How to choose the right salon stool

What is a Salon Stool?

A salon stool goes by many names in the industry: a cutting chair, a hairdresser’s chair with wheels, a salon chair, a treatment stool, and many more. A salon stool is what you, the hairdresser, sit on while cutting the client’s hair.

Flat Top or Saddle?

This is 100% personal. I always recommend people trying several chairs and choosing the one that suits you best. It’s like when you showed your mom how fast you could run in new shoes before buying them. Bonus: A saddle-style stool can offer ergonomic benefits. Read more below.

With or Without Backrest?

Denmark is the only country in the world that uses cutting stools with backrests. Most people only use the backrest to grab onto when moving the stool between treatments. Decide for yourself.

Ergonomics

Proper ergonomics are crucial and are what allow you to continue being a hairdresser comfortably. The rule of thumb is that you should be able to sit comfortably all day. A saddle-style stool usually provides ergonomic tilt in the lower back. Note that this doesn’t apply to all models from all brands. Try out different options to find your favorite.

With or Without Wheels?

Advantages of Salon Stools with Wheels: Stools with wheels offer easy mobility, quick adjustments to your working position for optimal ergonomics, and flexibility to create different workspaces during busy times in salons with multiple client stations.

Disadvantages of Salon Stools with Wheels: Wheels are moving parts and require maintenance. You can help yourself by choosing anti-static wheels with a hair-resistant cover.

Advantages of Salon Stools without Wheels: Stools without wheels – often called treatment stools – offer other benefits. A treatment stool is ideal for longer treatments, providing a stable base where you can focus solely on the client without unnecessary movement. Some salons use treatment stools behind the wash station for stability during relaxing treatments like scalp massages.

Disadvantages of Salon Stools without Wheels: The only downside is that they don’t roll. If mobility is essential, a treatment stool is not for you. Instead, opt for a salon stool. Many treatment stools today come with ergonomic tilt functions to provide comfort, without rolling around.

Hair-Resistant Covers

Got a busy salon? Hair everywhere? Get a cutting stool with a hair-resistant cover. It’s a small cover that fits over each wheel on your cutting stool. It usually can’t be retrofitted, so choose a salon stool that includes it or buy separate wheels with a cover.

Final Thoughts

It’s called a salon stool – not a hairdresser’s chair :)
Contact me below, if you need help finding the right salon stool for you.