While it might seem minor, picking out the right seating material for your barber chairs can make a world of difference in your shop’s look, feel, and functionality. Whether you’re setting up a new business or upgrading your current setup, the material you choose for your chairs is crucial. To help you start this process off on the right foot, we’re here to guide you through how to choose the perfect material for your salon barber chairs. That way, you can ensure your investment not only looks great but also boosts your business.
Determine What You Want To Get Out of a Material
Before you jump into the specifics of the seating materials available to you, pinpoint what benefits you want from the material. The right kind can greatly impact how much your customers enjoy their barbershop experience.
Strength and Durability
Strength and durability are paramount when choosing the material for your barber chairs. The chairs will be in constant use, accommodating a wide variety of clients. Therefore, you need a material that won’t easily tear, wear out, or lose its structure over time.
Consider materials that are known for their toughness and longevity. This not only ensures the safety and comfort of your clients but also saves you money on replacements and repairs in the long run.
Proper Comfort Level
If you want to guarantee repeat customers, their comfort during their time in your shop should be a top priority. Comfortable seating is the best way to achieve this.
Look for materials that provide ample cushioning and support. While aesthetics is important, the tactile experience of the material is equally crucial. Soft, plush materials can offer a luxurious feel, but they must also provide the required support to ensure prolonged sitting comfort.
Ease of Cleaning
In a high-traffic environment like a salon, you can’t overlook the importance of how easy something needs to be to clean. Spills, hair clippings, and product residues are part of daily operations, and failing to prepare for these messes will make it more difficult to get to your next customer in a timely manner. A material that is easy to clean and maintain will be a lifesaver.
Opt for materials that resist stains and are easy to wipe down quickly without the risk of damage. This will help keep your chairs looking pristine and hygienic, contributing to a clean, professional appearance.
Overall Style
Lastly, consider the style. The material you choose should complement the overall aesthetic of your salon. Whether you’re going for a modern, vintage, or eclectic look, the material of your chairs plays a significant role in achieving the desired effect. Think about the colors, textures, and finishes that best align with your brand’s identity and the atmosphere you want to create.
Familiarize Yourself With the Most Common Materials
Now that you have a clear idea of what you want to get out of a barber shop chair material, it’s time to get acquainted with the most common materials available. Each material comes with its own set of characteristics, advantages, and drawbacks, so be mindful of these factors when making a decision.
PVC Vinyl
PVC vinyl is a popular choice for barber chair upholstery due to its affordability and durability. It is highly resistant to scratches, tears, and stains, making it a practical option for busy salons. The material is also water-resistant, which means it won’t absorb spills and can be easily wiped clean.
However, PVC vinyl can sometimes lack the luxurious feel and comfort of other materials. To counteract this slight drawback, vinyl chairs usually come in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing you to match them more closely to your salon’s current decor.
Faux Leather
Faux leather is another great option, offering a balance between cost and aesthetics. It mimics the look and feel of real leather but is much more affordable and easier to maintain.
Back in the day, faux leather was known for not being very durable over long periods of time, but the technology behind this material has changed a lot, making it a much longer-lasting option. On top of that, this material is resistant to water and stains, making it a practical choice for the salon environment.
However, it may not be as breathable, which could affect comfort during longer appointments, but this won’t be an issue for most barbershops.
Real Leather
For those looking to make an investment, real leather is the way to go. It exudes luxury and sophistication, instantly elevating the ambience of your salon. Real leather is incredibly durable and can last for many years if you properly care for it. It is also naturally breathable, providing superior comfort.
However, real leather requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. It is also more susceptible to stains and scratches than synthetic materials. The higher cost is a consideration, but the prestige and quality it brings can justify the investment.
Plan What You’re Willing To Spend on Barber Chairs
Budgeting is a critical step in choosing the perfect material for your salon barber chairs. Your budget will largely dictate the range of materials you can consider. While it’s tempting to go for the most luxurious option, you should find the right balance between quality and cost for your business.
Determine how much you’re willing to spend per chair and calculate the total investment for all the chairs you plan on having in your shop. Keep in mind that while cheaper materials may save you money upfront, they might not offer the same durability and longevity, leading to higher costs over time due to repairs and replacements. As long as you factor in the maintenance costs and potential downtime for repairs when making your decision, you shouldn’t have any surprises down the road.
Find a Place That Sells Quality Salon Products
Once you have a clear idea of the material you want and your budget, the next step is to find a reliable supplier. Look for retailers or wholesalers that specialize in salon furniture and have a good reputation for quality and customer service.
Look into the background of the companies you find and read reviews to ensure you’re dealing with a trustworthy supplier. Check if they offer warranties or guarantees on their products, as this can provide additional peace of mind. If possible, it’s never a bad idea to ask for samples of the materials before making a bulk purchase, allowing you to assess the quality and feel firsthand.
While it can be difficult to know where to start your search, we’ve made it easy for you. That’s because Keller International has barber equipment for sale right here on our website. We have a wide selection of chairs available that use a variety of materials, colors, and styles. Take the knowledge you’ve gained from this guide to find a barber chair that works best for you.
