Aprons have long been part of culinary traditions around the world to keep people protected from stains and injury. Whether you’re an avid home cook or an industry professional, there are many types of aprons available to protect you and keep you clean while you work.
Best Overall
Hedley and Bennett Essential Apron
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- Huge choice of colors and patterns
- Thick, stain-resistant fabric
- Adjustable neck strap
- Can feel bulky around a slender neck and shoulders
Hedley and Bennett has become a staple brand in restaurant and home kitchens through its extensive line of durable, comfortable aprons. The Essential Apron collection comes in more than 75 colors and patterns. Each medium-weight apron features two lap pockets and a chest pocket with separate slots for pens and a cell phone, plus an adjustable neck strap, long waist straps, and a utility loop made of cotton webbing.
We tested the Denver Brown Essential Apron in the kitchen and at the grill, and we felt well-protected frying tortillas in hot oil for enchiladas rancheras, scraping down preheated grates, or flipping a grilled steelhead fillet. We moved fluidly in the apron while kneading dough and brushing on garlic butter, and flour and grease flecks washed off without special treatment.
The apron’s stiff cotton canvas is designed to hold up to daily wear and washing. During testing, the first machine-wash wasn’t enough to remove creases, but the fabric started to soften after several rounds of washing and hang-drying. The apron can also be tumble-dried and even ironed smooth.
We like how the long waist straps tie comfortably at the front or back; the neck strap adjusts smoothly, even while wearing the apron, and stays fixed while taking the apron on and off. The apron’s bib may be a little wide for a slender neck and shoulders, letting it pooch out even with tightened straps. The Denver Brown Essential Apron also comes in a crossback style, which may better fit a slender frame, and in a larger cut, which may be the best choice for taller or wider body types. Some designs have a matching kids’ size.
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Material: Cotton canvas | Size: 30 x 33 inches (standard option) | Machine Washable: Yes
Best Budget
Chef Works Bib Apron
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- Soft fabric with minimal wrinkling
- Can throw in washer and dryer
- Well-stitched for regular use
- Neck strap can’t be adjusted
If you’re looking for an affordable apron that will last, the Chef Works Bib Apron has proven longevity. “I bought several of these aprons seven years ago when I began teaching workshops,” says Julie Laing, author of the Twice as Tasty food column and blog. “I’m still using them because they are easy to wash and dry. In white, they can be bleached to remove stains and look like new when I hand them to my next students.”
Laing likes the texture of the cotton-poly blend, which feels more like everyday clothing than stiff canvas or slippery polyester. The straps are on the narrow side but tie securely without slipping and are long enough for a bow at back or front.
Since Laing’s students wear these aprons each time she teaches a workshop, she washes them after every use. She hasn’t experienced fraying or shrinking, and the aprons have withstood gentle scrubbing of dried-on sourdough and occasional bleaching after students spread pizza sauce or chop fresh herbs.
If she could change one thing, she would make the neck strap adjustable. At 25 inches, it tends to be overly long for most of her students. The simple design also means no pockets on the lap or bib. On the plus side, that smooth apron front makes it easy to customize. When ordered directly from Chef Works, you can spend a few extra dollars to have text or a logo embroidered just about anywhere you like.
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Material: Polyester and cotton blend | Size: 27.5 x 33 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
Best Crossback
Helt Studio Hardwood Briquette Crossback Apron
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- Straps fit securely without straining neck or shoulders
- Shoulder and waist straps adjust separately
- Fabric feels durable but not overly stiff
- Special first-wash care and hang-drying recommended
Helt Studio focuses on designing aprons and chef coats suitable for both pros and home cooks. The Crossback Apron hits all the right notes for comfort, style, and durability, and the heavy-duty canvas fabric comes in three colors with contrasting cotton straps. A small chest pocket tucks in pens and tools, and two lap pockets hold larger items. We like how easy it is to slide a cell phone in and out of a pocket inset, even with damp fingers.
The crossback straps stand out in this apron’s design. During testing, the fit felt right the moment we slipped it on, and we could lengthen or shorten the straps with ease. The crossback style lets the bib lie flat across the chest, with a wide spread running over the shoulders before criss-crossing on the back. Even after hours of wearing the apron, we felt no neck strain or pressure points from the strap.
The shoulder straps are fixed at both ends, letting you tighten or loosen the waist straps separately and tie them front or back. It’s a little complicated to put on the first time, but we found the right place to hold the straps after a couple of tries. Removing the apron is as simple as sliding your hands behind the bib and lifting up until it clears your head.
The sturdy canvas fabric seems softer and more pliable than some other brands we tested. Helt specifies an initial hand wash in cold water. You can use a machine after that, but hang-drying remains recommended, as well as treating stains before washing.
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Material: Cotton canvas | Size: 28 x 32 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
Best Design
Maison d’Hermine Colmar Apron
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- Charming watercolor designs
- Adjustable neck strap
- Has matching oven mitts, hot pads, and towels
- Fabric is fairly thin
“I like a simple apron; just a string long enough to wrap around my waist and a place to cinch a towel to,” says Vanessa Dora Lavorato, Founder of Marigold Sweets. “I like as few pockets as possible and breathable but durable material that I don’t mind getting messy while I work.”
The Maison d’Hermine Colmar apron fits that bill. It comes in multiple stylish prints. It’s made from 100 percent cotton to keep you cool while working. The delicate designs are inspired by a small region in France, Colmar, known for its charm and elegance. With extra-long waist ties and adjustable straps, this apron is made to fit anyone. Plus, there are matching oven mitts and kitchen towels that are sold separately.
Material: Cotton | Size: 27.5 x 30.5 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
Best Heavy-Duty
Hudson Durable Goods Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron
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- Durable
- Waterproof
- Several utility pockets
- Wax treatment wears down over time
This rugged, heavy-duty work apron from Hudson Durable Goods comes in a variety of neutral colors and is adjustable for anyone who wears a size medium to an XXL. Made from waxed canvas material and having reinforced metal grommets, this apron is water-resistant and highly durable for a multitude of uses that extend outside the kitchen. The waxed material makes cleaning super easy, with no machine-washing necessary.
Material: Waxed canvas | Size: 10.67 x 10.47 x 2.44 inches | Machine Washable: No
Best for Grilling
Hudson Durable Goods Professional Grade Chef Apron
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- Several colors and fabrics available
- Quick-release belt
- Double-stitched and reinforced with metal rivets
- Cross-straps can be tricky to put on and take off
Hudson Durable Goods makes the list again with its professional-grade chef apron. Rated the top pick for grilling by many users online, this apron is made from breathable cotton, which is sure to keep you cool while you stand over a hot grill. It features four pockets and a kitchen towel loop, which could also be used to hold your favorite pair of grilling tongs. The apron comes in six colors and features an easy-to-use, quick-release buckle, as well as adjustable straps. It’s a stylish and functional apron that’s sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.
Material: Cotton (denim also available) | Size: 27 x 34 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
Best for Bakers
Kaoru Sanchez Rainbow Explosion Adjustable Apron
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- Eye-catching designs
- Adjustable straps
- Handmade
- Breathable fabric
- Pricey
Kaoru Sanchez, based out of San Francisco, originally got its start by creating gift cards. Now it’s moved on to other textiles, and its aprons are loved by home and professional bakers. The aprons come in a variety of unique patterns, colors, and lengths. Some are crossback and others are bistro-style, but all are adjustable and fit most people. They’re lightweight, breathable, and made from 100 percent cotton and linen, and they’re sure to keep your favorite baker cool near a hot oven.
Material: Cotton | Size: 37 x 28 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
Best for Bartenders
Carhartt Unisex Apron
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- Machine washable
- Variety of pockets
- Durable
- Initially stiff (softens with washes)
Carhartt has been a staple brand for hardworking individuals since 1889. The very first motto was “honest value for an honest dollar,” and although the motto has changed over the years, its commitment to affordable, high-quality products remains the same.
This apron is made from the same top-of-the-line materials as its well-known and trusted overall bibs. One standout feature: the crossback straps that also have an additional back tie, providing extra security while not compromising on comfort for the wearer. It has multiple pockets and straps, ensuring that your favorite tools are always in place and within arm’s reach. Although the apron isn’t waterproof, it is machine washable and extremely durable. Plus, it comes in black and the traditional Carhartt brown, so this apron will hide any stains that may come its way.
“I love my Carhartt full-bib duck canvas apron. As a bartender, you definitely want to opt for the Carhartt brown over the black,” says Nicky Beyries, Cocktail Expert and Former Bar Director.
Materials: Cotton duck, polyester | Size: 33-inch length | Machine Washable: Yes
Best Custom
Lake House Design Art Personalized Apron with Pockets
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- Customizable text, logo, and colors
- 3 segmented pockets
- Handcrafted
- A bit on the smaller side
If you want to add a personal touch to your apron, check out Lake House Design Art over on Etsy. The shop has a number of customizable apron options, including custom text or even printing a logo. Each apron is machine washable for easy cleaning.
Made of a cotton-polyester blend, the aprons have an adjustable neck strap so you can find the ideal fit. That said, the overall apron is a bit on the smaller side in terms of coverage. Still, the three-sectioned pocket spanning the apron’s width might just make up for it thanks to the utility.
Material: Cotton polyester blend | Size: 22 x 24 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
Best Splurge
Tilit Chef Apron
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- Lots of coverage
- Adjustable leather neck strap
- Deep pockets
- Can add custom embroidery
- Pricey
Whether you’re a professional chef or just king of your own kitchen, this apron from Tilit is a high-end option. The Luxe Chef Apron is the widest and longest model that Tilit offers, meaning it will keep your clothes clean with nearly full coverage. Made of durable canvas—with beautiful leather straps—the apron is heavy-duty and durable. There are three pockets on the apron: two deep waist pockets ideal for tongs and a breast pocket where you can put your phone or a pen.
This apron is machine washable, has adjustable sizing, and even comes with an extra-long 38-inch waist strap. If you want to add a pop of personalization, there are also embroidery options for names, a small logo, or both (for an additional fee).
Materials: Canvas, leather | Size: 36 x 39 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
Best for Kids
Williams Sonoma Dog & Cat Kid Aprons
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- Adorable designs
- Two pouch pockets
- Adjustable Velcro neck strap
- Dog and cat aprons sold separately
These kiddie (or should we say kitty?) aprons are downright adorable. Made to look like a cartoonish dog and cat, these aprons will get kids excited to be in the kitchen. The two “kangaroo” pockets in front are double-stitched, so they’ll hold up well over time.
Kids growing up too fast? Thanks to the adjustable Velcro neck strap, the aprons can grow with them—for a little while, at least. Cleaning up after kids’ cooking adventures in the kitchen may not be a breeze (between the spilled batter and clouds of flour), but cleaning the apron sure is. Just pop it in the washer when you’re done.
Material: Cotton twill, Velcro | Size: 20 x 24.5 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
The Final Verdict
The Hedley & Bennett Essential Apron is our No. 1 recommendation because it’s comfortable, attractive, and made of high-quality materials intended to last for years. If you’re looking for an inexpensive yet well-stitched apron, we recommend the Chef Works Bib Apron.
Other Options We Tested
- Syntus Adjustable Bib Aprons: We originally chose this apron for its sweet, two-pack price and extensive color options but were disappointed by its look and feel during testing. The polyester blend was shiny and slick, and the waist strap tended to slip unless knotted tightly. We did like the adjustable neck strap and the water resistance of the fabric. We were pleasantly surprised that on first cleaning, even the dark red fabric didn’t bleed into the rest of the washer’s load, but we wished these aprons could be tumble-dried.
- Chef Works Cross-Back Bib Apron: Laing has happily put on this crossback apron for years of workshops, events, and videos, but when testing other crossback designs for this roundup, she preferred those with separate shoulder and waist straps. This apron’s two long straps cross, slip through loops, and then tie at the waist, taking longer to put on and ending up with a looser fit. She still recommends it as an affordable crossback style that can be washed and dried in a machine.
What to Look for in an Apron
Level of Protection
In the kitchen, an apron mainly serves as an extra layer of fabric to protect you from soiling your clothing while cooking or baking, and a cotton or linen apron usually does the job. For activities during which you could easily get wet, you may want to look for a water-resistant or waterproof material.
An apron that you wear during grilling should be a material such as denim or leather that’s thick enough to also protect you from heat and sparks. More rugged or hazardous activities require an even more heavy-duty, extra-long apron made for your personal safety.
While all of our picks offer good coverage, if you’re looking for more, go for an apron that has a higher neckline or longer hem to cover more of your legs.
Comfort
It may go without saying, but you’re going to want to choose an apron that’s comfortable to wear, especially if you plan to wear it for extended periods of time. Take into account the type and weight of the material, any straps, and the different ways those straps tie around and secure to your body. Cotton will likely be the most lightweight and comfortable, while leather, denim, canvas, and waxed cotton tend to be heavier. The latter will, however, hold up better to daily use.
Apron size also ties into comfort. While many are adjustable, you should consider your exact height and weight to make sure the width (which usually doesn’t include the waist ties) and length (typically neckline to hem) offer sufficient coverage and, in turn, have you feeling your best.
Style
Not speaking to your personal aesthetic (though there are many colors and patterns available for that), there are different styles of aprons to consider, including bib aprons (ties around the back of the waist and has a loose neck loop), waist aprons (these tie around your waist and don’t include coverage for the torso), cross-back aprons (these take the pressure off your neck and disburse it across your shoulders and back), cobbler aprons (these are similar to a smock), and more.
Pockets
Almost all aprons have a pocket for tucking away your phone, but to accommodate other items or tools that you want to keep within easy reach—a towel, Sharpie, thermometer, gloves, bottle or wine opener, etc.—select an apron with more pockets in sizes and locations that suit your needs. A zippered pocket keeps items safe during activities during which you move around a lot.
Cleaning
When they’re dirty, aprons made of cotton and other lightweight fabrics can just be tossed in the washing machine. Heavy-duty protective aprons are stiff and usually not washable; they’re usually wiped clean instead.
FAQs
What does an apron do?
Just as the proper chef shoes protect (and support) your feet in the kitchen, an apron covers the front part of your body to protect you. In home cooking, the primary purpose of an apron is to keep your clothes clean. It other settings where you are exposed to hot or otherwise dangerous materials, an apron is a piece of personal safety gear.
Is an apron for food safety?
An apron not only keeps your clothes clean when preparing food and cooking, but it also improves hygiene and food safety because it prevents dirt, dust, lint, hair, and other things that might be on your clothing from getting into the food.
Do you tie an apron in the front or back?
This all depends on personal preference. If you want to tie it in the back to keep it out of the way, you can. If the waist straps are long enough, you could also bring it to the front. This makes it easier to adjust during the day and gives you a convenient place to hang your kitchen towel, too.
