How to Wash your Apron!

Here’s a general guide to washing an apron properly, whether it’s lightly used or covered in paint, .....food, or even grease!

🧺 Step-by-Step: Washing Your Apron

1. Check the Fabric & Label

Look at the care label first. Common apron materials include cotton, polyester, canvas, or blends—each handles washing a bit differently.

2. Pre-Treat Stains

Before tossing it in the wash, deal with any obvious stains:

  • Food/grease: Dab with dish soap or stain remover and gently rub.

  • Paint (water-based like acrylic/watercolor): Rinse with cold water and rub lightly with soap.

  • Oil-based paint: Blot, then use a small amount of solvent (like mineral spirits) before washing.

  • Ink or dye: Use rubbing alcohol or a stain remover.

Let the treatment sit for 5–15 minutes.

3. Rinse First (Optional but helpful)

If the apron is heavily soiled, rinse it under cold water to remove loose dirt or paint.

4. Machine Wash

  • Use a normal cycle for most fabrics

  • Cold or warm water (Cold is generally recommended as warm/hot water can set stains or shrink fabric)

  • Use regular detergent

For delicate or coated aprons, choose a gentle cycle or hand wash.

5. Drying

  • Air dry if possible (helps prevent shrinking and keeps shape)

  • If using a dryer, use low heat

  • Avoid high heat unless the label says it’s safe

🧼 Extra Tips

  • Wash aprons separately if they’re very dirty.

  • Don’t let stains sit too long—fresh stains come out easier.

  • For heavy-duty aprons (like canvas), occasional deep cleaning with baking soda can help remove odors.

  • Repeated paint stains may not fully come out—but that can add character if it’s an art apron.