When the late March stay-at-home order went into effect for most areas of the U.S., malls were empty, restaurants were empty – heck, the roads were empty. But … somehow, the parking lots at Lowe’s and Home Depot were filled to capacity. Where I live, there was no social distancing going on in these joints, and I am sure that most of you saw the same thing and maybe even visited these establishments multiple times during lockdown. Ten-year-old “honey-do” lists were obliterated, and home improvement projects abounded. The majority of people I know were doing some pretty sizeable home renovations. We have also seen, through various social media platforms, all the incredible work that salon owners put into sprucing up or fully refurbishing the appearance of their lobby or entire salon. At PC Tan, what we have not seen as much of – either online or through orders placed with us – is the real fix-up of equipment in the salons. There’s still time and no time is better than the present!
Today’s tanning systems are not your grandma’s Sunday-driving car. Your equipment is like a constantly running, 750-horsepower NASCAR vehicle … that never takes a pit stop! If these UV and sunless tanning systems had tongues, they would be constantly hanging out and panting to catch their breath. This is most especially true of the top (upgrade) units in your salon. They are run the hardest in most salons because they look incredible, they perform incredibly and provide an incredible experience. While these top-level units are running, dust is gathering on the A/C unit, the electronics boards, the lamps, the underside of the acrylic shields – everywhere.
Keeping your tanning units in peak operating condition requires constant cleaning, which is a lot of work, yes; but your clientele will absolutely notice the difference and appreciate it now more than ever as we navigate the “New Normal” post-COVID era. It is reassuring for salon guests to observe your staff busily performing thorough, consistent cleaning and disinfection procedures. A good practice is to keep good records by starting and maintaining service/maintenance logs. Begin by documenting routine cleaning such as acrylics, lamps, reflectors and air filters, as well as preventative maintenance. This will prove to be a most useful tool for keeping your beds in top working condition. It has long been said that the most successful salons are the cleanest salons, and that is truer now than ever.
When cleaning equipment, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines (you should have the manual.) Be sure to use a suitable cleaning and disinfectant agent and dilute it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use these tips to stay on top of your game:
Target Areas to Clean After Each Session
- Beds: Bench acrylics & handles (be sure to check for wear & tear/stress)
- Booths: metal grids or acrylic shields & floors
- Control panels
- Sunbed neck pillows
- Exterior cover surfaces
- Protective goggles
- Canopy and side acrylics
Target Areas to Keep in Your Routine
- Air filters
- Low-pressure lamps
- Undersides of acrylics
- Reflectors
- Vacuum fans, grills, vents
- Check lamp hours and note when changing starters
Salons are pleased to report great reopening turnout, thus far, and are excited and looking forward to a great summer. Team PC Tan is thrilled to be right there by your side!
