Hello fellow waxers.
Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always make it into the highlight reels of our profession but truly defines the quality and safety of our work: sanitation. We know, it’s not as flashy as a new speed‑waxing technique or the latest hard wax formula, but if you ask us, sanitation is the backbone of a thriving waxing business. Clients might not see every detail of what we do behind the scenes, but they feel the difference. And let’s be real—cleanliness directly translates to trust, client retention, and our reputation as professionals.
Glove Love
First up, gloves. We can’t stress this enough: always wear them. They’re not optional, they’re non‑negotiable. Gloves protect the client, protect you, and maintain a barrier that keeps everything professional. Even if you think you can keep things neat—you never know what bacteria or micro‑tears you might come into contact with. Plus, clients notice. Customers tell us all the time that their clients, especially first‑timers, thank them for wearing gloves because it made them feel more comfortable. That speaks volumes.
Wax Pots: Keep ’Em Clean
Some of our biggest cringe factors are the stories we hear about double dipping or a sticky, crusty wax pot sitting on a cart. Wax pots are the centerpiece of the treatment—we should treat them with pride. Always wipe down your pot, keep the exterior free of drips, and never reuse sticks. It’s not just about aesthetics (although a clean pot looks infinitely more inviting), it’s about preventing cross‑contamination. Clean pot, clean practice, clean reputation.
Waxing Bed: The Unsung Hero
Your waxing bed probably goes through dozens of clients a week, and with that comes skin debris, product residue, and general wear. Wiping the bed down after every single client isn’t optional; it’s essential. Use a professional‑grade disinfectant that’s safe for surfaces but tough on germs. Some waxers choose to keep fresh disposable liners on hand or use silicone mats, which is an extra touch that clients really notice.
Implements Matter
Tweezers, scissors, spatulas—anything that touches a client should be sanitized, every time. Invest in a proper disinfectant system (think barbicide, autoclave, or whatever your local regulations require) and stick to the protocol rigorously. Dirty tools are not only a health risk— they scream unprofessional. Remember, sanitation is part of your artistry.
Client Cleansing: Set the Stage
Before we even start waxing, our clients’ skin should be properly cleansed. A good pre-wax cleanse removes sweat, body oils, or makeup residue and sets the stage for a cleaner, smoother removal. It’s not a step to rush through; it’s part of the service experience. Clients feel more refreshed and looked after, plus it reduces their chance of irritation post‑wax.
Post-Wax Encore
Don’t let your clients leave you with sticky residue left on their skin. Use a proper post-wax protocol to remove any wax left behind, and also to ensure their skin is calm, soothed and looking it’s dewy best.
Elevating Our Industry Through Clean Practices
Here’s the thing—we’re not just removing hair. We’re creating an experience where the client feels cared for, respected, and safe. When we honor sanitation, we elevate the reputation of every waxer out there. We move the conversation away from shady “cheap wax shops” and toward a respected industry filled with trusted professionals.
So next time you’re cleaning your pots, swapping gloves, or wiping down your bed, remember—it’s not just about housekeeping. It’s about professionalism, health, and building a standard our whole community can be proud of.
Stay smooth, stay clean,
A fellow waxer who believes sanitization is sexy 🧼✨
So, let’s break down why clean practices matter and how you can turn them into a daily routine that elevates your professionalism and boosts client trust.
Gloves: The First Line of Defense
- Gloves aren’t just about hygiene; they’re about professionalism and comfort.
- Why they matter: Gloves protect both waxer and client from bacteria, microorganisms, or micro‑injuries (you’d be surprised what’s invisible to the naked eye).
- Pro tip: Use nitrile gloves instead of latex to avoid triggering allergies, and always change them for each client.
- Client perception: Gloves instantly communicate that you take their health seriously.
Wax Pots: The Heart of Hygiene
Think of your wax pot like the heart of your wax room—if it’s dirty, everything feels off.
Pro tip: A clean and shiny pot isn’t just safe—it’s marketing. Clients notice when your setup looks polished.
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Never double dip. Ever. Always use a fresh spatula with each dip. Check out our durable large applicator sticks here.
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Daily care: Wipe down the outside of the pot with disinfectant after every shift so it doesn’t build sticky layers.
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Between clients: If there’s any spill or touch contamination, clean it immediately.
- Weekly deep clean: Perform a full wipe-down (including lids and handles). Remove and clean the hard wax inserts and also wipe out the wells. Our Nourish Oil makes a great non-toxic wax pot cleaner. It easily removes wax residue and simply finish with a disinfecting wipe or alcohol pad.
- Our Pick: NaturaverdePro Nourish Pre & Post Wax Oil
Waxing Bed: Your Client’s First Impression
Sanitation here is all about consistency.
Pro tip: Even if your state regs are light on bed-cover rules, go beyond the bare minimum—clients equate clean presentation with professionalism.
- After every client: Wipe the bed thoroughly with a professional-grade disinfectant spray or wipe that meets your state’s sanitation standards.
- Optional upgrade: Use disposable sheets or fresh linens for every client. Simple and impactful.
- Deep clean: At the end of every day, do a full disinfecting wipe-down (frame, sides, under the bed) so no debris lingers.
- Our Pick: Mats that cover the entire bed, either silicone or medical grade material
Implements: Tools Tell the Truth
If you want to see how professional a waxer is, look at their tools.
Pro tip: Have multiple sets of tweezers and scissors, so you can rotate them while others are disinfecting—no rushing necessary.
- Between clients: Tweezers, scissors, and other implements should be submerged in hospital-grade disinfectant or sterilized in an autoclave (depending on your state board rules).
- Storage: Store clean tools in a closed, sanitized container—not tossed onto your counter where dust and bacteria can collect.
- One‑time use items: Esthetic wipes, cotton rounds, applicators—these must never be reused. Toss them immediately after use. Always lay out all the supplies you need for one client on a clean mat or towel before beginning the service so you don’t have to reach into a drawer or container for more midway through.
Client Pre & Post Wax Care: Make it a Ritual
Client prep isn’t just for better hair removal—it’s also for hygiene.
Pro tip: Adding special touches to these steps elevate the service and your worth. Don’t rush the cleaning step and explain the process to your client. When you say, “This helps keep your skin clean and reduces irritation,” they feel cared for and more confident in your professionalism. Same for post-wax care – add a little massage action while applying a soothing lotion.
- Before waxing: Cleanse the client’s skin with a gentle, pre-wax cleanser to remove oils, sweat, and cosmetic residue.
- Optional upgrade: Keep unscented baby wipes or individually packaged wipes in your room—many clients appreciate the option to freshen up before their appointment.
- After waxing: Don’t forget post-wax care with soothing and antibacterial products to protect exposed follicles.
- Our Picks: NaturaverdePro Cleanse Organic Micelllar Water, NaturaverdePro Nourish Pre & Post Wax Oil, and NaturaverdePro Soothe After Wax Lotion,
Building a Sanitation Routine That Sticks
Here’s a quick daily checklist you can print and post in your treatment room:
Start Of Each Day
- Fill wax pots with fresh wax
- Wipe down wax pot and counters with disinfecting wipe
- Replenish applicator sticks, esthetic wipes and gloves supplies so they are within easy reach
- Ensure all pre & post wax product bottles are full
Pre-Client
- Wash hands thoroughly.
- Put on new gloves.
- Prepare bed with new cover or sheet
- Set out freshly disinfected tools.
During Service
- Use disposable applicators—no double dipping.
- Keep work area tidy and wipe any spills right away.
Post-Client
- Dispose of used items immediately.
- Sanitize implements.
- Disinfect bed and any touched surfaces.
- Clean wax pot exterior if needed.