Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of internal body structures. Preparation for an MRI focuses heavily on safety, which includes carefully selecting the clothing worn during the scan. A back MRI requires you to lie still for an extended period, making comfort and the absence of magnetic-reactive materials paramount for image quality and patient well-being.
Recommended Attire: Comfort and Material Safety
The best clothing choice for an MRI on your back consists of soft, loose-fitting garments made from natural fibers. One hundred percent cotton is the ideal fabric because it is reliably non-conductive and will not interact with the machine’s strong magnetic field or radiofrequency waves. Selecting simple, metal-free clothing is the first step in ensuring a successful and safe scan.
For the lower body, comfortable options like cotton sweatpants or shorts are recommended. These garments are generally loose enough to prevent binding and allow for easy positioning on the scanning table, which is helpful since back scans require minimal movement. Women should choose a sports bra or tank top made entirely of cloth, free of any metal hooks, underwires, or adjustable metal sliders.
Since the procedure can last between 15 and 60 minutes, comfort is a serious consideration while lying flat on your back. Clothing should be free of tight elastic bands, seams, or thick waistbands that might press uncomfortably against your skin during the scan. The goal is to wear simple, breathable, metal-free clothes that prevent discomfort and shifting during image acquisition.
Mandatory Removal: Hidden and Obvious Metal Hazards
The powerful magnetic forces of the MRI machine require that any metallic object, no matter how small, must be removed before entering the scanning room. Obvious metal hazards like watches, belts, coins, and all jewelry, including body piercings, must be left outside. Even a gold wedding band, which is not magnetic, may be requested for removal to prevent image distortion.
A less obvious risk comes from hidden metallic threads often found in modern performance or athleisure wear. Garments labeled as anti-microbial or odor-fighting frequently contain minute silver or copper fibers that can heat up rapidly during the scan, potentially causing skin burns. Since these metallic microfibers are often not listed on clothing labels if they make up less than five percent of the fabric content, they are difficult to detect without specialized equipment.
Beyond clothing, attention must be paid to metallic particles in cosmetics and body art. Certain dark pigments in temporary tattoos, permanent tattoos, and some makeup, like metallic eyeliner or glittery nail polish, can contain iron oxides that react to the magnetic field. Patients must also disclose any internal metallic devices, such as pacemakers, surgical clips, or joint replacements, to the staff, as these require specific safety protocols before the scan.
When Hospital Attire is Required
Even if you arrive wearing what you believe to be 100% cotton clothing, the MRI technologist may still require you to change into a hospital-provided gown or scrubs. This is often a blanket safety policy at many facilities to eliminate all doubt regarding the presence of hidden metallic fibers in personal clothing. The risk of thermal burns from undetected metal in clothing has led many institutions to adopt a mandatory gown policy.
A gown may also be required if your personal clothing includes large logos, prints, or dyes that could contain metallic elements, potentially interfering with the quality of the magnetic images. If the back scan requires the technician to have full access to a large area for coil placement or contrast injection, the gown ensures unobstructed access. Changing into the supplied attire is a routine safety measure that ensures the highest level of patient protection and image clarity.