Running a successful salon means keeping everything organized, stylish, and functional—especially your hairdresser’s station. Whether you’re cutting, coloring, or styling, your station is your workspace, your creative zone, and your command center. And let’s be real: when you’re juggling demanding clients and endless appointments, having a well-equipped station is imperative.
If you’re setting up a new salon space or upgrading your existing one, you’ll need some advice to ensure you get it right. This guide will break down all the must-have features and equipment that every functional hairdresser’s station needs.
Features for the Hairdresser’s Station
Let’s start by going over some of the most important features that you should look for when buying your new hairdresser station. While not all of them are necessarily critical to have, we still consider them to be must-haves in the right situations.
Ample Countertop Space
You know the struggle—balancing a dozen hair tools, mixing bowls, brushes, products, and maybe even some space for your coffee cup. This is why a spacious countertop is crucial to keep things running smoothly. Look for surfaces that are durable and scratch-resistant while also easy to clean—because stains from color treatments and hair sprays don’t disappear on their own.
You should also consider countertops with built-in compartments on top of the table so you can tuck away small tools like combs and shears. This way, you’ll have everything easily accessible but still keep the clutter contained.
Tool Organizers and Holders
Hot curling irons on a standard countertop? No thanks. A functional station comes with built-in heat-resistant tool holders for your blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands. These keep your high-heat tools safely stored and off your counter. Plus, specialized holders prevent tools from falling over mid-style and keep cords from tangling up into a chaotic mess.
Built-In Electric Outlets
If you’ve been crawling under a station to find the one power strip available, you know the pain. Built-in outlets are a lifesaver. Choose stations with accessible power sockets or USB ports so you can keep everything—from clippers to chargers—powered up without the hassle. If you want to keep your station looking sleek, opt for hidden wiring as well.
Plenty of Storage Options
Of course, your hairdresser’s station isn’t just about the surface—what’s underneath also counts. Think shelves, cabinets, and drawers. A mix of open and concealed storage is perfect for holding extra supplies like hairsprays, gloves, and additional tools. Look for stations with lockable drawers if you want an extra layer of security, especially for pricier tools.
To make the most of this space, be sure to designate specific compartments for frequently used items. For example:
- Top or thinner drawers are ideal for essentials like scissors, combs, and clips.
- Bottom or deeper drawers are best for hair products and other large pieces of equipment.
Adjustable Mirror
No salon station is complete without a high-quality mirror. But not just any mirror—you want a professional-grade, adjustable one. Why adjustable? Different clients mean different angles, and you need flexibility when making sure every strand of hair is flawless.
Ergonomic Design
Your back and feet deserve some love too! Ergonomic features like adjustable heights and strategically designed storage placement can literally save you years of wear and tear. No matter which height you set yours at, keeping your posture intact during long workdays is non-negotiable.
Lighting That Slays
Natural lighting isn’t always an option, and we all know fluorescent lights can’t exactly do justice to that rich balayage you just spent hours perfecting. If you need additional lighting, go for stations with built-in LED lighting—preferably with a neutral white balance to offer a true-to-color reflection.
Good lighting not only helps you see your work clearly but also enhances the overall vibe of your salon. Plus, clients will appreciate the picture-perfect glow when they snap a post-cut selfie.
Hooks and Hangers
Don’t you hate it when styling capes and client robes are all over the place? Built-in hooks or hangers are the unsung heroes of a functional station. They keep everything streamlined, organized, and professional-looking.
Easy Mobility
If you’re working in a dynamic space or a smaller salon, consider investing in a portable station. Rolling wheels with locking mechanisms can give you flexibility without sacrificing stability. Perfect for stations that need to multitask as much as you do!
Customizable Aesthetic
Your station isn’t just functional—it’s part of your brand. Whether you’re curating sleek black units for your modern salon or opting for warm woods to create a cozy vibe, make sure your station fits your salon’s personality. Customizable options, like interchangeable drawer fronts or a variety of finishes, can match your décor perfectly.
Other Equipment These Stations Should Have
While we’re more focused on covering the must-have features for your hairdresser station itself, there’s a ton of complementary equipment that’ll level up your workspace even more. Make sure you have these items if you want to provide the best hair service possible.
Comfortable Salon Chair
The perfect chair blends function and style. Hydraulic chairs are a salon staple, offering the adjustability you need for services like precision cutting and coloring. Bonus points if the seat padding is ultra-comfy since your clients will be spending a good chunk of time there!
Blow Dryer Stand
Invest in a separate blow dryer stand if your station doesn’t already include one. It frees up your hands and saves your wrists from that all-too-familiar fatigue during blowouts.
Disinfectant Jar
Cleanliness is an absolute must in any salon. A sleek, professional disinfectant jar ensures your tools remain sanitized and keeps your station looking tidy.
Color Tray
Have you ever found yourself mixing hair color directly on your station’s surface? If so, yikes. It’s better to have a dedicated color tray that provides space to mix and store your bowls and brushes mid-appointment (without worrying about permanent stains).
Anti-Fatigue Mat
It’s no secret that most hairdressers spend hours on their feet each day. That’s why you should protect yourself with an anti-fatigue mat. These cushioned lifesavers reduce strain on your legs and lower back, especially during those long, double-booked shifts.
Clips and Brush Organizers
Organized chaos is still chaos, but it’s much more manageable. You can achieve this with magnetic clips or brushed metal holders designed specifically for hair clips and brushes. These can make all the difference when you’re racing through a busy day.
Trash Receptacle
Every station needs a discreet place for waste disposal. Whether it’s a small bin for hair clippings or a separate space for disposable gloves and foils, having one within reach saves valuable time while making your space look much neater.