Choosing a Styling Unit
Choosing the right furniture for your beauty salon or hair salon is an important decision that will impact your clients’ experience and your business efficiency. One of the key elements is choosing the perfect styling unit. There are various factors you should consider when selecting the ideal.
What is a Styling Unit?
A styling unit is an essential piece of salon furniture. It’s where stylists perform most of their tasks, from cutting and styling hair to applying treatments and color. Over the years, styling units have evolved to adapt to the changing needs of stylists and clients, now offering a variety of features and designs to enhance the salon’s functionality and aesthetics.
Types of Styling Units
There are different styles and types to choose from. The main ones are:
Classic Styling Unit
The classic styling unit is the traditional furniture we typically imagine. It features a large front mirror, shelves or drawers on the sides, and a spacious work surface. They are generally individual pieces made of solid wood. They provide a classic and elegant style.
Modular Styling Unit
Modular units allow for the creation of customized workstations by combining individual modules such as mirrors, shelves, drawers, and work surfaces. They are ideal for efficiently distributing space.
Contemporary Styling Unit
Contemporary units have a modern and minimalist design. They are usually made of materials such as glass, stainless steel, or high-quality plastics. They are perfect for avant-garde style salons.
Vintage Styling Unit
Inspired by past decades, this type of unit adds a retro and eclectic touch to your beauty salon. They come in styles such as art deco, mid-century, industrial vintage, among others.
Portable Styling Unit
Portable units have wheels for easy movement. They are lightweight and easy to transport, ideal for mobile stylists or those who attend events.
Materials
The material should be durable and easy to clean. Some popular options are:
- Wood: classic and elegant, easy to clean and maintains its appearance over time. It can be solid wood or covered particle board.
- Glass: modern and sophisticated, hygienic and easy to clean. Requires more care when moving.
- Metal: resistant and durable, easy to clean. Stainless steel is a hygienic option. Aluminum is lighter.
- Plastic: economical, lightweight, and easy to clean. ABS plastic is resistant and durable.
Space Considerations
- The width should allow for sufficient workspace. Between 75 cm to 90 cm is a comfortable width.
- The ideal depth is about 50 cm to 60 cm. This leaves space for the client’s legs.
- The standard height is 75 cm to 85 cm. This ensures an ergonomic working posture.
- Leave at least 90 cm to 120 cm between each styling unit so that stylists can move easily.
- Check that there is enough space around to open drawers and doors without obstacles.
Storage
Should have storage options to keep tools and products organized.
- Spacious drawers for dryers and straighteners. They should slide smoothly.
- Open shelves for frequently used products.
- Cabinets with doors for materials and tools.
- Removable baskets or trays to organize small objects.
- Drawers with dividers to separate brushes, combs, and other items.
Washing Stations
Many styling units incorporate washing stations for washing and drying clients’ hair.
- Check that the water jets have sufficient reach and pressure.
- The drainage should be efficient to avoid water pooling.
- Porcelain or stainless steel are ideal materials for their hygiene and ease of cleaning.
- The styling unit should support the weight and vibration of the washing station.
Swivel Salon Chair
A quality salon chair is essential for the stylist to move comfortably.
- The seat should be spacious and comfortable, with height adjustment.
- The backrest with lumbar support maintains a healthy posture.
- The hydraulic lift system makes it easy to adjust the height.
- The wheels should roll smoothly and withstand frequent use.
- The material should be durable, breathable, and easy to clean.
Useful Accessories
- Electrical outlet to connect appliances without tangled cords.
- Perimeter light on the mirror for better visibility.
- Accessible hair dryer and curler holder while working.
- Tray for tools such as scissors, combs, and brushes.
- iPad or tablet holder for consulting tutorials.
- Hook for client’s apron or cutting cape.
Quality and Durability
A styling unit for a beauty salon must be extremely durable to withstand intensive daily use.
- Check the warranty and that the materials are of the highest quality.
- Drawers and doors should open and close smoothly without jamming after much use.
- The base and structure should be stable and robust.
- The finish should resist scratches, stains, and discoloration.
- All electrical components should have quality protection and insulation.
Don’t skimp on quality when equipping your salon, the furniture will be used daily for years.
Safety
Safety is paramount, look for styling units that meet certifications:
- NRTL (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory) in the United States.
- CSA Group in Canada.
- CE (Conformité Européenne) in Europe.
This ensures they meet rigorous electrical safety and construction standards.
Practical Tips
Some practical tips when choosing and using a styling unit:
- Measure the available space well to choose a styling unit of the right size.
- Check the hydraulic and electrical connections before installation.
- Leave free space around the styling unit so it can be thoroughly cleaned.
- Install transparent protectors on the corners of the styling unit to prevent chipping.
- Use anti-fatigue rubber mats for greater comfort for stylists.
- Designate a locked drawer for employees’ personal items.
- Update the mirror bulbs with LED lighting for better visibility.
- Assign a specific styling unit for certain services such as nails or makeup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standard dimensions of a styling unit?
The most common dimensions are: width between 75 cm and 90 cm, depth from 50 cm to 60 cm, and height from 75 cm to 85 cm.
Can I use a regular bathroom vanity in my salon?
It’s not suitable. Is designed to withstand intensive use, with features such as durability, workspace, and storage that a bathroom vanity doesn’t have.
Do I need special knowledge to assemble a styling unit?
Most come ready to assemble with detailed instructions and don’t require specialized knowledge. Some more complex models may require hiring an assembly service.
How often should I replace my styling unit?
With proper care, a quality styling unit can last 8 to 12 years on average. But it’s good to reinvent the salon’s image by renovating the furniture every few years.
Can I deduct the styling unit as a business expense on taxes?
Yes, salon furniture is considered a business asset and can be deducted through depreciation over a period of several years. Consult with your accountant.
Choosing the ideal styling unit for your business is an important decision that requires carefully evaluating several factors. This furniture will be used daily for many years, so investing in quality and functionality is worth it. Take the time to compare different options and find the perfect styling unit that fits your budget and needs. Your investment will be rewarded with customer satisfaction and the efficiency of your work team for many years.
