Preparation

We’ve all experienced the dreaded spaghetti sauce stain on a brand-new shirt that we’ve barely gotten the chance to wear outside the house. No matter how careful we are in the kitchen, there’s always the inevitable splatter or spill. That’s why investing in a quality apron is one of the better purchases you can make, whether you’re a talented home chef or a novice cook. A great apron will protect your clothes, so you can avoid racking up an expensive dry cleaning bill.

But aprons aren’t just for trying out that new pasta recipe; they’re for every household chore. That’s why we’ve pulled together the best aprons for whatever the task at hand—whether you’re grilling up some barbecue chicken or cleaning your house from top-to-bottom. And since an apron’s entire job is to get messy, it’s important to remember to wash them regularly. But note that many aprons aren’t machine washable, particularly ones made from a treated material like waxed cotton. So be sure to check the label first for specific care instructions.

Best Apron for Cooking: Rendall Co. “Larkspur” Bib ApronBest Apron for Baking: Five Two Ultimate ApronBest Apron for Hosting: Nathalie Lete ″Helena″ ApronBest Apron for Laundry: Open Kitchen x Williams Sonoma Half ApronBest Apron for Gardening: Terrain Canvas Garden Apron

Ahead, our picks for the best aprons on the market for every household task.