The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Plastic Aprons
Understanding Essential Protection: The World of Plastic Aprons
Plastic aprons are protective garments typically made from polyethylene, polypropylene, or PVC that create a waterproof barrier between the wearer and potential contaminants. They're essential in healthcare, food service, mortuary settings, and anywhere that requires protection from fluids, chemicals, or biological materials.
| Quick Guide to Plastic Aprons |
|---|
| Common Materials: Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), PVC |
| Standard Sizes: 28"×46" or 69cm×107cm |
| Typical Thickness: 15-20 micron or 1 mil |
| Key Features: Waterproof, disposable, protective barrier |
| Price Range: $20-$30 per 100-200 pack |
| Best For: Healthcare, food service, mortuary work |
When selecting plastic aprons for your funeral home or mortuary, consider the level of protection needed, frequency of use, and disposal requirements. The right apron provides essential protection while maintaining comfort during extended procedures.
Plastic aprons come in various colors to support color-coded infection control protocols, with white, blue, and green being the most common options. This simple color-coding helps prevent cross-contamination between different areas or procedures.
For mortuary and embalming work, look for:
- Thickness: 1 mil (25 micron) or greater
- Coverage: Full torso protection with adequate length
- Material: Fluid-resistant polyethylene or PVC
- Features: Secure tie closures and reinforced stress points
I'm Mortuary Cooler, and I've worked with funeral professionals for over a decade helping them select appropriate plastic aprons and protective equipment for embalming and preparation procedures. My experience with plastic aprons has shown that proper selection can significantly improve both safety and efficiency in mortuary operations.
Easy plastic aprons glossary:
Plastic Aprons 101: Materials, Uses, Sizes
If you've ever handled messy tasks in a funeral home, healthcare clinic, or busy kitchen, you know that not all plastic aprons are created equal. The secret? It’s all in the materials. Let’s break down what makes one apron perfect for food prep, and another a lifesaver in a mortuary.
The big three materials for plastic aprons are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Polyethylene is the champion of waterproofing and affordability—most disposable aprons you’ve seen in hospitals or restaurants are made of this. It’s thin, flexible, and reliably keeps spills at bay. Polypropylene is a little different; it’s not quite as waterproof, but it will keep dust and powders away while letting your skin breathe. Great for jobs where you don’t expect splashes, but could do without the sweat. And then there’s PVC, the heavy hitter. It’s thick, tough, and shrugs off most chemicals—ideal for mortuary work, deep cleaning, or even candy making (yes, really!).
Even within polyethylene, it’s worth knowing your LDPE from your HDPE. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) is super flexible and often nearly see-through—perfect for lightweight, disposable aprons. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is stronger, more opaque, and stands up better to chemicals and rough usage.
Here’s a snapshot of what sets these materials apart:
| Material | Waterproof Rating | Chemical Resistance | Typical Thickness | Best For | Disposal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LDPE | Excellent | Good | 15-20 micron (1 mil) | Healthcare, Food Service | Single-use |
| HDPE | Excellent | Very Good | 15-25 micron | Healthcare, Industrial | Single-use |
| Polypropylene | Moderate | Good | 15-30 micron | Dust protection, Light splashes | Single-use |
| PVC | Excellent | Excellent | 18+ mil (450+ micron) | Chemical handling, Mortuary | Reusable |
When it comes to thickness, most standard plastic aprons sit between 15 and 20 microns (about 1 mil thick). This is just right for most jobs—light, but still protective. For heavier duty jobs, like embalming in funeral homes, you’ll want something thicker, around 18 mil (that’s over 400 microns!). In fact, at American Mortuary Coolers, we recommend at least 1 mil for those tougher tasks.
Let’s talk about the right apron for the job. Healthcare workers reach for white or blue LDPE aprons, usually around 15-20 microns thick, tossed after each use to keep things hygienic. In the kitchen, color-coded LDPE or HDPE aprons (think blue for fish, red for meat, white for bakery) make food safety a snap—again, 15-20 microns is just right. If you’re splashing around industrial chemicals, only a PVC apron, at a beefy 18 mil thickness, will do.
And yes, mortuaries have their own needs. Here, heavy-duty PVC or thick polyethylene rules the day, shielding embalmers from formaldehyde and bodily fluids. Full coverage, robust ties, and sometimes even matching sleeve protectors are a must—especially during those long hours prepping loved ones for final viewings.
Now, onto sizing: Most plastic aprons are designed to fit nearly everyone. The industry standard is 686 mm (27 inches) wide by 1170 mm (46 inches) long. You’ll also run into the 28" × 42" size, and in the UK, 69 cm × 107 cm is typical. This gives good coverage from chest to knee, with enough width to wrap around your sides and ties that fit most waists.
A quick note on thickness—1 mil equals 25.4 microns. Disposable aprons are usually 15-20 microns (0.6-0.8 mil) thick, while heavy-duty jobs call for 18 mil (around 450 microns). As a rule: the messier or more hazardous the job, the thicker your apron should be.
If you’re shopping for a funeral home, hospital, restaurant, or chemical plant, the right plastic apron isn’t just about color—it’s about picking the right material, thickness, and size for comfort and safety. And if you’re ever unsure, remember: when it comes to splashes, thicker is better.
How to Choose the Right Plastic Apron
Finding your perfect plastic apron doesn't have to be complicated. Let's walk through what really matters when selecting protective wear that keeps you safe and comfortable during those long hours in the preparation room.
When I visit funeral homes across the country—from cozy family operations in Johnson City to busy facilities in Los Angeles—I notice the best-protected professionals consider these essentials:
Fit and comfort make all the difference during extended procedures. An apron that's constantly shifting or restricting your movement creates both frustration and safety risks. Look for adjustable neck and waist ties that distribute weight evenly across your shoulders and secure firmly around your waist. The length should reach at least mid-knee, with enough width to provide side protection without feeling bulky.
Many morticians I know prefer halter-neck designs that prevent that nagging pain at the back of your neck after hours of standing. Some premium options now feature breakaway neck designs—a small but meaningful safety feature if your apron gets caught on equipment.
Don't overlook those important certifications and standards that separate professional-grade protection from subpar alternatives. For mortuary work, verify CE marking (European conformity) or FDA approval. UK facilities should look for NHS-approved options, while American professionals should check for ASTM standards compliance. These aren't just bureaucratic stamps—they represent rigorous testing for fluid resistance and durability.
When it comes to price, you'll generally find three tiers: budget options around $20-30 per 200 pack (about 10-15¢ per apron), mid-range options at $30-50 per 200 pack (15-25¢ each), and premium heavy-duty options at $65-130 per 100 pack (65¢-$1.30 each). Buying in bulk usually saves money, with significant discounts kicking in at quantities of 1,000 or more.
How you'll dispense your aprons matters too. Flat packs are space-efficient but can be frustrating when you're trying to grab just one. Wall-mounted roll dispensers offer convenience but require installation. Box dispensers provide a happy medium with easy access and no setup required.
In recent years, sustainability has become increasingly important to funeral professionals I meet. Many are shifting toward oxo-biodegradable options that break down naturally without leaving harmful microplastics. Some manufacturers even offer recycling programs for used aprons, while innovative compostable alternatives made from starch blends are gaining traction.
As one eco-conscious funeral director in Portland told me, "An apron that protects both me and the environment gives me peace of mind on multiple levels."
Key features that separate great plastic aprons from good ones
Not all plastic aprons are created equal. When you're elbow-deep in an embalming procedure, these seemingly small differences become critically important:
A truly superior waterproof barrier has consistent thickness throughout—no thin spots that might fail when you need protection most. Look for seamless construction and heat-sealed edges that won't separate when wet. I've heard too many stories of cheaper aprons splitting at crucial moments, creating unnecessary risks and interruptions.
Durability features like reinforced stress points at the neck and waist prevent tearing during movement. The best aprons offer tear and puncture resistance appropriate to mortuary tasks, where sharp instruments and chemicals are daily realities.
Thoughtful design elements make a world of difference during long procedures. Extra-long ties accommodate various body sizes, while an embossed texture improves grip and reduces the slippage that can occur when dealing with fluids. An ergonomic neck design prevents that familiar chafing during extended wear.
Color-coding isn't just for aesthetics—it's a practical system that helps prevent cross-contamination. Blue typically indicates food handling, white suggests general medical/mortuary use, green often signifies surgical/sterile procedures, red warns of high-risk/infectious materials, and yellow indicates isolation/quarantine procedures.
For professionals working alongside quality equipment from American Mortuary Coolers, these details matter significantly during lengthy procedures where protection cannot be compromised.
Eco-friendly plastic aprons: what to look for
The funeral industry is increasingly embracing sustainability, and plastic aprons are no exception. Here's how to protect both yourself and the planet:
Oxo-biodegradable technology represents a significant advancement in disposable protection. These aprons contain additives that accelerate breakdown when exposed to oxygen, allowing them to degrade through natural bacterial or fungal processes without leaving harmful microplastic residues. Look for specific eco-labeling that verifies these properties.
Compostable starch blends offer another green alternative. Made from plant-based materials combined with biodegradable polymers, these aprons break down in commercial composting facilities. While typically more expensive, they're fully biodegradable. Be aware they may have slightly different performance characteristics—always test before committing to a large order.
Some forward-thinking manufacturers now offer reuse schemes and recycling programs where you can return used aprons for proper processing. Heavier PVC aprons, while not biodegradable, can be cleaned and reused multiple times, reducing overall waste. Check for recycling code identification on packaging to ensure proper disposal.
Smart design with reduced material usage makes a difference too. Some manufacturers now create thinner but equally effective materials, or offer smaller aprons for specific tasks that don't require full coverage. Even concentrated packaging to reduce shipping impact contributes to a smaller carbon footprint.
When I visit funeral homes committed to sustainability—from Seattle to Boston—I'm heartened to see these eco-friendly options aligning with broader environmental goals while maintaining the protection standards that mortuary professionals depend on. After all, caring for the deceased with dignity includes caring for the world they've left behind.
For more insights on essential mortuary tools, check out our guide to Cutting Edge: Understanding Mortuary Tools.
Poly Disposable Aprons – BagsOnNet
Looking for reliable protection that won't break the bank? The Poly Disposable Aprons from BagsOnNet might just be your new best friend in the preparation room. These plastic aprons hit that sweet spot between quality and affordability that funeral professionals appreciate.
Made from virgin low-density polyethylene (LDPE), these aprons offer consistent protection without the quality variations sometimes found in recycled materials. At 1 mil (25.4 microns) thick, they provide substantial protection against fluids while remaining lightweight enough for extended wear during embalming procedures.
Size options include both standard 28"×42" and the more generous 28"×46" for those who prefer additional coverage. They come in crisp white – the industry standard for mortuary settings – making it easy to spot contamination immediately.
What really sets these aprons apart is their straightforward pricing combined with free shipping anywhere in the continental United States via USPS Priority Mail. For funeral homes watching their bottom line (and who isn't these days?), the value is hard to beat:
The 200-count boxes start at $26.99 for the standard size and $29.99 for the larger option. If your facility goes through aprons quickly, the bulk 1,000-count cases offer even better value at $64.99 and $66.99 respectively.
I've found that ordering in multiples of three boxes typically optimizes shipping efficiency. For larger operations, reaching out directly to BagsOnNet about orders exceeding 24 boxes can open up additional savings – something worth considering for busier funeral homes across our service regions from Seattle to Miami.
These aprons provide the dependable protection you need with the predictable pricing that makes budgeting easier. For funeral professionals who need reliable supplies delivered to their door without hassle, these plastic aprons from BagsOnNet deserve a spot on your reorder list.
Poly Disposable Aprons - BagsOnNet.com
GV Health Polycare Biodegradable Aprons
If your funeral home is working towards a greener future, GV Health Polycare Biodegradable Aprons are a standout choice. These are not your average plastic aprons—they’re made with oxo-biodegradable polythene, so they break down naturally over time with the help of bacteria or fungi. That means you get all the protection you need, but without leaving pesky microplastics behind. It’s smart, simple, and eco-conscious.
One thing that makes the Polycare aprons special is their versatility. They’re fully CE-marked for medical use, so you can trust them for all the tough jobs in funeral preparation and embalming. Plus, they come in multiple colors, making it easy to stick to infection-control color-coding protocols—a big plus in any busy prep room.
Worried about comfort and fit? These aprons cover all bases: the adjustable halter-neck and cozy waist ties mean they fit just about everyone, from the tallest tech to the smallest apprentice. The material feels substantial (but not stiff), giving you confidence that you’re protected during even the longest procedures.
Storage and hygiene are also top of mind. GV Health offers both rolls for wall-mounted dispensers and flat packs for those who prefer drawer or shelf storage. Both packaging styles are designed to keep the aprons clean and tidy until you need them—so no more wrestling with a messy pile of aprons in a pinch.
For funeral homes—whether you’re serving families in Columbia, SC or handling arrangements in Los Angeles, CA—these biodegradable plastic aprons offer the convenience and safety you expect, while also moving your business toward your sustainability goals. You don’t have to compromise on quality or ease-of-use to do right by the environment.
Looking for more ways to level up your mortuary protective gear? Check out the Cutting Edge: Understanding Mortuary Tools resource for more helpful information on modern mortuary supplies.
Steroplast Disposable Polythene Aprons
If you're based in the UK and looking for quality protection that won't break the bank, Steroplast Disposable Polythene Aprons offer that perfect sweet spot of reliability and affordability.
These plastic aprons have earned their NHS approval, which speaks volumes about their quality and effectiveness in clinical settings. Each apron measures a generous 69 cm × 107 cm – the standard UK size that provides ample coverage from chest to knee for most adults.
"I've found these aprons to be surprisingly durable considering their price point," shared one funeral director from Birmingham. "The polythene material creates an effective barrier against fluids during preparation procedures."
Coming in convenient packs of 100, these white aprons are priced at approximately £2.50 per pack (around $3.25), making them one of the most budget-friendly options on the market at just about three cents per apron. Despite the economical price, there's no compromise on the essential protective qualities mortuary professionals need.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, these plastic aprons became a staple at vaccination centers throughout the UK, proving their versatility beyond traditional healthcare and mortuary environments. Their reliable fluid resistance and disposable nature made them ideal for settings where infection control was paramount.
For funeral homes that need to balance protection with budget considerations, Steroplast's offering hits the mark beautifully. The standard white color provides clear visibility of any contamination – an important safety feature during embalming and preparation procedures.
The simplicity of these aprons makes them particularly appealing for busy mortuary settings. There's no complicated features to deal with – just straightforward, effective protection that meets professional standards while helping you manage costs efficiently.
Whether you're in Liverpool or London, these NHS-approved plastic aprons deliver dependable protection that aligns perfectly with the practical needs of modern funeral service professionals.
CiboWares Heavy-Duty PVC Aprons
If you've ever been frustrated by flimsy aprons that just don't hold up to serious work, CiboWares Heavy-Duty PVC Aprons might be exactly what you're looking for. These aren't your everyday disposable plastic aprons – they're the heavyweight champions of protection.
Made from robust polyvinyl chloride (PVC) at an impressive 18 mil thickness (that's about 450 microns for those keeping track), these aprons provide serious protection when the going gets messy. What I love about these is their versatility – they come in five different sizes ranging from 24"×42" to 35"×45", so whether you're petite or tall, there's an option that fits well.
The vibrant colors aren't just for show, either. In a busy preparation room, high visibility can be a real safety advantage, helping colleagues spot each other quickly when handling chemicals or equipment. And speaking of chemicals – these aprons offer exceptional resistance against oils, fats, and the various chemical compounds used in embalming and preparation work.
"We switched to the CiboWares PVC aprons last year after going through disposables too quickly," one funeral director told me. "The difference in protection is night and day, especially during longer embalming procedures."
Unlike lightweight disposables that you'll toss after a single use, these sturdy workhorses are built for repeated wear. While they cost more upfront, many funeral homes find them more economical over time – especially those handling multiple cases daily.
The practical applications extend beyond just mortuary work:
- They're perfect for dishwashing stations where hot water and cleaning chemicals are constantly splashing
- Candy manufacturers love them for keeping sticky sugar dust at bay
- Medical device assembly teams use them for particulate protection
- And of course, they shine in embalming rooms where fluid and chemical barriers are essential
What really sets these aprons apart is the thoughtful design. The extra-long ties accommodate various body sizes, and despite the heavier material, they remain flexible enough for comfortable movement during extended procedures. No one wants to feel restricted when performing detailed work!
For funeral homes across America – from the windswept plains of Nebraska to the coastal regions of Florida – these robust plastic aprons represent an investment in both safety and efficiency. They're particularly popular with our customers who operate busy preparation rooms alongside our mortuary coolers.
While disposable options certainly have their place, these reusable PVC champions deserve serious consideration if your facility handles frequent cases or specialized preparation work requiring superior protection.
IndiaMART HDPE/LDPE Plastic Apron
If you're running a funeral home and looking for something a bit different in your protective gear, the HDPE/LDPE Plastic Aprons available through IndiaMART offer some interesting customization options that stand out from standard offerings.
These aprons come with choices that might better suit your specific needs in the preparation room. You can select either High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) for greater durability or Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) for more flexibility and comfort during longer procedures.
What makes these particular plastic aprons interesting is their surface finish options. Unlike most standard aprons, you can choose between a smooth plain finish or an embossed texture. The embossed option provides a subtle grip that many morticians appreciate – it reduces the apron sticking to your clothing or arms during detailed preparation work, a small but helpful feature during delicate procedures.
"The textured finish makes a real difference during longer embalming sessions," notes one funeral director. "It's one of those small details you don't realize matters until you've experienced the difference."
Available in professional green, blue, or white colors, these aprons maintain the essential waterproof and oil-proof properties needed for protection against embalming fluids and other mortuary chemicals. Their versatility extends beyond funeral services to household use, beauty salons, and kitchen settings – though their robust protection makes them particularly well-suited for mortuary work.
One thing to note is that pricing isn't listed directly – you'll need to use the "Request a Quote" function to get specific costs based on your quantity needs and specifications. This allows for some negotiation on bulk orders, which might benefit larger funeral homes or those stocking up for the year.
For American Mortuary Coolers customers from Seattle to Miami who prefer something beyond the standard smooth plastic aprons, these embossed variants offer a practical alternative that might better suit your day-to-day operational needs while maintaining the professional protection standards your work demands.
Frequently Asked Questions about Plastic Aprons
How should used plastic aprons be disposed of safely?
Handling used plastic aprons properly isn't just good practice—it's essential for everyone's safety and our environment too.
When you're finished with a standard disposable apron, start by breaking or untying the neck strap first (this prevents you from pulling the potentially contaminated apron over your head). Then, gently roll it inward like a burrito to contain any yucky stuff that might be on the surface. This simple rolling technique creates a natural barrier that keeps contaminants from spreading.
Once rolled, place it directly into the appropriate waste container—typically those yellow clinical waste bags if there's potential infection risk. And remember, as tempting as it might be to stretch your budget, never reuse single-use aprons!
For those eco-friendly biodegradable options, follow the same careful removal steps, but check the packaging for specific disposal instructions. Some newer aprons can actually go to industrial composting facilities rather than landfills.
If you're using those heavy-duty PVC aprons in your preparation room, they can usually be cleaned and disinfected according to the manufacturer's guidelines. When they eventually wear out, check local regulations for PVC disposal, or look into manufacturer take-back programs that are becoming more common.
"I always tell our funeral home clients that proper disposal is just as important as proper use," says Mark, one of our waste management consultants. "It's the final step in your protection protocol."
What certifications prove a plastic apron is medical-grade?
Shopping for quality plastic aprons for your funeral home can feel like navigating alphabet soup with all those certifications! Here's what those symbols and abbreviations actually mean for your protection:
The CE marking is a big one to look for—it shows the apron meets European health, safety, and environmental protection standards. You'll usually find this symbol printed right on the packaging or sometimes on the aprons themselves.
For our friends in the UK, NHS approval is the gold standard, indicating the product meets National Health Service requirements. This is particularly important if you're operating a funeral home in Britain.
Here in the US, FDA compliance matters—especially for aprons that might contact food or be used in medical settings. This tells you the materials meet Food and Drug Administration safety requirements.
You might also spot references to ASTM standards, which come from the American Society for Testing and Materials. These often include specific tests for how well the apron resists tearing, puncturing, and whether it provides an effective barrier against fluids—all critical features in a preparation room setting.
Manufacturers may also mention ISO 13485 certification, which relates to their quality management systems rather than individual products, but still speaks to overall quality control.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've found that funeral directors who pay attention to these certifications typically report greater confidence in their protective equipment—and peace of mind is priceless when you're handling difficult preparation tasks.
Are there effective alternatives to plastic aprons?
While plastic aprons remain the go-to choice for fluid protection in funeral homes, you do have some alternatives depending on your specific needs.
Reusable fabric aprons with waterproof coating offer an eco-friendlier option. These are typically made from polyester or nylon with a PVC or polyurethane coating that repels liquids. They're washable and reusable, which reduces waste considerably. The upfront cost is higher, but you might save money over time. Just be aware they're generally less suitable for situations with high infection risk—not ideal for certain embalming procedures.
Some funeral homes are experimenting with biodegradable plant-based aprons made from corn starch, PLA (polylactic acid), or other plant derivatives. These can be composted in industrial facilities when you're done with them. They tend to cost more than standard plastic options, and sometimes have slightly different performance characteristics, but technology is improving rapidly.
For lighter-duty tasks where you're mainly concerned about dust and particulates rather than fluids, non-woven polypropylene aprons might work. However, I wouldn't recommend these for embalming or preparation work where fluid exposure is inevitable.
Finally, there are rubber or neoprene aprons that offer outstanding chemical resistance and durability. They're heavier and less comfortable for long wear, and significantly pricier than disposables, but they'll last for years with proper care.
For most funeral professionals we work with at American Mortuary Coolers, traditional plastic aprons still provide the best balance of protection, comfort, and practicality—especially for embalming and preparation procedures where bodily fluid exposure is unavoidable. The combination of fluid resistance and disposability simply makes them the most practical choice for daily mortuary work.
Conclusion
Choosing the right plastic aprons for your funeral home or mortuary is really about finding the sweet spot between safety, comfort, budget, and (these days) a lighter environmental footprint. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the ins and outs of aprons—from materials like LDPE, HDPE, and PVC, to the way thickness, sizing, and color-coding factor into daily protection.
Material matters—use LDPE or HDPE for everyday splash protection, or step up to heavy-duty PVC when you’re working with chemicals. Get the thickness right: most tasks are covered with a 15-20 micron (1 mil) apron, but for more hazardous work (like embalming), a thicker option is your best friend.
Fit and comfort shouldn’t be overlooked. A well-sized apron (anything around 28" × 46" will fit most adults) with adjustable ties can make long shifts a lot more bearable. Don’t forget your color-coding protocols—aprons aren’t just about blocking fluids; they’re also a tool for keeping your workspaces clean and compliant.
Eco-friendly options have come a long way. Today’s biodegradable and oxo-degradable plastic aprons help you protect both your team and the environment. And when it comes to storage and dispensing, think about what will keep your prep rooms tidy and efficient.
We always suggest keeping a mix of apron types on hand. Stock lightweight disposables for lighter jobs or visitors, and invest in thicker, heavy-duty aprons for more demanding embalming or cleaning tasks. This way, you’re covered—literally and figuratively—no matter what the day brings.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we know that the right protective gear helps you focus on the work that matters: providing dignified, respectful care. From Tennessee to California, and everywhere in between, funeral professionals trust us not just for plastic aprons, but for custom mortuary coolers and equipment custom to their needs.
If you’re looking to upgrade your prep room or need advice on equipping your funeral home, your one-stop shop for mortuary coolers is just a click away. We deliver custom solutions—no matter your location in the contiguous 48 states—so you can keep your focus where it belongs: on the families you serve.
Thanks for reading, and here’s to keeping your team safe, comfortable, and ready for whatever comes next!