Introduction Whether you're a practitioner, a spa owner or simply a home user, massage table sheets are a must-have. Sheets don't just make your table clean, they help protect the upholstery too. This, in turn allows the table to last longer. Sheets also symbolize cleanliness. Who doesn't want a clean room when having a massage? It's standard practice to have everything clean before starting a session, especially the sheets. Aside from massage table sheets, there are also covers for the headrest and the bolsters. They serve the same purpose and are mostly disposable. The head area is crucial since it is where the nose and mouth are located. For those who didn't know, the mouth is the dirtiest part of the human body, followed by the forearms, armpits and the anus. The mouth contains up to a thousand different types of bacteria. They can easily spread when the mouth comes into contact with the headrest. That's why it is recommended to throw away the headrest cover after use and use a new one for each session. Massage table sheets and headrest covers are often sold together as a set. A set is composed of a fitted sheet, a flat sheet and a headrest cover. The fitted sheet protects the table while the flat sheet is used as a covering for the client. The flat sheet is also larger in size. As already mentioned, the headrest cover is usually non-reusable. Sheets have different types of fabric. Your choice will depend on your location and your client's preferences. Before we go into the details, though, I'd like to briefly discuss how a typical massage session comes about.
Your First Full Body Massage Session The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) provides a good guide on what to expect in a massage session, and this is where I'll be basing this section on. Massage therapists are trained to adapt to the needs of their clients. They will ask you some things about your medical history and assess if those things will affect your massage session (or if you're qualified to have a massage at all). Regardless, you are free to disclose any information that might help you in your massage therapy. After all, it is your massage and you are paying for it. For easier reading, here's a table that highlights what you can and can't do: DO’s - shower before going in - communicate your goals for the session - disclose parts of your body where you are sensitive - tell the therapist if you are prone to erection - tell if you are allergic to oils or lotions - tell if you find the music distracting - tell if you like to chat or sleep during the massage - tell if you experience pain or discomfort at any time - remove clothing to your level of comfort - remove jewelry that can hamper the massage (only if desired) - lie on the massage table underneath the flat sheet or blanket - show appreciation by giving a tip to your massage therapist - listen to your therapist's recommendation - get a massage regularly
DON’Ts - convey erotic desires - show private parts of your body - talk about inappropriate topics like sex life - work out vigorously right after the massage
Please keep in mind that massage therapy is about health care. Massage therapists are trained professionals. Doing something inappropriate will get you banned from the establishment for life.
Types of Massage Table Sheets
Table sheets are generally made of flannel, fleece, cotton or polycotton. Flannel sheets are cost-effective, soft, warm and have loose knitting. Because of these, they are the most preferred type. Fleece sheets have the same characteristics as flannels but are more expensive to make. Nonetheless, they are ideally suited in winter and in places with cold climate. Cotton sheets can wrinkle and degrade after several uses, but they are also the most economical. When cotton and polyester are mixed together, the result is polycotton. The resulting fabric has better air circulation than cotton and has better quality.
What Are The Most Popular Massage Table Sheets? After learning all these information, what sheets should you buy? It is recommended that you keep at least two types of sheets. You should have one set for summer and another one for winter. The Earthlite Deluxe Fleece Pad Set (pictured below) is the most highly rated and is ideal in winter months along with a table warmer. The sheet is one inch thick, so clients will surely get cozy right away. This product has received mostly positive feedback. The only notable downside is that it tends to shed quite frequently. This can be annoying and difficult to maintain over time. This set may also not be optimal in summer even with the air conditioning unit turned on.
A close alternative is the Earthlite Standard Fleece Pad Set. It is a few bucks cheaper and is reported to not shed at all.
A sheet ideal for the summer season is the For Pro Flannel Sheet 3 Piece Set. The fitted sheet has been intentionally designed to fit long massage tables and the set itself is commercial grade. Users gave it a high rating due to its reasonable price tag and quality.
With regard to disposable headrest covers, the undisputed champ is still from Earthlite (Earthlite Disposable Headrest Covers - 100 count). If you want to see the massage table sheets compared by price and rating, head over to the Massage Table Sheets Guide at www.reikitablereviews.com.