How to Care for and Wash Your Chef Coat (The Right Way)

Why Proper Chef Coat Care Matters

A chef coat is a professional investment. Proper washing and care extends its life, keeps it looking crisp and white, and ensures it remains hygienic for food service. Most chef coats are designed to withstand frequent commercial laundering — but the right technique makes all the difference.

Step 1: Pre-Treat Stains Before Washing

Kitchen stains — grease, sauces, blood, and wine — need pre-treatment before they hit the machine. Apply a commercial enzyme-based pre-treater or dish soap directly to stains and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. For grease stains specifically, dish soap (like Dawn) works remarkably well because it's formulated to cut through oil.

Step 2: Wash at the Right Temperature

White chef coats can typically be washed in hot water (60°C / 140°F) to kill bacteria and help remove stains. Colored or patterned coats should be washed in warm or cold water to prevent fading. Always check the care label — some technical fabrics or blends require cooler temperatures.

Step 3: Use the Right Detergent

Use a heavy-duty laundry detergent. For white coats, adding oxygen-based bleach (not chlorine bleach) helps maintain brightness without damaging fabric fibers over time. Chlorine bleach can weaken cotton fibers and cause yellowing with repeated use.

Step 4: Drying Your Chef Coat

Tumble dry on medium heat, or hang to dry if you want to minimize shrinkage. Remove the coat promptly from the dryer to prevent wrinkles. If your coat is poly-cotton, it may come out nearly wrinkle-free. 100% cotton coats will likely need a quick iron or press.

How Often Should You Wash Your Chef Coat?

Ideally, after every shift. In a busy kitchen, a coat can absorb significant food odors, grease, and bacteria. Having 2–3 coats in rotation means you always have a clean one ready.

Shop Durable Chef Coats at PermaChef USA

Our chef coats are built for the rigors of commercial kitchens and frequent laundering. Trusted by culinary professionals since 1921.