The primary reason for wearing baggy chef pants is safety. Kitchens are hazard-prone environments where spills, hot liquids, and flammable materials are common. Baggy pants provide a layer of protection against hot spills and splatters, as the loose fabric is less likely to stick to the skin, reducing the risk of burns. Additionally, the loose fit allows for air circulation, which can be a relief in the high-temperature conditions of a kitchen.
Chefs often work long hours, requiring clothing that is comfortable and allows for a wide range of movement. Baggy chef pants are designed to offer maximum comfort and flexibility, accommodating the bending, stretching, and quick movements that are part of daily kitchen activities. The elastic or drawstring waistbands common in chef pants designs also contribute to their comfort, ensuring a good fit without being restrictive.
Chef pants need to withstand the rigors of daily wear and tear in a busy kitchen. They are typically made from durable, easy-to-care-for fabrics that can endure frequent washing and resist stains and odors. The loose fit of baggy pants also means they are less likely to tear or wear out quickly, making them a practical choice for the intense daily demands of culinary professionals.
Hygiene is paramount in the kitchen, and chef pants play a role in maintaining sanitary conditions. Baggy pants are less likely to come into contact with food and kitchen surfaces, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Moreover, most chef pants feature patterns like houndstooth or stripes that help disguise minor stains, keeping chefs looking clean and professional throughout their shift.
While practicality is the primary concern, the traditional checkered pattern of chef pants has also become a symbol of the profession, representing a sense of identity and pride for chefs. The distinctive style of baggy chef pants, often paired with a double-breasted jacket and chef’s hat, creates a professional and iconic look that is instantly recognizable and respected in the culinary world.
The design of chef uniforms, particularly baggy chef pants, is a thoughtful response to the needs of culinary professionals, balancing safety, comfort, and functionality with a sense of tradition and style. As a leading provider of chef uniforms in Australia, we understand the importance of high-quality, practical attire in the culinary industry. Our range of chef pants is designed to meet the diverse needs of chefs, ensuring they can perform their best while feeling comfortable and looking professional.
]]>A chef’s uniform is more than just clothing; it's a symbol of professionalism, expertise, and respect for the culinary arts. While a crisp, white chef’s coat and pants can make quite an impression, keeping them spotless is a challenge that every chef faces. Stains from sauces, oils, and everyday kitchen activities can take a toll on your whites. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best practices for washing your chef's whites and keeping them in immaculate condition.
Before diving into the how-to, it's important to understand why keeping your chef's uniform pristine is crucial. A clean uniform:
Always wash your chef's whites separately from other clothing to avoid color bleeding and to allow for special stain treatment.
Inspect your whites for stains. Pre-treat stubborn spots like oil, sauce, or wine stains using a stain remover. Apply the stain remover directly on the stain and let it sit for at least 5-10 minutes.
The choice of detergent plays a significant role in maintaining the integrity of your whites. Opt for:
Hot water is generally effective for removing stains but can weaken fibers over time. A warm wash (around 104°F or 40°C) is a good compromise. Always refer to the garment's care label for specific instructions.
Choose a heavy-duty wash cycle for chef’s whites. This cycle uses more water and a higher level of agitation to remove stubborn stains.
Ensure that all detergent is thoroughly rinsed off. Residual detergent can leave your whites looking dull.
Iron your chef’s whites while they are slightly damp for the best results. Use a medium to high heat setting, depending on the fabric.
Store your chef’s whites in a cool, dry place. Use padded hangers for coats to maintain their shape.
If you’re struggling to maintain the freshness of your whites, consider professional laundering services that specialize in chef's uniforms. They have industrial-grade equipment and specialized detergents that can handle stubborn stains.
Keeping your chef’s whites pristine takes a little extra effort but pays off in terms of hygiene, professionalism, and personal pride. With the right techniques and products, you can ensure that your chef’s uniform stays as impressive as the dishes you create.
Remember, the first impression you make in the kitchen isn't just about your cooking skills; it's also about your appearance. A spotless, white chef's uniform signals your commitment to excellence, in both culinary arts and personal presentation.
So the next time you find yourself facing a daunting stain, fear not. With this guide, you're well-equipped to keep your chef's whites in impeccable condition.
Traditionally, chefs wore white jackets, which symbolized cleanliness and purity in the kitchen. The white jacket, part of the classic chef’s uniform including the toque (chef's hat), pants, and apron, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. However, over time, black jackets have gained popularity for various reasons.
One of the most practical reasons for the shift to black is its ability to hide stains better than white or lighter-colored fabrics. Kitchens are fast-paced environments where spills and splatters are common, and black jackets can look cleaner throughout a service compared to their white counterparts. This stain resistance makes black jackets a practical choice for chefs who spend long hours in the kitchen.
Black is often associated with sleekness and professionalism in many uniform designs. In the culinary world, black chef jackets offer a modern, stylish alternative to the traditional white, allowing chefs to present themselves with contemporary elegance. This modern aesthetic aligns with the design sensibilities of many modern restaurants and culinary establishments, which opt for a chic, sophisticated look not only in their decor but also in their staff attire.
Black chef jackets tend to maintain their appearance longer than white ones, as they show less wear and tear and can often withstand the rigors of frequent washing without fading. This durability makes them a cost-effective and practical option for culinary professionals.
Black jackets provide a neutral backdrop that can highlight a chef's brand, logo, or personal style. Embroidery and patches stand out more on black fabric, allowing for personalization and branding opportunities. This can help in creating a distinct identity for the chef and the culinary team, enhancing the overall branding of the restaurant or culinary institution.
Black can convey a sense of authority, power, and seriousness, traits that are often attributed to the role of the chef in the kitchen. Wearing a black jacket can subtly reinforce the chef's authority and the respect they command in their domain.
The choice of black jackets by chefs is more than just a fashion statement; it's a practical, stylish, and symbolic decision that reflects the evolving nature of the culinary profession. As the industry continues to grow and change, the attire of its professionals also adapts, blending tradition with modernity to meet the needs and preferences of today's chefs.
]]>The chef's hat has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Originally, chefs wore a hat similar to those of priests to signify their role as artisans and creators. The hat evolved over the years into the pleated white toque we recognize today. These pleats are said to represent the chef's level of expertise—the more folds, the more knowledgeable the chef. In some interpretations, the 100 pleats in a traditional toque symbolize the 100 ways to cook an egg.
In a professional kitchen, the top priority is always hygiene and safety. A chef hat serves the practical purpose of keeping hair away from the food. This is not only for aesthetic reasons but also to comply with health and safety regulations.
The hat establishes a sense of uniformity in the kitchen. Just like military uniforms signify rank and unit, the type and style of chef hats often indicate a chef’s position in the kitchen hierarchy. The executive chef typically wears the tallest hat, while sous chefs and line cooks wear shorter versions.
The world of chef hats is surprisingly diverse, accommodating various preferences and needs:
As mentioned earlier, the toque is the classic, tall, and pleated hat that most people associate with chefs. It’s often made of thick cotton to withstand the heat of the kitchen.
These are more modern and are essentially cloth caps that fit tightly over the skull. Skull caps are popular among younger chefs and those working in casual dining establishments.
Beanies are close-fitting, brimless caps that are often made from breathable materials. They are ideal for chefs who prefer a more relaxed look but still want to maintain a professional appearance.
In fast-paced, high-volume environments, disposable hats made from paper or non-woven fabrics are often used for convenience and hygiene.
Chef hats are generally made of breathable materials like cotton or a cotton blend to help absorb sweat and keep chefs cool during long hours in the hot kitchen. The fit and material of your chef hat can significantly impact your comfort and effectiveness on the job.
In today's world of personal branding and social media, chef hats have also become a branding tool. Many chefs opt for custom-designed hats that feature logos, personalized embroidery, or unique colors to stand out and make a statement.
Purpose: If you're in a formal setting, a traditional toque may be required. For casual or fast-paced environments, beanies or skull caps may be more appropriate.
Material: Consider the temperature and pace of your kitchen. Cotton or cotton blends are often best for hot, busy settings.
Fit: Ensure your hat fits snugly but not too tightly to avoid discomfort during long shifts.
Style: If you have the freedom to choose, pick a style that resonates with your personal brand or the atmosphere of your establishment.
The chef hat is not merely an aesthetic addition to the chef’s uniform; it's a symbol of tradition, expertise, and professionalism. It serves practical purposes like maintaining hygiene, establishing hierarchy, and even branding, making it a multifaceted accessory integral to the culinary world.
Aspiring chefs and culinary aficionados should understand the importance of this iconic headgear and make informed choices when selecting the perfect chef hat for their needs. After all, the right hat is the crowning glory of any chef’s uniform, representing both their skill level and their commitment to their craft.
]]>Aprons not only protect your clothing from spills and stains but also offer convenient storage for essential tools and ingredients. Choosing the perfect apron can be a bit overwhelming, given the different styles, fabrics, and features available. In this guide, we'll explore various types of aprons—full-length, bib, 3/4, 1/2, and 1/4—to help you find the one that suits your culinary needs.
Best for: Comprehensive Coverage and Professional Settings
A full-length apron offers maximum coverage, typically running from the chest to the ankles. This style is particularly favored by professionals who work in busy commercial kitchens, where spills and splatters are a daily affair.
Features to Consider:
Best for: Versatility and Everyday Use
The bib apron is a classic design that covers the front of the body from the chest down to the knees. It’s versatile enough for both home cooks and professional chefs.
Features to Consider:
Best for: Adequate Coverage and Mobility
The 3/4 apron strikes a balance between the full-length and bib aprons, providing coverage from the waist to below the knees. This style allows for more mobility and is excellent for chefs who are always on the move.
Features to Consider:
Best for: Quick Tasks and Waitstaff
Also known as the waist apron, the 1/2 apron starts from the waist and covers down to the knees. This is ideal for waitstaff or for chefs who need to quickly throw something on for less messy tasks.
Features to Consider:
Best for: Light Cooking and Hosting
The 1/4 apron is a shorter version of the waist apron, offering minimal coverage. It’s not ideal for heavy-duty cooking but perfect for hosting dinner parties where you may have to dash into the kitchen occasionally.
Features to Consider:
Choosing the right chef apron boils down to your specific needs, cooking environment, and the tasks you'll be doing. Think about coverage, pocket requirements, material, and fastening options when making your choice. A well-chosen apron can not only keep you clean and organized but also enhance your overall cooking experience.
So go ahead, pick the perfect apron, and unleash your culinary genius!
]]>As a chef, your uniform is not only a symbol of your profession but also an essential tool in the kitchen. The iconic chef jacket not only enhances your appearance but also protects you from heat, spills, and stains during the hustle and bustle of service. To maintain the pristine look and functionality of your chef jacket, proper care is crucial. In this blog, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to take care of your chef jacket, ensuring it serves you well and stands the test of time.
1. Preparing Your Chef Jacket: A Clean Start
Before wearing your chef jacket, always ensure it's clean and freshly laundered. A clean jacket not only looks professional but also prevents the transfer of dirt and contaminants to your kitchen workspace. Here's what you can do:
Wash Before First Use: If you've purchased a new chef jacket, wash it before wearing it for the first time. This helps to remove any manufacturing residues and ensures a comfortable fit.
Ironing: Iron your chef jacket with a steam iron on a low setting to remove any wrinkles or creases. A well-pressed jacket portrays a neat and polished appearance.
2. Proper Handling and Usage: A Pinch of Care
In the fast-paced kitchen environment, it's essential to handle your chef jacket with care to avoid unnecessary wear and tear. Here are some tips to ensure its longevity:
Avoid Abrasive Surfaces: Be cautious of leaning against rough or abrasive surfaces, as they can cause snags or tears in the fabric.
Buttoning Up: Always button your chef jacket to protect your clothing underneath and maintain a tidy look.
Use Aprons and Towels: Wearing an apron over your chef jacket provides an extra layer of protection against spills and stains. Additionally, keep a towel on hand to quickly wipe away any splatters during cooking.
3. Cleaning and Laundering: The Main Ingredient
Regular cleaning and laundering are essential to remove stains, odors, and bacteria from your chef jacket. Follow these steps for proper cleaning:
Check Care Instructions: Always refer to the care label on your chef jacket for specific cleaning instructions, as different fabrics may have different requirements.
Pre-Treat Stains: Treat any stains on your chef jacket as soon as possible. Gently blot the stain with a mild stain remover or a mixture of vinegar and water before laundering.
Separate Colors: Wash your chef jacket separately from other clothing items to avoid color bleeding.
Use Gentle Detergent: Use a mild, color-safe detergent to preserve the color and fabric of your chef jacket.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the fabric and cause discoloration.
Water Temperature: Wash your chef jacket in cold or lukewarm water to prevent shrinking and color fading.
Drying: Line drying is the best option for preserving the shape and fabric of your chef jacket. If using a dryer, choose a low heat setting.
4. Storage: The Final Touch
Proper storage is vital to keep your chef jacket in excellent condition when not in use. Follow these storage tips:
Hang It Up: Always hang your chef jacket on a sturdy hanger to maintain its shape and prevent wrinkles.
Air It Out: After each use, allow your chef jacket to air out in a well-ventilated area before storing it.
Avoid Sunlight: Store your chef jacket in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, as sunlight can cause fading.
By following these simple yet effective care tips, you can ensure that your chef jacket remains a reliable companion in the kitchen, reflecting your professionalism and commitment to your culinary craft. With proper care, your chef jacket will continue to serve you well, providing both comfort and functionality throughout your culinary journey. Happy cooking!
When you step into a bustling restaurant kitchen, one of the first things that catch your eye is the brigade of chefs, donning their iconic uniforms. The chef's uniform is more than just a sartorial choice; it is a symbol of professionalism, discipline, and culinary heritage. Over the centuries, this distinctive attire has undergone a remarkable evolution, blending tradition with modern trends. In this blog, we embark on a flavorful journey through time, exploring the origins, purpose, and transformation of the chef uniform from its humble beginnings to the contemporary styles we see today.
1. The Birth of the Chef Uniform: A Dash of Tradition
The roots of the chef uniform can be traced back to the 19th century, where it was first conceptualized by Marie-Antoine Carême, a legendary French chef and pioneer of haute cuisine. Carême, often referred to as the "King of Chefs and Chef of Kings," was not only renowned for his culinary prowess but also for his fashion sensibilities. He recognized the need for a distinct attire to distinguish chefs from kitchen staff and developed the earliest version of the chef uniform.
A) The Double-Breasted Jacket: At the core of the chef uniform was the iconic double-breasted jacket. The double layers of thick cotton or a polyester-cotton blend provided insulation against heat, and the design allowed chefs to reverse the jacket if one side became soiled during service. The choice of white color was both practical and symbolic, as it made stains and spills more apparent while signifying cleanliness and purity in the kitchen.
B) The Chef Hat (Toque): Carême introduced the tall, pleated chef hat, commonly known as the toque, as a symbol of a chef's rank and expertise in the kitchen. The height of the hat represented a chef's authority, with each pleat indicating the number of recipes the chef had mastered. Additionally, the toque's design allowed for air circulation, keeping the chef's head cool amidst the intense heat of the kitchen.
2. Elements of Functionality and Hygiene: A Pinch of Practicality
Beyond their fashionable appearance, the early chef uniforms were designed with practicality and hygiene in mind. The kitchen environment was rife with heat, steam, and splatters, making it essential for the uniform to offer protection and ease of movement.
A) Protection Against Heat and Splatters: The double-breasted jacket served as a barrier against the heat of stoves and ovens, shielding chefs from accidental burns. The long sleeves and thick fabric protected the forearms from hot surfaces, while the reversibility of the jacket ensured a clean appearance throughout service. The traditional white color also made it easier to spot any spills or contaminants, promoting immediate action for cleanliness.
B) Ease of Movement: The chef uniform's loose-fitting design allowed for unrestricted movement in the kitchen, enabling chefs to work with agility and precision. The wide armholes and ample room around the shoulders and chest ensured that chefs could perform their tasks comfortably and efficiently.
C) Maintaining Kitchen Hygiene: In a professional kitchen, hygiene is of paramount importance. The pristine white color of the chef's uniform was not only visually appealing but also emphasized the need for cleanliness and order in the culinary environment. Regularly changing and washing uniforms reduced the risk of cross-contamination and the spread of foodborne illnesses.
3. Traditional Elements: A Generous Sprinkle of Symbolism
The chef uniform, beyond its functional aspects, also incorporated symbolic elements that reflected the culinary heritage and the hierarchical structure of the kitchen brigade.
A) The Checkered Trousers: Over time, the chef's trousers featured a distinctive checkered pattern, known as houndstooth or herringbone. This pattern served not only as an aesthetic embellishment but also as a practical means to conceal stains and spills that were bound to occur in the demanding kitchen environment.
B) Neckerchief: While less common in modern kitchens, the neckerchief was once an essential part of the chef uniform. Historically, it was used to absorb sweat and keep the chef's neck dry, providing some relief in the hot and humid kitchen environment. Today, its use has become more traditional, with some chefs choosing modern variations or omitting it altogether.
C) The Brigade System: The chef uniform also played a role in establishing a sense of order and hierarchy within the kitchen brigade. Different ranks and positions within the kitchen were often denoted by specific uniform elements, such as the color of the jacket or the number of pleats on the toque.
4. Evolution and Adaptation: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
As the culinary world evolved, so did the chef uniform. While the traditional elements remained integral, the uniform began to incorporate adaptations and modern trends to meet the needs of contemporary kitchens.
A) Colored Uniforms: While white remained the classic choice for chef jackets, some modern kitchens have embraced colored uniforms to match their restaurant branding or theme. These variations allow for creativity and personalization while still maintaining a professional and unified appearance.
B) Performance Fabrics: Advancements in fabric technology led to the development of performance fabrics for chef uniforms. These fabrics are designed to be more breathable, moisture-wicking, and comfortable, making them suitable for the intense and physically demanding kitchen environment.
C) Customization and Branding: Many chefs and culinary establishments have taken advantage of modern embroidery and customization techniques to add personal touches to their uniforms. Embroidered names, patches representing individual achievements or culinary specialties, and restaurant logos have become common ways to enhance the uniform's identity and brand recognition.
5. Conclusion: The Timeless Symbol of Culinary Excellence
The evolution of chef uniforms is a testament to the rich history, culture, and artistry of the culinary world. From the early visionary concepts of Marie-Antoine Carême to the adaptation of modern trends, the chef uniform has remained an enduring symbol of professionalism, discipline, and culinary excellence.
In today's diverse culinary landscape, chefs and restaurateurs continue to celebrate the heritage of the chef uniform while embracing contemporary adaptations that suit their individual styles and preferences. As the culinary journey continues, the chef uniform will undoubtedly remain an iconic and integral part of the culinary experience, continuing to inspire chefs and delight diners for generations to come.
]]>When you walk into a restaurant or watch a cooking show, one of the first things that catch your eye is the distinctive uniform worn by the chefs. The chef's uniform is not just a stylish attire; it serves a crucial purpose in the culinary world. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, chef uniforms are designed to meet specific requirements that ensure the safety, hygiene, and professionalism of the culinary workforce. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of chef uniform requirements and understand why they are an indispensable part of the culinary industry.
1. Safety First:
In a bustling kitchen where sharp knives, scalding pans, and boiling liquids are part of the daily routine, safety is of paramount importance. The chef's uniform plays a crucial role in protecting chefs from potential hazards. Here's how:
1.1. Heat Resistance:
Commercial kitchens are hot, and chefs work in close proximity to open flames, hot stoves, and ovens. Chef uniforms are typically made of thick, flame-resistant materials that shield the wearer from burns and other heat-related injuries. Jackets and pants with double-stitched seams and reinforced buttons add an extra layer of protection.
1.2. Protection from Splatters and Spills:
A typical kitchen is full of sizzling pans, bubbling sauces, and splattering oil. Chef jackets, often made of durable materials like cotton or polyester blends, help to minimize the impact of spills and splatters on the chef's skin, reducing the risk of burns and scalds.
1.3. Cut-Resistance:
The potential for knife accidents in a busy kitchen is high. Chef uniforms often include arm protection in the form of tight-fitting sleeves or arm guards, which offer an additional layer of defense against accidental cuts.
2. Hygiene and Sanitation:
Maintaining a high level of cleanliness and hygiene is crucial in any kitchen, and chef uniforms are tailored to meet these requirements. Here's how they contribute to maintaining a sanitary environment:
2.1. Color and Design:
Traditionally, chef jackets are white, which helps to reflect heat and keep the wearer cooler. Additionally, the white color allows stains to be easily spotted, prompting chefs to change their coats regularly. While white remains a popular choice, some establishments may opt for colored coats to signify different roles or ranks in the kitchen.
2.2. Buttoned Design:
Chef jackets have double-breasted designs with hidden or cloth-covered buttons. This feature prevents loose buttons from falling into food, reducing the risk of contamination.
2.3. Long Pants:
Chefs are required to wear long chef pants, as they offer more coverage and protect their legs from hot liquids and spills.
2.4. Aprons:
Aprons, often made from sturdy fabrics, are an essential part of the chef's uniform. They offer additional protection to the front of the chef's attire and can be easily removed and laundered when soiled.
3. Professionalism and Identity:
Chef uniforms are more than just practical garments; they also serve to establish a sense of identity and professionalism in the culinary world.
3.1. Recognition and Authority:
The distinctive look of a chef's uniform makes it easy for diners and staff to identify the head chef or other team members. This recognition lends an air of authority and expertise to the wearers, reinforcing their position in the kitchen hierarchy.
3.2. Branding and Image:
In the modern culinary landscape, restaurants and hotels often emphasize their brand image. Chef uniforms can be customized with embroidered logos and names, which not only helps with branding but also creates a unified and professional appearance for the entire kitchen staff.
3.3. Equality and Team Spirit:
In the kitchen, the chef uniform promotes a sense of equality among the team members, as everyone wears the same attire regardless of rank. This fosters team spirit and a sense of camaraderie.
4. Adaptability and Modern Trends:
While the traditional chef uniform has remained largely unchanged over the years, there have been some adaptations to suit the needs of contemporary kitchens and chefs.
4.1. Breathable Fabrics:
As kitchens adopt better ventilation and cooling systems, chef uniform manufacturers are exploring more breathable and lightweight fabrics that still provide the necessary protection while increasing comfort.
4.2. Chef Caps and Headgear:
To maintain hygiene standards and prevent hair from falling into food, chef caps or hats are an integral part of the uniform. Modern designs offer adjustable closures and moisture-wicking properties to ensure comfort during long hours in the kitchen.
4.3. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Uniforms:
In response to the growing demand for sustainability, some culinary establishments are adopting eco-friendly chef uniforms made from organic or recycled materials. These uniforms not only align with environmentally conscious practices but also demonstrate the restaurant's commitment to responsible sourcing.
Conclusion:
Chef uniform requirements go beyond aesthetics; they are a thoughtful combination of safety, hygiene, professionalism, and adaptability. The purposeful design of chef coats, pants, aprons, and headgear ensures the safety of chefs, maintains a clean and sanitary environment, and fosters a sense of professionalism and identity. As the culinary world evolves, so do chef uniforms, with an increasing focus on comfort, sustainability, and modern trends. Overall, chef uniforms are a symbol of the culinary craft and a testament to the dedication and passion of the talented professionals working behind the scenes to delight our taste buds.
]]>The Head Chef provides a central hub with links to key services, tips and tricks to help with mental health and to assist all chefs with information surrounding mental fitness.
"As an industry we face some of the most confronting topics on a regular basis. Due to the very antisocial nature of our industry we fall prey to battles with depression. We are often hit with waves of anxiety because of our high intensity work environments. It is no secret that because of our environment we are susceptible to drug and alcohol abuse. We have a high turnover of staff, we are susceptible to relationship trouble and if that’s not enough, we lose too many chefs to suicide. Because of all this and much more, as an industry, hospitality is definitely one of the toughest. But it is not all bad… with the same team work we use everyday. I believe, together we can overcome our struggle and support each other as an industry. Collectively we can make our kitchens a better place to work for all who enter our profession. We will endeavor to find ways to deal with our daily pressure and share what we discover openly and honestly."
Ryan Parker
Founder
The HEAD Chef
To read more about it please go to https://www.theheadchef.com.au/
To purchase an EPIC Light Weight Chef's Hat with The Head Chef logo embroidered on the chef's hat click here. All Profits from each chef's hat sold goes directly back into The Head Chef and supporting the industry.
]]>June 30th is the cut off sate to have your uniforms purchased AND be able to obtain a Tax Deduction for the current financial year. Chefs have bought their Chef Uniforms and Chef Aprons and each year Chefs and hospitality workers start scrambling to find their Tax invoices for their Tax Deductible tools of trade.
Global Chef invoices are easily located as you simply need to check your inbox and search 'Global Chef' to find the emails that contain the invoices for the chef wear you've purchased throughout the year.
Good luck and we hope you can save heaps.
If you do need your tax invoice resent just drop us an email at helpdesk@globalchef.com.au and we'll do our best for you as always :-)
]]>We wanted to share the FAQ page from Government Heath with the chef community
]]>https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/alerts/Pages/coronavirus-faqs.aspx
Good luck to our chef community and families.
]]>"Oils ain't oils" and chef uniforms are not all the same.
Hotels around the world can choose chef uniforms from anywhere but we are seeing more and more interest from overseas hotels looking for quality, reliability and value.
Today's international order of Chefs Uniform and Chefs Aprons is an example of how the world has become smaller with the help of our connected business environment.
]]>Traditional style chef jackets, chefs hats and chefs Aprons are usually white in colour (and even some chef pants) to do a few things:
Fabrics are usually a combination of natural (e.g.Cotton, Bamboo) and man made fibers (e.g. Polyester). Occasionally you can find other specialist materials if you search online (e.g. Fire retardant fabrics, Organic etc) but these are not the normal chefs uniform and would require specific care.
This means keeping your normal chef whites looking bright, white and stain free can sometimes present the chef with a challenge.
Universally the idea is to both protect yourself and your chefs jacket by wearing a chefs apron. This is the first line of defense and will help avoid getting too many stains.
Of course you will almost certainly get some stains on your chef whites after every shift from stove top splatters to being brushed by the apprentice carrying at plate behind your back. (ever wondered how you got that stain there?).
Generally don't use hot water as it has the tendency to make the stain get cooked into the fibers. So the tip is to use luke warm or cold water. A gentle non- coloured natural soap or dish liquid gently rubbed with water in the pre-wash can help loosen early food stains.
Immediately take care of stains.
If you are out and about, blot the stain carefully, but do not rub. If you have a laundry pen with you, you can dab the stain with that. If not, immediately remove the stained white chef jackets, cooking apron and kitchen pants upon coming home and use either a stain remover or a toothbrush and your standard detergent to pre-treat the stain.
Generally only consider using a chlorine or oxygen based bleach as your last resort as any chemical bleach tends to weaken the natural fabric fibers and affect construction. Bleaches can sometimes cause some whites to turn to an off-white gray shade. The acidic nature of bleach will also fade any embroidery that is on a jacket. Preferable is to choose an Oxygen based bleach.
Having said that sometime your white chef jackets will need a soak in bleach over night and we'd recommend you follow the instructions on the bleach container to the letter.
Adding a table spoon of white vinegar has also been known to have a positive affect on the brightness of whites.
Hot clothes dryers tend to fix existing stains deeper into the garment so find a sunny day and hang you laundered whites on the line as the Sun also has a bleaching affect.
A good idea is to try not to get dirty in the kitchen but as that's almost impossible why not have some early intervention tools with you e.g. stain remover wipes, stain remover pens and perhaps consider a kitchen policy to try and help to each other keep clean.
By following the above we are sure that your white chef jackets, cooking apron and white kitchen pants will return to bright white.
According to the "Heads Up" website which is an organisation we respect and value as being a great resource for this topic they say
Around 90 per cent of employees think mental health is an important issue for businesses, but only 50 per cent believe their workplace is mentally healthy.
TNS (2014). State of Workplace Mental Health in Australia. Melbourne: Beyond Blue. Link to report
Plenty of resources here also - from our perspective we love your guys and girls and just know we all appreciate your hard work, discipline, passion and creativity. Stay healthy...
https://www.headsup.org.au/training-and-resources/statistics-and-references
]]>Snap your most creative Global chefs in action image and share with us on either Facebook or Instagram by the end of June and we'll be giving away a Global Chef chef jacket of your choice to what we vote to be the best 3 pics which will get featured on our blog and social media pages.
We are looking for great pictures of your black chef jackets, white chef jackets, chef pants, chef aprons and even the knife bag.
So get your phone out and take an action shot in Global Chef during your next service.
Make sure you tag #globalchefme
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Things just last last like they used to.
]]>Things just don't last like they used to.
Feedback from our customers who regularly buy our Global Chef and Chef Revival brands and leave Google reviews say our products do stand the test of time.
From our point of view that's great to hear but comes as no surprise for the following reasons:
So what's the real deal about quality?
The key is not to cut corners as your customers are not suckers. Buying a $25 Chef Jacket does not save you money if it only last 6 months. Better to pay $50 and have the jacket last for years.
Our customers recognize this and that's why we've been successful for over 33 years.
]]>Plenty of chefs now in their 50s do. It started with the Chef Revival brand.
This was our original brand label first started back in the mid 1980s to update and literally revive the old chefs uniform that had not changed for so long. Since then we rebranded to Global Chef uniforms but we often still get chefs asking for their old favourite Chef Revival black chef jacket, white chef jackets, black chef pants or check chef pants. Well the good news is we still keep a select collection of Chef Revival products available on this site and who knows we may decide to start another "revival" sometime soon ... watch this space.
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