Recent research has highlighted concerns over what bakers are wearing at work, including around half expressing a desire to change.
A survey of 1,208 people in the UK last December, commissioned by professional clothing supplier MyWorkwear, found that 49% of bakers polled said there were aspects of their uniforms that they didnt like. What’s more, 47% thought they were too tight fitting and wanted new ones. Meanwhile, 11% believed the items didn’t accommodate different heights and body frames.
When asked how often they replace their workwear, 16% of the bakers questioned stated they did it once every two months versus 7% who changed up to four times per year, with 9% only doing so once per year.
Laundry habits were also delved into. Over half of bakers (51%) cleaned their trousers two or three times per week, whilst one in nine (11%) washed them just a few times per month.
Similar figures were seen for shirts. However, the laundering of aprons or overalls appeared to be less frequent – one in six (16%) bakers surveyed said they washed them once per week, 9% washed them a few times per month, and 11% only washed them once per month.
In discussing best practices for bakery uniforms, MyWorkwear co-owner and co-managing director James Worthington offered the following answers to questions:
How often, ideally should different items of workwear be washed thoroughly and why?
It’s dependent on the item as per the instructions and as per the hygiene requirements of individuals. Workers should replace items once stains can no longer be washed out therefore impacting brand image. It’s also important to note that only appropriate work clothing should be worn when handling food compared to when serving customers.
How often, ideally should workwear be replaced with new items and why?
With sustainability in mind, higher quality items are suggested to ensure they don’t need to be replaced regularly from wear and tear. Workers could look to replace items as and when new technology is created, for example, antibacterial finishes on polos which can then be swapped out to increase longevity.
Another reason to replace items is when new branding is required, for example, due to a new re-brands.
What other factors bakers should consider when it comes to their workwear upkeep?
Always stick to the care instructions. Business owners could also provide workers with spare sets of uniforms in case of spillages.
It’s also important for workers to ensure they’re always wearing appropriate garments for their role to ensure upkeep, for example, a thin sports polo would be inappropriate in a kitchen environment due to snagging.
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