How To Maintain Your Salon Equipment
At Salon Supplies, we recognise that professional salon equipment represents a significant investment in your business. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance, hygiene, and longevity. In this guide, we share practical, expert-backed tips to help you care for your tools and maximise their lifespan.
Scissors
You can take several steps to care for your scissors and ensure they stay in excellent condition for as long as possible:
Clean Them Regularly - Wipe scissors clean after every use to remove hair, moisture, or product residue. Use a soft cloth or tissue for this.
Oil the Blades - Apply a small amount of scissor oil daily or after cleaning to keep the blades smooth and prevent rust.
Check the Tension - Ensure the screw tension is correctly adjusted. Too loose or too tight can damage the blades or affect cutting performance.
Store Properly - Always store scissors in a protective case or pouch when not in use to avoid accidental drops or damage.
Sharpen Professionally - Have your scissors sharpened by a professional regularly to maintain their cutting edge. Avoid over-sharpening.
Avoid Dropping - Handle scissors with care to prevent dents, chips, or misalignment caused by falls.
Use for Hair Only - Never use your scissors to cut anything other than hair, as this can dull the blades quickly.
Dry Thoroughly - After cleaning, make sure the scissors are completely dry to prevent rust or corrosion.
Clippers & Trimmers
Consistent maintenance ensures clippers perform effectively, last longer, and deliver a professional-quality haircut every time:
Clean After Every Use - Remove hair clippings and debris using a small brush or clipper cleaning tool to prevent build-up that can clog the blades.
Oil the Blades - Apply a few drops of clipper oil to the blades daily or after each use. This reduces friction, keeps the blades sharp, and prevents overheating.
Check and Adjust Blade Alignment - Periodically check that the blades are properly aligned to prevent uneven cuts or client discomfort. Misaligned blades can also nick the skin.
Keep the Motor Clean - For clippers with removable parts, clean the motor area to ensure smooth operation. Some clippers may require periodic greasing.
Use a Blade Guard - Attach a blade guard when the clippers are not in use to protect the blades from damage.
Avoid Dropping - Handle clippers carefully to prevent internal damage or blade misalignment from falls.
Charge and Store Properly - For cordless clippers, charge them according to the manufacturer's guidelines to maintain battery health. Store in a dry, cool place to avoid moisture and overheating.
Replace Blades When Necessary - Over time, blades will wear out. Replace them when they no longer cut smoothly, even after sharpening.
Furniture
As a salon owner or staff member, you can ensure your furniture remains comfortable, durable, and visually appealing for both clients and staff by following these steps:
Clean Regularly - Wipe down furniture daily with a soft cloth to remove dust, hair, and product residue. Ensure that you are using appropriate cleaning products for specific materials (e.g., leather, vinyl, metal, or wood) to avoid damage.
Use Protective Covers - Invest in chair and station covers to protect surfaces from spills, stains, and chemical damage during treatments.
Avoid Harsh Chemical - When cleaning, steer clear of abrasive cleaners or harsh solvents, as these can damage upholstery and surface finishes. For tougher stains, a professional tip is to use salon-grade cleaning products specifically formulated for salon furniture, this helps ensure effective cleaning without risking accidental damage.
Check for Wear and Tear - Routinely inspect your salon furniture for signs of wear, such as loose screws, faulty hydraulic systems, or tears in the upholstery. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening and to maintain a safe, professional environment.
Condition Upholstery - For leather or vinyl furniture, use a conditioner or protectant to keep the material supple and prevent cracking.
Maintain Hydraulic Equipment - Lubricate and clean hydraulic systems in chairs to ensure smooth operation and prevent squeaking or sticking.
Shelid From Sunlight - Position furniture away from direct sunlight to prevent fading, discoloration, and cracking. If exposure is unavoidable, install UV-protective window films or use curtains or blinds to reduce damage.
Guard Against Heat - Avoid placing hot tools or appliances directly on furniture surfaces. Always use heat-resistant mats or protective pads to prevent heat marks, warping, or surface damage.
Handle with Care - Train staff to avoid rough handling, such as leaning heavily on armrests, which can cause unnecessary strain or damage.
Schedule Deep Cleaning - Periodically hire professional cleaners to thoroughly clean and refresh furniture, especially high-traffic items like styling chairs and shampoo stations.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines - Adhere to the manufacturer’s care instructions for maintenance, cleaning, and servicing to keep warranties valid.
Invest in Quality Repairs - Fix minor issues like small tears, loose parts, or scratches promptly to extend the furniture’s lifespan and maintain a professional appearance.
Heat Tools
Unplug & Cool Down - Always switch off and let tools cool completely before cleaning to avoid damage or electric shock.
Wipe plates/barrels - Use a soft cloth with 70% alcohol or mild shampoo to remove product build-up like sprays and oils. Regular cleaning keeps heat even and prevents snagging.
Clean hair dryer vents - Brush out lint weekly and wash removable filters to maintain strong airflow and prevent overheating.
Store safely - Don’t wrap cords tightly; let tools cool before storing. Use heat-proof mats to protect surfaces.
Use clean products - Apply sprays to hair, not directly to tools, to avoid residue build-up.
Deep clean monthly - Wipe handles and buttons with disinfectant, and check for wear or damage.
Service yearly - Professional servicing keeps tools consistent and safe; replace any frayed cords or chipped plates.
