Scrubs rules and reforms (8)

I believe the answer is:

launders

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'scrubs' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with contact as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I can't see?

'rules and reforms' is the wordplay.
'reforms' is an anagram indicator.
'rules'+'and'='rulesand'
'rulesand' with letters rearranged gives 'LAUNDERS'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for launders that I've seen is " Washes and irons".)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.