Ultimate Hair Salon Equipment List (free PDF checklist)

Starting your own salon business is a major undertaking, and a big part of that is selecting professional salon equipment.

While most hairdressers already own some basic tools, it takes more than a few shears and a blow dryer to run a full-service salon. Investing in high-quality, functional equipment helps you provide a premium client experience, build your brand and even command higher prices.

At the same time, most new salons don’t have an unlimited budget to stock up on supplies. When you’re just starting out, prioritize necessities over luxuries and focus on the tools you need to generate cashflow. Remember that you can always purchase additional hair salon supplies later as your business grows.

Hair Salon Equipment List 2022

In our hair salon equipment checklist, we’ve summarized the essential items you may need to start a professional barber shop or beauty salon. Depending on the services you plan to offer you may need more or fewer supplies, but this PDF checklist includes all the must-have tools for your new hair salon.

1. Salon Basics

When you purchase or rent your new salon space, you’ll likely be faced with one or several empty rooms. The furniture you select will transform that space from a blank canvas into a thriving hair salon!

These larger pieces are usually some of the biggest line items in a new salon’s budget, so look for durable, well-made items and consider purchasing gently-used salon furniture to save money.

• Reception desk ($500 - $6000)
• Waiting area chairs ($50 - $110 per chair)
• Waiting area tables ($150 - $500 per table)
• Styling station ($200 - $1000)
• Shampoo station / backwash unit ($265 - $850)
• Salon chairs ($200 - $1000 per chair)
• Salon cart or trolley ($150 - $450)
• Retail display shelving ($65 - $1500)
• Lighting ($225 - $3000)
• Washing machine and dryer for towels ($2000 - $5300)

2. Salon Styling Tools

This is where the magic happens! It’s important to have a wide range of shears, razors, combs and other cutting tools at your fingertips so you can choose the RIGHT tool for every style and technique. Well-designed ergonomic tools may also help you prevent career-crushing health problems like repetitive strain injuries and carpal tunnel.

Don’t skimp on shear quality– when it comes to your craft, you get what you pay for. Your tools and your skillset are the core of your business, so choose craftsman-quality items that will enable you to do your best work for years to come. The Sam Villa Essential Series collection is an ideal choice for new stylists and salon owners on a budget.

• Short straight shear for precision detail work ($150 - $675)
• Long straight shear for dry cutting and blunt cuts ($150 - $1125)
• Subtle blending/thinning shear ($250 - $525)
• Texturizing shear ($250 - $525)
• Point cutting shear ($250 - $525)
• Razors and blades ($40 - $160)
• Shear storage case ($30 - $55)
• Shear maintenance tools ($9 - $30)
• Cutting comb set ($25 - $50)
• Styling brush set ($80 - $200)

3. Salon Supplies & Accessories

A great haircut and style takes more than a pair of scissors! Choosing professional salon supplies ensures client comfort in your chair and delivers a prestige experience. Keep in mind that some of these supplies will require frequent replenishing.

• Stylist apron ($12 - $30)
• Cutting cape ($15 - $35)
• Salon towels in several sizes ($10 - $25)
• Hand mirror ($7 - $20)
• Sectioning clips ($5 - $10)
• Misting spray bottle ($5 - $15)
• Disinfectant jar ($16 - $30)
• Salon latex gloves ($5 - $18)
• Styling product ($80 - $300)

4. Salon Electric Tools

Offering color work and finishing services may attract a wider client base and elevate your salon brand. At minimum, make sure you have a salon-quality blow dryer, flat iron and 1” curling iron or wand. The other electric tools you need will depend on your clientele and service list.

• Hood dryer ($150 - $700)
• Professional blow dryer ($80 - $400)
• Blow dryer nozzles ($14 - $30)
• Flat iron ($40 - $350)
• Curling iron/wand ($25 - $150)
• Crimping iron ($25 - $150)
• Hair clipper ($50 - $200)
• Hair trimmer ($50 - $200)

5. Salon Management & Marketing Tools

Many new salon owners overlook the business side of running a salon, but it’s equally as important as providing great hair services. Staying organized, collecting payments, keeping track of your finances and effectively marketing your business all require specialized software and tools.

• Business computer ($1200 - $3500)
• Business phone ($50 - $200)
• Salon scheduling software ($60 - $325 per year)
• Salon Point of Sale (POS) system ($200 - $500)
• Business / appointment reminder cards ($30 - $45)
• Ring light for client photos to share on social media ($50 - $130)

6. How much is equipment for a hair salon?

It’s no secret that the costs of launching a hair salon can add up quickly. Equipment costs vary greatly depending on your market, services offered, target clientele, salon brand (low, medium or high end) and the supplies you already own.

To get a ballpark figure of how much it costs to open a salon, take a look at the hair salon equipment checklist and price sheet below. (You can remove any line items that do not apply to your business). For all of the startup tools and supplies listed, you can expect to spend between $7,668 and $32,663 on equipment for your hair salon.

Ultimately, an investment in quality equipment is an investment in your future as a stylist– one that could pay dividends for many years to come. Choosing professional equipment will help you attract– and retain– good clients while building a salon business you love.