10 Best Kitchen Aprons (Review) In 2022
- 1. Maison d' Hermine Colmar 100% Cotton 1-Piece Kitchen Apron
- 2. VWELL Waxed & Waterproof Canvas Cooking Apron
- 3. Syntus 2-Pack Adjustable Water Resistant Bib Aprons
- 4. Chef Works Unisex Three Pocket Apron
- 5. Hudson Durable Goods - Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron
- 6. Syhood 2-Piece Cotton Linen Cooking Apron Set
- 7. Caldo Daily Cotton Apron for Cooking
- 8. Viedouce 2-Pack Durable Restaurant Aprons
- 9. ARAWAK BRAVE Chef Designed Professional Cooking Apron
- 10. BIGHAS Adjustable Bib Apron with Pockets & Extra Long Ties
There's a huge collection of kitchen aprons out there and we independently selected a few to test. Whether you are a butcher or salon owner, professional chef, or love time cooking food with the kids, there are lots available.
A cotton linen apron or waxed cotton, a cross back apron, or a simple one with an adjustable neck buckle, we know all too well through ruining our clothing that aprons are a must-have item. The Unclutterer team wanted to test these and while some aren't the best option for heavy use in a professional kitchen or in a workshop, they might be the perfect aprons for the home cook - and might just match your best oven gloves too!
Here's our review of ten we selected at random whether you're looking at cross back chef aprons, best aprons for butchers or in the DIY workshop, or an apron to use for spending valuable time in your home kitchen.
1. Maison d’ Hermine Colmar 100% Cotton 1-Piece Kitchen Apron




Key Features
Width – 27.5″
Length – 31.3″, adjustable
Material – 100% cotton
Design – floral
We liked the Maison d’ Hermine Colmar. It looks cute and it’s made of 100% cotton. The only thing with that is when you get a bit of grease on it you’ll have to wash it carefully and don’t put it in the dryer! The Maison d’ Hermine Colmar 100% Cotton 1-Piece Kitchen Apron will fit all of us, is pretty generous on the width and length, and has a lovely floral design. If you are looking for women or men aprons it fits quite well and looks good even when just hanging in the kitchen and not being used!
The manufacturer has good ideas too – recommending that you can use their aprons for protection when bathing or grooming the dog or cat. This is why it’s the Unclutterers’ team-best choice.
Pros
Natural & sustainable
Beautifully made
Elegant design
Indian made
Matching items available
Plus size if required
Cons
Delivery price is high
Home use only
Don’t use a dryer
2. VWELL Waxed & Waterproof Canvas Cooking Apron




Key Features
Width – 27″
Length – 34″
Material – Waxed
Design – Black, professional
The VWELL Waxed & Waterproof Canvas Cooking Apron is interesting and definitely for the pro. The neck strap is adjustable. We liked the cross back so it didn’t pull on our shoulders or neck. The only thing which we weren’t sure about are the large pockets – it gave us chance to put stuff in there that we forgot about so definitely prefer aprons without! But there is a pocket near the chest that zips up so if you need to keep your mobile, wallet, or purse, you can keep them close by.
We gave this to a cafe owner one we had cleaned it up and he loved it, saying he’d be buying another if this ever wears out.
Pros
Wax & wipe clean
Multi-use
Sturdy professional fastenings
Keeps you dry
Cons
Heavy-duty – not for home
Pricey
3. Syntus 2-Pack Adjustable Water Resistant Bib Aprons




Key Features
Width & length – one size fits all
Material – Polyester
Design – 12 options
Our choice for best value in 2020, it’s the Syntus 2-Pack Adjustable Water Resistant Bib Aprons, and you can choose from stripes, plain, or a pack of two different colors including black/white combo or two of the same. We thought these would be ideal for having matching colors in a cafe or restaurant and they look good at home if you’re serving up a feast and want matching aprons for that valuable time you might spend cooking food with the kids. In the Unclutterer team opinion, this is one of the best apron selection at this price. They’re thick and non-toxic using polyester material. You get cover from just below the neck down to your knees (depending on how tall you are).
These aprons can be machine washed but not tumble dried which is why we like that they come in a two-pack, so if there’s only one of you there’s an apron handy while you wash the other. Two pockets in front for holding utensils.
Pros
Size adjustable
Two pack
Chef-style
12 choices
Cons
Won’t dispel grease/oil spills
Not waterproof
4. Chef Works Unisex Three Pocket Apron




Key Features
Width – 28″
Length – 24″
Material – Polycotton
Design – Plain, 5 colorways
We thought that the Chef Works Unisex Three Pocket Apron is great for those who have to move lots either around the kitchen or as a waiter as they do come up quite short at just 24 inches (max.) – the length at the neck is adjusted using the buckle but doesn’t give you much more in the way of the length. The poly-cotton apron has three pockets which were ideal for holding utensils while cooking or notepads and pens in the front of the house. There were reviews from artists too who found this style to work perfectly. We think that this apron is designed well and looks professional while being functional.
Pros
Professional
5 colorways
Adjustable neck buckle
Wrap around waist tie
Great % of positive reviews
Cons
Might prefer more protection
Almost like a short dress
5. Hudson Durable Goods – Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron





Key Features
Width – 27″
Length – 34″
Material – Waxed canvas
Design – Plain
Our premium pick choice, the Hudson Durable Goods – Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron is pretty hard wearing and good enough, in our opinion, for the workshop and perhaps a little bit too heavy-duty for use in the kitchen. There are woodworking options available if you prefer a more heavy-duty design but the one we tested was in the grey color. It’s sturdy enough with tough, large pockets for keeping tools and notebooks in, and has a cross back which saves stress on your neck. This is our premium pick for 2020 and has a finish that’s waxed so it does repel water drops and light drops of oil can be cleaned off easily. It won’t deal with heavy liquids like grease though.
Pros
Highly functional
Cross back prevents neck stress
Hard-wearing & durable
Excellent % of positive reviews
Cons
Not for the fashion conscious
Not machine washable
6. Syhood 2-Piece Cotton Linen Cooking Apron Set






Key Features
Width – 26″
Length – 28.2″
Material – cotton linen apron
Design – pattern and stripe
In a pack of two and made from cotton linen mix we thought that Syhood 2-Piece Cotton Linen Cooking Apron Set was the best aprons for indoors or for the homely baker or cook. The aprons will protect your clothing from food spills and are great for the kitchen whether you’re cooking on your own or want a cute matching set for the rest of the family.
We like that the apron design has an adjustable neck so that you can wear it as loose or as tight as you want. If you like to spend time in the kitchen or behind the counter of a bakery then we think you will love the two designs available in this two-pack bundle.
Pros
Lovely choice of design
Good size
Adjustable
Good to give as a gift
Cons
Don’t over-wash as cotton shrinks
Not waterproof
Snug fit
7. Caldo Daily Cotton Apron for Cooking



Key Features
Width – 26″
Length – 33″
Material – Cotton
Design – Plain, 5 colorways
For a unisex apron which is neither too masculine nor too feminine, the Caldo Daily Cotton Kitchen Apron for Cooking is ideal for professionals. It protects clothing from spills whether you’re in the kitchen or the workshop. The neck straps have an adjustable buckle and are really strong, whilst the waist strap is wrap-around at 40 inches so you can tie at the front so the size isn’t limited on yours and gives ample coverage no matter what your size. This, we thought, is one of the best aprons for heavy use.
Pros
Conveniently placed pockets
Reinforced & adjustable straps
Cons
Buckles rust quickly
Some stitching was loose
Hard to clean off spills
8. Viedouce 2-Pack Durable Restaurant Aprons




Key Features
Width – 28″
Length – 24″
Material – Polycotton
Design – Plain, 5 colorways
The least expensive in our line up and our budget pick for 2020, the Viedouce 2-Pack Durable Restaurant Aprons come in a two-pack bundle although we did wonder why we couldn’t order two different colors so if you want alternatives you’ll have to place at least two orders but they are a great price. There are 8 color options and, with 3 layers, the middle one is waterproof and the outermost present layer is soft. You will, however, have to order two of the same.
Like most of the aprons, for both women and men, we thought that these were ideal for a multitude of uses like in the workshop, cafe, barbeque at home, painting and while cleaning – and more. The pockets are brilliant for holding things like brushes, pens, notepads, or utensils, and the waist straps are wrap-around so ample enough to fit around a wider fitting.
Pros
Great quality
Affordable
Brilliant fit for all
Professional style
Cons
Not waterproof
9. ARAWAK BRAVE Chef Designed Professional Cooking Apron



Key Features
Width – 27″
Length – 30″
Material – Waxed cotton
Design – Plain with a number of options
Available as a cotton apron, in denim, or in waxed cotton finish at alternative prices, we independently selected and tested the black cotton one. All options of ARAWAK BRAVE Chef Designed Professional Cooking Apron offer a cross-back apron design and, we were pleased it looked like a professional apron as well as being entirely functional. It has two large pockets at the bottom of the skirt, two smaller ones beneath the chest, and we liked the small addition of a towel/cloth holder too. Oh, and a loop so you can keep your headphone wire out of the way!
Aprons for regular use are all too often quite simple in design so this one stood out and is especially recommended for professional or commercial use. Where many manufacturers don’t give out the waist strap measurements, this one promises to be suitable for those with a 50-inch waist.
Pros
Cross back apron
Professional grade
Sturdy design
Machine washable
Cons
Industrial type design
10. BIGHAS Adjustable Bib Apron with Pockets & Extra Long Ties


Key Features
Width – 27″
Length – 30″
Material – Waxed cotton
Design – Plain, number of options
A polyester-cotton mix, we weren’t initially sure about the BIGHAS Adjustable Bib Apron with Pockets & Extra Long Ties which even looks cheap in the images the manufacturer showcases. What we did like though are the color options – 17 in all. Each apron does have an adjustable neck strap and the wrap-around waist strap is really long at around 42 inches so you can tie it around your front or if you have a little larger waist, it will tie behind and still be comfortable. It’s carefully sewn in important places that are usually easily torn and it’s lightweight, although we don’t like the cheapness and that there’s only one central pocket. We did, however, like the price and it’s suitable for the larger size.
Pros
Great for larger waists
Affordable
Protects clothing
Washes well
Cons
The adjusting neck strap doesn’t hold (slippery fabric)
For home/kitchen use rather than professional
Features To Consider
Surprisingly enough aprons come in all different designs, made with different types of fabrics and all come in a variety of different shapes and sizes.
When we independently selected the ones we wanted to review we looked at fabrics like linen, cotton, and polyester and whether they were waxed and durable enough to endure water and oil/grease spills. We know that you'll want to consider the design, length, and width for the smaller or larger waist, and of course the pockets or different compartments each apron has.
There isn't the best material for a kitchen apron to be made of as this is down to personal choice and how you'll use your new apron. So if you're a budding chef, a refined home food cook, or simply love to bake with the kids, we think we reviewed a good range of different ones.
The durability and functionality in each apron differ immensely. In addition to our reviews up in our list above, we spent time looking at things for you to research. Here we give you a few brief tips and hopefully, you'll be able to find the most ideal to suit your fit, your needs, and your budget.
Adjustability
Depending on just how much you move around when you're cooking food or baking delicious goods, you might want your back and neck to be free from pressure. In this case, you might not want a cross back or a tied neck strap which can be irritating as you move around.
An apron should fit neatly and comfortably so if you find one with an adjustable neck, we'd say preferably take a look at those with buckles so that you don't have to tie a knot behind your neck which can be uncomfortable in a hot kitchen and can rub as you move around. The neck strap will make the apron shorter or longer but not by much - you still want to cover your chest as splashes and spills can reach up there and ruin your clothing.
A long waist strap is best if it's long as the apron is then adjustable according to the size of the wearer - great if you're looking for matching aprons for the kids or something that suits the larger chef.
Design
There are so many different designs so this is going to depend on how you use your apron. If you find yourself reaching for tools or utensils across the room while you work or cook, you might want to opt for large pockets or other compartments in which you can carry things with you around the space.
There are also those with neck adjustments, simple ties to the neck and waist, and those with a cross back. All are built for different types of use. For example, a front of house apron might be a simple cotton one that can be folded into almost a skirt with pockets; these are usually called bistro or waist aprons.
Bib aprons are the ones we reviewed and give good overall coverage and somewhere for anyone working as a chef or in a workshop to wipe their hands, as well as having pockets.
In simple terms, if you're using aprons in the working environment you might want to go uniform and have the same or very similar design or color for everyone although some employees may prefer certain fittings like an apron with a cross-backed design while some might prefer those that can be fitted simply around the waist.
Length
The longest apron we discovered was up to 40 inches but there are much longer ones that are intended for washing and in areas requiring much more protection.
Short aprons are ideal for front of the house where you will be moving around lots and simply want somewhere to pop pens and notepads. Longer ones are great for back of the house where you are subject to more mess and need to protect clothing.
Material
- Poly-cotton: A comfortable option that is easy to clean and typically doesn't need to be ironed.
- Denim: Heavy duty and strong, providing less need for the time it takes to press the fabric.
- Cotton: Comfortable and lightweight though can shrink if washed on too-high a heat or tumble dried.
- Waxed cotton or canvas: Heavy duty and strong and can become much more beautiful over years of wear. Generally a hand-wash item only.
- Polyester: Typically crease-free and professional looking.
- Vinyl: Heavy duty and wipe clean. Generally best for those exposed to liquids including chemicals, oils, and grease.
Pockets & Compartments
All your essential working tools and bits need to go somewhere. Notepads, pens, and working tools are kept handy and you might want compartments to keep your mobile in. Some aprons feature loops too so that you can keep wires out of the way while you listen to music or talk to people while you work.
Our favorite was the Hudson Durable, 5th on our review list, which has large and small pockets to the front, near the chest, and a smaller compartment just below the neckline.
If you usually carry quite a heavy load around with you then a cross-back apron will reduce the pressure on your neck.
Water-resistance
You will find that some cotton and canvas aprons won't be waterproof but they will protect clothing as much as possible from water drops. Wax-coated aprons offer some resistance to water and grease although most aprons will stain if they end up getting soaked in oily liquids.
Kitchen Apron FAQ
Q: What's the best material for an apron?
Nylon, polyester, and cotton are some of the most popular materials for aprons both for use in the home and workplace. More recently, plastic disposable single-use aprons have become popular where they are needed for use in clinical environments - but for a cafe, restaurant, or home cooking and baking, they aren't the most elegant!
Cotton and canvas fabrics are a great idea for those looking for a choice of colors and patterns and they look neat just hanging up in the kitchen! Wax coatings and leather aprons are popular with those needing heavy-duty aprons that are longer lasting and offer more protection than thin, single-layered fabric aprons.
Q: What type of aprons do chefs wear?
Typically a chef will choose to wear a bib style of apron which has a neck tie and quite often we see chefs with short-sleeved aprons that look smart as well as being functional. A chef's apron will offer more protection than those who wear aprons in front of the house. Chef's aprons are generally a good overall choice for home cooks, artists, pet groomers, caterers, and others needing protection from spills and splashes.