Guide to Barber Chairs

Barber chairs are a big investment, but one that will last your salon a long time. If you buy a high-quality, dependable beauty salon chair, there will be no need to replace it anytime soon. Selecting the right cutting chair isn't as easy as picking out the best-looking one, though. There are many factors that go into this decision.

Keep in mind:

1. Barber chairs are among the first thing your customers will notice when they walk in the door.
2. You should choose a beauty salon chair that's functional, comfortable and eye-pleasing.
3. There are hair cutting chairs that fit every budget, whether you're starting a new salon or redecorating a world-renowned one.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Determine how many barber chairs you need

You may be starting a salon with six stylists lined up or you're planning to work out of your home. Either way, given the cost of salon chairs, you want to buy as many as you need and not any more.

I recommend: Cache Beauty.com and Beauty Design.com offer several styles of barber chairs for sale and other barber equipment you'll need for your business.

Choose between motorized and non-motorized styling chairs

It isn't only the exterior style of a beauty salon chair that sets it apart from others. It's the way it's made. Some hydraulic styling chairs have a footrest raise. Others have the classic hand pump. Then there are motorized styling chairs. You can recline these with the push of a button. But, beware--they will cost you more.

I recommend: Check out Bowman Beauty's selection of barber chairs for sale. They have styles for every salon and budget. Ideal Salons also sells hydraulic lift beauty salon chairs.

Decide what style barber chair would fit in with your motif

Is your salon sleek and modern? Maybe it's a throwback to the barber shops of your grandfather's time. Or, maybe it's geared toward kids' cuts. You can find a cutting chair for every motif and use. Some barber shop suppliers will customize barber chairs, too. If you want a red seat, orange back and blue arm rests, no problem.

I recommend: Factory Direct Impact Incorporated creates custom-designed barber chairs. Iowa Beauty & Barber Supply has 60 styles of barber chairs for sale. They range from classic to funky. Choose vinyl colors here.

Figure out how much money you can spend on barber equipment

Barber shop chairs can be considered one of the most costly investments you'll make. They can range from as little as a few hundred dollars to as much several thousand dollars. It all depends on the look and function you desire. Look for discounts if you buy multiple barber chairs. Some companies will throw in free shipping.

I recommend: Bowman Beauty Supply sells salon chairs and other barber equipment. The company offers free shipping for purchases over $50. Buy-Rite Salon and Spa Equipment stocks more than a dozen styles of barber shop chairs. All are priced below list value. Factory Direct Import Incorporated claims to have the most competitive prices on salon chairs.

Order shampoo or dryer chairs if needed

Shampoo chairs have adjustable backs and allow your clients to lean back into the shampoo bowl. Some even have food rests. There are several different types of dryer chairs. You can buy stand-alone chairs, those with the dryer attached, or stand-alone dryers.

I recommend: Daytona Beauty sells shampoo and dryer chairs. CCI Beauty sells a variety of barbering equipment, including salon chairs, shampoo and dryer chairs.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Know that you may have to wait up to six weeks for barbering equipment to be delivered. If you're in a rush, go with a barber chair supplier who can get the product out the door faster.

The official source of Barber Chairs is the Barber Chairs page at Business.com