With the outbreak of COVID-19, many people have stopped going to hair salons and barbershops, and have turned to "COVID haircuts" at home which, let’s face it, don't always work out as hoped. Even though so many of them are in desperate need of their usual hairdresser, their concerns about the spread of the virus in these types of establishments keep them from going back.
Now that businesses are gradually opening back up across the province, the question is what can be done in hair salons and barbershops to make sure both customers and staff feel safe? This article shows you the best ways to clean and disinfect hair salons for everyone’s peace of mind.
Best Practices to Disinfect Hair Salons
Disinfecting a hair salon does not only mean using a disinfecting solution to mop the floors and wipe chairs; it means that all high-traffic areas, tools, equipment, and even the air should be disinfected and sanitized.
High-traffic and high-touch areas in hair salons include the reception and retail area, work stations, shampoo bowls, pedicure bowls, back bar, treatment rooms, and washrooms. Tools and equipment include combs, brushes, scissors, clippers, flat irons and blow dryers.
The general recommendation to clean, sanitize and disinfect in hair salons is, first, to remove excess hair from surfaces, then clean with soap and water and dry before disinfection, and finally apply a disinfectant solution for the appropriate contact time, according to the manufacturer’s specification.
Best Practices to Disinfect Barbershops
To properly clean, sanitize and disinfect barbershops, the same recommendations for hair salons should be applied, but since these places use other sharp tools and equipment like electric razors and straight blades, there are a few extra considerations.
Non-disposable shaving blades and razors should be sterilized between customers for safety reasons. Also, if someone is accidentally cut, barbers should provide first aid wearing disposable gloves. They can also apply styptic powder or liquid with a disposable applicator to stop the bleeding. After the situation is under control, they should be mindful of possible blood spills on surfaces or items, which should be disinfected immediately.
In addition to the aforementioned high-touch areas, barbershops should also disinfect styling chairs, massage tables, and credit card devices, between clients. If reusable chair covers are used, they should also be disinfected after each client, but single-use tools and supplies are what is recommended.
We know following all these recommendations is a lot of work and very time-consuming, but that is only because the first idea which comes to most people's minds when they think about disinfecting is to buy a regular disinfectant, spray it all over, and then wipe it down.
But wait! There is a more effective, accessible, and practical way to disinfect your hair salon or barbershop.
Handheld foggers, like the Nano Atomizer or Mini Thermal Fogger, allow you to disinfect all of these areas quickly and effectively, even if customers are present in your establishment. These devices use non-toxic disinfecting solutions that will cause no harm to individuals. They are safe to disinfect chairs, air, tools, and any equipment used, plus doors and window handle.
Additionally, try to keep an air conditioner always on to keep the air inside the salon or barbershop clean and moving, or if possible, open the windows for good air circulation. Before and after work hours, clean the entire area and disinfect using the Nano Atomizer, which is safe to use on electronics like blow dryers, because it is a dry fogger. The disinfectant will dwell for the proper amount of time on any surfaces to thoroughly disinfect, and will not leave a residue.
Furthermore, you must make sure your customers follow good personal hygiene and have them use a hand sanitizer before entering your salon.
Step by Step Guide to Disinfect Hair Salons
Set up a hand sanitizing station for when a customer first walks in.
Guide them directly to their chair.
After the customer has left, use a handheld fogger to quickly disinfect the chair, any nearby surfaces, tools, and air. Be sure to spray all high-touch areas.
After only a few minutes, you're ready for your next customer!
Now you know how to effectively and easily disinfect and sanitize your hair salon or barbershop. Let your customers know of these steps that you are taking to ensure their peace of mind. They will be very thankful that you care about their safety and will hopefully keep coming back.