brain MRI:
- Avoid metal in clothing: Choose garments like t-shirts and sweatpants that don’t have zippers, snaps, or metal buttons.
- Remove accessories: Take off all jewelry, watches, glasses, and hairpins, as these contain metal that can interfere with the scan.
- Hair products: Avoid using hair sprays or gels that may contain metallic particles.
- Medical gown: The facility may provide a medical gown if needed, especially if your clothing has metal parts.
- No electronic devices: Make sure to leave phones, hearing aids, or any electronic items outside the scanning room.
What to Wear for an MRI Scan on the Shoulder?
You should wear loose, comfortable clothing without any metal for an MRI scan on the shoulder. Since metal can interfere with the MRI machine, it’s best to avoid clothing with zippers, buttons, or metallic parts. Here are key guidelines on what to wear for your shoulder MRI:
- Loose, sleeveless tops: Opt for a sleeveless shirt or tank top to allow easy access to the shoulder area.
- No metal fasteners: Choose clothing without metal snaps, zippers, or buttons, especially around the shoulder.
- Remove accessories: Take off any jewelry, watches, or belts before the scan to avoid interference.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes without metal components, if necessary.
- Medical gown: The facility may provide a gown if your clothing has metal or is unsuitable for the scan.
Tips for Dressing Comfortably During an MRI Scan
Dressing comfortably for an MRI scan ensures a smooth experience and helps you avoid unnecessary discomfort during the procedure.
Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing
You should wear loose and comfortable clothing during an MRI scan. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that may restrict movement or cause discomfort while lying still for the duration of the scan.
Avoid Metal
It’s important to avoid any clothing with metal, such as zippers, buttons, or hooks. Metal objects can interfere with the MRI machine’s magnets, so choose metal-free garments like elastic-waist pants or cotton t-shirts.
Opt for Athletic Wear or Loungewear
Athletic wear or loungewear without metallic components is ideal for an MRI. Many hospitals or clinics may ask you to change into a gown, but comfortable, non-restrictive activewear can still be a good choice if you’re allowed to wear your own clothes.
Layer for Comfort
If you are sensitive to cooler environments, consider wearing layers without metal, like a sweater or jacket. You can remove them if you become warm during the procedure.
Remove Jewelry and Accessories
Before the scan, remove all jewelry, watches, and other metallic accessories, as they can interfere with the MRI machine and create safety risks.
Wear Slip-on Shoes
Choose easy-to-remove shoes, such as slip-ons or sneakers, to ensure comfort before and after the scan. Some facilities may ask you to remove your shoes, so it’s convenient to have shoes that are easy to take off and put on.
FAQs On What To Wear for MRI Scan
Yes, you can wear your own clothes if they are loose, comfortable, and free from any metal such as zippers, buttons, or hooks. Many facilities may also provide a gown to wear during the scan.
Metal interferes with the MRI machine’s powerful magnets and can pose a safety risk. Clothing with metal components, such as zippers or underwire bras, must be avoided.
Slip-on shoes or sneakers without metal parts are the best option. Some facilities may require you to remove your shoes before the scan, so choose shoes that are easy to take off and put on.
Yes, you must remove all jewelry, watches, and metallic accessories before an MRI. Even small metal objects can disrupt the scanning process and affect the results.