The Best Salon Chairs for Hair Stylists
Making sure that your clients are comfortable in the process is essential if you want them to leave feeling pampered. Whether you're setting up your first professional salon, looking to renovate an old space, or just want to enjoy the full experience when cutting hair at home, a salon chair is sure to up your game. And they're not just a cozy spot to lounge on, either. Thanks to the hydraulic pumps and swiveling base, a good salon chair will make your life easier as you snip away.
What to Look For
Considering your needs as a stylist will help when selecting the chair for you. Higher-end chairs may make your appointments easier, especially when they have a reclining backrest, but you can save on costs if you don’t need features like that. Also, be sure to consider the maximum seat height in relation to your stature, as choosing a chair that’s too tall or short could result in uncomfortable working conditions. We took those factors and more into consideration while vetting our top contenders, and here’s what we found. With an affordable and versatile design that’s well-suited for professionals and amateurs alike, the KC-ASC01 from K-Concept was our top pick. But if you want to splurge on a unique centerpiece, the vintage design from BarberPub combines regal comfort with an incredibly durable and practical chassis. Read on below to see what else made the cut.
K-Concept KC-ASC01 Salon Chair
Regular customer
With a classic silhouette that’s sure to fit the scene of any salon’s interior, the KC-ASC01 takes the top spot on our list. It’s a practical choice too, thanks to its heavyweight solid chrome base and smooth hydraulic foot pump, both of which will help you stay focused on your client. And with a protective PU coating over every inch of the upholstery, it’s easy to clean down as you get ready for the next customer.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty 400-pound weight limit
- With a maximum seat height of 26 inches, it can get plenty high from the ground
- Footrest is removable
Cons:
- Assembly instructions could be a little clearer
Beauty Style Classic Hydraulic Barber Chair
At your service
This minimalist design from Beauty Style is a practical, affordable option well suited to both new and growing salon enterprises. You’ll have no trouble adjusting the hydraulic mechanism to the right height to find the perfect cut thanks to the lockable foot-operated pump beneath. With a seat width of 18.5 inches and a 300-pound weight capacity, it’s a comfortable and secure option for most folks.
Pros:
- Durable eco-leather covering
- Illustrated assembly instructions are easy to follow
- Lightweight at just 48 pounds
Cons:
- Plastic footrest isn’t the sturdiest
Artist Hand Hydraulic Recline Salon Chair
Lean back and relax
Whether you’re lathering your client up for a fresh shave, leaning them back for a shampooing, or just looking for the perfect angle to work with, sometimes you might need a little more flexibility than what’s offered by a fixed-back salon chair. This handsome throne from Artist Hand kills two birds with one stone, treating your client to luxurious comfort while also offering you the maneuverability to get the job done. The gas-piston hydraulic recline system can be set as low as 135 degrees, and it features several locking positions so that you can choose the optimal angle.
Pros:
- High-density sponge padding is comfortable and supportive
- Sleek and secure stitching
- Smooth 360-degree swivel
Cons:
- Base isn’t as stable as wider options
BarberPub Heavy-Duty Metal Vintage Barber Chair
Age old luxury
Take a cue from the salons of old with this retro throwback from BarberPub. This meticulously crafted vintage chair isn’t superficial in its charm, either, thanks to its opulent PVC leather covering sporting a textured satin finish. Your clients are sure to feel spoiled while you tend to them in this lavish chair.
Pros:
- Cast aluminum and steel bodywork used in this chair tend to outlast chrome
- Cushioning covers armrests and footrests for full-body support
- Waterproof and stain-resistant cover
Cons:
- The high price tag might turn some away, but we think it’s worth the investment if you’re looking for a luxury chair
Artist Hand Salon Chair
Cheap and cheerful
Whether you’re just starting out with your own private enterprise or looking to equip a large salon space with multiple matching chairs, this affordable offering from Artist Hand is sure to please anyone in search of a bargain. It’s an eye-catching choice, too, with a contemporary squared design that offers a little more character than similar budget options. And thanks to its soft PU leather cover, you won’t have to compromise on your customers’ comfort in the process of saving a few dollars.
Pros:
- Chrome footrest is more durable than most options at this price point
- Several color styles are available
- Non-slip pads on the base
Cons:
- Square base can pose a tipping hazard for heavy sitters
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I adjust the height of a salon chair?
When you’re working on a customer’s hair, reaching over to awkwardly manipulate levers to adjust their height could break your flow. As a result, most salon chairs are equipped with a hydraulic foot pump for easy hands-free height adjustment. The operation will vary depending on the model, but you can usually pump the seat up with single short presses or press and hold to gently lower the chair.
How can I clean my salon chair?
Maintaining hygienic standards in your working environment is essential. Beyond brushing down hair after a cut, you’ll need to periodically wipe down your chairs to ensure they stay squeaky clean, especially if they become covered in hair product residue as you work. Hairspray in particular can damage leather and PU covers, so it should be removed between treatments using a specialized cleaner.
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