Opening your own barbershop is a dream come true, but putting together your first shopping list can be overwhelming. You know the right tools are crucial to providing top-notch service, from the chairs your clients sit in to the clippers your staff works their magic with. But what exactly should you buy, and where do you find it? 

We've compiled a comprehensive list of things a barber needs so you can skip the research and get right to shopping. Read on to learn more about must-have tools, equipment, and supplies.  

Barber Essentials: 17 Tools You Need  

You've named your shop and created a website to attract new clients. Next up? You get to create your own barber’s kit. Here are 17 essentials to include on your tools and equipment list:  

1. Shears  

High-quality barber shears or scissors help you achieve precise cuts, which grow your barber shop's clientele (and boost your reputation). Choose an all-purpose pair or buy a variety to suit different needs, like creating blunt cuts, thinning hair, and texturizing. While 5.5 or 6-inch shears are recommended for general cutting, thinning shears over 6 inches longer are better for bulk cutting, which removes excess bulk from hair to create movement.  

Pro tip: Visit a barber supply shop to test the shears and see which ones you prefer. You can always buy them from another location with a better price, but you can’t beat trying them out yourself.

2. Clippers  

Hair clippers are essential for barber shops, and many barbers use different clippers to suit various needs. Corded clippers plug into the wall and are powerful and reliable for heavy-duty cutting. Cordless clippers, which operate without connection to a power source, offer flexibility and ease of movement for more detailed work.  

Some clippers come with adjustable blades, which help you achieve specific hair lengths, and guard attachments, used for styles like tapers and fades.  

3. Trimmers 

Trimmers are indispensable for detailing and adding a finishing touch to each client's cut. These items come in different sizes and blade types, like T-blade trimmers for edging and lining up hairlines. Narrow-blade trimmers are ideal for more intricate hair design. Like clippers, corded trimmers are more powerful, and cordless trimmers are more convenient. A variety might be best, but it all depends on your clientele and personal preference.  

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4. Neck Strips 

Neck strips create a hygienic barrier between the barber cape and the client's skin, preventing direct contact and reducing potential irritation and germ transmission. Most neck strips are disposable, ensuring a fresh start for each client. Up your game even more with a classy neck strip dispenser.  

5. Combs and Brushes  

Every incredible barber owns a variety of barber combs and brushes. Differ combs and brushes cater to different hair types and styles, with all-purpose items being the most versatile for cutting and styling different hair textures. You want a wide-tooth comb for detangling, and for smooth, sleek styles, reach for a fine-tooth comb.  

As far as brushes go, vented models help you blow dry quickly and efficiently because hot air can pass right through the brush. Paddle brushes speed up the drying process less, but they're great for straightening and smoothing hair. 

6. Straight Razors and Safety Razors  

When you're brainstorming ideas for your barber shop, think about which type of razor you want to use. Straight razors, which fold into their handles, offer close shaves and super-sharp lines. Straight razor shaving requires skill and practice but gives customers an elevated experience, so it’s worth the time and effort to become an expert. 

You can also use safety razors if you're a new barber. This beginner-friendly option provides a close shave with added protection against nicks and cuts for professional results.  

7. Comfortable Chairs 

Every barber shop needs cozy, adjustable chairs to keep clients comfortable. This is vital for client satisfaction (who doesn't want to be comfy during their appointment?) and efficiency since barbers work faster when they can raise and lower the chair their client sits in.  

Hydraulic barber chairs allow for easy height adjustments using a foot pedal, and reclining barber chairs allow clients to fully relax and enjoy themselves during services like shaves and facial treatments.  

Don’t forget about grabbing some cushy seats for your waiting area, too.

8. Mirrors  

When you give a client an excellent new haircut, checking it out from all angles is a must. This is where multiple mirrors come in – they allow you and your client to view your work from different angles. Hang mirrors in front of hair-cutting stations, and make sure you have at least one full-length mirror in your shop. Handheld mirrors help clients see the back and sides of their heads.  

9. Capes and Aprons  

Barber capes protect clients' clothing from hair clippings, water, and styling products. Capes come in various easy-to-clean materials, like waterproof nylon and polyester, and it's up to you to decide which you like best. 

Stock up on aprons to keep yourself and your staff looking professional. Aprons keep your clothing clean and hold your tools, a win-win. They're available in affordable materials like nylon or pricier options like leather.  

10. Spray Bottle 

Add a spray bottle to your list for dampening clients' hair before cutting it. You have two options – a bottle with an adjustable spray nozzle releases a fine mist or a more concentrated stream, while a bottle with a continuous spray nozzle provides an even mist.  

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11. Duster Brush 

A neck duster brush removes loose hair clippings from the client's neck and shoulders. This is especially important at the end of each haircut, as removing the client's cape before you dust them off can result in hair getting all over their clothes. Soft-bristle dusters are gentle on the skin. Some dusters include a base to stand them up, which is convenient for storage. 

12. Shaving Gel and Aftershave 

Shaving gel is a must-have product that creates a barrier between the straight or safety razor and the client's skin. This reduces nicks and skin irritation for a smooth, clean result. Aftershave, applied immediately after shaving, soothes and disinfects the skin. 

Many different types of these products are available, including alcohol-based and moisturizing options. What you choose is up to you, but clients might enjoy having a choice in what you apply.  

13. Blow Dryer 

Purchase a professional-grade blow dryer with adjustable heat and speed settings. Adjustable settings are essential for styling; high heat dries hair quickly, while low heat helps prevent heat damage. A cool air button locks in styles and adds shine, and attachments like diffusers help you create varied looks, like curls. 

14. Towels and Linens 

Maintain hygiene and comfort in your shop with plenty of towels and linens. These are crucial for wiping tools, cleaning spills, and providing a professional touch during services. You can choose colors that suit your shop's paint and decor for a cohesive aesthetic. 

Go the extra mile with a towel warmer, which is perfect for adding that special touch to services like shaves.  

15. Styling Products  

Meet the needs of different clients with varied styling products. From beard balms to tame facial hair to gels, pomades, and waxes for hold and definition, you'll need a selection to create your customer's requested looks.  

16. Disinfectant  

Clean your barber clippers with disinfectant after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria and maintain a hygienic working environment. Products like Clippercide and Barbicide are highly effective and easy to use. Sanitizing your tools between clients keeps everyone safe, and don't forget to do periodic deep cleans.  

17. Barber Software and Point Of Sale (POS) System 

When it comes to running an efficient barber shop, you need more than the correct supplies – you need the best possible barber software, too.  

GlossGenius's top-of-the-line POS system includes hardware and software designed for barber shops and salons. Our powerful card readers accept any payment type so you can check clients out quickly and seamlessly with low processing fees. And GlossGenius’s POS system integrates perfectly with our platform so you can access every feature in one place, from appointment scheduling to customer management. 

Where Can You Find Your Barber Equipment List? 

Keeping your barber shop well-stocked means finding the right place to buy your supplies. Try one of these options:  

Barber Supply Stores 

Barber supply stores are one-stop shops for everything a barbershop needs. Chains like Sally Beauty have locations nationwide and offer a wide range of specialized tools and products (and by wide range, we mean over 7,000 products). If you visit a supply store in person, you can benefit from testing tools yourself or speaking with the store's knowledgeable staff, who can offer recommendations tailored to your needs. 

Online Retail Stores 

Online retail stores like Amazon, Barber Depot, and BarberSupplies.com make shopping for your barber shop quick and easy. With these websites, you can easily compare prices, read reviews, and have your tools and products delivered right to your door without ever leaving the shop.  

Pro tip: Choose an online retailer that offers fast shipping and easy returns, in case you choose barber tools that don't work out.  

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Wholesalers 

Wholesalers like Salon Wholesale and Marlo Beauty Supply are excellent options for buying barber shop supplies in bulk, which can save you money. Many wholesalers offer more competitive rates when you buy larger quantities of a product or tool.  

In addition to reduced prices, wholesalers offer correct warranties on items like electric clippers and trimmers and offer delivery. It can also be more convenient than other methods because you can often find everything you need for your shop in one place. Some barber wholesalers offer additional support like product training and inventory management advice.  

Marketplaces

Look for affordable used barber shop equipment on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. You might be able to find high-quality, gently used items like clippers, chairs, and capes because many barbers sell their items when upgrading. If you go this route, purchase the equipment in person so you can check the condition and ensure it functions properly. Always exercise caution when meeting up with someone from the internet.  

Prepare Your Barber Shop for Success with GlossGenius 

Grow your barber business with GlossGenius barber software. Our all-in-one platform offers features like Online Booking, POS, Client Management, and Marketing to enhance and streamline barber shop operations and make your business plan a reality. From booking appointments to maintaining your team's schedules, showcasing before-and-after images, sending texts and emails, and automating client reminders, we’ll help you do it all.  

Sign up for a 14-day free trial with GlossGenius!   

Sign up for a free 14-day trial with GlossGenius today to start checking items off your shopping list.