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Whether you have a green thumb or are a beginning gardener just trying your hand at growing your own food or flowers, a multipocketed gardening apron is an essential tool of the trade. It serves several purposes. A good apron can protect your clothes from dirt, damage, and permanent stains and allow you to keep all your most used tools and supplies at the ready, saving you valuable time hunting around for that trowel or seed packet “that was just here.”
Since your apron is going to be used primarily outdoors and to carry sometimes bulky and heavy tools, it’s important to buy a durably made, long-lasting gardening apron that won’t rip or tear after just a few wears. A thicker material that protects your clothing and can stand up to some serious use is important. Whether you’re looking for a full apron or a more compact one that just covers your waist, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best gardening aprons.
- BEST OVERALL: Esschert Design Gardening Apron With Split
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: XT Oxford Cloth Garden Apron
- BEST PROFESSIONAL-QUALITY: Carhartt Firm Duck Apron
- BEST FOR HARVESTING: The Roo Gardening Co. Joey Apron
- BEST BELT APRON: Sun & Soil Garden Tool Belt
- BEST PERSONALIZED: Olpr. Leather Goods Canvas and Leather Apron
- BEST MULTIPURPOSE: Ukoke 12-Piece Aluminum Garden Tool Kit and Apron
- ALSO CONSIDER: Hudson Durable Goods Heavy-Duty Waxed Canvas Apron
How We Chose the Best Gardening Aprons
To come up with our top picks, we “weeded” through dozens of options, looking at top-quality materials, multiple user reviews, user-friendly features, and price points as our main factors. We wanted to offer different styles and designs to suit a variety of needs and tastes. Whether you’re working in a greenhouse, on soggy ground, in small flower beds, or in large vegetable gardens, the gardening apron you rely on should be constructed from durable and long-lasting materials that will stand the test of time and provide protection and convenience for many seasons. Those new to gardening can check out these useful tips to help make your gardening experience more fun and successful.
Our Top Picks
The following list features some of the best gardening aprons currently on the market. Be sure to evaluate each one to ensure it has the most appropriate style and features to suit your specific needs.
Best Overall
Esschert Design Gardening Apron With Split
The Esschert Design gardening apron features a handy split-leg design that offers full mobility while still protecting clothes thanks to its 46.8-inch length. Constructed from durable but lightweight canvas, this apron features five deep pockets, including two extra-large ones, that can securely hold several long hand tools and other items. A small chest pocket can hold sunglasses, small phones, or other compact must-haves gardeners need while working outside.
It also gets points for being machine washable and easy to maintain. The waist strap features a quick-release plastic clasp for added convenience, so you don’t have to fumble behind your back to tie and untie straps. Likewise, a plastic glide buckle allows you to quickly make neck adjustments without getting knotted up. As some users have noted, this apron loses points for its fairly narrow chest and unreinforced pockets.
Product Specs
- Material: Canvas
- Size: 46.8 inches long by 17.75 inches wide
- Number of pockets: 5
Pros
- Divided leg covers help protect pants without hindering movement, unlike similar options
- Deep pockets can accommodate a variety of garden tools
- Neck and waist adjust without having to tie straps
Cons
- Top may be too narrow for some users
- Unreinforced pocket may wear prematurely or allow sharp objects to poke through
Get the Esschert Design gardening apron at Amazon.
Best Bang For The Buck
XT Oxford Cloth Garden Apron
If you’re looking for a super budget-friendly yet durable and user-friendly option, check out the XT garden apron. With 14 pockets of various sizes, a gardener can hold almost anything from a cell phone to seed packets, gardening tools, gloves, glasses, pencils, and much more. Constructed from durable and breathable oxford cloth, this apron will hold up well against some serious wear and tear. Both the neck and the waist straps are highly adjustable, although a few users complain that the buckles don’t hold the adjustment very well and might need pinning in place.
This apron is available in two color choices, which doesn’t offer a lot of options, but the material is waterproof and very easy to clean and maintain since it’s machine washable. This is also a solution to the possibly strong odor of the fabric upon unboxing.
Product Specs
- Material: Oxford
- Size: 25 inches long
- Number of pockets: 14
Pros
- Plenty of pockets for organizing supplies and tools
- Features highly adjustable neck and waist straps
- Very affordable
Cons
- Some users complain of a strong smell when initially unboxing
- Available in limited colors and patterns
Get the XT garden apron at Amazon.
Best Professional-Quality
Carhartt Firm Duck Apron
The Carhartt firm-duck apron definitely deserves a lot of attention from those looking for a professional-quality, ultra-durable apron that can be used for a variety of demanding tasks. This apron is available in distinctive Carhartt brown or black, so it hides dirt and dust well. It’s constructed from heavyweight 12-ounce firm-hand duck, which is one of the most durable canvas materials available. Unlike some other heavyweight canvases, this one is completely machine washable and super easy to care for.
It also features cleverly crisscrossed 100 percent polyester straps at the back that help balance weight distribution more evenly than some other apron designs on the market. While tall users can appreciate the substantial 33-inch length of this apron, it is likely too long for more petite users. Several customers also emphasize the fact that the apron is quite stiff initially, but that it should soften somewhat with repeated washing. The zippered bib pocket and pencil pockets are great features.
Product Specs
- Material: 12-ounce 100 percent cotton duck
- Size: 33 inches long by 26.5 inches wide
- Number of pockets: 11
Pros
- Features crisscrossed straps in the back for balanced weight distribution
- Constructed from highly durable and strong material
- Machine washable for easy maintenance
Cons
- May be too long for shorter users
- Some users complain it’s very stiff for the first several uses
Get the Carhartt gardening apron at Amazon, Carhartt, Cabela’s, or Tractor Supply Co.
Best for Harvesting
The Roo Gardening Co. Joey Apron Apron
For the avid veggie or flower gardener who tries to cram as many picked fruits or veggies as possible into their upturned shirt, there’s the Roo Joey gardening apron. This aptly named canvas garden apron features a large center pouch with two smaller pockets above it. It’s made from lightweight and durable canvas cotton with a water-resistant polyester lining. Unlike some work aprons, this garden waist apron comes in several fun and bright colors. The pouch features two buckle closures that easily release to dump extra dirt and debris out of the apron without having to take it off.
While the main pocket is sizable and can hold quite a few harvested items, some customers have said it’s not the strongest or best option for carrying heavier vegetables or lots of eggs. And, while there are also two smaller pockets, this apron has fewer pockets for organizing tools and supplies than most others on the list.
Product Specs
- Material: Canvas cotton, lined with polyester
- Size: Pocket: 21 inches wide by 13.5 inches deep; apron up to 56 inches at waist
- Number of pockets: 3
Pros
- Constructed from super-lightweight, soft, and durable material
- Available in 3 fun color choices
- Bottom of the apron opens to easily remove dirt and debris
Cons
- Limited number of pockets compared to some options
- May not be strong enough to hold heavy harvests like potatoes
Get the Roo gardening apron at Amazon or Roo Gardening Co.
Best Belt-Apron
Sun u0026 Soil Garden Tool Belt
The Sun & Soil garden tool belt deserves a nod for being a diversely functioning, highly compact option that is great for gardeners who don’t want a long, cumbersome gardening apron. This lightweight yet durable canvas gardening belt apron is available in four color choices and features several sizes of pockets, as well as a hook and a bungee drawstring to help carry gardening supplies and tools with ease.
For added versatility, this garden apron can be turned to the front, side, or back to keep it out of the way while working. One drawback is that it doesn’t offer as much protection for clothing as a full-length apron. Some users also noted that the mesh wasn’t as strong as they’d hoped.
Product Specs
- Material: Cotton canvas
- Size: 8.82 inches long by 13.23 inches wide; up to 51-inch waist
- Number of pockets: 7
Pros
- Different-size pockets and hooks hold a variety of tools
- Compact size won’t limit movement and is good for smaller users
- Can be worn in the front, side, or back for added convenience when doing tasks
Cons
- Doesn’t offer full coverage or protection for clothing
- Some users complain that the mesh rips too easily
Get the Sun & Soil gardening apron at Amazon.
Best Personalised
Olpr. Leather Goods Canvas and Leather Apron
The Olpr. canvas and leather apron is a personalized and tasteful choice that never goes out of style. It’s a universally full-size design that’s handmade from durable unwaxed canvas and full-grain vegetable-tanned leather. This is an excellent apron for gardening, woodworking, cooking, hairdressing, art projects, and more. It’s available in three color choices and with plenty of personalization options, such as initials or logos.
Durable stitching and cross-backed adjustable straps add to the appeal of this clean-looking apron. The deep pockets are spacious and keep items secure, although it might be difficult to dig smaller items out of some of the pockets. Extended straps on each side let users hang or tuck items for quick access.
Product Specs
- Material: Canvas and leather
- Size: 33 inches long by 26 inches wide
- Number of pockets: 4
Pros
- Plenty of options for personalization
- Pockets are deep and can hold larger tools
- Surprisingly affordable price point
Cons
- Apron may be too long for some more petite users
- Pockets may be too deep for smaller items
Get the Olpr. gardening apron at Olpr. Leather Goods Co. or Etsy.
Best Multipurpose
Ukoke 12-Piece Aluminum Garden Tool Kit and Apron
The Ukoke 12-piece aluminum garden tool kit and apron is a comprehensive gardening kit that’s a great option for beginner gardeners who are looking to quickly build up their tool supply. It features a bright and lightweight 600D polyester apron that is PVC coated and fully waterproof, unlike many other gardening aprons, which are only water-resistant. The gardening tool apron features adjustable straps and multiple pockets designed to hold often-used tools and keep them organized and at the ready.
The 12-piece set is a great value, featuring pruning shears, tools, gloves, a measuring tool, a storage bag, and more. This gardening apron tends to fall short in the overall size department and is more suited for petite adults or older children.The durability and sturdiness of the tools might not be the best but can be switched for existing favorite tools.
Product Specs
- Material: 600D polyester with PVC coating
- Size: Unspecified
- Number of pockets: Unspecified
Pros
- This is a complete gardening starter kit with an array of tools and supplies
- Apron is lightweight and fully waterproof
- Set gets points with customers for being a great value versus purchasing each item individually
Cons
- Some customers voice concerns over the quality of the tools
- Customers state that the apron runs very small
Get the Ukoke gardening apron at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Ukoke.
Also Consider
Hudson Durable Goods Heavy-Duty Waxed Canvas Apron
The Hudson Durable Goods waxed canvas apron combines durability with a smart design. Available in several color choices, this long apron will provide maximum protection for a gardener’s clothing. While it may be too long for more petite gardeners, it’s recommended to fit people between 5 feet 2 inches and 6 feet 4 inches tall, so it’s quite versatile.
The understated and rugged look of this multipurpose garden apron is a selling point for those not looking for anything too flashy or loud. It features durable metal grommets, quick-release buckles, and padded shoulder straps for long-term comfort and easy adjustments. This apron would also work well as a tool apron or for woodworking.
While the material of this apron is built to last, it requires more regular care and maintenance than some other options to keep the fabric in tip-top shape. Regular cleaning, rewaxing, and refinishing are necessary steps to getting the most out of this gardening apron.
Product Specs
- Material: Waxed canvas
- Size: 34 inches long by 27 inches wide
- Number of pockets: 3 (standard), 5 (deluxe), 6 (woodworking)
Pros
- Available in multiple color choices
- Made from a durable and long-lasting material
- Features padded straps for comfortable long-term wear
Cons
- Not fully waterproof and requires more care to maintain than some other choices
Get the Hudson Durable Goods gardening apron at Amazon, Hudson Durable Goods, or Sears.
Or, DIY Your Own Gardening Apron
Making your own gardening apron is a thrifty, fun, and low-cost alternative to buying one. It can also be easy and relatively quick, depending on how detailed you want to be. Not to mention, it’s very Bob Vila! This section covers tips on how to make a comparable option.
First, get some ideas from your favorite gardening magazines or websites. You can get several online gardening apron patterns at a very low cost or even for free. Decide how many pockets you want. How large should the apron be? Do you want a full-size bib apron or a more compact garden waist apron?
Select your favorite material. Maybe you want to repurpose an item you have around the house. Pick something that’s durable and easy to clean, like canvas. You’ll need enough for the apron, all the pockets, and ties, so keep that in mind if purchasing material. You’ll also need the following:
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Mat and ruler
- Pins
- Thread
- Medium-weight fusible interfacing
With a few necessities and some imagination, you can turn out just about any design of garden apron that you want.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Gardening Apron
Not all garden aprons are created equal. And, not every consumer is looking for the same features in a garden apron. A garden apron as part of a gardening set for kids will be quite different from a garden apron for a more skilled and seasoned gardener. There are, however, certain points to consider when purchasing any garden apron that will help ensure you get one that will last for a long time and serve you well throughout your gardening journey.
Coverage
When choosing a garden apron, coverage can be important. First, think about length. Some gardeners want a full-coverage option that will give them maximum clothing protection. The best garden apron should be long enough to protect clothing from dirt and debris. If coverage matters, look for an apron that reaches at least mid thigh or longer.
However, gardeners on the shorter side will want to make sure that the apron isn’t too long and becomes more cumbersome than helpful. Maybe they want an apron that only covers the waist and thighs and doesn’t restrict the upper body.
Next, consider the width of the apron and select one that is wide enough to wrap completely around the front of your body but also gives you ample coverage on the sides and ties easily without being too snug or overly bulky.
Pockets
The number of pockets a gardening apron comes with can be a critical factor, whether the apron is for a person who likes to carry anything and everything all at once or for someone who just wants convenient access to a few select, often-used tools. While pockets can’t keep a gardener from making mistakes that can kill plants, they will offer convenient options for carrying and storing important items, saving time searching around and walking back and forth to the tool shed.
Another factor to consider is the size of the pockets. Some gardening aprons feature large kangaroo-like pouches that are ideal for carrying full-size plants or mature vegetables, which is great if transplanting or harvesting. Some pockets are designed to hold specific tools, so that can also be very handy.
The location of the pockets and how they close (if at all) can be a consideration. Many gardening aprons feature pockets on the front only, but some offer pockets on the sides or even the back of the apron. Choose an apron with pockets that are easy to access and won’t interfere with your movements while you work in the garden. For carrying smaller items, look for pockets that offer either zipper or snap closures to ensure nothing falls out accidentally while working.
Material and Ease of Cleaning
When choosing a good-quality, long-lasting garden apron, look for one that is made from a durable and waterproof or water-resistant material such as canvas or nylon. These materials can withstand frequent washing and don’t tear easily, often providing years of reliable use. Making sure the apron is waterproof or, at the very least, water-resistant, will give clothing maximum protection from stains and accidental soaking.
Cotton is also a popular choice for many garden aprons since it’s lightweight and allows for maximum breathability, which is ideal for those who live in a very warm or humid climate and don’t want to be hindered by a material that is too hot or heavy.
It’s a good idea to look for materials that are machine washable or can be wiped down easily with a wet cloth. Avoid aprons with overly complicated care and cleaning instructions. A gardening apron is supposed to make life easier and more convenient, not more complicated.
Comfort and Adjustability
Comfort is king when it comes to having a gardening apron that you’ll love to wear and use for hours. Choose an apron that fits well and allows free movement. Consider the length of the apron, the width of the bib, and the size of the waist straps. The apron should sit at your natural waist for maximum comfort.
Look for an apron with adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Adjustable straps also make it easier to get in and out of the apron. Some aprons have adjustable neck straps as well as waist straps. Also, consider purchasing an apron with strategically placed padding in the straps or bib to help reduce pressure and chafing on the neck or shoulders.
Think about the weight of the apron. A heavy apron tends to become uncomfortable over time, especially once it’s loaded down with tools and supplies. It’s also often less breathable, causing you to sweat more the longer you work. Look for a garden apron that is breathable and lightweight but constructed from a durable material that can last a long time.
FAQs
Still on the fence regarding which gardening apron will best suit your needs? Check out some of these frequently asked questions and answers for further help in your decision-making process.
Q. How long does a gardening apron last on average?
While the lifespan of a gardening apron will vary based on the quality of its material, frequency of use, and intensity of gardening activities, a high-quality gardening apron can last for years with proper care and maintenance. Extend the life of your apron by cleaning it frequently, storing it in a dry place to limit any mold or mildew growth, and fixing any tiny rips or tears early before they’re allowed to become a larger problem. Just know that if you’re running your own gardening and landscaping service, it’s a no-brainer that an apron will not last as long as one used by a beginner gardener with a few flower beds to tend.
Q. What kind of apron is used for gardening?
A gardening apron can be almost any type of apron you like, but it’s usually a bib-style apron that provides a good amount of coverage and protection for clothes and falls to about mid thigh or just above the knee. A multipocketed apron is ideal for gardening since it allows users to carry and store multiple tools, supplies, and seeds on their person. That said, a shorter apron that goes just to the waist won’t come all the way up to protect a shirt, but it might be cooler, more comfortable, and less restrictive.
Q. How do I make a garden apron?
To make your own garden apron, you really only need to know how to measure and cut material and how to use a sewing machine. Trace out your own gardening apron pattern or find one online. Measure your chosen material to be the size and width you want for your particular pattern. Sew the pieces together and make sure to hem the edges. You can then sew pockets and straps wherever you like for the best fit and convenience. It’s relatively simple and straightforward, or it can be as detailed and complex as you want to make it.
Q. How do I wash my gardening apron?
If you have a store-bought apron, always check the label prior to washing. First, be sure to shake off any loose dirt or debris from the apron. Pretreat any large or dark stains with a favorite stain remover. It’s best to wash the gardening apron in cold or cool water to prevent accidental shrinkage. To promote longevity, use a mild detergent and wash on a gentle cycle. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, which can be damaging to a lot of fabrics. Lastly, air-dry a gardening apron to limit shrinkage or damage from high heat.
Why Trust Bob Vila
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.
Lisa Conant is a freelance writer and licensed chiropractor. Dr. Conant has written hundreds of articles on health and wellness as well as home, travel, and automotive topics. She has written for a variety of publications, including The Drive, Car Bibles, The Spruce, Merriam-Webster, Encyclopedia Britannica, The Engine Block, and more. She prides herself on delivering informative recommendations that have a solid track record among consumers.