Buying a facial bed or massage table is one of the most important investments for your spa, wellness studio, or clinic. But with so many options available online, it’s easy to overlook key details that truly determine how comfortable, reliable, and professional your equipment feels in daily use.
Here are five common mistakes buyers often make—and how to avoid them when choosing the right bed for your business.
1. Ignoring the Bed’s Dimensions and Height Range
Many professionals focus on looks or features but forget how the bed’s height range affects posture and workflow.
A table that’s too tall can cause shoulder strain, while one that’s too low limits reach and leverage during massage.
Always check both the length, width, and height range of the bed before purchasing.
For example, the Zurich series electric massage table offers an exceptionally wide range from 18.25" to 34.5", making it suitable for both seated facial treatments and full-body massage.
This flexibility helps therapists of different heights work comfortably, while also adapting to various services—from relaxation and deep-tissue work to physiotherapy and stretching.
2. Overlooking the Number of Motors
The number of motors directly affects how smoothly the bed adjusts to different positions.
While low-cost models with fewer motors may seem similar at first glance, their limited movement quickly becomes restrictive in daily professional use.
For Facial Beds
Basic models with only two or three motors often lack independent control of the seat or leg sections.
That means:
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The seat cannot tilt separately to adjust body alignment.
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Semi-reclined or elevated-leg positions are harder to achieve smoothly.
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The overall transition between positions feels less precise.
At Urban Chill Shop, all facial beds come with four independent motors controlling height, backrest, seat tilt, and leg section.
This configuration ensures effortless transitions, full ergonomic control, and comfort for a wide range of spa and medical treatments.
For Massage Tables
Some inexpensive tables use only a single motor, allowing height adjustment but requiring manual backrest changes.
This can interrupt sessions and reduce professional efficiency.
Our two-motor massage tables handle both height and backrest adjustment, meeting all practical needs for massage and therapy work without unnecessary complexity.
Fewer than four motors in a facial bed—or just one in a massage table—will quickly show their limitations in real professional settings.
3. Underestimating the Importance of Control Options
Even the best motor system becomes inconvenient if the controls don’t suit your workflow.
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Hand remote only: Works fine for facials or lighter treatments with minimal movement.
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Foot pedal included: Keeps both hands free—essential for massage therapists or estheticians using oils or gloves.
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Side panel controls or memory presets: Ideal for busy clinics, allowing quick position recalls between clients.
Consider how you typically work.
If you often adjust positions mid-session, foot or side controls will save time and make transitions seamless.
Yamba and Noosa series include both hand and foot controls, while Milan also features side-panel operation for a more convenient, hands-free experience.
4. Not Paying Attention to Upholstery Material
The upholstery determines comfort, hygiene, and longevity.
Many professionals only realize its importance months after purchase—when cracks, fading, or cleaning issues appear.
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PU leather is soft and affordable but sensitive to alcohol and oil exposure.
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Solvent-free silicone leather resists stains, heat, and cleaning agents, making it ideal for busy spas that sanitize frequently.
If your treatments involve oils, lotions, or disinfecting between every client, silicone leather is the better choice.
Yamba, Portland, and Milan series feature premium silicone leather that maintains its texture and appearance even after years of use.
5. Overlooking Weight Capacity and Stability
A bed may look sturdy, but not all are built for professional-level use.
Insufficient frame strength can cause shaking, noise, or even damage over time—especially with heavier clients or frequent position changes.
Always check the weight capacity (should be at least 400–450 lbs) and the frame material.
Zurich and Frankfurt massage tables use reinforced stainless-steel bases that deliver outstanding stability, even under intensive daily use.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right facial bed or massage table isn’t just about appearance—it’s about ergonomics, reliability, and long-term performance.
By avoiding these common mistakes and understanding what really matters—dimensions, motors, controls, materials, and stability—you’ll invest in equipment that supports both your clients and your business growth for years to come.
Explore our facial bed and massage tables, all locally stocked in Canada, ready to ship with professional warranty and support.
