Recommended Supplies for At-Home Massage Therapists
The best thing about working for yourself is you can choose your own supplies (guilt-free shopping!) Check out this list complied by Melissa Pierson, RMT and Amy Redekop, RMT.
This post contains some affiliate links.
Massage Table
This table is amazing! Mine still works great after 15 years. These are the REAL DEAL! (I wouldn’t recommend using this one for mobile massage however, as the wooden legs make it a little heavier.)
Massage Oil Holster
These holster things always make me feel like a bit of a dork - but they really are the handiest thing!
Wall Art
Support this artist from Calgary, AB! Their wall art is amazing.
Dimmer Switch
The ability to dim the lights in the massage room is essential!
Rolling Stool
Nothing more fun than rolling around on one of these! Greenlife is a Canadian small business.
Table Heater
My clients absolutely RAVE about the table heater. There is a Master Brand as well that lots of people use but they never lasted long for me.
Fleece Face Cover
There’s nothing worse than the feeling of a too-firm face cradle. These are handy for under your microfibre or flannel covers to add extra padding.
Waterproof Pillowcase Covers
Use these over your pillows (still use a pillowcase too). Wipe them down or wash them in the washing machine on a regular basis.
Flameless Candles
Set the vibes without setting your house on fire! These are perfect for some ambience, plus they’re even remote operated.
Mirror
We all know how we look after a massage - the face cradle lines, the mascara smudges, the messy hair…a mirror is a must!
Clock
I get an odd amount of compliments on this little clock haha. The colors are fun! Whatever clock you use, be sure to not select one that ticks.
Bluetooth Speaker
Setting the mood with some good relaxing tunes is a must. For some spotify playlists recommended by RMTs like you, check out this list.
Blackout Curtains
If you need to block out bright sunlight, these curtains are awesome.
Massage Lotion
I love this massage lotion. It feels silky and smooth and doesn’t leave clients oily.
Holly Oil
If you’re more of an oil person, Holly oil is my favourite! It washes out of sheets nicely, is hypoallergenic, and is reasonably priced. I know a lot of people like using coconut oil, but I found it left my sheets musty, plus it’s a pain that it’s solid at room temperature.
Amy also loves Biotone Massage Gel.
These pumps for these big bottles are a must too!!
Microfibre Massage Sheets & Pillowcase Covers
My clients rave about my silky microfibre sheets. Click here for the pillowcases.
Flannel Massage Sheets
If you’re more of a flannel sheet person, these are an excellent option.
Fleece Blankets
At $3 a piece, you can’t really go wrong with these blankets. I’m a huge fan of washing blankets after EVERY massage, so it’s nice that these are very thin.
Vinyl Cover
I love this vinyl cover for over my table warmer. For sanitary reasons you shouldn’t have your sheets right on top of your table warmer.
First Aid Kit
This is important to have. Many first aid kits don’t include CPR shields so be sure to add one.
Engraved Treatment Room Sign
Hang this on your room door to let your family know to HUSH!! Bonus - it’s made in Canada by a small business!
Aromatherapy Diffuser
Isn’t this diffuser pretty!? If you’re going to use essential oils in your practice, be sure to check out our course to utilize them in a safe and effective manner.
Storage Cabinet
Keeping your supplies organized is a must! This cabinet is great for storing linens and other necessities. We also love that it has plenty of surface on top for a clock, lotion, business cards, a lamp etc.
Filing Cabinet and Other Supplies for Paper-based Files
We are a huge fan of online practice management software like Jane or Noterro, but old-school paper-based files are definitely an option as well! If you choose this method, store charts in a secure fashion.
Other supplies you’ll need:
File Folders
Hanging File Folder Organizers
File Folder Labels
Ballpoint Pens
Laminator and Laminator Sheets
Hanging Closet Organzier
Utilize that closet space!!
This shelving system for inside the closet is also awesome.
Artificial Plants
We are huge fans of REAL plants, but sometimes massage rooms are too dim for them to survive, so these can add a bit of greenery in a pinch!
Towels
Towels are handy for so many things! Placing over the stool/armrest, assisting with draping, placing cups on, heating up in the towel cabi for the back or feet, etc! Get lots!
Pillows
These $5 pillows just can’t be beat. Swing by your local Wal-Mart and grab three. One for under the client’s ankles, and two others for when you need to do sidelying.
Half Bolster
Sometimes a bolster under the ankles works better than a pillow. We like these half bolsters.
Square Payment Processing
Square for taking payments; use this link to get your first $1,000 of processing free! Please note that the small swipe reader that plugged into your phone is no longer available (but if you have one, you can continue to use it for the time being).
Pregnancy Wedge
Melissa likes using pillows for sidelying pregnancy massage, but it’s also nice to have this little wedge to support the belly. It’s also great for under the hip in supine. Cover it with a waterproof pillowcase cover and regular pillowcase.
Pregnancy Cushion
Amy loves using this pillow system for her prenatal clients. Many clients appreciate the ability to lay prone.
Table Wipes
These wipes are great to use on your table and stool. SAFE FOR VINYL!
Glass Spray Bottles
These can be handy for spray cleaners or essential oil sprays.
Towel Warmer
Clients LOVE the warm towels. This little add on really adds value to your services.
Hot Stone Heater
A great add-on for massage treatments!
Medistik
I like this spray because I can target the areas that need it! For sanitary reasons, don’t use the roll on or stick style on clients. Use our code OWI15 for 15% off! You can also order wholesale and sell to your clients for some side revenue.
Thank you Cards
Gratitude is a huge aspect of running a successful business. Sending thank you cards for referrals is an excellent way to show your appreciation.
Thanks for taking the time to check this out! Click here for a similar list on Mobile Massage supplies.