How to Sterilize Tools in a Salon

Working in a salon, you come across many different people on any given day and you’re also using salon tools for every single client, which means that you probably need to have a sanitation and sterilization routine. Not only do these routines keep your guests and clients safe, but they can also protect you and, ultimately, the business.

If your business were to be using hair salon supplies that weren’t properly sterilized and cleaned, it could cause serious illness or infection of your staff or guests, which could drastically affect your salon’s reputation and business. 

But don’t panic — whether you’re a salon owner or a stylist, we have put together some of our essential tips for making sure that your products stay clean and safe for your people and your clients.

Are There Standard Requirements for Salon Sanitation and Sterilization?

The answer to this question is yes and no. Many states and regions may have very strict and specific guidelines for salon sanitation and cleaning, but they may differ and change depending on where you are. As you open and operate your salon, be sure to look into any local laws, requirements and regulations for salons. Abiding by these rules will keep your salon in business while also ensuring a safe and healthy workplace.

Different Ways to Sterilize Tools in a Salon

At SALONORY, we recommend a few tried and true ways to sterilize your go-to tools. 

• UV-Sanitation — If your salon has a UV-sanitation cabinet, this is a great way to sanitize tools overnight and prepare them for the next day. Depending on the cabinet you have, tools can be sterilized in as little as a few minutes or hours. 
• Disinfectant Chemicals — For tools that you use often and for those that may come into contact with a client’s skin, we highly recommend using antiseptic and disinfection chemicals, which can quickly sterilize and sanitize your tools. Before investing in these harsh chemicals, you may want to check local and state regulations. Some agencies are strict on the use of chemicals, as well as how salons should be disposing of them. 
• Heat — You can also effectively use heat to sterilize tools and products in a variety of ways. First, you can boil water or put products in an airtight steam chamber. Make sure the water and steam reach 212º F. Tools can also be baked in an oven or something similar to sterilize. 

Essential Tips for Sterilizing Tools in a Salon

Now that you know there are a few ways that you can safely and effectively sterilize the tools you use in your salon every day, let’s talk about some tips to help you ensure your salon tools are sanitized. These tips also make it easy for everyone to regularly participate in sterilizing the products you use every day. 

1. Create a Routine — Since you have a steady stream of clients that you see throughout the day, you will need to implement and create a sterilizing routine so that your stylists never run out of sterilized tools. These routines could look like hourly or nightly rituals that ensure tools are properly sterilized and ready. 
2. Clearly Label Chemicals and Train People on How to Use Them — If your salon uses disinfecting chemicals to sterilize tools, you will need to show your people how to properly use these chemicals as they can become hazardous if used improperly. Clearly labeling these chemicals also further protects your people and salon from them being misused. 
3. Wash First, Sterilize Second — Before sterilizing products and tools, you will need to wash them with warm soapy water. Then, once products are dried and clean, they can be sterilized. 
4. Create Places to Store Sterilized Tools — How do you know if tools have been sterilized or not? Salons are busy day in and day out, which is why it’s important to dedicate a storage space in your salon for sterilized tools that are ready to use. 
5. Designate a Place for Tools that Need to Be Sterilized — Tools that have not been sterilized need to be kept separately from tools that are clean. You can designate a spot for these tools so that it’s easy to know when you’re running low on sterilized tools. 
6. Wrap Sterilized Tools — If you are using a UV-sanitizer cabinet, you may consider wrapping tools in sterilization pouches. This can help keep products sanitary, and it also shows your clients that you go to great lengths to sanitize your products. 
7. Use Single-Use Tools Where Necessary — Single-use tools are not the most environmentally-friendly option, but when it comes to protecting your people and your clients, single-use tools can be effective in keeping services clean and safe. 

You’re already one step closer to having a salon that’s safe and clean by implementing these sterilizing tips for your tools.