What to wear for jam making and preserving in the kitchen
Short answer: When you make jam and preserves, you stand for a long time at a hot stove with steam, sugar and splashes. Choose light clothing that does not turn sticky in the heat, an apron against stains and closed shoes in case of spills.
A long day at the stove
Preserving is often a full day's project in late summer, when berries and fruit need using while they are fresh. You clean, chop, boil and fill jars for hours. The kitchen gets warm and humid from the steam of pans and water baths. Your clothing should therefore be light and should not cling to your skin when you sweat. Keep water within reach and take breaks sitting down.
A light top without loose sleeves
Loose, wide sleeves can dangle into the pan or over a gas flame, and that is a real risk in the kitchen. Choose a close fitting top with short sleeves or sleeves you can roll up. A soft undershirt on its own or under a thin shirt is comfortable in the heat. See bamboo undershirt for men.
Shorts or light trousers
Many people wear shorts in a hot kitchen, but long trousers protect your legs from splashes of boiling sugar syrup, which sticks and burns. An apron that reaches below the knees is a good compromise. On cool days or in a small kitchen, light shorts can be pleasant. See bamboo shorts for men.
The apron matters most
Berries and fruit leave stains that can be hard to remove, especially blackcurrants, cherries and beetroot. A cotton or linen apron that covers both chest and thighs protects your clothes. Keep a tea towel in the pocket or tucked into the apron strings, so you can quickly wipe hands and handles. Tie long hair back so it stays out of the pan.
Shoes and safety
Closed shoes protect your feet if you drop a hot jar or spill boiling juice. Avoid sandals and bare feet in the kitchen while preserving. Use oven gloves and a funnel when you pour hot jam into jars. A damp cloth under the chopping board keeps it from sliding.
A proper break
After several hours at the stove it is nice to sit down with a cup of coffee while the jars cool and seal with a small click. Many people end a preserving day with a shower and fresh clothes. If you fancy an extra comfortable break, see Zent for relaxed clothes to wear at home. Remember to label the jars with contents and date.
Stains and washing
Rinse berry stains in cold water as quickly as possible, before they set. Hot water can fix the stain. Cotton aprons can be washed hot. Undershirts and shorts in viscose from bamboo are washed at 30 or 40 degrees and dried on a rack. Use a mild detergent.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear when making preserves
Light clothing without loose sleeves, an apron that covers chest and thighs, and closed shoes.
How do I remove berry stains
Rinse straight away in cold water, before the stain sets. Avoid hot water at first.
Are shorts safe in the kitchen
They are airy, but long trousers or a long apron give better protection against splashes of hot sugar syrup.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
