The shampoo basin is much more than just a washing equipment. In a hair salon or barber shop, it directly contributes to your clients' comfort, the ergonomics of your workspace, and the quality of the experience offered.
A poorly executed installation can quickly cause stability problems, leaks, drainage issues or even discomfort for both the hairdresser and the client. Conversely, a properly installed basin guarantees optimal operation for many years.
Whether you are opening your first salon or renovating your hairdressing space, this guide will accompany you step by step to successfully install your professional shampoo basin.
To discover: At Malys Équipements, we offer a wide range of professional shampoo bowls, from the compact model to versions with electric leg rest or massage function, suitable for hair salons, barber shops and wellness areas.
Why is the installation of a shampoo bowl so important?
The washing station is one of the most used areas in a salon. It must meet three essential requirements :
- offer optimal comfort to the customer;
- allow the hairdresser to work in an ergonomic position ;
- guarantee a reliable and durable installation.
A tray that is poorly positioned or poorly connected can quickly become a source of discomfort, slow down your team's work and generate unnecessary maintenance costs.
That is why it is important to take the time to prepare your installation even before starting the assembly.
Choose the right shampoo bowl before installing it
Installation starts long before the first connection. Choosing the model is just as important.
Depending on your salon's layout and the services offered, several solutions exist.
The classic shampoo bowl
Ideal for hair salons looking for reliable, compact and functional equipment.
It is perfectly suitable for limited spaces or business startups.
Discover our classic shampoo bowls.
The shampoo bowl with leg rest
Particularly appreciated in premium salons, this type of basin considerably improves client comfort during long treatments.
It promotes relaxation while enhancing your brand image.
Discover our shampoo bowls with leg rests.
The massaging shampoo basin
Increasingly sought after, the massaging basin transforms a simple shampoo into a true well-being experience.
It is an excellent way to differentiate your salon from the competition.
Discover our massaging shampoo basins.
Shampoo basins for barber shop
Barber shops have specific needs in terms of comfort, durability and aesthetics.
Dedicated models generally offer a more generous seat and a design adapted to the barber universe.
Discover our furniture for barber shop.
Items to check before installation
Even before unpacking your equipment, take a few minutes to check your space.
This step avoids many difficulties during installation.
Water inlets
Your installation must have:
- of a hot water supply;
- of a cold water supply.
Connections must be easily accessible to simplify maintenance operations.
Waste water drainage
The drainage system must be located near the future location of the tray.
If several shampoo bowls are installed in series, it is recommended to follow the recommended pipe diameters to ensure a sufficient flow rate.
An undersized drainage can cause slow drainage or water backflow.
Power supply
Some high-end models have additional features:
- massage ;
- electric footrest ;
- motorised controls.
In this case, a compliant power supply must be provided before installation.
The dimensions of your space
Before placing any order, measure carefully:
- the available width;
- the depth ;
- ceiling height if necessary ;
- the distances between the different workstations.
Don't forget to allow enough space around the basin so that the professional can move around easily.
The tools needed to install a shampoo basin
Even though each manufacturer provides a specific manual, a few tools are generally essential.
| Tool | Usefulness |
| Measuring tape | Check the dimensions |
| Spirit level | Check the horizontality |
| Screwdriver | Furniture assembly |
| Adjustable spanner | Tightening of fittings |
| Multipurpose Pliers | Adjustment of hoses |
| Drill (depending on model) | Mounting on floor or wall |
| PTFE sealing tape | Secure certain connections |
Before starting, also ensure that you have all the parts supplied with your tray: taps, shower head, hoses, siphon, screws and fixing accessories.
Step 1: prepare the installation area
A good installation always starts with a clean and clear work area.
Carefully clean the floor then check that it is perfectly flat.
Using a spirit level, check that the surface does not have a slope that could unbalance the tray.
If necessary, make adjustments before installation.
Also take this opportunity to protect the floor covering, especially in recently renovated salons.
Step 2: position the shampoo bowl
Before any fixing, place the tray in its final position.
This step allows you to verify several essential points:
- will the client be able to settle in easily?
- does the hairdresser have enough space to work?
- are the connections still accessible?
- is the basin correctly oriented?
If your salon has several basins side by side, take the time to perfectly align each station to achieve a harmonious appearance.
Using a spirit level is highly recommended.
Step 3: perform a dry assembly
Before permanently connecting the basin to the water networks, it is advisable to carry out a dry run assembly.
This operation consists of assembling the different elements without making the final fixings.
It allows you to:
- check that all parts are present ;
- check the alignment of the different elements;
- anticipate any potential adjustments.
This simple check often prevents having to dismantle a part of the installation later.
Before moving on to the connections…
Once your tray is correctly positioned, you can proceed with connecting the water supply, installing the taps and connecting the drain.
These steps are crucial to ensure reliable and durable operation of your equipment. They require compliance with the manufacturer's recommendations as well as the applicable plumbing regulations.
Step 4: connect the water supply
Once the tray is correctly positioned, you can proceed with connecting the water supplies.
The majority of professional shampoo basins are equipped with a tap system including:
- a hot water supply;
- a cold water supply;
- a mixer tap allowing temperature adjustment ;
- a shower head with hose.
Before connecting the hoses, check that the water supplies are properly turned off.
Then follow the manufacturer's instructions to connect each hose to the corresponding supply. It is recommended to use the seals supplied with your equipment and, if necessary, a suitable sealing tape to ensure perfect sealing of the fittings.
Once the connection is made, gradually open the water supplies to check that no leaks appear at the connections.
Good to know: if several tubs are installed side by side, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding the diameter of the pipes in order to maintain a sufficient water flow at each station.
Step 5: connect the drain
The drainage of waste water is an essential element for the proper functioning of the shampoo basin.
The drain outlet of the basin must be connected to the drainage system using the trap and the parts supplied with the tray.
At this step:
- make sure all seals are correctly positioned;
- tighten the fittings without excess to avoid damaging the seals;
- make sure the drain hose is neither pinched nor crushed;
- check that the water can flow freely.
A slight slope towards the drain naturally facilitates water flow and reduces the risk of stagnation.
Step 6: permanently fix the tray
Once the connections are complete, you can proceed with the final fixing of the tray.
Depending on the models, this fixture can be made:
- directly on the floor;
- on a chassis ;
- or against a wall.
Always refer to the installation manual of your equipment.
Before finally tightening the fastenings, check one last time:
- the level of the tank;
- its alignment ;
- the position of the basin ;
- the stability of the whole;
A properly fixed basin ensures optimal comfort during services and limits mechanical strain on the connections.
Step 7: perform the first tests
Before welcoming your first customers, several checks are essential.
Run hot water then cold water for a few minutes.
Take the opportunity to check:
- the proper functioning of the mixer tap ;
- the pressure of the shower head ;
- the absence of leakage under the basin;
- the proper flow of water ;
- the operation of the electrical options if your model is equipped with them.
If everything works correctly, your shampoo bowl is ready to be used.
The most common mistakes during installation
Some errors may seem trivial but have significant consequences on the comfort of use or the lifespan of your equipment.
Install the tray on an uneven floor
An incorrect level can cause vibrations, poor water drainage or premature wear of certain components.
Neglect the space around the tray
The professional must be able to move easily around the washing station.
A space that is too small harms ergonomics and complicates the services.
Underestimating the connections
Before any installation, always check the exact position of the water inlets and the drainage.
A shift of a few centimetres can sometimes require additional work.
Forgetting to test the connections
Before finalising the installation, always perform a full test to detect any possible leak.
A few minutes of checking often help to avoid more significant repairs.
Which shampoo bowl to choose according to your activity?
The choice of model mainly depends on your clientele and the positioning of your establishment.
For a hairdressing salon
A comfortable, sturdy and ergonomic basin perfectly meets the needs of daily use.
Discover our selection of professional shampoo bowls.
For a barber shop
Establishments specializing in men's hairdressing often favour models with a strong design, capable of offering excellent comfort during beard and care treatments.
Discover our furniture dedicated to barber shops.
For a premium salon
Models equipped with an electric footrest or a massage function create a true wellness experience and enhance your services.
How to maintain your shampoo basin?
Regular maintenance helps preserve the aesthetic appearance of the furniture and extend its lifespan.
A few simple gestures suffice:
- clean the basin daily with a non-abrasive product ;
- regularly remove the hair present in the drain;
- check the joints and the hoses;
- check the proper functioning of the taps;
- dry the surfaces after the last services of the day.
Preventive maintenance also helps to limit maintenance interventions.
FAQ: your most frequently asked questions
Can you install a shampoo basin yourself?
Yes, provided that you have the necessary plumbing skills and strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a professional.
Do all bins need to be fixed to the floor?
No. It depends on the chosen model. Some are self-supporting while others require fixing to ensure their stability.
What water supply to plan for?
Most basins require a hot water supply, a cold water supply, as well as a wastewater outlet nearby.
How much space should be allowed around a basin?
It is recommended to allow enough space to enable the professional to move around easily and for the client to settle comfortably. The exact dimensions depend on the model chosen.
How long does the installation take?
The installation time varies depending on the model, the salon configuration and any plumbing work to be carried out.
In summary
Installing a shampoo basin is not just about connecting a few pipes. A successful installation relies on good preparation, a suitable location choice, careful connections and a thorough check before commissioning.
By taking the time to respect each step and the manufacturer's recommendations, you ensure optimal operation of your equipment while providing maximum comfort to your customers.
At Malys Équipements, we support hairdressing professionals in their fit-out projects with a wide selection of professional shampoo bowls, hairdressing furniture and equipment suitable for traditional salons as well as barber shops.
Whether you are in the creation phase, renovation or simply looking for new equipment, our team is at your disposal to help you choose the solution best suited to your business.
How to install a shampoo basin?