You are on a mission to get only the best for your clients
When it comes to choosing the best massage table (here are a few TOP models to check out Right Now) most expensive MODELS are not always ended up being on top of my list (well, sometimes it is).
There is a lot to consider in your buying decision, but there are only a few critical features that you should base your decision on.
If you are a professional massage therapist, you know a lot about massage tables, but as we discovered by talking with many professionals, some people may just be making their buying decisions on a few faulty assumptions. Many reviews recommend THIS PORTABLE MODEL (expensive & definitely not the best value - DO NOT BUY)
After talking to many massage therapists and sipping through countless online reviews, testing quite a few models, we sincerely hope that this buying guide will help you make an educated choice.
Our goal is to be an All-in-one Go-to guide for a professional therapist or a medical practitioner who wants the best for their clients, which in turn will benefit your massage business in a big way.
And if you are a regular (not a professional) home user, who just wants to be able to give your spouse the odd back rub, you may benefit from this guide as well. Well, some cool beach table or any table could fit the bill, right?
If what you need is to get the best portable massage tables, there are a few more things that you also need to consider.
To make things easier for you, we have gone through thousands of massage table reviews to come up with those that are an excellent investment to make.
Before we get through to the reports, though, let us have a look at the different table types you might come across.
TOP 3 Portable Massage Tables
1. Master Massage Santana Therma
Best Overall (Editor's Choice in 2022)
This option came in best overall because it was a mid-range price but also offered a high range of features.
It is an aesthetically very pleasing bed and bound to help clients feel comfortable and warm. The foam padding includes memory foam for extra comfort.
It can adjust between 31 inches and 34 inches in height ensuring comfort for the masseuse. The bed is top-quality and weighs around 37 pounds in total.
It can be folded away when not in use and is easy to set up again when needed. It comes with its own carry case.
Pros
- Top-quality, pro massage table.
- Made of beech and finished with an elm seal. This makes it closer to beige than to pure white and is a warmer, more relaxing color. The metal is aircraft
- The upper small cell foam cushioning for extra comfort and is covered in a durable fabric that is water-resistant and oil-proof. It is almost burgundy.
- The closure clasps are similar to those on luggage clasps.
- Can handle a weight of up to 750 pounds.
- The table comes with a face cradle, face cushion, comfortable armrest, and a carrying case.
- Free shipping in some instances
Cons
- Not available in more colors. So, if you wanted it the pink or sand color, for example, you are out of luck.
- The price will not suit everyone. While it is not a bad price for what you are getting, there are cheap tables that are quite a bit less.
It is one of the best massage tables when it comes to portability.
2. Sierra Comfort All Inclusive
Best on a Budget [Updated for 2022]
It is made with top-quality beech and a range of accessories that prove useful as well. It goes to show, that you can get quality massage tables for less.
Pros
- Has clean, modern lines without looking clinical.
- The foam is comfortable for customers to lie on.
- You get a portable table that comes with a table bag.
- The table package also includes a removable and adjustable face cradle, a massage oils pouch, the lightest cotton sheets, an armrest, a half-circle round bolster, and a hanger for towels.
- 5-year warranty.
Cons
- You get a lot of bang for your buck here, but something has to give. In this case, the table’s weight capacity is 450 pounds, just over half of the bed, we reviewed above.
- Also, you are limited in some of your choices. You cannot ask for it in beige or black, for example. And it does not come with a cabinet.
3 .Earthlite Harmony DX Portable Massage Table Package
This comes a close second to our top pick because it consists of sections of maple hardwood, used in conjunction with steel and strong Russian decking to ensure that the table lasts well.
Pros
- What makes this table unique is the face cradle and headrest. The cradle has been infused with polymer gel to ensure that the client finds it soft and comfortable. It will take your customer service to a whole new level.
- This folding massage table weighs around 34 pounds and so is easy to move.
- The bed is full size so that you can accommodate people of different sizes and lengths.
- The table pad consists of 2.5 inches of dense foam to improve comfort and to give these massage beds an edge.
- Will not squeak and can carry up to 600 pounds.
- Designed to be used as a therapist’s table for many years by Earthlite, one of the leading names in massage equipment and tools.
- There is a lifetime warranty when it comes to the actual frame and how that has been constructed. The warranty for the foam is limited to five years, though.
4 .Earthlite Avalone
This massage table is small enough to tote around as a travel table, but it's deep enough for a full-sized massage. The table has a stackable, adjustable platform that can comfortably fit up to 350 pounds, and features top-quality removable straps and supports that are great for any body type. The table comes with two attachments, including an adjustable bench seat and a platform that has a high-capacity heater.
The Earthlite Avalone Portable Massage Table comes in a comfortable-looking soft gray box. I love the simple design, but I was a little confused by the small green plastic flap on the back of the box. It led to a bunch of little pockets that seemed to house the power cord and some other accessories. When I opened the box, I found the table and one remote for the massage.
The table's a full-size model, which I don't think is really necessary. It would be nice if there were more configurations to choose from, and if the table could be unfolded to provide a little more room.
There's a small drawer inside the table, which is just the right size to hold a standard hair dryer or small vacuum. The portability, though, is the main selling point for this massage table. It's light and easy to transport and folds up in seconds. I used it a few times while traveling, and it was easy to do so on an airplane. Just close the drawer, flip it over, and then unfold it.
According to Earthlite, the table has a power-on battery that can last up to 10 hours, which is longer than most portable massage tables. If you need a longer time, you can buy a second battery. As for the remote, it's a simple device, though it didn't work as well as I expected. When I tried to use it to adjust the table, I could not get the buttons to register.
Best Stationary Massage Tables (Comparison)
1. Master Massage Laguna Massage Table (30 and 31 inches)
Top Choice Overall (Editor's Choice in March 2022 reviews)
This table features an adjustable height range of between 25 inches and 35 inches. It is sturdily built and often gets a good mention in the buyer’s guides and table reviews.
The high-density foam ensures better comfort. The covering is easy to clean because of the water and oil-resistant layer on it.
It will last well because denim backs it. This is especially important if you like to do your cleaning options.
Pros
- Legs are made from birch for added stability. You have an area underneath where you can store linens, etc.
- The maximum working weight can support 1000 pounds.
- You get the cradle, a face pillow, a bolster, an armrest (armrest), and also a pack of 75 one-use face covers.
- Adjustable headrest
Cons
- The cost is higher than the others that we have reviewed and so not for those on a limited budget.
- The company says that people may be able to see that you have ordered the massage table package. So, if this is for a gift, you might need to be mindful about to where it is delivered.
2. EARTHLITE Sedona Stationary Massage Table -2nd best
This came in second, but not by a large margin. The two beds are remarkably similar.
The big difference is in the materials used during the construction of the bed. Earthlite’s model has gone with maple as the frame and shows some pretty useful improvements in design.
Pros
- Strong and durable frame made from real wood.
- Vinyl covering top pad is available in a few different colors.
- The bed features one of the company’s patented adjustable headrests.
- There is a full-length shelf to help with storage space.
- The corners are rounded, and the legs are recessed to facilitate easier access, making it a lot easier to get right to the spot for deep tissue massages.
- It is all brought together and finished off in the United States.
Cons
- Not an electric lift table but relatively easy to adjust the settings.
- The price may be prohibitive if you are on an extremely tight budget.
3. Spa Luxe Stationary Table
3d Place
This is one that is a lot kinder on the budget. It is made out of Beechwood and has everything you would expect in most massage tables for sale.
The foam is plush and comfortable, and the bed itself features a shelf that you can use to store linens, face cloths, etc.
Pros
- You get all the standard basics – the face rest that can be adjusted, a rest for someone to rest their arms.
- Comfortable foam and soft-touch upholstery.
- Sturdy construction using Beechwood.
- You also get a shelf to store goods on.
- The table height can be adjusted between 24 and 33 inches.
- It is a nice-sized bed measuring 73 inches in length and 30 inches in width.
- It can carry up to 600 pounds.
- It is a reasonable price.
Cons
- Weighs around 80 pounds and so might be harder to move.
There are many different benefits to massage. According to the Mayo Clinic, these range from anxiety relief to pain relief. It is a technique that has been put to great use since ancient times.
Models not included in this review:
- Sierra Comfort All-Inclusive Portable Massage Table (he table includes sheets, a towel hanger)
- Caribbean Therma Top Pro Master Table
- Saloniture Professional PortableTable
Massage Table Types
Stationary
Stationary beds are not designed to be easily folded up and moved away. These are best left in the environment where the treatments will take place. They are a good option if you are operating out of a particular area at home or work.
Portable
These are useful if you need to be able to visit clients in their homes or offices. They fold down easily and usually come with handles or a simple carry case. These models may not be as sturdy as those spoken about above.
Hydraulic Massage Table
The advantage of having a hydraulic table is if you need to adjust the position of your client's body without disturbing them too much. You merely engage the hydraulics to lift or lower specific areas of the bed.
The client moves with the bed but doesn’t have to move.
Electric Massage Table
With an electric massage table, the same can be said. You can alter the tilt of the bed, etc. by pushing one or two buttons. Some beds do also include pads capable of massaging as well, but these are usually superfluous for a professional masseuse.
Adjustable Heights
Having a bed that can adjust to different heights can be important, especially if you are not going to be the only person working on it.
Even if you are the only person using it, the ability to make the bed higher or lower than the ground can be useful.
Say, for example, that you want to work on your client’s shoulders.
Really?
And you want to work at the shoulder level to do so. You could drop the bed so that you can comfortably sit and apply as much pressure on the front of the shoulders as you like.
It might also be helpful if you want to sell the bed when you are ready for an upgrade.
Fixed Heights
These beds come in a single height so are not at all adjustable in this regard. If you are a shorter than average, or taller than average masseuse, this could prove problematic for you.
On the other side, these beds do tend to be less expensive to buy and have fewer moving parts that could go wrong.
Foldable
There are portable beds and foldable ones. It is easy to think that they fall into the same category. They do not. A foldable spa bed (table) is one that can be folded up to save space in the office.
It may also be portable, but the primary reason for having a foldable bed (folding massage tools) is that it saves space when not in use.
Professional
If you are becoming a masseuse as a career option, you do need to consider spending a little more time and money finding the perfect bed.
Start by considering how you will see your clients – are they going to be coming into your offices? Are you going to see them at home? Or maybe set up at their offices?
Once you know what type of table you need, you will be able to look for the very best option to meet your needs.
This is one area where spending a bit more upfront is advised because the bed can impact how well you can do your job and how much your client enjoys it.
In this review, we have looked at the best over a few different categories so that you have an idea of where to start looking for yourself.
Questions About Best Massage Table to Answer Before Buying
Before you make that decision to pull out the list of tables for sale, it is advisable to look through all the pros and cons that we listed for each model above.
Are any of these things deal-breakers for you?
Did any of the things that we listed in the above massage tables review have more importance for you in your proposed massage therapy practice?
Here are some other things to consider:
What is the Weight Limit for Massage Tables?
Here we need to differentiate between the static weight and the working weight. In all of the reviews above, we have quoted the working weight for each bed.
Difference between the working weight and static weight.
Why the distinction? A bed might have a 2000-pound static capacity. Great, right? Not so fast. You also need to factor in the fact that you are going to be applying pressure.
So, if you could find someone that weighed 2000 pounds, yes, they would be able to fit on the bed without it breaking. However, if you started massaging them with even the lightest touch; the bed would break.
For this reason, the weight limit of the table that you choose is critical.
Whether you are buying brand new Oakwork’s massage tables or saving by buying used tables, you must find out what the working weight limit is for each.
These limits typically start at around 250 pounds but check what the manufacturer says where this is concerned.
What is the average size of a table?
This will depend on which brand you are buying. Most beds will be around thirty inches across and in the region of at least 70 inches long.
The table heights vary. With the standard height being at around 25 inches. Many adjustable beds, however, will allow you to adjust the height of the bed a certain amount. You could, thus have a 40-inch tall table.
What can make a table more comfortable?
The padding on the top of the bed is where we start. We will discuss the type of foam underneath so for now, all we need to know is that the foam should be thick enough to provide a comfortable cushion.
There are other things to keep in mind other than the padding, though.
What about the fabric covering the padding?
Vinyl is easy to clean, but it is not the most comfortable surface to lie against.
You would need to look at getting clean cotton sheets so that your client felt more comfortable.
Towels lain over the sheeting can also add an extra touch of luxury and softness. Having a table that can heat itself might be a good idea if you live in a colder area.
Clients are stripping down to their bare essentials and so are more prone to feel the cold. If your budget does allow for a heated bed, you must bring in a heater and possibly even more towels or blankets so that your client stays warm.
What kind of foam is best for a massage table?
A high-density foam to pad the bed is the bare minimum to make the bed more comfortable.
The foam helps to cushion your client’s body so that they do not feel the hard surface of the bed underneath.
This becomes more important for massages where a lot of pressure is applied.
The inclusion of a memory foam layer can further increase the patient’s comfort by allowing them some pressure relief and a bit of extra support.
It is also better, if you live in a warmer area, to look for foam that is more open-celled, at least at the top.
This helps the air around the client to circulate better and can prevent them from overheating too much.
How long does a massage table last?
This is going to depend on many different factors. How well do you look after it? Do you oil the joints, etc. on a regular basis?
What material is it made out of?
For a better idea of how long a table can be expected to last, look at the warranty.
Many of the high-quality brands offer a lifetime warranty on the frames themselves. So, your frame should last your whole working life, if you choose a good quality one.
The foam pad is another story altogether. Most companies offer a warranty on these for around three years or so.
How long yours lasts depends on how careful you are when cleaning, how often you use the bed, how well you adhere to the maximum weight guidelines, etc.
The more specialized the bed is, like having a hydraulic lifting system, for example, the higher the potential that something can and will go wrong.
Which features are critically important in a massage table?
There have been a lot of changes made to your standard massage table over the years. You can have tables that warm automatically, tables that lift at the click of a button, and any other range of features.
Before you get blown away by these, you need to think about what is most important. Is it necessary to get a heated bed if you live in a warm town?
Get the best bed that you can afford on your budget. It does not have to have all the bells and whistles, but it must be built sturdily and should last a long time.
Choose something that will allow your clients to lie down comfortably and padding that is of high quality. Get padding that can be easily wiped clean again.
If you plan to take your show on the road, choose a massage bed that you can carry and that will fit through most doors.
Things like the color, whether it is made out of Maple or Beech, and if it has a shelf underneath are not what you should be making your final decision.
What Can I Use Instead of a Massage Table?
A good massage table (or a crappy massage table) is hard to beat when it comes to comfort, power, and flexibility. The trouble is they can be expensive to run and so are an investment. One of the simplest and most affordable massage tables that I've used is the foldable massage chairs. They are a brilliant way of giving yourself a massage and working while watching TV. It's a lot of fun and best of all you can use it wherever you are. Do I Need a Well-Fitted Spa-quality Massage Table?
The trouble with a non-fitted massage table is it will sag if you put more pressure on it. Not only that, you can't flex or adjust the height, you can't even use your feet! But don't panic, most excellent massage chairs have a lockable base and will accommodate a variety of heights and adjust to your body, as long as you don't mind the lack of control. How Does a Massage Chair Work? For a reasonably priced massage chair, it's the same principle as a massage table, except that they have many buttons and controls rather than a big hole in the middle and a handle on the side.
Top Massage Table Brands
Earthlite
Earthlite is one of the leading manufacturers of tables and accessories (sheets bolsters, arms shelves, premium flannel sheets, etc...).
They believe in providing the best possible equipment, using cutting-edge design, in an environmentally safe manner.
The company focuses on providing clients with the best possible experience at an affordable rate.
Due to the goal of being more environmentally friendly; the company will not use hardwood from the rainforest.
The lacquer they use is water, not solvent-based and the foam they use is environmentally friendly as well.
The vinyl covering the foam is sourced as responsibly as possible.
The company also makes a point of being as zero-waste as possible.
With that in mind, they use every possible bit of wood, etc. that comes into the factory. They also have an on-site recycling program.
The company offers a lifetime warranty for many of the hardwood products it produces. You are also entitled to a full refund if you return the item in 30 days.
Oakworks
Oakworks have been manufacturing top-quality massage tables and chairs since 1978.
They have established a name as leaders in their field and a reputation for service excellence.
Each of their products is made to order and so you can, if you want, ask for a customized design.
It will cost a bit more, but you know you will get what you are looking for.
They build their products with an emphasis on creating an ergonomically sound design and top-quality workmanship.
Master Massage
Company has become a household name in the United States and even globally.
They offer no-nonsense equipment at an affordable rate. Choose from tables, beds, massage chairs, and almost any accessory that would fit with these.
The company was started in 1976 and has been providing Americans with top-quality, well-designed massage equipment ever since then.
Sierra Comfort Massage
This company was founded because the owners found that there was a real lack of equipment and useful personal care accessories for those practicing as masseuses.
The company focuses on creating equipment that is neither heavy on your wallet, nor on your back.
They apply the latest research to ensure that the products they produce are world-class.
They have one small goal-achieving perfection.
Stronglite Massage Tables
For more than two decades Stronglite has been supporting those needing tables and massage chairs.
They produce products that are beautiful but realize that functionality should always be the priority.
They provide products that will look good and still work well over many years of usage.
Ironman Massage Table
This company provides workable solutions for those that need to use massage in their day-to-day practices.
Ironman knows that you want to have products that are rugged and that will not break quickly, and that is what they aim to provide.
They also know that not everyone can pay a fortune for the highest quality equipment and so try to keep their prices as affordable as possible.
Onetouch Massage Table
Onetouch is a relative newcomer to the scene but has already been distinguishing itself by providing products that are innovative and that have useful features.
Some other brands and massage products that we are not reviewing here for one reason or another are:
- BestMassage Black PU Portable Massage Table (made of water-proof and oil-proof PU leather / faux leather)
- Custom Craftworks tables
- MasterMassage Del Ray Pro
- Far Infrared Jade Therapy Massage Bed
Jade in this bed helps boost the immune system, detoxify the body, improving the lungs, heart, and thymus. Hot jade stones have been proven for pain relief in the back, deep muscle tissue pain, sciatica, arthritis pain, and hypertension.
- Sierra comfort professional series (SierraComfort IT-C62T-H1TS)
- The Best Massage black 3 Fold Reiki Portable Massage Table
- MasterMassage Santana LX
- Saloniture Professional Folding Table with Carrying Case
- Maxam N Trade Portable (beech timber wooden legs, black polyurethane cushion, armrests, nylon adjustable face cradle
- Merax Aluminium 3 Section table
How Wide Should a Massage Table Be?
Although most models are installed so that their back is parallel to the floor, you’re still giving your client access to the bottom half of the table and to the trunk of your massage table. Most people don’t like to sit up all the way on the table, so sometimes it’s helpful to widen it. However, what’s more, important is to have a massage table that is adjustable in height.
For instance, if you have someone that is much shorter than you, you don’t want to run into the legs of the massage table. By adjusting the height of your table, you can both make the table more comfortable for you and your client. You can also adjust the length of the table, which is great if you have a client that needs a deeper treatment or one that may not be able to use the massage table if it is too tall.
How Much Do Portable Massage Tables Weigh?
Are you satisfied with the services you received when you have been treated for your back pain by a physiotherapist? If the answer to that question is yes, then you don’t need to take any other remedy. These days, you can find those portable models with a Shiatsu cable release, which may be manufactured in different sizes. They are mostly portable so they can be used even in offices, clinics, and homes.
These are designed in such a way that the therapist can quickly move to the clients or to the location where the patient may be seated. It can be used on both hard and soft surfaces. How Do Portable Massage Tables with Reiki Panels Operate? These tables can easily be carried and set up by the therapist. So, they can work with either patients or clients. If a therapist is working on the client and decides to move toward the client.
Is Metal or Wood Massage Table Better?
The choice between a metal or wood massage table is influenced by various factors, including durability, weight, cost, and personal preference. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the therapist.
Metal Massage Table:
Durability: Metal massage tables are generally considered more durable and long-lasting than their wooden counterparts. They can withstand a higher weight capacity and are less prone to warping, cracking, or damage from moisture.
Weight: Metal massage tables tend to be heavier than wooden ones. While this can be a drawback when it comes to portability, it can also contribute to their stability during treatments.
Adjustability: Many metal massage tables offer adjustable height and multiple features like headrests, armrests, and face cradles. This versatility can enhance the therapist's ability to customize treatments.
Maintenance: Metal tables are relatively easy to clean and maintain. They are less susceptible to stains and require minimal upkeep to retain their appearance.
Wooden Massage Table:
Portability: Wooden massage tables are generally lighter and more portable, making them a preferred choice for therapists who need to transport their equipment frequently.
Appearance: Wooden tables are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal. They can lend a warm and inviting ambiance to a massage room, which can be a significant factor in some spa or clinic settings.
Cost: Wooden massage tables are often more affordable than high-quality metal ones. This can make them an attractive option for therapists on a budget.
Sturdiness: While wooden massage tables are sturdy, they may not have the same weight capacity as metal tables. This can be a consideration when working with clients who are significantly heavier.
In conclusion, there is no definitive answer as to whether a metal or wood massage table is better, as it depends on individual preferences and requirements. Metal tables are known for their durability and versatility, making them suitable for heavy use and a wide range of treatments. Wooden tables, on the other hand, are favored for their portability, aesthetics, and affordability. Therapists should carefully evaluate their specific needs, budget, and intended use to make an informed choice between these two materials, ensuring that the chosen table enhances the overall massage experience for both therapist and client.
What is the Industry Standard Size for a Massage Table?
The industry standard size of massage tables is typically between the ranges of 55 to 70 inches. But, this can vary depending on the condition of the table and the type of needs that your therapist may require. A massage table can also vary from case to case as the table is made by different companies.
Thus, in order to ensure that your massage table is delivered at the right time, you should hire a professional who knows about the latest design of massage tables. To avoid confusion, there is no standard for a massage table. However, you can determine the best massage table for your needs by figuring out your budget, the size of your space, and your needs as a therapist. The table should also be easy to move and store, and comfortable to sit and lie down on.
Table Materials
There are a few different materials that the massage beds might be made out of. In this section, we will break down the three most common ones.
Aluminum
When it comes to longevity, the aluminum table is not always your best bet. If you do choose it, make sure that it has been adequately coated so that it will not rust at a later date.
The advantage of aluminum is that it is one of the lightest materials (lightweight and portable) to make a bed out of. Consider this kind of option if you will be offering clients an in-home massage service.
Wood
Wood looks good – it can help to keep the room looking warm and inviting instead of cold and clinical. Hardwood will last for many years, without the concern that it could rust.
The problem with wood, though, is that it can be heavy and unwieldy. Choose this option if you are going to work out of an office on a day-to-day basis.
Steel
Making a bed entirely out of steel would be impractical. Not only would it be costly, but the resultant product would also end up being quite heavy.
Where steel has aluminum and wood beat is in durability. It will outlast both comfortably.
What most manufacturers do nowadays is to use a combination of steel and wood, or steel and aluminum. This helps to strike a balance between longevity and final cost.
What is clear is that massage tables come in various shapes and forms. We have gone through all the aspects that you need to consider when looking for the right one for you.
We have even given you our top three choices for beds both in the stationery category and in the mobile class.
All you need to do now is to choose the right one for you and get ready to start impressing your clients with the perfect bed.