Overview of grooming tables

Choosing a table for grooming, every master wants to find the most convenient and functional version of such a portable device. Some people prefer folding solutions and models with wheels - more mobile. Other groomers prefer round portable tables with a non-slip coating and built-in special mechanisms for adjusting the height - it is worth talking about choosing the right version in more detail.

A grooming table is an indispensable accessory for a pet grooming specialist. Hygienic care, even if performed at home, requires sufficient space, reliable fixation of the animal. For a professional groomer, this "working tool" is at all the base without which high-quality customer service is impossible. A properly selected table can be used to solve a number of tasks.

1. Accommodation of the animal. On a special table, it is at a comfortable height, the paws do not slip when cutting, combing, styling, drying.
2. Organization of the workspace. A holder for a leash, shelves and toolboxes, a holder for hair dryers and hair dryers - each such detail makes caring for an animal less traumatic from a psychological point of view, allows the master to cope with his task faster.
3. Keeping the workplace clean. A specialized table can be disinfected with antiseptics, it is made of materials similar to those used by doctors in operating rooms. Accordingly, there will be no possible negative reactions even in allergic dogs.
4. Security. The non-slip surface of the table top prevents the animal's feet from slipping.The bracket for attaching the leash excludes its accidental escape during the procedure. In addition, on a special working platform, the master can control the entire process and has a full overview.
5. Maintaining the comfort of the master. Correctly selected grooming table significantly reduces the load on the back muscles, promotes the placement of the animal at the optimal level. You don't have to squat for hours doing a haircut or trimming.

There are only 3 main types of grooming tables. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is worth exploring the options in more detail.

• Stationary. The most dimensional option, equally well suited for working with dogs of different breeds and weights. These tables have a built-in lifting mechanism for adjusting the level of the table top. Standard sizes start from 105x65x55 cm.

• Mobile foldable. One-stop solution for field professionals. Round tables for miniature dogs and cats with a diameter of 60-70 cm are popular here, as well as rectangular models with a length of 70 and a width of 50 cm. The portable version is suitable for a groomer participating in professional contests and does not take up much space in the car. Depending on the length of the table top, the number of sections varies from 2 to 3.

• Mobile with wheels. These are transformer models that, in the transport position, can easily be converted into a trolley with a handle, on which you can install the case with the rest of the accessories. Once laid out, the casters do not interfere with the groomer's normal operation. The standard sizes of such models are 90x60x75 cm.

The main difference between professional groomer tables and amateur ones is the quality of their workmanship. It is a mistake to believe that either option will work. A quality model should have a durable, washable stainless steel top with a rubberized finish. A high-quality sheet polymer is also suitable, but the frame of such a design must necessarily be only metal. Most often, lightweight aluminum legs and frames are used.

In inexpensive models of grooming tables, tabletops made of PVC-coated wood panels can be used. These options are cheap, functional, but have a limited lifespan. It is only important to make sure that non-slip inserts or relief elements are provided in the coating. When self-made, the tabletop can be cut out of plywood, covered with plastic or rubber sheets, and framed with an aluminum edging.

The main subtleties of choosing a grooming table are well known to professionals. If such a decision is made by novice specialists, they should take into account the following factors.

1. The sizes of the animals to work with. For small and medium-sized breeds, tables with a diameter of 60 cm (for round ones) or 70x50 cm in size are enough. The master-generalist will need a large-sized work surface. On average - 120x60 cm.
2. Height adjustment. The presence of a built-in lifting device makes it easy to adapt the positioning of a dog or cat to the growth of a groomer. The mechanism can be electric, hydraulic, pneumatic - there are differences in cost and degree of automation.
3. Mobility. A portable or even extension table that can be placed on top of any plane is an excellent solution for contests, as well as work with a home visit.The best are models with stable folding legs and transformers, which can easily turn into a trolley on wheels.
4. The quality of the materials of manufacture. Grooming tables must be free of potential contact allergens. A rough coating of the working surface is also obligatory - anti-vandal, wear-resistant. The best option is a washable rubberized material.
5. Availability of additional options. These include a variety of brackets, covers, and other components that facilitate the work of a specialist. The presence of a rotating disc at the base is an important advantage of the teaching round tables. With such an accessory, you can easily adjust the position of the animal's body.

Following simple selection rules, you can find a comfortable table for grooming in the salon or for outdoor events.