Choosing the right fabrics for you kitchen uniform takes time and energy. The right fabrics can increase your comfort level and output while the wrong ones can distract you from your work. Before the widespread use of moisture-wicking materials was possible, mesh was the best way to keep cool. Many chef coats, kitchen shirts, and even chef pants offer options that include mesh panels and vents along the sides.
Mesh fabric is a knit that features small holes closely spaced together. This allows air to flow easily through the fabric. While this sounds ideal for hot workplaces like commercial kitchens, there are also some drawbacks. Consider the pros and cons before deciding whether mesh fabric deserves a place in your kitchen.
Mesh fabric has many great features including:
- Wrinkle-resistant
- Typically inexpensive
- Often stretchy
- Cooling/breathable material
- Easy to wash
- Comfortable
Some of the major downfalls of this fabric include:
- Looks casual
- Doesn’t provide protection for your skin
- Retains odors if not laundered right away
- The construction of the fabric is unstable which leads to shrinkage, stretching, and overall quick wear and tear
- Can reveal too much skin if the holes are large enough and it hits you in the wrong places
Give all of these features, mesh is a popular fabric especially in clothing like athletic wear. Athletes need to feel flexible and cool to do their jobs, just like a chef or cook in a commercial kitchen.
When you are shopping for kitchen uniforms with style and function that include mesh, keep these tips in mind:
- Look for mesh vents or panels in inconspicuous locations such as along the back near the shoulders or in the armpit area.
- Choose a mesh with small holes that are close together so your skin isn’t visible.
- Look for mesh panels that match the color on the clothing for a streamlined look and panels in a contrasting color for a more modern style.
The right clothing in the kitchen can make or break your day. Consider all the options, then choose wisely.