How to Choose a Massage Table

Choosing the best massage table boils down to a few key factors:

Type

There are different types of massage beds and treatment tables to meet the needs of massage spas and independent massage therapists:

• Portable massage tables/chairs are lightweight & collapsible for mobile massage therapists
• Stationary massage tables are heavier & more durable than portable massage tables or chairs
• Flat top massage tables do not tilt or recline (all portable massage tables are flatbed models)
• Reclining massage tables are adjustable from a flat to semi-upright position
• Electric massage tables raise, lower & adjust at the push of a button & are heavier than manual lift models
• Manual massage tables raise, lower & adjust manually (with or without hydraulics) & are lighter than electric models

As a rule of thumb, more adjustability and automated features will add to the overall table weight and price.

Learn more about types of massage tables.

Materials

• Wooden massage tables come in different stains/finishes
• Metal frame massage tables typically have a white or polished finish
• Laminate base massage tables offer the widest range of color/texture options

You can find high-quality massage tables made from any type of frame material, so the choice here is primarily based on your preferences for table weight and aesthetics.

Learn more about massage bed frame materials.

Size

A standard massage table is generally 30” wide by 72” long which is a good size for the majority of therapists and clients. Shorter massage therapists may benefit from a narrower table so they can reach across more easily and avoid back strain. Massage bed height is typically adjustable between 24”-38”, though clients with mobility issues or a disability will benefit from a lower minimum height.

Learn more about massage table dimensions.

Weight limit

Massage table working weight capacity generally ranges from 300-600 lbs. If shopping for a portable massage table you’ll need to be comfortable with the carrying weight (how much the table weighs by itself - typically 30 lbs or less for portable tables).

Learn more about massage table weight limits.

Price

Professional quality portable massage tables typically cost from $320-$400, while stationary massage tables can range from $500-$8000 & up because there are so many options for adjustability, built-in storage and other features.

Learn more about massage table pricing.

Brand

Trusted massage table brands include Minerva Beauty, Oakworks, Living Earth Crafts, and Equipro. Every massage table we sell is professional grade and backed by a manufacturer’s warranty.

Learn more about the massage table brands we carry.

Comfort

Massage table cushion quality and thickness varies, so make sure you choose a massage bed with at least 2” of high quality, high-density foam cushioning that will last for many years. Cheaper types of foam offer less support and break down rapidly. Accessories like bolsters, linens and heating pads also affect client comfort.

Learn more about massage table cushioning and accessories.

Shop our entire massage table selection online, or keep reading for more insights.

Massage Table Types

There are many different types of massage tables on the market. Here’s a breakdown so you can find the type of massage table that best aligns with the preferences of your massage therapists and clientele:

Portable vs Stationary

The first order of business is deciding whether you need a portable or stationary massage table.

Portable massage tables

Portable massage tables are ideal for therapists who provide mobile massage services. Usually weighing 30 lbs or less, a portable massage table’s lightweight structure and functional design makes setting up and breaking down the table a breeze.

When shopping for a portable massage table, look for:

• Carrying weight
• Portability - does it come with a case, carrying strap or handle?
• Working weight - ideally at least 500 lbs
• Ease of setup - possibly demonstrated in a video or customer reviews

Of course you'll also want to consider the features you'd look for in any massage table, like quality materials, thick cushioning and a warranty.

Stationary massage tables

Stationary massage tables are heavier and more durable than portable models since they are designed to be used in a permanent location such as a spa or wellness center. While stationary massage tables tend to be more expensive, they’re also more durable and can offer more features like built-in storage cabinets and thicker cushioning.

Reclining vs. Flat Top

Choosing between a reclining (aka tilt-back or lift back) and flatbed massage table depends on how much you’ll need to adjust the client’s position.

Tilt-back massage tables

Tilt massage tables allow adjustable client positioning by raising the back and/or legs. This adjustability can make massages much more comfortable for clients, and allows spas to provide more services (such as facials) by doubling as a treatment table. Many reclining massage tables also have a removable headrest and armrests.

Flat massage tables

Flat top massage tables are a classic model and a minimalist’s dream with a simple yet sturdy design both therapists and clients are acquainted with. Flat tops do not bend or recline, so the client lies horizontally throughout their massage treatment.

Electric vs Manual

Your decision between an electric or manually adjustable massage table is a big one, because you’ll be adjusting at least the height for each client, and often the back and leg rest as well.

Electric massage tables

Electric massage tables are the most user-friendly for massage therapists because you can quickly and easily adjust them with the push of a button. But electric massage tables are much heavier and more expensive than manual lift tables. You’ll also need to make sure you can position the table near an outlet, which might limit your options depending on how your spa or treatment rooms are laid out.

Watch the Seabrook Ultra Premium Electric Massage Table in action:

Manual massage tables

Manual massage tables are typically more affordable than electric models and offer a range of options in terms of design, style and adjustable features. Some basic manual lift tables only offer height adjustment, while other manual tables offer just as many adjustability features as electric models using hand-cranked hydraulic actuators instead of electric motors.

Massage Table Frame Materials

Deciding on the base material for a massage table is usually one of the easiest choices for therapists because it just depends on your aesthetic preferences.

With the modernized designs and variety of massage tables on the market today, choosing between a massage table with a wood, metal or laminate frame doesn’t compromise your selection when it comes to the quality, strength, function, durability, or model type. Simply decide which style best suits your taste and work environment.

Wooden massage tables

Wood frame massage tables are available in different grains, stains and finishes.

Metal massage tables

Metal frame massage tables are typically made from solid steel if stationary, and lightweight aluminum if portable.

Laminate frame massage tables

Massage tables with a laminated base offer the greatest range of colors to choose from. Professional grade laminates used for massage table frames have a durable finish and are easy to clean.

Massage Table Dimensions

The standard dimensions of a massage table are generally 30" wide by 72 long with height ranges from 22-38" (about 76 cm wide by 183 cm long, with height range from 56-97 cm). But you can also find massage tables outside of standard dimensions to suit your needs.

Make sure you note whether the measurements are with or without the headrest and/or armrests, since removing these parts will change the overall dimensions.

Width

It’s important to consider the ideal massage table width not only for your client base but for the therapist as well. Shorter massage therapists (generally 5’4” and under) are often more comfortable working on a standard-width (30”) or narrower massage table (27.5-29”).

Height

The low end of your massage table’s height range matters so every client can get on and off the table safely. This is especially important for older clients, clients with an injury or clients with a disability.

Taller massage therapists are usually more comfortable with a table that has a higher-than-average maximum height (39” and up). Shorter massage therapists are often more comfortable working on tables with a minimum height (lower than the standard 22”).

Shop Massage Tables by Size

Minerva Beauty’s massage table selection has been curated to offer many different options that fall within the standard size range, as well as massage beds that are smaller and larger than average. Use the table below to browse massage tables by their dimensions.

Width and length shown here do not include armrests and headrest if removable - see each product page for more detail.

Massage Table	Width	Length	Height Range
Nirvana Adjustable Deluxe Massage Table in Black	27.5”	72"	24.5”-34”
Nirvana Adjustable Deluxe Massage Table in Beige	27.5”	72”	24.5”-34”
Sanctuary Adjustable Deluxe Massage Table in Black	27.5”	72”	24.5”-34”
Sanctuary Adjustable Deluxe Massage Table in Beige	27.5”	72”	24.5”-34”
Cloister Ultra Premium Electric Massage Table w/Cherry Base	28”	72”	24.5”-34”
Cloister Ultra Premium Electric Massage Table w/Natural Wood	28”	72”	24.5”-34”
Equipro Bohemia Portable Massage Chair	28”	72”	24”-34.5”
Equipro Divine Electric Massage Table	28”	72”	22”-39”
Equipro Infinity Electric Massage Table	28”	69”	21”-39”
Equipro Royal Electric Massage Table	28”	72”	17”-39”
Equipro Multi-Comfort Hydraulic Bed	28”	71”	22.5”-34.5”
Seabrook Ultra Premium Electric Massage Table in Black	29”	70”	27”-33”
Seabrook Ultra Premium Electric Massage Table in Beige	29”	70”	27”-33”
Nayara Portable Massage Table	30”	72”	24”-33”
Woodloch Stationary Massage Table with Cherry Frame	30”	72”	24”-33”
Woodloch Stationary Massage Table in Beige w/Natural Wood	30”	72”	24”-33”
Sonesta Electric Massage Table in Beige	30”	72”	16.5”-38”
Sonesta Electric Massage Table in Black	30”	72”	16.5”-38”
Kiawah Ultra Premium Electric Massage Table	30”	72”	24.5”-34”
Amelia Electric Massage Table w/Tilting Back in Black	30”	72”	16”-38”
Amelia Electric Massage Table with Tilting Back in Beige	30”	72”	16”-38”
Oakworks Curva Lounger	31”	75”	18”
Oakworks Prema e-nvi Massage Table w/Open Shelf*	31”	73”	22.5”-32.5”
Oakworks Prema e-nvi Massage Table w/Sliding Doors*	31”	73”	22.5”-32.5”
Oakworks Prema e-nvi Massage Table w/Storage Drawer*	31”	73”	22.5”-32.5”
Oakworks Prema e-nvi Massage Table w/Warming Drawer*	31”	73"	22.5”-32.5”
Living Earth Crafts Napa Flat Top Crank Table w/Shelf Base	32”	73”	25.25”-36.25”
Living Earth Crafts Napa Salon Top Crank Table w/Cabinet Base	32”	73”	25.25”-36.25”
Living Earth Crafts Serenity Flat Top Massage Table w/Shelf Base	32”	73”	25.25”-36.25”
Living Earth Crafts Serenity Salon Top Massage Table w/Cabinet Base	32”	73”	25.25”-36.25”
Living Earth Crafts Century City Massage Table w/Storage Drawers*	32”	73”	20.5”-36”
Living Earth Crafts Century City Massage Table w/Warming Drawer*	32”	73”	20.5”-36”
Living Earth Crafts Pro Salon Cuvee Massage Table	32”	73”	25.75”-36.75”
Living Earth Crafts Pro Salon Modern Massage Table	32”	73”	26.25”-37.5”
Living Earth Crafts Pro Salon Kensington +Studio Massage Table	32”	73”	26.25”-37.5”
Edisto Electric Massage Treatment Table	33.5”	75”	20”-40”
Litchfield Electric Massage Treatment Table	33.5”	75”	20”-40”
Wexford Electric Massage Treatment Table	33.5”	75”	20”-40”
Facial Bed	33”	72”	27”
Hydraulic Facial Bed	33”	72”	23”-29.5”

*Oakworks Prema massage tables also available in 29" and 33" widths on request.

*Living Earth Crafts Century City Massage Tables also available in lower height range: 19.5"-35.5"

Make sure the massage bed you have in mind will fit the dimensions of the space you’ll be working in. Use our free 2D space planner to design your treatment room layout and make sure everything fits comfortably.

Massage Table Weight Capacity

There are 2 types of weight to consider when buying a massage table - the carrying weight and the working weight.

Carrying weight is how much the massage table weighs on its own. This only matters if you’re a mobile massage therapist. A general rule is that massage tables 30 pounds and under are considered portable, such as the Nayara Portable Massage Table and the Equipro Bohemia Massage Chair.

Working weight (aka safe working load) is how much weight the massage table can support, including the weight of the client plus the weight/pressure applied by the therapist.

The average massage table working weight ranges between 300-600 lbs. If your services include massages that require a lot of pressure, like sports massage or deep tissue massage, then a table with a higher working weight is essential.

Massage Table Pricing

The price of a massage table varies widely. Portable massage tables cost less than stationary massage tables with prices ranging from $320 to $400. Stationary massage tables can cost anywhere from $500 to $8,000 (and higher).

Factors affecting the price of a massage table include:

• Adjustability features and how they’re controlled (electric costs more than manual)
• Features of the massage table base such as built-in storage or a warming drawer
• Design quality and finish of the wood, metal or laminate used for the base and framing
• Working weight (heavier built tables with a higher working weight cost more)
• Included accessories (headrests, armrests, bolsters, etc.)

There’s a direct correlation between massage table price and quality. If you’re looking for a reliable massage table you can use for years, it’s better to invest in the best from a trusted supplier and avoid the cheapest massage tables sold by mass-market retailers.

You can sort our massage table selection to browse by price (low to high or vice versa). We also offer simple financing options with the lowest possible interest rates to make quality massage tables more affordable.

Massage Table Brands

Founded in 2006, Minerva Beauty manufactures and distributes spa and salon equipment to the beauty industry, including our own Minerva Beauty brand massage tables and facial beds—each one backed by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.

With our large on-hand inventory and ability to ship most orders same day (depending on product availability and time of day order is placed), purchasing a Minerva Beauty massage table guarantees faster shipping times in comparison to the other brands we carry.

As a trusted equipment provider for over 175,000 spas, salons, and barbershops worldwide, Minerva sets the standard for providing quality massage tables at an attainable price with exceptional service, efficiency, and selection.

The first 15 products in our massage tables category are manufactured by Minerva Beauty, as are the last 3 (the Nayara, Kiawah Ultra, and Amelia models).

We also carry professional-grade massage tables from these trusted brands:

Oakworks

Oakworks has been making treatment tables for the massage and spa industry for over 40 years in Pennsylvania. Oakworks massage tables offer many different upholstery and base colors, as well as the ability to choose between a flat, tilt-back, or recline/leg rest top. Many Oakworks massage beds also let you add a heating system, foam upgrade, USB outlets and other features.

Living Earth Crafts

Living Earth Crafts has been making handcrafted massage and spa beds in California since 1973. They've earned a reputation as a leader in sustainable manufacturing without sacrificing comfort, function or style. Shop all Living Earth Crafts massage tables to find options made with environmentally friendly materials and processes.

Equipro

Equipro is a Canadian company that manufactures high-end spa treatment tables and massage beds with a reputation for innovation and quality. Equipro treatment tables incorporate the latest technology to offer exceptional adjustability and silent operation, accommodating a wide range of therapeutic massage and spa treatments.

Spa Facial Beds for Massage

Most of our spa facial beds are equipped with all the features you need to provide a wide range of spa services including massage therapy, facials and skin care, lashes, body treatments and more.

A facial bed can be a valuable multifunctional piece of spa equipment for:

• Massage therapists interested in adding skin care treatments to their list of services
• Estheticians venturing into massage therapy
• Spa owners looking for versatile equipment
• Independent professionals offering a range of massage, skin care and body/beauty treatment services

Our Hydraulic Facial Bed (in white or black) reclines flat and is one of many spa facial beds that can also be used for massage.

Learn more about choosing the best facial bed or chair for your business.

Massage Table Cushioning & Upholstery

The thickness of the massage table cushion varies from table to table. The standard massage table cushion thickness is 2”. All massage tables in Minerva Beauty’s collection have above average cushion thickness, ranging from 3”-6”.

Our massage tables only use the highest quality multi-layered high-density foam cushioning. The quality of the foam makes all the difference in both client comfort and longevity of the table. Cheaply made massage tables are often made with thinner, lower-quality foam (though they may say they use high-density foam).

High-quality foam:

• Costs more than lower quality versions
• Conforms to the shape of the client's body to reduce pressure while remaining supportive throughout the treatment
• Maintains its shape & performance year after year because it's denser & more resilient
• Is ideal for frequent use

Low-quality foam:

• Costs less initially but costs more in the long run with frequent replacement
• May feel comfortable at first but becomes less supportive bearing weight during treatments
• Provides less effective cushioning as time goes on because it's lower density & less durable
• Degrades more quickly & is subject to “compression set” (indentations/flattening)

The upholstery on your massage bed top is another material you don’t want to skimp on. Just like quality foam cushioning, quality vinyl upholstery costs more up front but offers more value in the long run. Commercial-grade vinyl is an ideal upholstery material for treatment tables because it’s:

• Extremely durable: resists wear & tear and will not absorb oils, lotions & other spa products
• Easy to clean: using an appropriate cleaner you can quickly sanitize vinyl surfaces between clients
• Hypoallergenic: vinyl is impervious to dust mites & other common allergens
• Flexible: vinyl provides a smooth & comfortable surface when supported with high-density foam
• Versatile: vinyl comes in a variety of colors & finishes to complement your interior design

Low-quality vinyl comes with several drawbacks:

• Stiffer & less flexible
• Thinner & more prone to wear and tear (may also have a flimsy backing fabric or none at all)
• Less elasticity, leading to cracks, creases & wrinkles
• Unpleasant chemical smell (often higher VOC as well)

Use our massage table cleaning & maintenance tips to keep your table's upholstery and frame in top shape.

Massage Table Accessories

There are different massage table accessories that can enhance your clients' comfort, relaxation, and overall experience:

• Massage bolsters & pillows
• Massage table sheets & linens
• Massage table warming pad
• Massage stones & heaters

Where to Buy a Massage Table

Shop massage tables online or visit our showroom to browse and test out Minerva brand massage tables in person.

We also offer expert pre- and post-sale support. Connect with our representatives by phone at 888-332-0123, by LiveChat in the lower right corner of your screen, or by sending us an email.