Salon owners would understand the struggle of finding the best cape from hundreds of available market options. While each cape looks similar on a surface level, their materials make them distinctly separate in terms of feel, appearance, and functionality.

If you run a salon, you must carefully pick the right salon cape because uncomfortable, poorly manufactured, and inferior options can disrupt the salon experience for the clients, affecting your reputation and revenue.

This guide lists all the relevant details you need to identify the perfect cape for your salon needs without any hassles.

Commonly Used Salon Cape Materials

The best way to channel your search in the right direction is to become aware of the commonly available cape materials, their qualities, pros, cons, etc. It will empower and assist you in making informed decisions that will rarely go wrong. So, let’s begin exploring the commonly available salon cape materials shared below.

Nylon

It is one of the most popular cape material choices because of its strength and durability. This synthetic polymer helps create lightweight capes with smooth texture. They are easy to drape over clients and are preferred for their water-resistance properties. The best part about nylon capes is they’re comparatively inexpensive and dry quickly in case of liquid spillage.

Pros of Nylon:

  • Easy to clean
  • Good water resistance
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Quick drying time
  • Durable

Cons of Nylon:

  • Lose water resistance abilities over time
  • Less eco-friendly than other materials

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Capes made of PVC are fully waterproof and perfect for heavy-duty wet work. They are versatile and most preferred by salons because they protect clients against water, chemicals, and hair dye spillage. While these capes are easy to clean, they’re rigid and less breathable.

Pros of PVC:

  • Completely waterproof
  • Stain and chemical-resistant
  • Easy to clean
  • Durable

Cons of PVS:

  • Less breathable than fabric materials
  • Not eco-friendly
  • Uncomfortable for extended wear

Polyester

This cape material is preferred by salons that prioritize ease of maintenance and durability over other factors. It is a synthetic fabric material known for its extreme durability and resistance against wrinkles and shrinking. Salon capes made using polyester have a light sheen, giving them a slightly polished appearance.

Pros of Polyester:

  • Good water and wrinkle resistance
  • Affordable
  • Features a polished appearance
  • Easy to clean and maintain

Cons of Polyester:

  • Not biodegradable
  • Not as comfortable as softer fabric materials

Microfiber

It’s a fine synthetic fiber popular for its softness and absorbency. Salons often prefer microfiber capes for dry cutting or clients who prioritize comfort. Microfiber is gentle on the skin and can instantly absorb little water splashes. It is comfortable, lightweight, and easy to use.

Pros of Microfiber:

  • Good static control
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Extremely soft and comfortable
  • Absorbent for minor spills

Cons of Microfiber:

  • Less durable
  • Requires careful washing
  • Less water-resistant than other materials

Silicone

Silicone is a newer material for salon capes and is making headlines for its water-resistant properties, durability, and stain resistance. While capes made using this material are flexible, easy to clean, comfortable, and functional, they’re more expensive than other cape materials. Salons willing to invest in long-lasting and highly functional, practical, and quality capes must pick this material.

Pros of Silicone:

  • Entirely waterproof
  • Flexible
  • Comfortable
  • Stain resistant
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Easy to clean

Cons of Silicone:

  • Limited color options
  • Expensive
  • Slightly heavier than fabric materials

Factors to Choose the Best Salon Cape Material

Now that you’re well-informed about the commonly used materials and capes in the market, you’re one step closer to finding the best options. Consider vetting the salon cape materials against the following factors to choose the best material:

  • Durability

    Since capes are extensively used in everyday salon activities, always prioritize the material that can withstand repeated usage, washing, and exposure to chemical products. Nylon and polyester are decent materials known for their durability, while silicone and PVC are known for their extreme chemical and water resistance properties and commendable durability.

  • Comfort

    Client comfort is second to none, so always prefer materials that are lightweight, hypoallergenic, and breathable. Nylon, microfiber, and polyester are known for their softness and lightweight nature, making them perfect for those prioritizing their clients’ comfort.

  • Ease of Cleaning

    Since a salon cape is one of the most used items in professional salons, you should consider cape materials that are easy to clean and can withstand rigorous usage. Nylon and polyester capes are ideal for machine washing, whereas microfiber capes require careful washing. PVC and silicone capes can be quickly cleaned between clients because of their rough surface.

  • Budget Consideration

    Pricing is the most important factor because every salon has a limited budget for buying essentials. Salons with lesser budgets can look for affordable materials like nylon and polyester. PVC and silicone fall in the high pricing range, while microfiber is considered a mid-range option. While budget is important, always consider the material’s long-term value, durability, replacement frequency, etc., to make the right pick.

Invest in the Best Salon Capes for Long-Lasting Success

Salon capes are one of the most used and important items in every professional salon, so they should be chosen after careful consideration of numerous factors. Their materials play a crucial role in influencing the cape’s texture, functionality, durability, and aesthetics, so it is best to first acquaint oneself with the commonly used cape materials.

You can go through the information covered in this comprehensive guide to determine the ideal cape for your salon. Each shortlisted cape can then be evaluated against the factors discussed above. It will be time-consuming, but help you invest in the right capes.