Massage & Spa Tips, Guides & Industry Insights

A professional massage table is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a treatment room. Whether you are an RMT, chiropractor, physiotherapist, spa professional or clinic owner, proper massage table cleaning and maintenance helps protect the upholstery, maintain a professional treatment environment and extend the usable life of your equipment.

This guide explains how to clean and care for a massage table, how cleaning differs from disinfecting, how to protect upholstery from oils and temperature damage, and the additional precautions to take with an electric massage table.

Quick Answer: How Should You Clean a Massage Table?

Clean massage table upholstery regularly and between clients as required by your clinic's infection-control procedures. Routine cleaning helps remove massage oil, lotion, dirt and other residue before it can build up, stain the surface or contribute to premature deterioration.

For everyday care, use a mild cleaning solution that is compatible with your table's upholstery. A small amount of mild antibacterial dish soap mixed with water can be applied with a spray bottle and then wiped away with a clean, damp towel. Always follow the care instructions provided by your massage table manufacturer.

When disinfection is required, use a disinfectant that is appropriate for your table's surface and follow the product label carefully. Two professional options available from Relaxus are Myo-Ther Genie Plus Cleaner & Disinfectant and Benefect Botanical Decon 30 Disinfectant Cleaner. Both are Health Canada-authorized disinfectants with Drug Identification Numbers (DINs), but their intended surfaces and directions differ, so always follow the product label and confirm compatibility with your table.

Cleaning vs. Disinfecting a Massage Table

Cleaning and disinfecting are related, but they are not the same thing.

• Cleaning removes massage oil, lotion, dirt, sweat and other residue from the surface.
• Disinfecting uses an approved disinfectant to reduce or destroy microorganisms on the treated surface.

Visible oil and dirt can interfere with effective surface care, so cleaning should be part of a consistent treatment-room routine. When a disinfectant is used, follow its label instructions for application, surface compatibility and required contact time.

Always check the care instructions supplied with your massage table. Upholstery materials and cleaning-product compatibility can vary between manufacturers and table models.

Daily Massage Table Upholstery Care

Consistent upholstery care helps maintain the appearance, comfort and usable life of a professional massage table. Oils, creams, lotions, perspiration and everyday dirt should not be allowed to remain on the surface for extended periods.

1. Clean the Upholstery Regularly

For routine cleaning:

1. Use a mild cleaning solution that is compatible with the upholstery.
2. Apply the solution lightly rather than soaking the surface.
3. Wipe the upholstery with a clean, damp towel.
4. Remove any remaining cleaner, oil or residue.
5. Allow the surface to dry before replacing linens.

A mild mixture of antibacterial dish soap and water may be suitable for routine cleaning on compatible upholstery. Avoid abrasive scrub pads, harsh solvents or unapproved cleaners that could damage the surface.

Always check the table manufacturer's care instructions before using any cleaning product.

2. Disinfect Between Clients When Required

Professional clinics should follow their applicable infection-control procedures for treatment surfaces between clients. The disinfectant you choose should be appropriate for the surface being treated and used exactly according to its product label.

Myo-Ther Genie Plus Cleaner & Disinfectant

Myo-Ther Genie Plus is a professional cleaner and low-level disinfectant recommended for use on compatible massage, chiropractic and physiotherapy tables between clients.

Genie Plus is authorized for sale in Canada with a Health Canada DIN. It combines disinfecting ingredients with cleaning agents that help remove dirt, grease and oily residue from compatible treatment-table surfaces.

It also contains surfactants and humectants intended to help maintain the suppleness of compatible leather, vinyl and Naugahyde®-type surfaces.

Important: Myo-Ther Genie Plus is not recommended for cloth upholstery. Always read and follow the product label and confirm compatibility with the surface being treated.

Shop Myo-Ther Genie Plus Cleaner & Disinfectant →

Benefect Botanical Decon 30 Disinfectant Cleaner

For clinics looking for a botanical disinfectant option, Benefect Botanical Decon 30 Disinfectant Cleaner is a ready-to-use cleaner and disinfectant formulated for compatible hard surfaces in professional and residential environments.

Benefect Decon 30 uses botanical thymol as its active ingredient and is authorized for sale in Canada with Health Canada DIN 02415046. It cleans, disinfects and deodorizes hard, non-porous surfaces with a 30-second contact time.

• Ready-to-use formula with no dilution required
• 30-second disinfecting contact time on labelled hard, non-porous surfaces
• Botanical thymol active ingredient
• No synthetic fragrances, dyes or bleach
• No rinsing or wiping required after use where permitted by the product label
• Suitable for a range of professional environments, including clinics and shared equipment

Important: Benefect Decon 30's disinfecting claims apply to the surfaces specified on its product label. Before applying it to massage table upholstery, confirm that the upholstery is a compatible hard, non-porous surface and follow both the table manufacturer's care instructions and the Benefect product label.

Shop Benefect Botanical Decon 30 Disinfectant Cleaner →

Which Disinfectant Option Should You Choose?

Both products provide professional disinfection, but they offer different features.

• Myo-Ther Genie Plus: A practical option specifically recommended for compatible massage, chiropractic and physiotherapy table surfaces, with cleaning agents that help remove dirt and oily residue.
• Benefect Botanical Decon 30: A ready-to-use botanical option for compatible hard, non-porous surfaces, using thymol as the active ingredient and offering a 30-second disinfecting contact time.

The best choice depends on your table's upholstery, your clinic's cleaning procedures and the surfaces you need to disinfect. Always confirm surface compatibility and follow the individual product label.

Should You Use Alcohol on a Massage Table?

There is no single rule that applies to every massage table.

Some upholstery manufacturers approve specific alcohol-based disinfectants, while others advise against them because repeated use may dry or damage their upholstery. For that reason, follow the cleaning instructions supplied by your table manufacturer rather than assuming that a particular chemical is safe for every massage table.

Whenever possible, choose cleaning and disinfecting products specifically identified as compatible with your table's upholstery and use them according to their directions.

Protect the Upholstery from Massage Oils and Lotions

Massage oils and creams can gradually build up on upholstery, particularly around the face cradle, table edges and areas that receive frequent client contact.

To reduce direct exposure:

• Use clean sheets for each treatment.
• Use a face cradle cover or protective barrier where appropriate.
• Clean oil or lotion residue promptly rather than allowing it to remain on the upholstery.
• Pay particular attention to seams, edges and attachment areas where oil can collect.

Protecting the table and accessories with appropriate sheets, fleece or covers can help reduce direct exposure to massage oils, lotions and everyday wear.

Explore our massage table sheets for options designed for professional treatment rooms.

If massage oil has built up in your linens, see our detailed guide: How to Get Oil Out of Massage Sheets.

Protect Massage Table Upholstery from Heat and Cold

Temperature extremes can shorten the life of massage table upholstery. This is particularly important for portable tables that may be transported or temporarily stored in vehicles, garages or storage areas.

Avoid Extreme Cold

Very cold temperatures can cause some upholstery materials to stiffen or become more vulnerable to cracking. Avoid prolonged storage in unheated vehicles, garages or other extremely cold environments whenever possible.

Avoid Excessive Heat

Excessive heat can damage some upholstery materials and may contribute to stretching, puckering, fading or premature deterioration.

Keep massage tables away from:

• Space heaters
• Other heat-producing electrical appliances
• Direct sunlight for extended periods
• Extremely hot storage areas or vehicles

Whenever possible, store your massage table in a stable, moderate indoor environment and follow the temperature and storage recommendations provided by the manufacturer.

Use Both Ends of the Massage Table When Possible

If your table is designed to accept the face rest at either end, occasionally moving the face rest from one end of the table to the other can help distribute repeated use more evenly.

This may help reduce concentrated wear on the upholstery, frame and attachment areas at one end of the table. Only use this approach if your table is designed to accommodate the face rest at both ends.

Protect the Table from Cuts, Punctures and Abrasions

Massage table upholstery is designed for professional use, but it can still be damaged by sharp or abrasive objects.

Take care around:

• Sharp jewellery, belt buckles and clothing hardware
• Tools and treatment equipment
• Rolling carts positioned too close to the table
• Sharp edges on accessories
• Improper storage or transportation

Inspect the upholstery periodically for tears, punctures, seam damage or other deterioration. If damage occurs, contact the table manufacturer or supplier for advice about an appropriate repair or replacement rather than applying an unapproved adhesive or repair product.

How to Clean and Maintain an Electric Massage Table

Electric massage tables require the same routine upholstery care as other professional massage tables, but their motors, controls, cords and lift mechanisms require some additional precautions.

• Keep liquids away from electrical components. Never spray cleaning solution directly onto a motor, control box, foot pedal, hand control, electrical connector or power outlet.
• Inspect the power cord periodically. Stop using the table and seek service if the cord, plug or electrical connection becomes damaged.
• Watch for unusual movement or sound. A change in lifting performance, unusual noise or unexpected movement should be investigated before continued use.
• Keep the frame clean. Wipe accessible frame surfaces with a clean cloth while preventing liquids from entering electrical or moving components.
• Check electric lift operation. Make sure the table raises and lowers smoothly and responds normally to its controls.
• Follow the owner's manual. Maintenance requirements differ between manufacturers and table models, so follow the service and maintenance instructions supplied with your specific electric massage table.
• Do not open electrical components unnecessarily. Electrical repairs or internal adjustments should be completed according to the manufacturer's instructions or by an appropriate service technician.

Check the Table's Weight Capacity and Hardware

Always use your massage table within the manufacturer's rated working capacity.

Periodically inspect accessible hardware, table legs, frame connections, face cradle attachments and other components for signs of movement, looseness or wear. If something appears damaged or unstable, stop using the table until the issue has been assessed.

Portable tables should also be checked after frequent transportation, since repeated folding, unfolding and movement can place additional demands on hinges, cables, fasteners and accessories.

Massage Table Cleaning and Maintenance Checklist

Use this quick checklist to build massage table care into your regular treatment-room routine. Always follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions supplied with your specific table.

After Every Client

• Remove and replace used sheets, face cradle covers, towels and other client-contact linens.
• Clean or disinfect exposed treatment surfaces as required by your clinic's infection-control procedures.
• Follow the cleaning or disinfecting product's label instructions, including the required contact time.
• Remove visible massage oil, lotion or other residue promptly.

Daily

• Clean the upholstery using a mild cleaning solution compatible with the table surface.
• Wipe away oil, lotion, dirt and other residue with a clean, damp towel.
• Check commonly used areas such as the face cradle end, seams and table edges for buildup.
• Make sure the upholstery is dry before replacing linens or covering the table.

Weekly

• Inspect seams, edges, face cradle areas and accessories for signs of wear or damage.
• Clean around attachments and other areas that may be missed during routine daily cleaning.
• Check for cuts, punctures, abrasions or areas where the upholstery is beginning to deteriorate.

Periodically

• Inspect accessible hardware, frame components and attachments for looseness, movement or unusual wear.
• For electric tables, inspect power cords, hand controls, foot controls and accessible electrical connections for visible damage.
• Check that electric lift functions operate smoothly and normally.
• If your table accepts the face rest at either end, occasionally switch ends to help distribute wear more evenly.

When Storing or Transporting Your Massage Table

• Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme cold.
• Avoid excessive heat and direct sunlight.
• Keep the table away from heaters and other heat-producing appliances.
• Protect the upholstery from cuts, punctures and abrasions during transportation or storage.
• Use sheets, fleece or an appropriate protective cover where practical.

For Electric Massage Tables

• Keep water and cleaning solutions away from motors, control boxes, electrical connections, hand controls and foot pedals.
• Do not spray cleaning products directly onto electrical components.
• Pay attention to changes in lift performance, unusual noises or unexpected movement.
• Follow the inspection and maintenance schedule in the owner's manual for your specific table.
• Contact the manufacturer, supplier or an appropriate service technician if the table develops an electrical or mechanical problem.

Important Massage Table Care Precautions

• Follow the upholstery-care instructions supplied with your specific massage table.
• Do not assume a cleaner or disinfectant is compatible with every upholstery material.
• Follow disinfectant label directions, including application instructions and required contact time.
• Do not use Myo-Ther Genie Plus on cloth upholstery.
• Use Benefect Botanical Decon 30 only on surfaces permitted by its product label and confirm massage table upholstery compatibility before use.
• Do not allow massage oil and lotion residue to remain on upholstery for extended periods.
• Avoid extreme heat and cold during storage.
• Keep cleaning liquids away from electrical controls and motors.
• Protect upholstery from cuts, punctures and abrasions.
• Stay within the table's rated working capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I use to clean a massage table?

Start with the cleaning instructions supplied by the table manufacturer. For routine care, a mild cleaning solution that is compatible with the upholstery can help remove massage oil, lotion and everyday dirt. A small amount of mild antibacterial dish soap mixed with water may be suitable for compatible surfaces, followed by wiping with a clean, damp towel.

When disinfection is required, professional options include Myo-Ther Genie Plus for compatible treatment-table surfaces and Benefect Botanical Decon 30 for compatible hard, non-porous surfaces. Always follow the product label and your table manufacturer's surface-care instructions.

Should a massage table be cleaned after every client?

Client-contact linens should be replaced between clients, and exposed treatment surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected between clients as required by your professional or clinic infection-control procedures. In addition, follow the table manufacturer's routine upholstery-care recommendations.

Can I use disinfectant wipes on a massage table?

Yes, provided the wipes are approved for the type of surface on your table and are used according to their label instructions. Myo-Ther Genie Plus is available in liquid and disinfectant-wipe formats for compatible professional treatment-table surfaces.

Can I use alcohol wipes on massage table upholstery?

It depends on the upholstery manufacturer. Some manufacturers approve certain alcohol-based products, while others advise against them. Check your table's care instructions before choosing a disinfectant rather than relying on a universal rule.

Can Myo-Ther Genie Plus be used on massage table upholstery?

Myo-Ther Genie Plus is recommended for compatible massage, chiropractic and physiotherapy table surfaces and is a Health Canada-authorized low-level disinfectant with a DIN. It is not intended for cloth upholstery. Follow the product label and your table manufacturer's surface-care instructions.

Can Benefect Botanical Decon 30 be used on a massage table?

Benefect Botanical Decon 30 is a Health Canada-authorized botanical disinfectant cleaner for hard, non-porous surfaces. Massage table upholstery materials vary, so confirm that your table's surface is compatible with the product before use and follow both the table manufacturer's instructions and the Benefect product label.

What is the difference between Myo-Ther Genie Plus and Benefect Decon 30?

Myo-Ther Genie Plus is specifically recommended for compatible massage, chiropractic and physiotherapy treatment-table surfaces and includes cleaning agents designed to help remove dirt and oily residue. Benefect Decon 30 is a ready-to-use botanical hard-surface disinfectant cleaner that uses thymol as its active ingredient and has a 30-second disinfecting contact time on labelled hard, non-porous surfaces. Both products should be used according to their labels and surface-compatibility instructions.

How do I remove massage oil from a massage table?

Remove massage oil promptly rather than allowing it to build up. Use a mild cleaning solution that is compatible with the table upholstery and wipe the surface with a clean, damp towel. Myo-Ther Genie Plus also contains cleaning agents designed to remove dirt and grease from compatible professional treatment-table surfaces.

How do I stop massage table upholstery from cracking?

Regular cleaning, prompt removal of oil and dirt, protection with appropriate linens, avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures, and protecting the surface from cuts and punctures can all help extend upholstery life. Always follow the care instructions supplied by the table manufacturer.

How should I clean an electric massage table?

Clean the upholstery according to the manufacturer's instructions while keeping sprays and liquids away from motors, control boxes, foot pedals, electrical connections and other powered components. Follow the owner's manual for model-specific electrical and mechanical maintenance.

Do electric massage tables require special maintenance?

Electric massage tables have motors, controls, power cords and lift mechanisms that require additional care. Inspect accessible electrical components periodically, keep liquids away from powered parts and pay attention to unusual movement, sound or changes in lift performance. Follow the maintenance instructions supplied with your specific table.

Protecting Your Massage Table Investment

A consistent care routine is one of the simplest ways to protect a professional massage table. Clean upholstery regularly, remove massage oil and residue promptly, protect the table with clean linens, avoid temperature extremes and inspect the table periodically for signs of wear.

For electric massage tables, also pay attention to power cords, controls and lift operation while keeping cleaning liquids away from electrical and mechanical components.

Because upholstery materials, electrical systems and maintenance requirements vary between manufacturers, always follow the cleaning, care and servicing instructions supplied with your specific table.

When your clinic requires a professional disinfectant, Relaxus offers two different options. Myo-Ther Genie Plus Cleaner & Disinfectant is specifically recommended for compatible massage, chiropractic and physiotherapy table surfaces, while Benefect Botanical Decon 30 Disinfectant Cleaner provides a ready-to-use botanical option for compatible hard, non-porous surfaces.

Looking for new or replacement equipment? Explore our complete selection of massage tables for sale in Canada, including electric massage tables and portable massage tables.

Sources and Product Guidance

• Manufacturer-supplied massage table upholstery-care guidance.
• Myo-Ther Genie Plus Cleaner & Disinfectant product information.
• Benefect Botanical Decon 30 Disinfectant Cleaner product information.
• Health Canada Drug Product Database: Genie Plus Liquid.
• Health Canada Drug Product Database: Benefect Botanical Decon 30.
• Benefect Botanical Decon 30 manufacturer product guidance.

Always follow the care instructions supplied with your specific massage table and the label directions of any cleaning or disinfecting product used in your practice. Infection-control requirements may vary by profession, workplace and jurisdiction.