Whether you're setting up a brand-new salon or giving your space a much-needed upgrade, one key piece of furniture can make or break your client's comfort—the salon chair. From styling to pedicures, the right chair improves both your workflow and the overall customer experience.
In this guide, we break down the most common types of salon chairs, their features, and how to choose the best ones for your specific services. Let’s dive in.
Styling chairs (also known as barber or hairdressing chairs) are the backbone of most salons. These chairs are primarily used for haircuts, blow-drying, and styling. Because stylists need full access to a client’s head from different angles, mobility and adjustability are crucial.
· 360° swivel base for easy maneuverability
· Hydraulic or electric height adjustment for ergonomics
· Reclining backrest for shampooing or facial grooming
· Footrest and padded armrests for added comfort
Styling chairs come in a wide variety of designs—from sleek, modern chrome finishes to vintage leather looks. For high-traffic salons, durability and easy-to-clean materials like PU leather are essential.
Recommended for: Hair salons, barber shops, unisex studios 🔗 Explore our Styling Chair Collection
A shampoo station is often where the relaxation begins, so a good shampoo chair is critical to a client’s comfort. Shampoo chairs can be standalone or part of a full backwash unit with an attached ceramic basin. Either way, proper alignment between the chair and basin is crucial to avoid neck strain.
· Adjustable or tilting backrest
· Cushioned neck rest and lumbar support
· Water- and chemical-resistant upholstery
· Compatible with plumbing systems for drainage
Some chairs come with massage features and footrests to enhance the luxury experience. Choose models with molded seats and ergonomic contours to prevent sliding during washes.
Recommended for: Hair salons, head spa studios, color treatment areas 🔗 Browse Shampoo Chairs & Backwash Units
Facial beds or esthetician chairs are essential for services like facials, waxing, lash extensions, and medical-grade skincare treatments. These chairs often offer full-body support and are highly adjustable to accommodate different procedures.
· Multi-zone adjustability: headrest, backrest, seat, and leg sections
· Manual or electric adjustment
· Detachable armrests for ease of access
· Optional features like heating, USB ports, and LED lighting
Full-flat positioning allows estheticians to perform treatments comfortably from various angles, while clients remain relaxed. For clinics and medspas, an electric esthetician bed offers premium functionality and elevates the space’s professionalism.
Recommended for: Skincare clinics, lash & brow bars, medspas 🔗 See our Esthetician Bed Collection
Pedicure spa chairs are where your clients go to unwind. These luxurious chairs combine seating with a built-in foot spa basin and often include massage functions. They are a staple in any full-service nail salon.
· Built-in foot bath with jets or vibration massage
· Adjustable leg support and reclining seat
· Shiatsu or rolling massage in the backrest
· Manicure trays, cup holders, remote controls
Look for models with easy-to-clean surfaces, disposable liner compatibility, and plumbing-ready connections. Clients appreciate thoughtful add-ons like USB ports and padded headrests.
🛍️ Recommended for: Nail salons, day spas, beauty lounges 🔗 Browse Pedicure Spa Chairs
For salons that offer a mix of services or operate in compact spaces, multi-functional salon chairs are a game changer. These all-in-one units can be adjusted to handle hair styling, shampooing, facials, and more.
· 3-5 motor electric systems for smooth, silent transitions
· Adjustable backrest, seat tilt, height, and leg support
· Flat-to-seated positioning
· Lockable wheels for mobility and stability
These chairs maximize your service range without taking up extra floor space. With modern designs and customizable finishes, they add a high-tech touch to your setup.
Perfect for: Boutique salons, mobile setups, home studios 🔗 Discover Electric All-in-One Salon Chairs
Reception chairs might not be service tools, but they’re part of your brand’s first impression. A well-designed waiting area helps put clients at ease and sets the tone for the rest of their experience.
· Upholstery options that match salon branding
· Comfortable cushioning and supportive armrests
· Modular seating options for flexibility
For a cohesive look, choose reception furniture that aligns with your treatment chairs in color, materials, and design. Add coffee tables, magazines, or product displays to create a welcoming space.
Recommended for: Salon lobbies, wellness centers, clinics 🔗 View Reception Furniture
Choosing the perfect salon chair starts with understanding your needs. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Type of Service | Recommended Chair Type | Must-Have Features |
---|---|---|
Haircut/Styling | Styling Chair | Swivel base, hydraulic lift |
Shampoo/Coloring | Shampoo Chair | Recline, neck support |
Facial/Lashes | Esthetician Bed | Full flat, adjustable angles |
Pedicure/Foot Spa | Spa Chair | Foot basin, massage, recline |
Small Studio | Multi-Function Chair | Space-saving, electric control |
Bonus Tips:
· Invest in quality for high-traffic areas.
· Match color/style with your salon brand.
· For bulk orders, look for wholesale salon furniture suppliers like DP Beauty Furniture.
At DP Beauty Furniture, we offer:
· Direct factory pricing
· Customization options (color, logo, features)
· Global shipping, especially strong fulfillment to the U.S. and Canada
· Support for wholesale & bulk orders
Whether you’re furnishing one chair or outfitting your entire salon, our team is here to help you make the right choice.
Q1: What’s the difference between a styling chair and a barber chair?
A barber chair usually reclines more and includes a headrest, making it better for shaves and beard trimming. Styling chairs focus more on flexibility and simplicity for hair services.
Manual beds are cost-effective, but electric beds offer more comfort and smoother transitions—especially useful for high-end services or elder clients.
Plan for at least 4–5 feet in width and 6 feet in length per pedicure station, including technician space and plumbing access.
Yes—if you’re working in a mobile studio or tight space, one high-quality all-in-one chair can handle multiple treatments with ease.
Right here on www.dpbeautyfurniture.com—we are a direct manufacturer, offering factory pricing and custom OEM services.
"*" indicates required fields