We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Hair

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Shampoo Cape?

Sara Schmidt
By
Updated: May 21, 2024
Views: 18,303
Share

Many people who have experienced a salon haircut and shampoo have come into contact with a shampoo cape. Typically a vinyl web of material, a shampoo cape is a rectangularly-shaped garment that is used to prevent a person's neck from contact with water during a shampoo. The cape is held in place with a detachable strap.

This piece of beauty salon equipment is also known as a hair cut cape, hair salon cape, hair washing cape, or hairdresser's cape. Though most salons feature vinyl shampoo capes, the devices can be made from other pliable materials as well. These can include nylon, satin, chiffon, and other washable materials. All salon capes are designed to be waterproof.

Some salon capes are held in place with a Velcro strap. Others are secured by other means, such as a snap. The strap is usually detachable and adjustable for larger or smaller necks. The sides of the shampoo cape, which run parallel to one another, are generally semi-rigid and elongate to offer optimal protection against wetness. This form is usually provided by the placement of foam rubber inserts.

A standard salon cape is usually 22 inches (56 centimeters) in length, and 18 inches (46 centimeters) in width between the semi-rigid sides. An optimal cape allows for the most flexibility while shampooing a person's hair. The adjustable straps help to accommodate this need.

During a professionally-administered shampoo, a person reclines in a chair that rests against a hair-washing sink. Due to the various sizes, abilities, and physical conditions of many patrons, it is often difficult for a hairdresser to apply water and perform a shampoo without wetting a client's clothing. The placement of a shampoo cape allows the client to bend according to their own ability without getting his or her neck wet.

The shampoo cape was invented not only to provide a person seeking a shampoo with comfort, but also to assist hair stylists with washing hair. It can be difficult to manipulate hair-washing equipment around various people. Shampoo capes allow the stylist to comfortably apply water and wash the client's hair without causing undo stress to his or her body. Both the hairdresser and customer can experience the shampoo without discomfort.

Shampoo capes are available in a wide variety of colors, lengths, and styles. Though a standard cape is black, nearly any other color desired is usually available. Patterns, such as penguins, flowers, and other novelty themes, are available as well. These are often used for children who are uncomfortable receiving a professional shampoo.

Prices for shampoo capes vary, but are generally inexpensive. Shampoo capes are usually machine washable and tear resistant. Many can be ironed, though washing in cold water without bleach is usually recommended.

Share
BeautyAnswered is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Sara Schmidt
By Sara Schmidt
With a Master's Degree in English from Southeast Missouri State University, Sara Schmidt puts her expertise to use by writing for BeautyAnswered, plus various magazines, websites, and nonprofit organizations. She published her own novella and has other literary projects in the works. Sara's diverse background includes teaching children in Spain, tutoring college students, running CPR and first aid classes, and organizing student retreats, reflecting her passion for education and community engagement.
Discussion Comments
By Rundocuri — On Sep 09, 2014

@spotiche5- If you can't find shampoo capes in small sizes that fit the kids in your family, you can always improvise and use rain parkas. Simply cut the hoods off, and you basically have a customized shampoo cape for the little ones.

By Ocelot60 — On Sep 08, 2014

@spotiche5- You should be able to find a wide variety of styles and sizes of shampoo capes at a beauty supply store. This type of store keeps them in stock for professional stylists, but the amateur can also purchase them as well.

By Spotiche5 — On Sep 07, 2014

I have several young kids in my family, and their clothes always get soaked with we wash their hair. Where can I find shampoo capes to use for the kids when it's time to wash their hair?

Sara Schmidt
Sara Schmidt
With a Master's Degree in English from Southeast Missouri State University, Sara Schmidt puts her expertise to use by writing for BeautyAnswered, plus various magazines, websites, and nonprofit organizations. She published her own novella and has other literary projects in the works. Sara's diverse background includes teaching children in Spain, tutoring college students, running CPR and first aid classes, and organizing student retreats, reflecting her passion for education and community engagement.
Share
https://www.beautyanswered.com/what-is-a-shampoo-cape.htm
Copy this link
BeautyAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

BeautyAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.