Which Salon Towels Are Right For Your Business?

Whether you're a hairdresser, manicurist, barber or esthetician, the tool you likely reach for most throughout the day, unsurprisingly, is a towel. Taking the time to choose the right towels can not only make a financial difference for your business, but also an aesthetic one. In most situations, these linens must be durable and able to withstand harsh chemicals, yet they also need to stay soft to the touch and feel comfortable to clients. Most of all, salon towels must retain their vibrant color, appearing fresh and clean after endless washing.

By educating yourself on the variety of towel materials and types, common mistakes to avoid when ordering, and proper care techniques, you can increase your chances of purchasing the perfect towel for your salon or spa at the most affordable price.

Cotton Towels

There are two main types of cotton towels, 100% cotton and cotton blends. While pure cotton lines offer better absorbency and durability, cotton blends keep their shape over a longer period of time. Overall, cotton towels are the most popular choice in salons. But be wary of poorly manufactured, low-grade cotton towels. Trusted Suppliers will never use recycled cotton that results in less absorbency and short lifespans.

Color-Safe

Faded, stained towels have no place in a professional salon. While you should always follow the manufacturer's listed care instructions, there are times you may wish to sanitize your towel supply. Good color-safe linens should be washable in hot water and bleach without fading or losing their vibrancy. If you are concerned about your towels' bleachability, perform this quick test: Add 2 teaspoons of bleach to ¼ cup water; apply a small drop to a hidden part of the towel, such as under the care label; wait 1 minute then blot dry; no color change means you can safely bleach the towel.

Microfiber Towels

Microfiber towels are long lasting, more durable and ultra absorbent compared to regular cotton linens. This superior material is also stain and chemical resistant, quick drying, and will not shrink. These multipurpose cloths are super-soft and can be used at various salon stations.

Bleach-Safe

The best bleach-safe towels are resistant to bleach, chlorine, peroxide, acetone, dyes and other harsh salon chemicals. These linens should be guaranteed by their manufacturer to never fade or lose color. As the workhorses of the salon industry, they should not only be durable and stain resistant, but also super-soft to keep clients comfortable.

Paper Towels

Dependable salon paper towels can be found in two and three-ply thicknesses. Available with both textured and smooth surfaces, disposable paper towels can quickly clean up spills, splashes, and drips without creating more laundry.

Avoid These 3 Common Salon Towel Mistakes

Avoiding common mistakes when selecting towels for your salon or spa will save you money. Ordering the right towels to match your business needs will keep cloths in better condition longer, preventing the need for frequent replacement.

Common Mistake #1:

Mixing Chemicals And Non-Chemical Proof Towels

Most salons and spas use harsh chemicals for salon services and cleaning. Non-chemical proof towels will quickly begin to appear spotty and frayed if used with these compounds. The cost of replacement linens can add up quickly, especially if towels start to wear after their first use. Avoid this mistake by using towels that can withstand coming into contact with common chemicals.

Common Mistake #2:

Using Towels Incorrectly

Mixing towels between different salon stations is the best way to send new cloths into early retirement. Each station of your salon or spa should have it's own towel supply that meets the daily demands of that service. Furthermore, you should never use the same towels throughout the entire salon. Keeping towels separate prevents contamination and extends the life of your towels.

Common Mistake #3:

Choosing Just Any Detergent

Reach out to your towel manufacturer or supplier to find out which detergent is recommended for each type of towel in your salon. The right detergent can help towels last longer and perform better. Oxi-style detergents are a great way to boost cleaning power without harsh additives. Adding fabric softener is a no-no: the additives that make your towels 'softer' often build up over time and prevent towels from absorbing water properly.