A crisp, white chef’s jacket is a mark of professionalism; keeping it that way is no small task. With constant exposure to grease, wine, sauces, , it doesn’t take long before those pristine whites start looking a little worse for wear. But with the right care, you can keep them looking fresh shift after shift.
The most important rule? Act fast. The longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove. If you spill something, don’t just wipe it and hope for the best—blot it instead. Rubbing only pushes the stain deeper into the fabric, making it more stubborn to lift later. Cold water is your best friend for things like blood and egg, while grease stains respond well to a little dish soap or even a sprinkle of cornstarch to absorb the oil before washing. For red wine or tomato sauce, club soda and a bit of lemon juice can work wonders.
When it comes to washing, chef whites need a little more attention than your everyday laundry. Washing them separately from darker colours helps prevent dulling, and using an oxygen-based bleach (rather than chlorine) is a gentler way to keep them bright without weakening the fabric. Hot water is great for cutting through grease, but always check the care label—some modern uniforms are made with technical fabrics that perform better with a cooler wash. And while fabric softeners might seem like a good idea, they can actually coat the fibres, making future stains harder to remove.
Even with regular washing, whites can start to look a bit tired over time. A simple soak in baking soda every now and then can help lift any lingering discolouration, while a final rinse with a little vinegar removes detergent buildup and keeps the fabric feeling fresh. Hanging chef clothing out to dry in sunlight is another easy trick—natural light acts as a mild bleach and helps brighten them up without harsh chemicals.
Keeping chef whites spotless in a fast-paced kitchen might feel like an uphill battle, but with a few good habits and a little extra care, it’s absolutely possible to keep them looking sharp. After all, a clean uniform doesn’t just make a good impression—it’s a reflection of the skill and discipline behind the apron.