An apron is a garment you wear to protect your clothing. With so many barber aprons out there how do you choose the right one? How do you get one that not only gets the job done, but also looks stylish and professional? Whether you are looking for something more modern, traditional, or a leather apron, there some important things to consider along the way.
Finding the best barber apron is not about looks and style. The most important aspect to consider is the fabric. That is because as a barber or hairstylist your concern is to get adequate protection against hair, chemicals, and water. The right apron should provide you with all this protection. It should also have a nice design and accommodate all your tools.
When it comes to choosing the fabric for your barber apron, there are a variety of fabrics. It is advisable to eliminate fabrics that do not offer enough protection. These are usually organic fabrics, such as linen and cotton. Linen and cotton are sourced from natural fibers. They are readily available because of the high level of comfort they offer. However, they soak up any fluid, including shampoos, creams, and other hair products. These are the different fabrics that make barber aprons you should consider:
Synthetic Rubber
When choosing rubber fabric, you should know the difference between natural and synthetic rubber. Natural rubber is sourced from trees and it is called latex. It has excellent features, such as high resistance, high elasticity, and water resistance. When in fabric form, it has a leather or plastic appearance. Since it is not woven, it is not breathable. Since it is organic, it degrades with time. This fabric is also damaged by oils, detergents, lotions, and perspiration.
Vinyl
This is a plastic made of Polyvinyl Chloride, additives, and fillers. Also, plasticizers are added to manipulate its color, texture, and softness. When in fabric foam, it has a leather-like appearance. Since it is plastic, it is easy to clean, durable, and 100% waterproof.
Nylon
This is 100% synthetic fiber. It is lightweight and has excellent resistance to abrasion, puncture, and water. Additionally, it offers superior flexibility, elasticity, and toughness. It will insulate your body from extreme heat.
Coated Aprons
Since the main reason to buy a barber apron is protection against hair and water, then you should go for a coated apron. This works like a strong varnish coating that seals threads and offers a polished finish. Thus, the fabric’s surface is protected against water, dust, and liquids. Since it does not have fuzzy fibers, the fabric makes it harder for hair to stick.
The other advantages of coated aprons include excellent breathability and do not cause allergies. That means you will not suffer any skin-related complications when you wear it. Moreover, a coated apron looks great.
Conclusion
Before buying an apron, you need to understand what you will use it for. Otherwise, you might be swayed into buying something you do not like. You can also buy it if you like styling and cutting your hair at home. Other than factors like price, length, and brand, you should choose your apron based on its fabric. This is because the fabric determines its durability and functionality.
