Caring for Your Heirloom Apron
Heirloom items connect us to the past in a tangible way. They carry stories, traditions, and love across generations. Among these keepsakes, heirloom aprons hold a special place. They were often worn while making meals from scratch, when hosting celebrations shared at the table, or while going about everyday routines. Some of my favorite childhood memories are of waking up super early when sleeping over at my grandparents' house, to sit on the tall kitchen stool and watch my Grandma bake. There was always an apron over whatever she was wearing to protect her clothes.
This guide is here to help you care for your apron so it lasts, in both fabric and memory. Before you begin cleaning or storing your apron treasures, it helps to know the fiber content.
Common Fabrics:
- Cotton – A sturdy, breathable choice, often used in mid-century aprons.
- Linen – Lightweight but strong, known for its crisp feel.
- Vintage Blends – Often a mix of rayon, polyester, or other fibers. These can be more delicate.
Hand-Washing vs. Machine-Washing:
- Hand-washing is best for older, fragile aprons or those with lace, embroidery, or fading fabric. Let the fabric soak in a gentle cleanser for 10 to 15 minutes, then lightly wash it by hand. Be sure not to agitate the fibers too vigorously, as sometimes this can cause tearing of the fragile fibers. Very gently, squeeze out the water. Do not twist or pull. If needed, place items between dry towels and roll out excess moisture.
- If machine-washing, use the gentlest cycle, cold water, and perhaps a mesh laundry bag. Modern aprons (future heirlooms) are usually strong enough to handle modern laundering methods. It still makes sense to treat the apron as gently as possible for the longest-lasting results.
- Choose mild, fragrance-free laundry soap, or a homemade vinegar/water/borax solution. Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and anything with strong chemicals — they can weaken fibers or alter colors.
Drying:
- Air drying is the safest method. Lay flat on a clean towel or hang outside in the shade.
- Tumble dryers can shrink or wear down the fabric, so use them at your own risk. If you choose to tumble dry, remove the fabric from the dryer while the apron is still damp.
- Always keep vintage textiles out of direct sunlight, which causes fading over time.
Ironing:
- Use a low to medium heat setting, depending on the fabric. Ironing the apron while it is still slightly damp will help remove wrinkles.
- Always test an inconspicuous corner first to see how well the fibers react to the heat of the iron.
- A pressing cloth (or a clean cotton handkerchief) laid on top of the apron helps prevent shine or scorch marks.
Folding vs. Hanging Storage:
- For most vintage aprons, folding with acid-free tissue paper between the layers is ideal. It cushions the folds and helps prevent creases from becoming permanent.
- Hanging works, using padded hangers to avoid stretching.
- Store vintage textiles in a cool, dry place. Consider storing vintage aprons in a pillowcase to protect the fabric from dust and light.
- Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture.
- Cedar blocks or lavender sachets help deter moths but avoid direct contact with the fabric.
Creating New Memories
An heirloom isn’t just something to put away — it’s something to use and honor. Buy a new *heirloom quality* apron from my shop to enjoy now, and perhaps pass on the tradition to your kiddos.
- Wear it for family holidays, birthdays, or quiet Saturday mornings.
- Create a photo album of loved ones through the years wearing their lovely aprons.
- Share the story behind your keepsakes with kids or grandkids.
- Write down its history and include a note with the apron for whoever gets it next.
My most vivid apron memories are of the 70s double-knit aprons my Gram made herself because I think I saw those the most. But I do have a few cotton aprons that were either my Gram's or maybe my Great Grandma's (a memory kept by my Gram) that I will cherish forever.
Additional Resources
- The Care and Keeping of Textiles by Mary Humphries
- Smithsonian’s Textile Care Guide (online)
- Vintage apron communities on Reddit or Facebook