Our Favorite Kitchen Aprons
Lightweight and protective: Merci Washed Linen Apron
Top pick
This super-soft and lightweight linen apron won’t tug on your neck.
Buying Options
How it fits: The Merci apron is intentionally oversized, so it fits wide across the chest and wraps around the body for ample hip and backside coverage. It’s long, and it’s meant to be folded up so the ties hit your natural waist.
This apron was a favorite among our testers across a wide range of sizes and shapes. Fit tip: It’s easier to fine-tune the neck strap after you’ve secured the straps around your torso.
Why we like it: The Merci Washed Linen Apron is well loved among the Wirecutter kitchen team for its complete coverage and oh-so-soft wispy linen. We also admire its simplicity. It’s nothing more than a large rectangle of linen with the top two corners folded down to create a bib, and cotton twill straps.
The fabric is thin, but because this apron is meant to be folded up to fit around your natural waist (the most secure and comfortable spot, trust us), most wearers will have three layers of fabric around the midsection, aka the prime splatter zone.
The Merci apron is one of the only bib styles we’ve found that doesn’t tug at the back of our necks. We suspect that’s due to a combination of the lightweight fabric and the way it anchors around the waist. The best way to ensure that it doesn’t tug at your neck is to gently blouse the bib out after you’ve folded and tied the waist. And don’t worry, the drapey bib is still protective.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Merci Washed Linen Apron is our only pick that doesn’t have pockets. Also, it ships from Europe, and the $20 for shipping is at least twice what it costs to ship any of our other picks. The good news is that the shipping fee was the same whether we ordered one apron or three. With that in mind, you could buy a few aprons for gifts, or add a couple of linen tea towels to your order.
How the Merci Washed Linen Apron has held up: Senior editor Marguerite Preston has been testing this apron for eight months, and she loves how soft and drapey it feels. Since it ties at the waist, it feels tidier than the loose Fog Linen Over Apron, which she’s also been testing at home. Her biggest complaint is the same for all linen aprons: It shows grease easily, and because of the loose weave, the stains have a tendency to spread.
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: linen with cotton straps
Colors: a wide spectrum of hues
Basic and affordable: Williams Sonoma Classic Apron
Top pick
This affordable bib apron is constructed from thick cotton and comes in a rainbow of colors.
Buying Options
How it fits: The Williams-Sonoma Classic Apron falls below the knee on folks under 5-foot-10, and those under 5-foot-4 may need to fold it up in order to wrap the straps around their natural waist. An adjustable neck loop holds the bib in place, and long ties cinch around your midsection.
Why we like it: This quintessential, around-the-neck bib apron from Williams-Sonoma checks all the boxes: It’s affordable, thick, and durable, and its generous bib gives great coverage. With an adjustable neck loop, roomy front pockets, and long ties, this apron is a steal at $25. That said, this apron isn’t as weightlessly comfortable as the Merci.
For such an inexpensive apron, the Williams-Sonoma is notably well constructed. Wirecutter kitchen editor Marguerite Preston said her 15-year-old version “still lives in the kitchen at my parents’ house and continues to get regular use there.” She added, “The color is still fresh, the seams are still good as new, and it’s still the apron I reach for most often when I’m home.”
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The thick-gauge cotton and tight weave make this apron one of the stiffest of our picks, but it softens over time as you wear and launder it.
If you don’t spring for monogramming, the Williams-Sonoma Classic Apron comes with a large branded patch sewn onto the bib. If this bothers you, just remove the patch with a seam ripper.
Style: neck-loop bib apron
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: cotton
Colors: many year-round and seasonal options
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The crowd favorite: Hedley & Bennett Crossback Apron
Top pick
The favorite among our testers, this apron is comfortable, soft (yet sturdy), gender neutral, and adjustable (to fit a wide range of sizes).
How it fits: This apron adjusts to fit sizes extra small to extra large. The straps are long enough to double around and tie in front for those up to a size 12 or 34 waist; alternatively, anyone can simply knot them at the back.
Why we like it: Of the more than 30 aprons I’ve forced my co-workers and friends to try, the Hedley & Bennett Crossback Apron got the most likes. That’s because it adjusts to fit so many body types, regardless of someone’s height, width, or curves. And it fits more comfortably than most around-the-neck styles. As with the straps on any cross-back apron, those on the Hedley & Bennett distribute weight evenly across your shoulders, without tugging on your neck.
Folks who were 5-foot-5 and under especially liked that they could tie this apron around their natural waist without having to fold up the bottom half—something that wasn’t possible with Hedley & Bennett’s Essential Apron.
And the Crossback’s bib remains flush against the chest, whereas the bibs on some other aprons we tested tended to sag outward. This apron also has nice big pockets, which are a handy place to stash a phone or a towel (or to put your hands while you wait for the pasta water to boil).
Flaws but not dealbreakers: We’ve received comments that the Hedley & Bennett’s thick fabric—while very durable—can be a little too insulating while cooking in a hot kitchen. For those folks, we suggest the lightweight Full Cross-Back Apron from White Bark.
How the Hedley & Bennett apron has held up: After 5 years of home testing, updates writer Sarah Gannett says the Hedley & Bennett apron has been sturdy, holding up to regular runs through the washer and some accidental spins in the dryer, without any fraying or weakening at the seams. She loves its substantial coverage, and that the fabric is thick enough to prevent stains from seeping through. She also finds it comfortable, and says friends of varying heights who use it in her kitchen find it easy to adjust. She likes her apron so much that she even travels with it. The only sticking points so far: The dark navy canvas picks up schmutz like lint and loose threads, and she doesn’t find herself using the pockets very often.
Style: cross-back with ties
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: cotton
Colors: many hues (some limited edition)
Colorful and lightweight: White Bark Workwear Full Cross-Back Apron
Top pick
If you have a hot kitchen, consider this lighter-weight cross-back apron instead of the Hedley & Bennett.
Buying Options
$110 from Whitebark Workwear
May be out of stock
How it fits: This cross-back apron provides good coverage for both narrow and broad chests, and it extends to just above the knee or lower (depending on your height). You can adjust and secure where the straps cross at your back using one of three reinforced slits in the left strap. This also adjusts how high the bib sits on your chest.
Why we like it: Not gonna lie, one of the big reasons we love the White Bark Workwear Full Cross-Back Apron is that it comes in a bunch of beautiful, saturated colors. And the straps are made from the same fabric as the body, resulting in a clean monochrome look. The lightweight cotton–hemp blend fabric is the thinnest of our cross-back apron picks, a plus if you tend to overheat in the kitchen.
The White Bark’s front pockets are big enough to hold a notebook and a phone, with room to spare for other random bits and bobs. We also like the little details on the apron, like the bar-tack stitching on the ties that lets you trim them without the fabric fraying. A bonus feature we discovered in testing: That stitch line helps keep the straps from slipping out of the grommets in the wash.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The White Bark Cross-Back Apron is lightweight because the fabric is thinner than that of most of our other picks, so it may not be quite as protective. But the fabric is tightly woven and will protect your clothes from most everyday cooking splatters.
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: cotton and hemp
Colors: the most of all our picks
Our favorite denim apron: Mi Cocina Classic Apron
How it fits: The body is cut wide enough to accommodate many different body types and sizes, without swallowing folks with smaller frames. The straps are stitched where they cross at the back, so fit adjustments are made at the waist.
Why we like it: The Mi Cocina The Classic Apron is the best denim apron we’ve tested to date. It’s made from high-quality, sturdy denim in four washes that range from soft and faded to old-school rigid. The light and medium washes feel like a favorite pair of jeans. And the stiff dark-indigo apron, made from Japanese selvedge denim, is perfect for those who like to do all the breaking in themselves.
If you like pockets, this apron is for you. The six double-layer belly pockets (four outer and two inner) can fit up to a size B5 notebook, a phone, and a Thermapen, with plenty of room to spare.
The apron is reinforced all around with the same denim tape that makes up the straps, which gives the garment a nice weight and helps it to lay comfortably on the body. More importantly, it likely makes it much more durable.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: For people with smaller frames, the straps can be comically long. The company’s general advice is to wrap the straps around your waist as many times as needed. You can also trim them to a length that works for you and tie off the ends to keep the fabric from fraying too much. Also, if you want a denim apron but the Mi Cocina is out of your budget, consider getting the Cayson Lulu Apron.
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: 100% cotton denim
Colors: four denim washes
An inexpensive cross-back denim apron: Cayson Lulu Apron
Top pick
Made from thick and sturdy denim, this apron is a great value if you don’t mind the absence of hip pockets.
Buying Options
How it fits: The Cayson Lulu Apron is cut wider and longer than the Hedley & Bennett Crossback, and it covers more of your legs and backside. The Lulu’s product page confusingly describes its one size as “small (one size fits most).” We found that it adjusts to fit sizes small to extra large, but if you usually wear an extra small, you may find it to be too baggy around the waist. It hits below the knee on folks who are shorter than 6-foot-1.
Why we like it: If the Mi Cocina costs more than you’re willing to spend, the Cayson Lulu is a great alternative for less than half the price.
Made from thick, 100% cotton denim with cotton ties, the Lulu is one of the best values we’ve found for an exquisitely made cross-back apron. And though this apron is missing hip pockets, it is reinforced around the midsection with an extra layer of denim—a nice added protection for messy projects like canning tomatoes. And it has removable straps, so you don’t have to worry about them getting tangled in the washer and dryer.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Cayson Lulu lacks large front pockets. Also, its sturdy denim is heavy and a little stiff when new, though the fabric starts to give with some wash and wear.
Style: cross-back with ties
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: cotton denim with cotton straps
Colors: two
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Built for heat: BlueCut Pitmaster Apron
Top pick
You can hang out all day over your barrel smoker wearing this flame-resistant apron with built-in insulation.
Buying Options
$175 from BlueCut
May be out of stock
How it fits: This generously cut cross-back apron is best suited for folks with larger bodies, and that’s one of the reasons we like it. It’s ample, and probably too much apron for folks smaller than a size 12 or 34 waist. But it was the only apron we tested that felt comfortable on one over-6-foot tester (whom we paid for their feedback).
Why we like it: I wore this BlueCut Pitmaster Apron while testing the Weber Genesis E325s grill on a cloudless 90-degree day, and it was so comfy that I forgot I was wearing it—which is weird, because this full-coverage, flame-resistant apron has an extra-thick quilted section (a built-in heat shield) around the middle that one might think would insulate as well as protect. The reason I stayed comfortable might be that this apron lays on the body without bunching up in the nooks and crannies (kind of like a starched cotton sheet on a hot summer night).
Other details that make the Pitmaster apron so comfortable are the 1½-inch-wide cotton straps that distribute the apron’s weight so well. The straps individually adjust at the shoulders and are held together by a sliding leather patch where they cross at the back. On the right hip sits a big pocket, and on the left hip a loop for hooking a towel. I’ve done an obscene amount of grilling in my years, and I’m very impressed with this apron’s design.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: At $175, the Pitmaster apron might be cost prohibitive for many grillers. The Carhartt Firm Duck Apron is another great grilling apron and costs only $40.
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: flame-resistant cotton denim with cotton straps
Colors: one
Sturdy and thick: Carhartt Firm Duck Apron
Top pick
This thick-canvas woodshop apron is also useful at the grill or in the kitchen.
Buying Options
How it fits: This canvas apron comes in one size, yet it’s adjustable. The wide polyester straps cross at the back and do a good job of distributing the weight of the thick canvas across your shoulders. The cut of the bib is more suited for flatter chests. However, this apron was too big for one petite tester who wears size extra small.
Why we like it: Just because the Carhartt Firm Duck Apron is built for the garage or the woodshop doesn’t mean that it isn’t a good apron for grilling. Not only is it thick enough to block the gnarliest grease splatters from penetrating through to your clothes, but it’s also pretty comfortable, despite its considerable weight and stiffness. And those familiar with Carhartt clothing know that the fabric does soften with wear.
This apron is also covered in pockets (so many pockets). One of the things that makes the Firm Duck Apron stand out from our other picks is its large, zippered bib pocket that can hold a phone or a small notebook. Most cook’s aprons have only a slot for pens on the bib, if anything. And at $40, it’s an amazing deal on a sturdy apron that could last well beyond a lifetime.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: This apron is very rigid when new, and it will need a breaking-in period. But the more you wear and wash it, the faster it’ll soften up.
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: cotton canvas with polyester straps
Colors: black and brown
Top pick
If you want to stay comfy and dry while scrubbing a pile of pots and pans, this lightweight, water-resistant apron is your best bet.
Buying Options
How it fits: The Tilit Contra Chef Apron is thin, lightweight, and comfortable around the neck. Although we think the bib is just wide enough for adequate coverage, folks with large chests might find it lacking. It’s long, and you might have to fold up the waist if you’re 5-foot-3 or under.
Why we like it: If you’re looking for something that’ll keep you comfortable and dry as you scrub a pile of dishes, get this apron. The Tilit Contra is lightweight, breathable, water resistant, and kind of chic (for an apron). If other waxed aprons are like heavy rubber ponchos, the Tilit Contra is akin to a high-end Barbour rain jacket.
This apron is machine washable—aside from its leather clasp, which is removable. The company says the wax coating lasts up to 50 washes, but Tilit founder Alex McCrery said that number (which is set by the fabric manufacturer) was conservative. He told us that, based on his customers’ experience with these aprons, the coating was still effective after the apron’s 50th trip through the wash.
Either way, you probably won’t need to launder it as frequently as you would an uncoated apron. Since the fabric resists absorption, you can just hose it off and hang it up to extend the time between washes.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Compared with other waxed aprons, the Contra is expensive. But it’s also lighter, cooler, and more comfortable than heavy waxed shop aprons. Also, though the wax should last for years in a home kitchen, it will eventually wear off. But even when that happens, you’ll still have a functional and stylish (albeit regular) apron.
Style: bib with neck strap
Sizes: one size, adjustable
Material: waxed cotton
Colors: a few neutral hues
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Drapey and roomy: Rough Linen Bella Linen Pinafore-Apron
Top pick
This loose-fitting pinafore is absurdly comfy, and the thick linen keeps you protected yet cool.
Buying Options
How it fits: This unrestrictive, open-back linen pinafore drapes off the body. It comes in petite, regular, and large, so it can fit sizes 0 to 22. The curved neckline sits just below the collarbone.
Why we like it: Rough Linen’s The Bella Linen Pinafore-Apron is the new take on its original version that we didn’t know we needed. The Bella is made of the company’s Orkney linen fabric, which is thick enough to effortlessly drape around the body without being too much in a hot kitchen. It’s loose in all the right places, yet it doesn’t slip around as you move. In addition to being ridiculously comfortable, it’s good looking. We wouldn’t be embarrassed if we accidentally ran errands in this pinafore.
The Bella’s overall shape and construction is similar to our other pinafore pick, the Fog Linen Over Apron. They both have curved lines, cross-back straps, and medium-high necklines. But the Bella pinafore is a bit shorter (though not drastically so), and it has larger pockets that sit a little lower on the hips. It’s also roomier up top, and one of our paid testers, a wheelchair user with limited shoulder mobility, found that the Bella pinafore was the easiest for them to slip on.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Even though the Bella pinafore costs less than our other pick, the Fog Linen Over Apron, $100 is still more than what some folks would want to spend on an apron. But I’ve been wearing my Rough Linen pinafores for about 10 years, and aside from a few stubborn food stains, there are no signs of holes or busted seams. These are made to last.
Sizes: petite, regular, and large
Material: linen
Colors: a large selection of muted neutrals and bright jewel tones
Full-coverage pinafore: Fog Linen Over Apron
Top pick
With its extra-wide, long design, this pinafore has you covered from front to back.
Buying Options
How it fits: This lightweight pinafore has a higher neckline and more back coverage than the one from Rough Linen. The hem hits above the knee if you’re about 5-foot-10 or taller. This apron comes in one size, and it really does fit most. I put it on people with heights ranging from 5-foot-1 to 6-foot-2, and sizes 0 to 20. (Not everyone on the higher end of those ranges loved the fit, though. In our group of paid testers, one person over 6 feet tall and another who wears a women’s size 18 or larger found it too snug, with the pockets sitting at chest height.)
Why we like it: I refer to the Fog Linen Over Apron as the “Magic Smock” because it fits a range of body types, and it’s loose yet tailored at the same time. This pinafore is longer than our other pinafore pick from Rough Linen, extending past the knee on our shorter models. The wide cut also allowed for complete front and back coverage on a wide range of sizes. The Fog Linen Over Apron looks and feels like it could be a dress on its own, while still being light and breezy.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: At about $125 (plus shipping), the Fog Linen Over Apron costs significantly more than the Rough Linen Pinafore. The pockets are small, and if you’re a size 10 or larger, they’ll sit a little high up on your torso. And since this apron is made from thin linen, it will soak through quickly if you’re washing a pile of dishes or you spill something on it.
How the Fog Linen Over Apron has held up: This is the apron that senior editor Marguerite Preston reaches for most often in her home. She’s been testing it since 2019, and finds it comfortable and easy to throw on. Her windowless kitchen is pretty stuffy year-round, so the light linen provides protection without smothering her. She does note that the loose pinafore style soils more easily than closer-fitting belted styles, since it’s more likely to drag through a mess. The thin fabric also isn’t great for doing dishes since it soaks through pretty quickly, but this is a problem for all linen aprons.
Style: pinafore
Sizes: one size, not adjustable but fits a wide range of sizes
Material: 100% linen
Colors: a handful of neutral hues
If you need a pinafore that’s more generously cut up top: The Rough Linen The Original Pinafore-Apron was a former pick, and it’s still a longtime favorite of mine—I own three. This non-constricting apron is the perfect fit for my broad chest and shoulders, and it feels so effortless and breezy that I often forget I’m wearing it. It’s made from the same relaxed, thick linen as the company’s Bella Pinafore. But unlike the Bella, the Original Pinafore sits a bit too low on the chest for people with shorter torsos and smaller frames. That said, I won’t ditch my Original Pinafores. They’re still going strong after eight to 10 years of frequent use (including some abuse) and laundering.
If you want a stylish smock that’s perfect for a petite frame: There’s no denying that the Kiroko ToK Japanese Apron is an adorable and quality-made smock. It has a clean and polished look, and it comes in a bunch of indigo cotton patterns. It’s not a pick because it runs small and is available in only one size. Our testers who did fit into the ToK apron (dress sizes 0 to 8) loved it but also had a couple of small notes: Its length barely covered their entire tushes, and the button placement is awkward while the apron is on. The most frequent comment about this apron was, “I would definitely wear this for housework.”
If you’re looking for a party-hosting apron: Even though the Amana Woolen Mill Lake Stripe Café Apron is a half apron that doesn’t cover much (it hits just above the knee to mid-thigh, depending on your height), it’s cute and perfect for hosting. But don’t think this short apron is all form and no function. The thick, woven cotton fabric provides an effective barrier between your best dinner-party jumpsuit (or caftan) and, you know, dinner. We also admire the little details on the Amana apron, such as the convenient split pocket and the wide cotton webbing ties that stay tied.
If you want a sturdy apron that stays put all day: The Cayson Butcher Apron looks and fits like a cross-back apron, but it has more structure and extends past the knee. Instead of criss-crossing at the back, the wide shoulder straps are connected by a strip of fabric. This H-back design makes for a substantial apron that won’t shift or bunch. Cayson’s sturdy and structured design, combined with its generous coverage, might make for too much apron for casual cooking. But we think this apron is ideal for laborious projects like all-day canning.
We looked for aprons that would work for a wide range of people, regardless of size, gender, or budget. And we did that without sacrificing attractive fabrics, quality construction, and adequate coverage.
A great apron should not only serve its primary function—protecting your clothes from cooking stains—but also feel as easy and comfortable as a beloved old T-shirt. The last thing you need is an annoying, ill-fitting thing getting in the way while you’re trying to get dinner on the table.
First, we had to settle on which styles to include in our tests. Depending on body types and coverage needs, some styles may work better for some people than others. Here are the ones we cover in this guide:
Bib apron: A strap around your neck holds the bib in place, and separate ties cinch the apron around your waist. This style is easy to put on and take off, but some folks don’t like the feel of a strap tugging on their neck.
Cross-back bib apron: Two long straps attached at the bib go over the shoulders and cross at the middle back. You guide the straps through holes at the waist and use them to adjust the fit. Cross-back aprons sit close to the body, and the shoulder straps balance the weight, thus keeping pressure off the neck.
Pinafore: This apron hangs loosely from the shoulders and drapes around the body. Pinafore aprons—especially those made from breathable linen—tend to keep you cooler than other styles. They’re comfortable over any outfit, and they fit especially well over dresses. They’re also a good choice if you have difficulty tying things around your waist or find ties uncomfortable.
Half apron: This apron offers the least amount of protection, covering only the bottom torso and thighs. Also called a bistro apron, it’s good for quick jobs and for looking presentable to guests.
We further narrowed down our options based on the following criteria:
Comfortable fabrics: We prefer natural fibers because they keep you cool as the kitchen heats up. Cotton and linen are comfortable, breathable, and well suited for workwear.
We don’t recommend aprons made from synthetic fibers. Yes, polyester and other synthetics are wrinkle resistant and easy to wash. But these fabrics don’t breathe, and as you work and sweat over a hot stove, a polyester apron is just going to make you hotter.
Easy to move in: It’s important that an apron lets you move naturally and freely, because you’re working in this thing. Adjustable neck, shoulder, and waist straps are important on an apron that sits close to the body, otherwise it’ll tug or droop in places as you move around.
If you hate the idea of straps around your neck or waist, you might consider a loose and breezy pinafore. If a strap around your neck feels burdensome, pick an apron with shoulder straps.
Good fit for a range of body types: Everyone deserves an apron that’s comfortable and offers good coverage. We avoided aprons with narrow bibs that wouldn’t adequately protect broader chests. And we looked for long ties, which gave most of our testers the choice to tie the apron at the back or around the front. The more options you have to fine-tune an apron’s fit, the better it’ll feel on your body, so most of our picks are either adjustable or come in a range of sizes.
Style: Function aside, we also think a great apron should be attractive and stylish. If you love how your apron looks—and how you look when you’re wearing it—you’ll use it. We looked at aprons that come in contemporary cuts and colors. Whether they’re drapey and loose or structured and fitted, all of our picks are clean and thoughtfully tailored.
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Bib apron
Hedley & Bennett’s Essential Apron (previously called the Classic Bib apron) is made from the same materials as the brand’s cross-back apron, which we recommend, and it has a similar cut. But the neck loop makes the bib gape at the top (especially over curvier bustlines). We also found that the Essential Apron didn’t fit shorter people as well as the Crossback, but it is available in plus sizes.
There’s no denying that Tilit’s Satterfield and Luxe Chef aprons are elegant and well made. They both have great details, like roomy front pockets and leather accents. But the fabric is very substantial. It’s made from stiff duck canvas that—even though we’re sure it would soften with wash and wear—is a little too rigid.
The wide and long Cayson Finnie Euro Bib Apron provides a ton of coverage, just like Cayson’s Lulu and Butcher styles. But instead of cross-back straps (which disperse the weight across the shoulders), the Finnie has a neck strap. Our testers found that the generously cut denim body was too heavy, and the strap tugged at their necks.
Cross-back with tie
There’s so much to love about the linen Studiopatró Crossback Linen Apron. It comes in a rainbow of colors. The linen is soft and drapey. But its ties are very short, and the bib is way too narrow.
The Chef Works Women’s Berkeley Short Bib Apron has a flimsy denim body, with full-size detachable suspenders at the back. The denim looked and felt cheap, and the suspenders were heavy, bulky, and way too big.
Water resistant
The Hudson Durable Goods Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron is made from heavy canvas that has a thick surface layer of wax, which translates to an apron that’s excessively bulky and hot.
Pinafore
We liked the Portland Apron Company’s Split Leg Linen Smock Apron with Cross Back for its extra-wide straps, long coverage, and size options. But compared with our linen pinafore picks, the fabric and construction felt stiffer and more structured than what we desire from this style of apron.
The Magic Linen Pinafore Cross-Back Linen Apron is lightweight and affordable, and it comes in a bunch of beautiful colors. But compared with our picks, this pinafore is thin and has oddly placed front pockets.
Many testers praised The Floral Society Canvas Workshop Apron’s wide, comfy straps and big pockets. But this heavy-duty canvas pinafore is meant to be a gardening and potting apron, and it seemed too heavy and stiff for a kitchen apron.
This article was edited by Marilyn Ong and Marguerite Preston.
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The 10 Best Aprons
What We Like
Huge choice of colors and patterns
Thick, stain-resistant fabric
Adjustable neck strap
What We Don’t Like
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 stain-resistant 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.
Materials: Cotton canvas | Size: 30 x 33 inches (standard option) | Machine Washable: Yes
What We Like
Soft fabric with minimal wrinkling
Can throw in washer and dryer
Well-stitched for regular use
What We Don’t Like
Neck strap can’t be adjusted
No pockets
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 the 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 starter 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 33 inches, the apron 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.
Materials: Polyester and cotton blend | Size: 27.5 x 33 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
What We Like
Straps fit securely without straining neck or shoulders
Shoulder and waist straps adjust separately
Fabric feels durable but not overly stiff
What We Don't Like
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 a dark grey color. A small chest pocket tucks in pens and tools, and two larger 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 crisscrossing 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 denim 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.
Materials: Denin/cotton canvas | Size: 28 x 32 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
What We Like
Extra long waist ties
Adjustable neck strap
Has matching oven mitts, hot pads, and towels
What We Don’t Like
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 that are designed in Europe. 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, matching oven mitts and kitchen towels are sold separately. The fabric is fairly thin, however, so it may not withstand more rigorous culinary environments, but it can withstand flour and some spatters very easily.
Materials: Cotton | Size: 27.5 x 31.5 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
What We Like
Adjustable
Waterproof
Several utility pockets
What We Don’t Like
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 XXL. This apron is water-resistant and is made from waxed canvas material. Its reinforced metal grommets help contribute to its high durability; it's great for a multitude of uses that extend outside the kitchen. The waxed material makes cleaning super easy, with no machine-washing necessary, but it can break down over time. We like that it comes with four pockets.
Materials: Waxed canvas | Size: 27 x 34 inches | Machine Washable: No
What We Like
Several colors and fabrics available
Quick-release belt
Double-stitched and reinforced with metal rivets
What We Don’t Like
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 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. Just be aware that the cross-straps can be a little challenging to put on and off.
Materials: Cotton (denim also available) | Size: 27 x 34 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
What We Like
Eye-catching designs
Adjustable straps
Handmade
Breathable fabric
What We Don’t Like
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.
Materials: Cotton | Size: 37 x 28 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
What We Like
Machine washable
Variety of pockets
Durable
What We Don’t Like
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 is 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
What We Like
3 segmented pockets
Handcrafted
Machine washable
What We Don’t Like
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.
Materials: Cotton polyester blend | Size: 22 x 24 inches | Machine Washable: Yes
What We Like
Lots of coverage
Adjustable leather neck strap
Deep pockets
Can add custom embroidery
What We Don’t Like
Bigger than you might need
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
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 after the 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 have 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.
Features
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. You might also look for aprons with loops and tool holders if that's important to you. 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. In 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.
What material is best for an apron?
To some extent, it depends on what you are doing. If your activities involve a lot of heat and flame, such as grilling, you'll want something that's sturdier with a protective coating that you wipe off after use. For most kitchen uses, a sturdy cotton canvas is very useful as it can protect you and your clothing and also run through the washer and dryer with ease. It's a matter of personal preference; some people would rather have an apron that's simpler and lighter in weight.
After Testing 18 Aprons, I Found 7 (Stylish!) Options That’ll Keep Your Clothes Clean
When I got my first kitchen job as a prep cook, I invested in a fancy apron. It was made of thick, dark-washed denim and had a cross-back strap system that clipped to the fabric so it was easy to take off and adjust. But after a week of using it, I was ready to throw it in the bin: The clasps on the straps kept popping open, causing a chain reaction of a strap flapping free and the apron collapsing on one side.
From this, I learned that sometimes the best kitchen apron is the simplest: It covers you up, has a few pockets for tools like thermometers or kitchen tweezers, and can adjust to fit a myriad of body shapes. Clips, extraneous straps, and dozens of pockets often get in the way rather than help. With this criteria in mind, I tried on, stained, washed, and used more than 18 aprons to find options that’ll keep you and your clothes spiffy.
The Winners, at a Glance
This was a classic, adjustable loop-neck apron with long ties that provided a versatile fit. A lesson in simplicity, it had two front pockets and one chest pocket—the perfect amount of built-in storage. It also comes in a dazzling array of colors, prints, and patterns.
This rugged apron was easy to adjust and sported extra pockets, adding to its utility. At first, I was skeptical of the hexagonal chest pocket, but it was actually a great shape for quickly slipping in a Sharpie on one side and tucking a thermometer into the other. The simplicity and practicality of this apron won me over, and I found myself reaching for it daily.
The thick cotton made this $30 apron feel like it was worth double the price. I liked the simple structure with two front pockets and an adjustable neck loop. It’s a solid, simple apron that’ll keep you covered.
The beauty of a crossback apron is that it has one continuous tie, so when you pull the ends to tighten it, the whole apron conforms to your body. As a short person who often needs to fold an apron to tie it, this was a boon. This crossback apron from Hedley & Bennett fit snugly and provided all-over coverage. It was one of my go-to's when I used the aprons in my daily cooking routine.
If you use your apron in the toolshed just as much as you do in the kitchen, then this is the one for you. It’s got oodles of pockets ready to be stuffed with thermometers, pliers, tweezers, and maybe even a snack. The sturdy firm-hand cotton protects you from hot liquids and other cooking hazards.
This simple, airy smock apron has been an editor favorite for years. It’s easy to drape over your body, sports two pockets and a towel loop, and provides good coverage.
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