What are the types of aprons?
Let's start with some background first. An apron is an apparel that is worn over other clothing and usually covers the front of the body and offers protection from spills. The origin of the apron is believed to be when men started taking pieces of cloth and tying them around their waist, to protect their outfits while working. The word apron comes from old French word napron meaning a small piece of cloth; however, over time napron became an apron. In this blog, we will cover the multiple times of aprons available on the market and how they might serve you best. Understanding the various aprons on the market will help you with your future buying and we've got you covered!
The apron has evolved over the years into many different styles of aprons for various uses, including as part of a uniform or as a decoration, adornment, or ceremonial garb. Some of the most popular types today include bib aprons, bistro aprons, cobbler aprons, waist or server aprons and shop aprons.
Aprons and smocks are sometimes confused as the same garment. The difference is that smocks are more fitted, lightweight, sleeved garments, often worn to protect the clothes while working. Commonly worn by artists traditionally to protect their clothing from paint. A smock is a complete garment, which offers complete coverage from spills, stains, dirt and chemicals. Smocks are put on over the head, and they cover most of the body whereas aprons usually have a strap behind the neck and strings around the waist. Smocks are popular with hairdressers, technicians, painters, dog groomers, and pharmacists.
Bib Aprons are the most common type of aprons to protect clothing while working. Bib aprons became a popular choice based on its practical design and full coverage. Bib aprons may have a strap around the neck, and/or shoulder straps that crisscross at the back and attach to the waist. Bib aprons are available in numerous colors and fabrics made to last for demanding work environments, including 100% cotton, 100% polyester, 100% spun polyester, 65% polyester / 35% cotton and cotton blends.
Bistro Aprons are usually designed for professional servers, such as cooks and kitchen staff and are available in different lengths such as half bistro or full bistro apron. Kitchen staff often wear these because they provide space to wipe their hands as well as offering full body coverage that protects staff from frequent spills and splashes. They are made of various fabrics including durable 100% spun polyester that are machine washable and available in different lengths and pocket configurations. Chef’s also wear chef coats or chef jackets for protection and a prestigious look.
Cobbler Aprons cover the front and the back of clothing, can have pockets, and tie on both sides at the waist, providing effective protection for the front and back of clothes. They are often made from polyester and cotton blends in a wide range of styles, sizes and colors that are machine washable.
Waist / Server/ Restaurant Aprons are usually short half aprons with handy front pockets that are popular with the restaurant industry. Because of its short style, waist/server aprons provides servers with easy movement. Aprons are part of the restaurant worker uniform and are often required in food production and serving areas only.
Machinist/Shop Aprons are typically worn by mechanics, electricians, painters, butchers and more where ample coverage and protection is needed. They're made from heavy duty materials.
In conclusion, aprons come in all shapes and sizes, and are an essential tool for a wide range of industries, from healthcare to food service and beyond. Understanding the different types of aprons available allows professions to choose the right level of protection and functionality for their specific needs. Whether it's the need for server aprons, fluid resistant aprons or chef aprons, there's a perfect apron on the market for every task. By selecting the right one workers can enhance their safety, and comfort which ultimately improves the quality of work done. So, next time you reach for an apron, consider buying your aprons in bulk from Direct Textile Store because we understand the types of aprons needed for protective clothing and garments within the workforce. Direct Textile Store offers numerous aprons and smocks with a variety of fabrics, colors and styles for a wide range of uses.
If you need help placing an order or have questions, call one of our live Customer Service agents who are available Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm ET, or send an email to [email protected]
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Haley
Merchandising Specialist
Editor
