Whether you’re a professional hairstylist or someone who styles hair at home, investing in high-quality hair styling capes is essential. These simple yet vital accessories protect your client’s or family member’s clothes from hair clippings, water, and chemicals. But not all capes are created equal.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know before buying hair styling capes—including fabric types, closures, features, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
What Are Hair Styling Capes?
Hair styling capes, also known as salon capes or barber capes, are protective garments worn over the shoulders and upper body to keep clothing clean and dry during haircuts, coloring, and styling treatments. These capes are typically made from water-resistant or waterproof materials like nylon, polyester, or vinyl and are designed to be easy to clean and sanitize.
Types of Hair Styling Capes
Understanding the various types of hair styling capes can help you pick the right one for your salon or home setup:
1. Cutting Capes
These are lightweight and breathable, and are used primarily during haircuts. Most cutting caps are water-resistant but not waterproof, ideal for dry hair cutting.
2. Shampoo Capes
Made from waterproof materials like PVC or coated nylon, these capes are used during washing or coloring to prevent liquids from soaking through.
3. Chemical Capes
Designed for use during hair coloring, perming, or chemical treatments, these capes offer full coverage and chemical resistance to protect clients from spills and stains.
4. All-Purpose Capes
As the name suggests, these capes combine features of cutting, shampooing, and chemical processing. They are especially useful in small salons or home studios where versatility is key.
Key Features to Look for in a Hair Styling Cape
When purchasing hair styling capes, consider the following features to get the best value for your money:
✓ Adjustable Neck Closures
Look for capes with snap, hook-and-loop (Velcro), or elastic closures to fit clients of all sizes comfortably.
✓ Water & Stain Resistance
Especially important for chemical treatments and shampooing. Choose capes that repel water and resist hair dyes and other chemicals.
✓ Anti-Static Properties
Capes with anti-static coatings prevent hair from clinging, making cleanup faster and easier.
✓ Easy Maintenance
Go for machine-washable or wipe-clean materials that can handle frequent sanitization.
✓ Lightweight & Comfortable
A lightweight design ensures clients stay cool and comfortable, even during longer services.
✓ Professional Aesthetic
Solid black or neutral-colored capes offer a clean, professional look, while branded or customized options can elevate your salon’s identity.
How to Choose the Right Hair Styling Capes for Your Needs
Whether you’re managing a busy salon or styling at home, here’s how to choose the perfect hair styling cape:
For Salons & Barbershops:
Invest in a variety of cape types for different services.
Choose durable, reusable capes with chemical-resistant features.
Buy in bulk to save money and maintain consistency across your team.
For Home Stylists:
All-purpose capes offer great flexibility for family haircuts and color touch-ups.
Prioritize ease of use, comfort, and washability.
For Mobile Hairdressers:
Look for lightweight, quick-drying capes that are easy to transport.
Compact folding design and minimal bulk are key considerations.
Where to Buy the Best Hair Styling Capes
There are several online and offline options for purchasing high-quality hair styling capes. Popular online marketplaces like Amazon, Temu, and specialty salon suppliers offer a wide selection. Look for reputable brands like Framar, Diane, Betty Dain, and Salonchic, which are known for quality and longevity.
If you’re buying for a salon, consider working with wholesale beauty supply distributors to get better pricing and access to bulk orders.
Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Cape
Proper care will keep your capes looking new and performing well for years:
Wash capes regularly with cold water and mild detergent.
Avoid fabric softeners, which may reduce waterproofing.
Hang to air dry—avoid dryers if possible.
Inspect for wear and tear frequently, especially around neck closures.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Hair Services with the Right Cape
Hair styling capes may seem like a simple accessory, but the right one enhances your service quality, keeps clients clean, and adds professionalism to your brand. By understanding their types, materials, and features, you can confidently choose the best capes for your styling needs—whether at home or in a full-service salon.
If you’re ready to upgrade your toolkit, shop for high-quality, chemical-resistant, and adjustable hair styling capes today.
