Salon Hygiene: How Clean is Clean?

Keeping your salon sparkling clean isn’t just about appearances—it’s about protecting your clients, your reputation, and yourself. In this updated guide, we’ll break down exactly what’s expected when it comes to nail salon hygiene in the UK.

From understanding the difference between sanitising, disinfecting, and sterilising, to knowing which tools must be disposable and how to properly clean the ones you reuse—everything is here in one place.

What is the difference between Sanitising, Disinfecting and Sterilising?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they each serve a different purpose:

Sanitising is your first step. This means removing visible dust, dirt, and product residue—usually with soap and water. It doesn’t kill all germs, but it prepares tools and surfaces for the next stages.

Disinfecting comes next. This kills most bacteria, fungi, and viruses lingering on the surface. To be effective, the disinfectant must meet BS EN standards, and you must follow the product’s usage instructions—including how long tools need to soak.

Sterilising goes even further. This process destroys all microorganisms, including spores. It’s essential for tools that may come into contact with blood or broken skin—especially metal implements like nippers or e-file bits.

How to Clean, Disinfect, and Store Your Tools

Let’s walk through the full process you should follow between every client.

Start by washing reusable tools—like cuticle pushers and clippers—in warm, soapy water. Use a nail brush to scrub away all visible residue. This step is vital because leftover dust or product can block disinfectant from working effectively.
Once clean and dry, immerse the tools in a salon-grade disinfectant. Barbicide and Mundo are both popular choices in UK salons. Make sure tools are fully submerged and left in the solution for the full recommended time, usually 10–15 minutes. Always mix fresh disinfectant daily and avoid topping up old solutions.
After disinfection, dry the tools with a clean paper towel. Store them either in sterilisation pouches, a UV tool cabinet, or a lined drawer reserved only for clean tools. Avoid airtight plastic boxes, as they can trap moisture and encourage bacteria.
Source: Pinterest

When Should You Sterilise?

While disinfection is enough for most salon tools, sterilisation is the gold standard—especially for anything that might come into contact with bodily fluids. Tools like nail nippers, e-file bits, and cuticle scissors should be sterilised in an autoclave whenever possible.

Before placing tools in the autoclave, clean and dry them thoroughly. Then seal them in sterilisation pouches and run a full cycle, following your machine’s instructions. Most autoclaves also use indicator strips to confirm successful sterilisation. Once done, keep the tools sealed until ready to use.

If your salon doesn’t yet have an autoclave, consider investing in one. Clients increasingly expect this level of care, and it sets your salon apart.

Which Tools Are Disposable?

Some items just aren’t meant to be reused. Anything porous or difficult to clean should be thrown away after each client.

This includes:

Nail files and emery boards
Buffer blocks
Orangewood sticks
Sanding bands
Cotton pads, couch roll, and paper towels

Even if a file looks “clean,” it can still harbour bacteria. Many salons offer used files to clients at the end of a service to show transparency.

In contrast, reusable tools include metal cuticle pushers, nippers, scissors, and glass files—as long as they are cleaned and disinfected properly.

Hygiene Beyond the Tools

A hygienic salon isn’t just about what you can see on your desk—it’s about the whole environment.

Surfaces like manicure tables, LED lamps, client chairs, and reception counters should be cleaned and wiped down with surface disinfectant between each appointment.

Pedicure basins should be emptied, scrubbed, and soaked with disinfectant after every client. If your foot spa has jets, disinfectant should be circulated through the system according to the product’s instructions.

Nail dust is another area to watch. It can carry microbes, so always use a high-quality dust extractor and clean or replace filters regularly.

Vacuum or sweep under your workstation often, and mop the floor daily.

Shared spaces—like toilets and waiting areas—should also be cleaned and disinfected frequently throughout the day.

Hand Hygiene and PPE

We’ve all heard it before: “wash your hands!” In the salon, it’s not optional. Both technician and client should wash their hands before starting a service. If a sink isn’t available, a high-quality hand sanitiser can be used—but handwashing is always best.

Technicians should wear gloves during procedures that might involve skin contact, filing, or removals. Face masks are highly recommended when working with acrylics or using e-files, as these produce fine dust that shouldn’t be inhaled.

Clean uniforms or aprons should be worn each day, and long hair should be tied back to prevent contamination.

Ventilation is often overlooked but is incredibly important. Open a window, use extractor fans, or invest in a HEPA air purifier to keep the air fresh and reduce airborne dust and chemical fumes.

Maintaining High Standards

Good hygiene isn't just about ticking boxes—it’s a mindset. Train your team regularly, keep up with industry standards, and make sure everyone knows how to clean and disinfect properly.

Choose disinfectants that meet UK regulations and display your salon’s hygiene practices so clients know they’re in safe hands.

An autoclave, single-use tools, and regular deep cleans all show that you take their wellbeing seriously.

Clean & organised salon space *Pinterest

Salon Hygiene Checklist

Wash hands before and after every client
Clean and disinfect all reusable tools between clients
Dispose of all single-use items immediately
Wipe down tables, chairs, lamps, and surfaces after each appointment
Disinfect pedicure stations thoroughly
Change towels, couch roll, and any linens after each use
Sweep or vacuum regularly and mop floors daily
Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, mask, apron)
Store clean tools in dry, sealed pouches or designated drawers
Ensure good air flow and ventilation

Final Thoughts

Hygiene isn’t an add-on—it’s part of what makes a great salon experience. By making it a consistent, visible priority, you’ll build trust with clients and elevate your brand.