It can feel like the amount of things we need to clean never gets smaller and we never seem to have enough time to do it but for hairdressers, beauticians and barbers it is a vital part of your business. Your salons need to be cleaned to maintain hygiene for your clients and you want your clients to feel comfortable so that they will come back again. After all, a repeat customer doesn't cost the salon owner as much as finding new customers and people would rather pay to have their hair done in a clean salon than a dirty one. Having an organised space is safer for you and your clients. You don't want a client to have an accident due to a hazard like an exposed wire and then they could come to you with an injury claim. Similarly, it is your duty to protect your staff members from harm so you cannot get into trouble due to employer negligence. For these reasons and more it is critical that your salon meets cleanliness and hygiene standards and that each member of staff is following the proper cleaning procedures.
It can feel like a huge task when you're back to back with clients however small amounts done throughout the day and a decent clean at the end of the day will usually be more than sufficient for any salon.
In-Between Clients:
- Wipe over your workstation using antibacterial wipes or spray
- Clean the chair so that it is free from hair. We advise that if there are any colour spills that they be acted on immediately to help protect the fabric from staining
- Bin any single use items from the previous client and remove any cups or rubbish they might have left
- Sweep hair from the floor
Daily Cleaning:
- Take out the bins. This will help prevent pests like mice coming into the salon
- Wipe over the backwash units and basins. Where water can rest mould can grow quickly so keep this area as clean as possible
- Vacuum or sweep the floors and then mop with antibacterial floor cleaner
- Put used towels in to wash or throw away disposable towels
- Sanitise equipment using Barbicide or other disinfectants but remember to check the instructions so you don't ruin your tools. Check gowns for stains, rips etc.
- Clean bathrooms, kitchens and the waiting area by wiping over surfaces and sweeping underneath
- Check for hazards such as exposed wires, trip hazards etc and act on any found immediately
Products required:
You don't need a lot of specialised cleaning products to keep your salon looking in tip top condition. Antibacterial cleaners, sweeping brushes, mops and other household products are usually sufficient but always check the retailers recommended cleaning procedures for specialised equipment. It can seem like a big outlay to invest in specialised cleaning equipment but often it will prolong the life of whatever equipment it is cleaning so actually works out better in the long run. Barbicide, saloncide and other similar products are are designed for use in salons so you know that you are using the right product.
Deep Clean:
It's important to keep on top of your cleaning but sometimes it can be necessary to do a deep clean. As salons get a lot of traffic and footfall grime and dirt can build up in places you wouldn't necessarily expect. A deep clean is a complete clean of everything, not just the visible surfaces.
- Declutter the work stations and check equipment thoroughly for signs of wear
- wash towels, aprons, gowns etc on a very hot wash to kill bacteria
- wipe down the reception area including the desk and retail area as well as other touch heavy areas such as the card machine and anything else clients will frequently use
- organise and clean the stock room so that you know exactly what stock you have at all times and it is a clear and safe space for your staff to operate
This is only a small guide to the cleaning procedures needed for a salon. Of course every salon is different so make cleaning policies that work for your space. That way you have a fantastic and clean salon space for you and your staff to shine in!