Buying guide for Best kitchen aprons
No matter how careful you are in the kitchen, spills happen. A kitchen apron is essential if you want to avoid a cooking-related mess all over your clothes. Heavy-duty aprons can also help protect you from splashes of hot oil and other liquids as they simmer.
Whether you’re a messy home cook or a professional caterer, the right kitchen apron can keep your clothes clean so you can focus on what really matters: chopping, dicing, and seasoning your masterpiece. Anyone can look like a real chef in a good-quality apron, and there are many styles, shapes, and materials to choose from.
Key considerations
Type
Aprons are typically distinguished by length, the coverage provided, and the securing method. Here are some of the most common types of aprons available:
Server: These aprons are secured around the waist and cover the bottom half of the body, usually to mid-thigh. One is great for having a place to quickly wipe your hands, but it offers limited protection from splashes and spills. A similar style is the bistro apron, which is longer.
Bib or chef’s: These aprons loop around the neck and may also tie around the waist for extra security. The full-length design offers better protection from splashes.
Cobbler: These aprons offer full coverage for the front and back of the body but are shorter than bib aprons. Useful for more than just kitchen situations, these aprons are often worn by medical staff and artists.
Dishwasher: These are knee-length water-resistant aprons.
Disposable: These aprons are great if there are a lot of volunteers or a large party participating in a kitchen-related or other messy activity, such as making pizzas for a kids’ birthday party. These are also useful for situations in which cross-contamination between ingredients is likely since the aprons can be tossed in the trash when you’re done.
Expert Tip
If you tend to tie a bow in the front of your waist, fold your apron over the bow so the loops and ends don’t catch on fire at a grill or gas stove.
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Size
Aprons are usually “one size fits all.” To help adjust the fit, most professional-quality aprons have straps and drawstrings. Check the sizing chart if the apron you’re considering is offered in multiple sizes.
Durability
If you want an apron that will last a long time, opt for one with reinforced double-stitched seams.
Breathability
If you’re working over a hot grill or in a steamy kitchen, the breathability of the apron is crucial. A waterproof apron is a poor choice for a hot kitchen because the fabric doesn’t breathe. Cotton blends or polyester fabrics are the best choices for a breathable apron.
"Worried about choosing a gorgeous cream-colored linen apron and getting it dirty? Verify that you can toss it in the washing machine after your marathon cooking sessions. "
STAFF
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Kitchen apron features
If you think an apron is just a piece of fabric that covers your clothes, think again. Here are a few features you might want to consider as you shop.
Material
You’ll likely find aprons available in an assortment of materials, but the most common options include heavy cotton, blends such as cotton/polyester, neoprene, vinyl, and polyethylene. Both vinyl and neoprene are water resistant, and while both are durable, neoprene is better. They’re great materials that help protect clothing from splashes or dangerous substances. Neoprene is even somewhat resistant to punctures. Polyethylene is the least durable material and is usually found in single-use disposable aprons.
Stain resistance
Your apron is going to get dirty, but if you prefer to minimize the appearance of stains, choose one that’s made of stain-resistant fabric. Often this includes a coating of some kind to prevent substances from seeping into the material and leaving permanent stains.
Expert Tip
Whether you choose a bib- or waist-style apron, run a dry hand towel under the waist string to have it handy for hand-wiping and quick spill cleanup.
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Machine washable
This is a crucial feature. Even meticulous cooks will dirty their aprons at some point. Being able to toss it in the washing machine makes life easier.
Straps
Are the straps comfortable? Do they hit at the right spots on your body? Check for adjustable straps, especially if the apron only comes in one size.
Pockets
Extra storage is always a bonus, and who doesn’t love pockets? If you’re carrying spices out to the grill or you want a spot to stick your spatula while you wash your hands, get an apron with pockets big enough to fit your supplies.
Color and style
Pick the apron that speaks to you in terms of style. Whether it’s a simple linen apron or a novelty design that your guests will laugh at, there’s an option out there for you. The designs are nearly endless.
Headphone loop
If you like to listen to music with headphones while you cook, it’s vital that any cables are kept in check so they don’t snag on pot handles or other items in the kitchen. An apron with a headphone loop keeps the cord secure and safely tucked out of the way.
Kitchen apron prices
Inexpensive
Budget aprons that cost less than $15 include disposable aprons and low-quality cotton options.
Mid-level
If you spend $15 to $30, you’ll find aprons with thicker fabrics, adjustable straps and ties, and options with pockets.
Expert Tip
I like to keep my aprons folded up in a drawer rather than hanging on a hook – they stay cleaner (no spatter, no dust).
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Expensive
Aprons that cost over $30 include heavy-duty options and aprons that are easy to clean. Additional features may include headphone loops and water-resistant fabric. Expect to find professional-grade aprons at this price.
Tips
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Find lots of uses for your kitchen apron. A heavy-duty apron can protect your clothes during other activities, too, including arts and crafts, painting, construction, gardening, and cleaning.
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Keep a towel handy to wipe your hands and clean up spills. It will help keep your apron cleaner.
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Take your time. Rushing while you cook is a surefire way to spill or drop things. Prep ingredients in advance and you can avoid panic-induced messes.
- Use a splatter guard. Your kitchen apron doesn’t have to do all the work keeping you tidy. If you’re frying foods or cooking on high heat, use a splatter guard on your pan.
Did you know?
Server aprons that tie around the waist are an excellent choice for foodies who simply want a spot to wipe their hands as they chop, dice, and sautée.
STAFF
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FAQ
Q. Why are so many aprons white?
A. Tradition may explain some of the reasons behind the popularity of white aprons in kitchens around the world, but the simple truth is that white fabric is easy to clean. White does stain easily, but you can also bleach it, something that can’t be done with colored or dark fabrics.
Q. Should I wear my apron tight or loose?
A. Tie it so that you’re comfortable and it isn’t too tight, but don’t wear it so loose that it might catch on something in the kitchen. The last thing you want is for your apron drawstring to snag a handle and toss hot grease all over your kitchen.
Q. How should I store my apron?
A. We suggest hanging it to keep the fabric from wrinkling. Wash it if it gets dirty and always let it dry completely before storing it. Check the garment tag before tossing your apron in the dryer, though. Some aprons may shrink in high heat, and others should be air-dried.
