Most people think being a self-employed massage therapist means you need a massage table, a few sets of sheets, some lotion, and you’re good to go. But is that really all there is to it?

Welcome back to another Monday with the Mavens. We created the Massage Mavens blog to connect with and educate self-employed massage therapists working to grow as business owners.

It can be lonely working for yourself – and we’re here to remind you that while you’re in business for yourself, you don’t have to be in business by yourself.

While we cater our content to independent MTs, all massage therapists are welcome here; whether you run your own independent massage therapy studio, you contract in a clinic, work in spa, or you are still in school.

5 things every massage therapy studio needs

While you can certainly maintain a minimalist approach to stocking and supplying your studio, here are 5 things that every massage studio should have on hand.

First aid kit

It may just sit on the shelf and look pretty; but it’s better to have it and not need it, than cut your finger 5 minutes before a session and have no way to bandage it up.

2. Gloves

Whether you offer TMJ work or not, gloves are a good item to keep on hand. Similar to the first aid kit; you hope you never need them. If a client gets sick, however (not unheard of in prenatal or trauma sessions), or bleeds (maybe they cut themselves shaving and didn’t notice) you’ll be glad you have them. You can slap on a pair of gloves, get things cleaned up, and move on with your day.

3. Fire Extinguisher

For obvious reasons. (Even more obvious if you burn ritual candles during session.)

4. License on the Wall

We are professionals. Placing your credentials in a visible space reinforces that. (Plus, in some states, it may be required similar to sales tax licenses.)

5. Lock on the Door

A “Session In Service” has never once stopped the Amazon delivery guy from letting himself in to my office. True story. Consider swapping out the doorknob for one that locks, putting a little chain lock on your door, or just smooshing a door-stopper in under the door while you’re in session; anything to ensure your clients’ private sessions really do remain private.

What are some other things you’ve found invaluable to your studio?

Drop them in the comments!

Thanks for stopping by!

As always, we’d love to hear how our content has helped you improve either your studio, your mindset, or your revenue as a self-employed massage therapist.

photo of Mavens author, Rachel, wearing a blue baseball hat while in her massage therapy studio.

Rachel Martin, LMT, is an independent massage therapist living in Denver Colorado. Having built her solo massage studio to capacity, she now spends her free time helping other massage therapists do the same. Check out Six Figure Studios, Queen Street Marketplace, and The Techy MT to learn more.