Talk to almost any professional chef and they’ll tell you that kitchen whites and aprons should always be white. That is, you should try your darndest to be as clean and splatter-free as possible. “At Per Se we had to change if we stained our whites,” says culinary editor Genevieve Yam.

I’ve never been this strict at home. If I have an apron on, I’m one to dry my hands on it and not worry if I get a spot of oil or a smear of chocolate ganache on the fabric as I go about my business. Naturally, I’ve acquired quite a collection of aprons in various colors and styles and with all sorts of straps and tying mechanisms. My very favorite—of which I own several—is the Hedley & Bennett Smock Apron.

Why It’s Great

This smock’s greatness lies in its ease, features, and durability. While this is certainly not exclusive to the H&B version, I love that putting on the apron requires merely slipping it over my head. There’s no adjusting or finagling ties. Its wide, crossback straps never get tangled or become uncomfortable—and I’ve worn mine for eight hours straight while testing grill brushes and pizza ovens. The linen-cotton blend is breathable and beautiful, and because of the smock’s looseness, it’ll fit many cooks comfortably. I, at 5’8” love my smock, but I’ve also seen my 6’8” husband throw one on when he’s Traeger-ing chicken thighs and doesn’t want to dirty his chinos. (Note: I did find some reviews on Hedley & Bennett’s site expressing a desire for plus sizes.)

This apron has two spacious pockets—I usually have my instant-read thermometer stashed in one—and a dedicated side strap for a towel to hang on. And I’ve literally washed mine dozens of times and they’ve never shrunk. I’m not the only Serious Eats staffer that’s smitten with the smock, though. “These smocks are durable, simple, and stylish, and are great for cooking and tackling household chores,” Genevieve says. “As someone who never has enough pockets, I love that these smocks have not one, but two pockets!”

Notably, the H&B smock comes in dozens of colors and patterns. Plus, you can add custom embroidery. My husband got me one with my initials on it as a gift years ago, and it’s easily the one I reach for most. 

FAQs

How do you clean the Hedley & Bennett smock apron? 

The apron is machine washable but should be line dried and ironed as needed. Because of the linen blend, I find a quick iron is helpful to bring the smock back to form. 

What sizes do the Hedley & Bennett smock come in? 

The apron is only available in one size and is not adjustable. 

Why We’re the Experts

• Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm is the associate editorial director for the Serious Eats commerce team. She’s been with the site since 2021 and has been reviewing equipment for more than six years. 
• Riddley previously worked at America’s Test Kitchen, Apartment Therapy Media, and Food52. 
• Riddley owns several Hedley & Bennett smock aprons.