DII Cotton Adjustable Buffalo Check Plaid Apron
100% cotton fabric material
Two 36-inch long straps
Machine-washable
Measures 32 inches long and 28 inches wide
Chef Works Unisex Memphis Bib Apron
100% cotton denim fabric
Adjustable metal buckle and tape ties
Crisscross bar tacks and dual front pockets
Measures 34 inches long and 30 inches wide
Hyzrz Women’s Apron
Combination of cotton and polyester fabric
Machine-washable and dryable
Adjustable neck strap and waist ties
Measures 28 inches long and 27 inches wide
The apron is one of the most essential items in the kitchen. No chef or home cook will want to work in the kitchen risking the integrity of their wardrobes. A kitchen apron is what shields you and your clothes from splattering oils and sauces, food spills, and what have you. For many home cooks, an apron is more than a mere drape. It’s a versatile garment depending on its design. Picking the right apron is important in ensuring a more fruitful and more meaningful time in the kitchen. In case you’re wondering what the best aprons are, we have here a list for your consideration.
The Best Aprons
1
DII Cotton Adjustable Buffalo Check Plaid Apron
DII’s Chef’s Apron is not only a venerable item in the kitchen; it is also functional in other household activities like gardening and crafting. The extra-large pocket on the front makes it easy to access your all-important tools. Its stitching is robust; making sure the pocket will never sag regardless of how heavy your items are. The plaid design is stylish, perfect for the modern home cook or the newbie handyman in your home. The extra-long ties and straps ensure anyone can wear the DII in front of their body. This 32-inch long apron offers the perfect coverage from the chest all the way to the knees.Unlike other cooking aprons for men and women, the DII comes with 100% cotton construction. This gives it a softer and more comfortable fit. The DII is part of the brand’s awesome collection of kitchen and home solutions. One can also make a request to have special embroidery onto the Chef’s Apron to make it a personalized gift item.
100% cotton fabric
36-inch long waist ties and neck straps
Adjustable neck straps
Customizable embroidery
Machine washable
- BrandDII
- ModelCAMZ37750
- Weight7 ounces
2
HOMWE Adjustable Bib Apron
One of the best aprons in the market is the HOMWE Bib Apron. It has a unisex design making it ideal for both men and women. This black apron comes with very thin white pinstripes to give it a look that is classy and elegant. The wide solid black band at the top hem provides a remarkable contrast for the vertical lines. This makes HOMWE aprons for women and men a true gem in the modern kitchen. What makes the HOMWE kitchen apron admirable is that it comes with extra-long 40-inch waist ties. Regardless of your abdominal girth, you can wrap the ties around your waist and tie them at the back. The neck strap also comes with a buckle adjustment. The side pockets take on a more traditional pant pocket styling, further adding to its aesthetics. This bib apron from HOMWE features a 65-35 blend of polyester and cotton to give you robust construction with a classic soft feel.
Polyester-cotton blend of fabric material
Fade-proof, wrinkle-resistant, shrink-proof
40-inch long waist ties with adjustable neck straps
Dual side pockets
Machine washable
- BrandHOMWE
- ModelABAP-UNYM-BN3Y
- Weight7.2 ounces
3
Syntus Adjustable Bib Apron
Aprons cannot get any simpler than this. The Syntus Bib Apron features 100% polyester fabric construction that gives it remarkable tenacity against wrinkling and shrinking. It is also smoother to the touch; a good characteristic when digging into its 2 oversized pockets up front. The pockets are large enough to accommodate your smartphone for that recipe you may have. Grill slips and meat thermometers as well as other small kitchen items can find security and safety within these pockets. This black apron from Syntus doesn’t come with any lavish ornaments. It may be dull and boring to look at, but it never fails in its task to protect you and your clothing from food spills and splattering. The polyester material makes the Syntus machine washable; although bleaching, tumble drying, and dry cleaning are definite no-nos. It is large enough to provide ample coverage from the knees up to the chest.
100% polyester material
Water-repellent, shrink-proof, wrinkle-resistant design
Dual front pockets
Adjustable neck straps and long waist ties
Machine washable
- BrandSyntus
- ModelHK8469
- Weight8 ounces
4
Bucket Boss Duckwear SuperShop Work Apron
We believe that the Duckwear SuperShop is not only a worthy apron to have in the kitchen. Its 100% EVA construction gives the Duckwear remarkable versatility. One can always use it in the shed while he or she is tinkering with the tools. It can also be a great partner for gardeners and craftsmen. These aprons for men come with canvas construction that makes them sturdier and more robust than any other apron in the market. There are 3 pockets up front. These can accommodate a variety of hand tools, kitchen items, and what have you. Since the Duckwear comes with EVA material, it possesses waterproof properties. It is thicker than conventional fabric aprons, providing you a level of protection like no other. The straps on the Duckwear are also worthy of note. They come with thick padding to help provide for a more comfortable fit. It looks bland yet it provides multi-functionality that is seldom seen in most kitchen aprons.
Flexible and soft EVA material
Durable and strong canvas construction
3 pockets in asymmetric design
Adjustable shoulder straps with padding
Quick-release buckle on adjustable belt
- BrandBucket Boss
- Model80300
- Weight10.4 ounces
5
Hyzrz Women’s Apron
These aprons for women come with a lovely and classic design. The styling can make you reminisce about the good old days whenever your grandmother cooked something in the kitchen. It comes with ruffled hems both at the top and bottom of the apron. These cute aprons from Hyzrz also feature front pockets with bowtie ornaments. The Hyzrz women’s apron features a blend of polyester and cotton for its fabric. It is both soft and smooth. It is resistant against wrinkling, too. Do take note that this black-and-red apron is only 28 inches from the top of the apron at the chest to the bottom hem. This makes it ideal for shorter ladies. The width of this Hyzrz apron is only 27 inches, making it unsuitable for women who may have larger girth than what the apron has. Despite its limitations in the size, it still makes for a great cooking apron if not as a costume for the holidays.
Polyester-cotton combination of materials
Ruffles at top and bottom hems
Bowtie ornament on dual front pockets
Adjustable neck straps and waist ties
Machine washable and dryable
- BrandHyzrz
- Weight6.4 ounces
6
Utopia Kitchen Waist Apron
This kitchen waist apron from Utopia is different from the others on this list because it only covers a small section of the lower torso. It doesn’t have a panel that covers the chest. Its length is also shorter, covering only up to the level of the mid-thigh. Regardless, with its 3-pocket design, it’s one of the most versatile in the market. The Utopia looks more like a utility belt with large pouches up front. It’s what waitresses wear to take your order. The large pocket carries their order pad and ball pen. Gardeners, craftsmen, and handymen can also use the Utopia to organize and manage their tools and other items. Its poly-cotton construction also makes the Utopia fade-proof, wrinkle-resistant, and shrink-proof. It may not be the apron you’re looking for, but many consider the Utopia as one of the best aprons in the market.
100% polyester fabric material
Resists fading, wrinkling, and shrinking
3 front pockets
Adjustable waist ties
- BrandUtopia Kitchen
- ModelUT0520
- Weight4 ounces
7
Joe’s USA Adjustable Bib Apron
One thing you’ll notice about Joe’s USA Bib Apron is that it is quite heavy for a drape. Weighing in at 8 ounces, these aprons for men make the perfect utility garments for different contraptions. Whether you are in the kitchen or in your work shed, the large and durable pockets of Joe’s can handle almost anything that you place inside. You can put your hand tools, small power tools, and other electronic hardware into these pockets. Accessing these will be very easy. Available in 6 different colors, there’s a Joe’s Bib Apron for almost everyone. But if you’re looking for something fancier, more stylish, then Joe’s is not for you. Its design is pretty straightforward and unobtrusive. The only ornament on this utility and cooking apron is the small Joe’s USA logo on the neck strap. Speaking of the neck strap, this comes with a sliding mechanism for easier adjustments.
8-oz polyester-cotton blend of fabric material
3 front patch pockets
Sliding neck adjustment
33-inch long waist ties
- BrandJoe’s USA
- ModelUSAL32631
- Weight8 ounces
8
Hyzrz Cute Retro Vintage Lady’s Kitchen Apron
The Cute Retro Lovely Vintage Lady’s Kitchen Apron from Hyzrz is the same with the Hyzrz Women’s Apron. The only difference is that the ornaments come in black-and-white checkers instead of red-and-white. The main body, however, retains the all-black color of the Hyzrz Women’s Apron. The almost all-black design gives it a more subtle yet still classic appearance. The two large pockets can handle almost anything you put inside. The long neck straps and waist ties allow for more secure fit. It is also machine-washable and you’ll never have to worry about it shrinking or wrinkling. These vintage aprons make for the perfect gifts on Mother’s Day or on your wife’s or mom’s birthday.
Tear- and fade-resistant fabric material
Adjustable neck straps and extra-long waist ties
2 large front pockets
Machine washable and dryable
- BrandHyzrz
- Weight5.6 ounces
9
Hyzrz Lovely Sweetheart Red Retro Kitchen Apron
Another Hyzrz creation is the Lovely Sweetheart in classic white polka dots on red. The design of the Lovely Sweetheart makes it more like a dress than a cooking apron. Its red and white color design makes these Hyzrz creations great Christmas aprons. Unlike other Hyzrz aprons, the Lovely Sweetheart features 100% cotton fabric construction. This gives the apron a softer feel, making it more comfortable on the skin. The waist ties also wrap up front for a different kind of look from the traditional kitchen apron. Like the other Hyzrz aprons, the Lovely Sweetheart is also short at only 28.5 inches from the top to the bottom hem. Nevertheless, it still makes for a worthy cooking apron to have.
100% cotton material
Adjustable neck strap
Extra-long waist ties
Lovable retro-style polka dot design
- BrandHyzrz
- ModelCOMINHKPR148876
- Weight4 ounces
10
Chef Works Unisex Memphis Bib Apron
One of the best cooking aprons for men, Chef Works Memphis Bib Apron utilizes a different kind of fabric material in its construction. Instead of the usual design, the Memphis comes in denim styling. Complementing the dark-blue denim color of the bib apron is brown stitching which is similar to the kind of color stitching in denim pants and jackets. The straps and waist ties also come in the same color as the stitching. The corners of the pockets come with crisscrossing bar tacks. These give the pockets remarkable strength to accommodate anything. There are 4 pockets on the Memphis; two each on the chest and below the waistline. It’s perfect for those who want to have every gadget and handy kitchen tool within easy reach. The Memphis bibs are not only aprons for men, however. They can also be great for women in the kitchen.
100% cotton denim material with contrasting topstitching and tape ties
Super-strong crisscross bar tacks
2 utility chest pockets
Dual front pockets with mobile phone divide
Adjustable metal neck buckle
- BrandChef Works
- ModelAB035-IBL-0
- Weight10.6 ounces
Best Apron Buying Guide & FAQ
What to Look for When Buying an Apron
When buying the right apron, it is best to have an idea of what to look for. Here are some of them.
- Type of Apron
There are different types of aprons. Each one has a specific purpose. As such, it is important to have a clear idea of the kind of activity that you want to use the apron for. For instance, if you want to use an apron in the kitchen, then a bib apron is ideal. If you are going to use apron while serving food to your guests, you may want to consider a tuxedo apron.
- Material
This pertains to the fabric material that is used in the construction of the apron. Majority of kitchen aprons come in cotton, poly-cotton, or polyester fabrics. Cotton offers the best comfort while polyester is perfect for wrinkle-resistance. Poly-cotton, on the other hand, is more durable than either cotton or polyester. There are also those that come with other materials.
- Ease of Cleaning
Most individuals will want an apron that is easy to clean and wash. As such, they will look for something that is machine-washable and machine-dryable. There are also those that are less prone to staining. You might want to get an apron with a rubber-like characteristic if this matters most to you.
Why You Should Buy an Apron
The principal function of an apron is to protect you and your outer garments. Full-length aprons can help protect both your upper and lower garments like shirts and pants. There are also those aprons that can help protect the midsection only or the torso only. Aprons are essential protective cover for your clothes against food spills, water splashes, oil and grease splatter, and the like.
Some aprons also come with more durable and thicker materials so you can work in a safer manner. This is true for those who work with knives, saws, screwdrivers, and other sharp or pointed objects. The thick material of the apron can serve as a barrier between you and these sharp objects.
There are also aprons that come with chemical-resistant properties. These are ideal for persons working in environments where exposure to chemicals and other harmful substances is high.
Why should you buy an apron? It’s for your protection.
There is another reason why you may want to buy an apron. This is to make you look more professional. You will also look sharper than usual. This can translate to better self-confidence, translating further to greater efficiency in the kitchen or anywhere else you are working in.
Different Types of Apron
One of the most important considerations you will make when buying an apron is the type that is appropriate to your needs. Here are the different types of apron you need to know.
- Server Apron
Server aprons only cover your midsection which is from below the navel to about the level of the groin. Because of their shorter length, server aprons are more comfortable than other types. These are ideal for bussers, head waiters or waitresses, and front-of-the-house servers.
- Bib Apron
This is the most common type of apron. It comes with a neck strap and waist ties. They come with pockets up front and may include polyester, cotton, or poly-cotton blends in the fabric construction. Poly-cotton provides durability while polyester has a distinct wrinkle-resistant property. Cotton is perfect for those who want comfort above all else.
- Bistro Apron
This is similar to waist aprons or server aprons. The only difference is that they are longer which can cover up to the level of the knee. They still don’t provide upper body coverage, however. These aprons are perfect for bussing the table as it protects the pants from splashes and spills.
- Cobbler Apron
This type of apron looks like a bib apron, except that it offers coverage for both the front and the back. The cobbler apron has ties on the sides, instead of one that secures at the back. They are like vests as they only protect the upper body. The edge of its bottom section is only at the level of the mid-thigh or the waist.
- Tuxedo Apron
This is one apron that is both elegant and functional. It pairs well with a white long-sleeve button-down shirt with a bow tie to match. It has a V-neck upper to give you a more elegant and stylish look. It’s perfect for those working in fine dining establishments.
- Dishwasher Apron
As its name suggests, the dishwasher apron is what you’ll use if you are going to wash the dishes. These feature full-length designs. They can extend well below the knee to provide ample protection against large splashes. Some of these aprons are resistant to heat and cuts. All are water-resistant.
Best Apron FAQ:
Q: What is the best way to clean my apron?
A: Manufacturers of the best aprons provide specific recommendations on how to clean their products. This is dependent on the type of fabric material present on the cooking apron. There are those that are machine-washable, but are not machine-dryable. There are also aprons that require washing by hand.
The best way to clean your apron is to always clean it after every use. Stains, smudges, and other “contaminants” on the apron have the tendency to adhere to the fabric if these are not removed as soon as possible.
Immerse the apron in warm or hot soapy water for at least 20 minutes. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s recommendations as some fabrics may not sit well with high-temperature water. If the issue is dry stains, you can create a solution of 3 teaspoons ammonia in 2 gallons of warm water. Immerse the apron for 30 minutes then remove the stains using a brush.
If the issue is greasy or oily stains, you can use your ordinary liquid dishwashing detergent. Many of these products come with grease-cutting ingredients so they can break down the chemical bonds of grease. Apply a drop or two of the liquid dishwashing agent onto the grease stain. Rub the area until you no longer see any stain.
For cooking aprons that have the smell of garlic, onion, or any other spice, you can wash them the usual way. You can then soak the apron in a hydrogen peroxide solution for about 15 minutes. Give it a good rinse, but only once right after.
For other stains on your kitchen apron, you can use milk as a stain-removing agent. After removing the stains, you can wash the apron in a solution of water and white vinegar. This is to help remove the smell of the stain-removing milk. Don’t worry about the smell of the vinegar on your apron. This will dissipate as the apron dries.
There is another useful method for removing stains on your kitchen apron. You can rub club soda directly on the stain. Keep adding club soda and continue rubbing the apron until the stain is no longer visible. You can also make a simple solution of water, salt, and lemon juice. Immerse your apron in this solution before you rinse it with warm water. You can also cut the lemon into slices. Place a pinch of salt on the stain and rub the lemon slice against the stain. Afterwards, you can rinse with warm water.
Q: How long will my apron last?
A: There are two factors that can affect the lifespan of your kitchen apron. The first of these is the fabric material. Synthetic materials can last up to 5 years, on average. Pure cotton, on the other hand, can only last up to 2 years. We are not talking about the point where the apron becomes no longer usable, of course. When we say it has a lifespan of 2 years, what we mean is that the apron is still usable but its quality is already less than 50% the original.
The second factor relates to the effect of normal wear. If you are religious in maintaining the integrity of your apron, then you may be able to extend the 2-year lifespan of your cotton apron. On the other hand, if you are negligent in your apron care, then don’t expect your cooking apron to last a year.
Apron manufacturers can provide you with the expected life expectancy of their products. They often base this figure on normal use and with the observance of the correct cleaning and maintenance guidelines.
Q: Are all of the products listed above stain-proof?
A: As a matter of rule, fabric materials are prone to stain because of the gaps or spaces in between individual fibers. The only time a material will not stain is when it doesn’t have these gaps. This can only occur in non-porous materials like glass, porcelain, and metal. Since you don’t get a metal apron or a glass kitchen apron, we can say that kitchen aprons are not stain-proof.
There is one exception, however. If these aprons also come with stain-proofing treatment, then it is possible that they will also be stain-resistant. Ethylene vinyl acetate has rubber-like qualities. The EVA fibers are more compact so they can provide you with some degree of stain-resistance.
In our list, only one product comes with an EVA material. This is the Bucket Boss Duckwear SuperShop Work Apron.
Our Top Pick
The DII Buffalo Apron gets our nod as the best apron in this list. It has a classic design that provides full-length protection from the chest all the way to the knees. The large pocket in front is spacious to accommodate different things. It is comfortable to wear because of its 100% cotton construction. The straps and ties are also easy to adjust. It is machine-washable and provides customization to carry your own embroidery. It can also serve purposes other than cooking.
Aprons come in different types and functions. They are not only for the kitchen, after all. But for those who devote their life to the perfection of kitchen-related activities, these aprons are your best buddies.
Sources:
- How to Choose the Right Apron for the Job - Chef Works Insider
- How to Sew an Apron - wikiHow
