When most home chefs see an apron, they probably think it is a fashion statement more than anything else. But if they asked a restaurant chef, they would probably hear that it is one of their most useful kitchen tools. Of course, aprons make one look professional, but they provide some benefits that make cooking easier and safer, whether they are working in the restaurant or at home. So here are the reasons why a home chef should invest in a professional quality apron.
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It Provides Protection
What many people don’t realise about aprons is that they are meant to protect the chef. Even though the environment of a home kitchen usually doesn’t have the same level of activity as a restaurant kitchen, accidents can happen. Hot liquids can get spilt, and it is better for those things to land on a professional quality apron since it is made from fabric that is heat resistant. Plus, the apron can be removed quickly enough before the hot liquid sinks in and reaches the skin where it can cause a painful burn. You don’t get that level of protection by just wearing regular clothes with their flimsy fabric.
Keeps Tools Nearby
When working, everyone needs their tools nearby where they can reach them to make their job more efficient. And storing small kitchen tools and gadgets is what those pockets on a professional quality apron are for. Even if they aren’t being used to store tools, they can be used to keep recipe cards and even ingredients within reach. So if it is small, safe to carry and can make cooking easier, an apron is a great place to store it while cooking.
Reduces the Amount of Laundry
This is perhaps one of the biggest pluses for spending on a professional quality apron. The fabric of these aprons is usually tough, usually a poly/cotton blend, meaning they protect clothes from getting messy in the kitchen. When cooking without an apron, food and grease stains can end up on clothes, increasing the amount of laundry one has to do. Plus, once some stains set in, they can be impossible to remove and the clothes will have to be replaced, which can be costly. All this can be avoided by wearing a professional quality apron.
Makes You Feel Professional
Sometimes cooking is a mindset, and when you look professional, you feel professional and act professionally. And professionals always stay focused on the task at hand. Many people have reported that they get more work done faster in the kitchen when they are wearing an apron than when they are not. They chop, grate, cut, slice, mix and wash dishes faster with an apron. So it seems that one of the best ways to stay focused in the kitchen is to wear an apron.
An apron is more than just a piece of fabric that makes a fashion statement in the kitchen. Everyone needs to wear an apron if they want to cook efficiently and safely, and it doesn’t matter if they are a restaurant chef or a home chef. If you are a home chef without a professional quality apron, then see the link for restaurant aprons.