What Kind of Equipment Do Hair Salons Use Daily?

If you’re planning to open a hair salon, upgrade your space, or simply curious about what makes a professional salon tick, this guide is your go-to. Understanding the essential salon equipment used every day is key to delivering flawless service, keeping clients comfortable, and creating an efficient, stylish workspace.

In this post, we’ll walk through the most important hair salon equipment, tools, and furniture that hairdressers and salon owners use daily — from cutting and styling gear to shampoo units and salon chairs. Whether you're a seasoned stylist or a startup salon owner, here's what your space really needs.

1. Hair Cutting Tools: The Foundation of Every Haircut

High-quality hair cutting tools are a must-have for any professional salon. These tools are used constantly throughout the day, so they need to be durable, comfortable, and precise.

Daily essentials include:

• Hairdressing scissors / shears – For precision cutting and effortless styling
• Thinning scissors – Ideal for texture and seamless layering
• Clippers and trimmers – Used for short styles, fades, and tidy-up work
• Cutting combs – Help with clean sectioning and accurate lines

2. Hair Styling Tools: Create the Perfect Finish

From sleek blow-dries to voluminous curls, hair styling tools help bring your creative vision to life. Investing in reliable styling equipment ensures consistent results and saves time on busy days.

Essential hair styling tools include:

• Hair dryers – Fast-drying with heat control to protect hair
• Hair straighteners – For smooth, sleek finishes
• Curling irons / wands – Ideal for creating various curl patterns
• Hot rollers – Add volume and body to hair
• Diffusers & concentrators – Attachments for tailored styling techniques

 

3. Combs & Brushes: Small but Mighty

You’ll reach for these more than any other tool in the salon. Professional combs and brushes make styling smoother, detangling gentler, and sectioning neater.

Most-used options:

• Detangling brushes – Gentle on all hair types
• Round brushes – Essential for blowouts and volume
• Tail combs – Great for parting and precision work
• Wide-tooth combs – Perfect for applying treatments and combing wet hair

4. Shampoo & Wash Equipment: Where Client Comfort Begins

A luxurious wash experience sets the tone. Your salon backwash units and shampoo chairs should be functional and inviting.

Key salon wash equipment:

• Shampoo chairs with tilting basins – For client comfort and stylist ergonomics
• Backwash units – Built-in plumbing and water control
• Towels and capes – Must-haves for hygiene and presentation
• Hair steamers – Add value to treatments with deep hydration

5. Salon Furniture: Functional, Stylish, and Built to Last

Your salon furniture isn’t just for looks — it affects workflow, client experience, and how smoothly your salon runs.

Essential pieces include:

• Styling chairs – Hydraulic or motorised with adjustable height and tilt
• Styling units and mirrors – Double or single-sided with integrated lighting
• Reception desks – Make the right first impression
• Trolleys and storage units – Keep tools tidy and accessible

6. Colouring & Hair Treatment Tools: For High-Impact Results

Hair colour is one of the most requested salon services, so having the right hair colouring tools is crucial.

Everyday items include:

• Mixing bowls and tint brushes – For even, consistent colour application
• Foils and meche – Essential for highlights and balayage
• Scalp massagers – Encourage product absorption and client relaxation
• Processing caps – Help retain heat during treatments

7. Professional Hair Products: Elevate Every Service

A well-stocked product shelf enhances your services and builds client trust. Choose professional hair products that suit a range of hair types and goals.

Must-haves:

• Shampoos and conditioners – Tailored for colour-treated, curly, or damaged hair
• Heat protection sprays – Shield strands from daily styling
• Styling mousses and serums – For hold, definition, or shine

8. Cleaning & Sanitation: Keep It Spotless

Clean tools = safe clients. In today’s salon environment, hygiene is not just expected — it’s essential.

Daily hygiene tools:

• Barbicide and disinfectants – For combs, brushes, and scissors
• UV sterilisers – A quick, effective sterilisation method
• Disposable gloves and capes – Ideal for colour services
• Hand sanitisers and wipes – For shared surfaces and high-contact areas

Final Thoughts: Why Professional Salon Equipment Matters

Investing in high-quality salon equipment does more than upgrade your space — it boosts client confidence, supports your team, and reflects the professionalism behind your brand.

Whether you’re building your dream salon from scratch or refining the space you’ve already created, starting with the essentials helps future-proof your business.

Ready to upgrade your salon setup? Browse our luxury salon furniture and equipment — carefully curated for professionals who expect more from their tools.