Clean Your Crack! (OR Proper Care For Your Massage Table)
- Kirby Clark, MMT
- Aug 3
- 2 min read
I want to know, do you clean your crack? On the massage table I mean! Yes, even your massage table has cracks that need the occasional tending to.
Many massage therapists lovingly care for their clients, their oils, and their playlists—but forget one crucial thing: the mysterious middle crevice between the “head” and “foot” sections of their massage table. That sneaky split is a magnet for grime—skin cells, stray lotion, mystery fuzz, and whatever else the universe decides to stash there.
Luckily, cleaning it is easier than you think—and oddly satisfying, if you do it right. Think of it as self-care… for your equipment.
1. Lift the Table / Expose the Crevice
First things first: gently lift or flex the middle of your massage table to create a bit of space between the two halves. You want to reveal that shadowy zone where dust bunnies go to retire. If your table doesn’t flex easily, you'll need to exercise some extra elbow grease to get in there.
2. Spritz Like You Mean It
Generously spray the vinyl surface with disinfectant. A classic massage school mix is equal parts rubbing alcohol and witch hazel—it cleans well and smells great! Almost like you're about to host a wellness séance.
No shame in using pre-mixed cleaners or disposable wipes either—just make sure whatever you use is safe for vinyl and approved for disinfecting surfaces. Bonus points if it doesn't smell like a chemical spill.
3. Wipe It Down—All of It
Start at the face cradle and work your way down both sections of the table. Don't just hit the high points—give some TLC to the sides and edges too. Use a washcloth (eco-friendly) or paper towels (still valid), and really get into that crevice. It's the Bermuda Triangle of your table and probably needs it.
Pro tip: if it’s been a while, you might want to go in for a second pass. No judgment. Just gratitude from your future self.
4. Dry It Like You Mean It
Before you smoosh the two halves of your table back together, make sure the surface is completely dry—especially the crevice. Otherwise, congratulations, you've just created a mini petri dish. We’re aiming for clean, not cultured. Plus, wet vinyl is sticky vinyl that will wear down with added friction and over time.
5. That’s It! You’re Done!
Lower the table back into place, admire your work, and maybe even give it a little pat of appreciation. Then, go forth and repeat this regularly—because a clean table is a happy table (and your clients will thank you, even if they don’t know you did it in the first place).
Now go on—get outta here and clean your own cracks!
Accompanying Vlog: https://www.tiktok.com/@kirbyclarkellis.mti/video/7263318821145152814?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7356954434540471851
Peace and Healing,
Kirby Clark Ellis, MTI, BCTMB
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