When setting up or upgrading your barbershop, choosing the right barber chair is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The right chair not only affects your client's comfort but also impacts your efficiency and the overall atmosphere of your space. One of the most common questions barbers face is: Should I choose a reclining or non-reclining barber chair?
Let's break down the pros, cons, and best uses of each type to help you make the right choice for your business.
Reclining Barber Chairs: Comfort Meets Versatility
Reclining barber chairs are designed with flexibility in mind. The backrest can tilt backward - often up to 135° - allowing barbers or stylists to perform services like shaving, facial treatments, eyebrow threading, or even shampooing.
Advantages:
Multi-Purpose Use
Ideal for barbershops that also offer facial waxing, beard trims, or hot towel shaves. One chair can handle multiple services.
Superior Comfort
The reclining position helps clients relax, reducing neck and back strain during longer sessions.
Professional Image
Reclining chairs often feature premium materials and mechanisms that give your shop a high-end, luxurious feel.
Things to Consider:
Higher Price Point
Because of the additional mechanisms, reclining chairs tend to cost more.
Heavier Build
They can be bulkier and require a bit more space, so plan your layout carefully.
Best For:
Barbershops or salons offering full-service grooming, from haircuts to shaves and facials.
Recommended Product:
OmySalon BC1604 Retro Recline Barber Chair
Key Features: Reclines up to 135°, 19.7" square seat, heavy-duty build, supports multiple services including haircut, shave, or eyebrow/wax treatments.
More Details: OmySalon BC1604 Retro Heavy Duty Hydraulic Recline Barber Chair
Non-Reclining Barber Chairs: Simple, Sturdy, and Efficient
Non-reclining barber chairs focus on stability and efficiency. They are ideal for female-focused salons, kids’ salons, or shops that mainly provide haircuts and styling, where clients stay seated throughout the service.
Advantages:
Lightweight & Space-Saving
Easy to move and fits in compact salon layouts.
Budget-Friendly
A great choice for new shops or those expanding with multiple stations.
Less Maintenance
Fewer moving parts means less wear and tear over time.
Things to Consider:
Limited Service Range
Best for haircut-only stations; not suitable for facial or shaving services.
Fixed Comfort
Clients can’t adjust their position like in a reclining chair.
Best For:
Salons focusing on haircuts, styling, or quick grooming services.
Recommended Product:
OmySalon SC2001 Hydraulic Salon Chair
Key Features: Wide seat (19.7" W × 21.6" D), low backrest, height-adjustable, 360° swivel, durable heavy-duty construction, perfect for sit-up services in female-focused or compact salons.
More Details: OmySalon SC2001 Heavy Duty Hydraulic Hair Stylist Salon Chair
Which One Should You Choose?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, your choice depends on your services, space, and target clients.
For a premium, all-in-one service experience → choose a reclining barber chair.
For simplicity, affordability, and efficiency → a non-reclining model works best.
No matter which style you choose, OmySalon offers a range of high-quality chairs built for comfort, durability, and style.
Explore our Barber Chair Collection below:
Reclining Chairs
Non-Reclining Chairs
