first sunbed checklist for salons

Checklist: Your first sunbed

There are several things you need to consider and have ready before you can install your first commercial sunbed. This is regardless of whether you purchase, hire or lease purchase equipment.

Here is a quick list of some of the things you need to think about. We may ask you these questions when you enquire!

  1. What style of sunbed fits with your business model?

Depending on your premises, only certain sunbeds may suit your plan. Both laydown sunbeds and vertical tanning units have their benefits. We recommend providing at least one of each to appease all client needs. However, if only looking to house a single sunbed, you should consider the pros and cons of each type of sunbed: 

Laydown sunbeds:

These models are ideal for a relaxing tanning session. They are also great for those with mobility issues, as tanners do not need to stand for prolonged periods. 

Vertical sunbeds:

Great for smaller spaces. Vertical tanning beds ensure tanners don’t get pressure points and there is less likelihood of equipment damage from inappropriate products being used. 

 

2. Do you have space for the minimum room dimensions?

These room measurements should include:

  • Height
  • Depth
  • Width

Make sure you have the space for your equipment plus extra room for clients to get changed/sit down. There should also be space so staff can clean easily and access the sunbed’s power source.

When measuring your room, ensure equipment has its full range of movement without risk of damage – check measurements of your desired equipment open and closed to ensure it fits comfortably with easy access for tanners. Each sunbed has different measurements, which are available in our catalogue and equipment brochure. 

Get in touch with our team to view our portfolio!

3. Do you have adequate access to install the sunbeds?

Clear access is important for the installation of your sunbeds and also for client access once your business has opened.

Make sure to check and inform us of the following before an install:

  • Are there stairs our engineers (and future clients) would need to climb to access your salon or sunbeds?
  • How wide are the doors to fit the sunbed parts through?
  • Is your electrical supply in the right place that is easily accessible once your sunbed has been installed? This must be within 1.5m of where you plan to install your equipment! 

Unsure if everything is suitable? Not to worry!

Before installation, our team will come out to survey your premises and ensure that we will be able to install safely.

4. Do you have an adequate electrical supply to your premises?

Single or 3 phase: This is an important decision for many salons. Depending on the number of sunbeds, or services you hope to provide, you will need to look into a 3 phase electrical supply. This ensures that you will cover all services with no risk of over-use which could damage your supply. 

Typically for a salon with more than one sunbed, we recommend enquiring into whether 3 phase would be right for you. 

What’s more, Before committing to your salon’s future layout, make sure you consider where current electrical outlets are placed. You cannot use a basic plug-in for your sunbed, an electrician will need to install specific wall sockets to support the energy needed to run your equipment. Note this also means you cannot use an extension lead to bridge the gap between plug and equipment. 

5. Do you have suitable ventilation in the sunbed room and within the salon?

This is necessary for the comfort of your clients and your equipment’s functionality too. 

Sunbeds should be allowed time between sessions to cool down, to avoid overheating or equipment damage. Ventilation helps speed up this process and avoids your premises getting too warm, especially in summer.

Some vertical tanning units do this on their own with built-in fans. However, for most equipment, ducting needs to be installed to help siphon warm air away and also help rid your equipment of dust.

6. Do you have adequate insurance?

All licenses and insurance must be approved and set up before salon opening. 

You will need to add the sunbeds to your insurance schedule and additionally provide a copy to Cyrano. 

7. Will you join the Sunbed Association?

Unsure where to get sunbed insurance? Have you considered joining the Sunbed Association? Being a member of the The Sunbed Association provides access to a Member-only insurance policy as well as a 24-hour legal helpline.

Being a member of The Sunbed Association demonstrates to your customers, your staff, and regulatory and enforcement agencies that you are committed to operating to best practices.

why use tanning lotion

8. What complimentary tanning lotions do you / are you planning to stock for your customers?

When providing tanning sessions for clients, tanning lotions are a lucrative upsell. Lotions will improve tanners’ sessions by:

  • Improving tan results for deeper, longer-lasting colour at a faster rate
  • Soften and smooth skin
  • Keep skin hydrated
  • Prevent tattoos from fading
  • Combat the ageing process
  • Prevent tanners from smelling after their session
  • Combat dryness which could otherwise result in increased oil production 

 

Tanning lotions can be stocked in both sachet and bottle form. This also opens your salon up to further sales opportunities, such as Tan Extenders and sun cream for improved customer experience and increased revenue in-salon. We recommend Australian Gold as a worldwide bestselling brand of products for both indoor and outdoor tanning!