Welcoming Every Body: How Equipment, Draping, and Design Impact Client Comfort

Bigger Bodies Need Better Equipment

Let’s start with the obvious and often overlooked: the table.

Many standard spa tables have a weight limit of 250–300 lbs. That means some clients may be excluded or simply uncomfortable the whole time.

What to consider:

• Invest in a higher weight capacity table (look for 500–800 lbs). Even if you don’t see many clients over 300 lbs, it signals safety and thoughtfulness.
• Static weight is the total weight the table can hold while sitting still. Often over 1,000 lbs.
• Working weight is what matters: this refers to what the table can safely support during treatments with pressure or movement.
• Table width matters too. Tables under 28" can feel cramped. A 30–32" width gives more space to shift and turn comfortably.
• Electric lift tables aren’t just great for your body—they’re also safer and more dignified for clients who might struggle with height or mobility.

Inclusive Linen Options

When offering robe options, lead with inclusion: “We have a few robe options available to help everyone feel comfortable. You’re welcome to use this one, but if you'd ever prefer something else, I’m here and happy to help.”

Tip: Don’t store larger robes in a back closet. If clients have to ask, they often won’t.

• Robes, sheets, and wraps should fit comfortably without tugging or gaping. Look for sizes up to at least 6X with generous tie lengths.

Rethink Draping, Positioning, and Body Support

Clients in larger bodies often have different draping needs, and what feels respectful for one person may feel exposing to another.

Ideas to try:

• Ask clients how they’d like to be draped. This simple question can shift the power dynamic and build trust.
• Avoid one-size-fits-all routines. Thicker towels or extra sheets may feel more secure.
• Use flexible positioning supports. Standard bolsters may not work for all bodies. Rolled towels, wedges, and blankets can be customized to reduce pressure and strain.

Support clients' bodies with intention:

• Offer positioning choices. Ask if lying flat is comfortable or if a side-lying or semi-reclined position would feel better—especially for clients with larger chests, abdomens, or mobility concerns.
• Don’t assume pressure preferences. Larger bodies don’t automatically require deeper work. Inflammation, poor circulation, or tissue sensitivity can make lighter pressure more appropriate. Ask: “How’s the pressure feeling for you so far?”
• Be mindful of movement. Guide clients to shift positions with privacy and care. “Rolling under the sheet” or using a modesty towel over the chest or hips can help reduce exposure.
• Face-down positioning can be tricky. Lying prone may restrict breathing or strain the back for clients with larger chests or abdomens. Keep sessions dynamic or shorten prone time as needed.

Practitioners should also understand common considerations:

• Increased risk of bruising from medications, fragile capillaries, or uneven pressure
• Localized inflammation in joints, lower back, or limbs
• Circulatory challenges, such as sluggish lymph flow or fluid retention

For facial and lash services:

• Adjust neck and head support so clients aren’t arching or straining. Wedge pillows or broad, contoured supports work better than narrow bolsters.
• Offer upper body coverage beyond a towel tuck. A wrap or wide towel across the chest can feel more secure.

Most importantly: keep the conversation open. Let clients know that adjustments are welcome. When clients feel physically supported and emotionally respected, they’re far more likely to relax—and return.

Weight-Neutral Detox Services

This one’s tricky but important.

Many spas offer detox wraps, body contouring, or “slimming” services. While popular, these can feel stigmatizing or triggering for clients in larger bodies.

Instead of marketing detox as weight-related, focus on how it feels:

• Highlight the experience, not appearance changes:
  “This herbal wrap deeply relaxes tired muscles and supports natural circulation.”
• Focus on inner wellness:
  Lymphatic flow, joint ease, energy renewal, or skin nourishment—without weight-based language.
• Instead of: “This wrap helps eliminate stubborn fat.”
  Try: “This wrap supports lymphatic flow and feels amazing on tired legs.”

Also, consider creating a weight-neutral spa package that avoids language like “tone,” “trim,” or “sculpt.” It shows intentionality and care.

Design Details that Show You Thought This Through

You don’t have to gut your space to make it more size-inclusive. Small changes go a long way.

Design ideas that make a difference:

• Sturdy waiting area seating without arms or with wider spacing
• Step stools with grip to help clients safely access the table
• Hooks and towel bars at reachable heights
• Extra-wide pathways in treatment rooms so everyone can move comfortably

None of this has to be expensive, but it does need to be intentional.

Being a body-positive spa isn’t about getting it perfect. It’s about doing the work to reduce barriers, listen to feedback, and make changes that reflect your values.

Every thoughtful choice—whether it’s robe sizing, table height, or how you offer pressure options—sends a message.

Clients notice. And the ones who’ve felt excluded elsewhere? They remember who made them feel welcome.

If you missed Part 1 of this two-part series, you can find it here: Welcoming Every Body: How Spa Language Shapes Client Comfort

Universal Companies is proud to have a team of experienced spa advisors on staff and welcomes you to consult with our professionals about spa products and supplies, including ingredients, equipment, and retail. Dedicated to the success of spa professionals everywhere, we're grateful to be recognized with multiple industry awards (thank you!) and proud to support the spa industry through mentorship and sponsorship.