How to Take Care of Your Spray Tanning Equipment and Guns (And Make Them Last Longer)

Your spray tan machine and gun are the backbone of your business. When they’re cared for properly, they deliver consistent results, reduce downtime and last significantly longer. When they’re not, small issues can quickly turn into leaks, uneven spray patterns or unexpected breakdowns at the worst possible time.

Whether you’re a salon-based technician or a mobile spray tanner, good equipment care doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does need to be done correctly and consistently. Here’s how to look after your spray tanning equipment and guns so they continue performing at their best.

Why Equipment Care Matters

Spray tan guns push solution through fine internal components under pressure, while machines rely on clean airflow to operate efficiently. Over time, DHA residue, moisture and dust can build up if cleaning isn’t done thoroughly.

Most equipment issues don’t happen suddenly. They develop gradually from leftover solution drying inside the gun, restricted airflow from dirty filters, worn seals or unnoticed hose damage. Proper maintenance helps prevent these issues and extends the life of your equipment.

Daily Care: After Every Client or Session

Cleaning your gun properly after every use is the most important habit you can form.

Once you’ve finished a client or session, empty any remaining solution from the cup immediately. Never leave solution sitting in the gun, even briefly, as DHA can dry quickly and harden inside the nozzle and internal pathways.

Start by rinsing the cup and gun with hot water to remove the bulk of the solution.

After this initial rinse, fill the cup with hot water and approximately one tablespoon of methylated spirits together. Turn the machine on to its highest setting and adjust the gun to level 8.

Hold the trigger down continuously while spraying so you can clearly see any old solution being pushed out of the nozzle. Continue spraying until the liquid runs completely clear. This step confirms that all remaining solution has been flushed from inside the gun. The combination of hot water and metho helps break down residue while also removing moisture from the internal components.

Wipe down the outside of the gun with a damp cloth, paying close attention to the trigger and nozzle areas where overspray can build up.

Drying the Gun Properly

Drying the gun properly is just as important as cleaning it.

Once flushing is complete, remove the cup and allow any remaining liquid to drain. Insert the hose back into the gun and briefly run the machine with no liquid in the cup. This allows airflow to move through the gun and hose, helping to dry the internal components thoroughly.

Proper drying prevents moisture from sitting inside the gun, which can lead to sticky triggers, residue build-up and premature seal wear.

Once dry, store the gun upright in a safe place where the nozzle isn’t resting against any surfaces.

End-of-Day Cleaning

At the end of the day, repeat the same process to ensure the gun is clean and fully dry overnight.

Rinse the cup and gun with hot water, then flush using hot water and metho together on the highest machine setting with the gun on level 8, holding the trigger down until clear.

Remove the nozzle and rinse it separately with hot water, ensuring there is no residue left behind. Gently wipe it with a soft cloth if needed. Avoid pins or sharp objects, as these can damage the nozzle and affect the spray pattern.

Allow the gun to fully air dry using airflow from the machine before storing.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Machine Filters

Your spray tan machine relies on clean filters to maintain proper airflow and prevent overheating. Filters naturally collect dust, lint and product residue over time, especially in salon and mobile environments.

Regularly check your machine filters and clean them as required. If removable, take them out and gently clean away dust and build-up. Always allow filters to dry completely before reinstalling.

Blocked or dirty filters restrict airflow, cause the machine to run hotter than it should and reduce overall performance. Keeping filters clean helps your machine run efficiently and extends its lifespan.

Weekly Maintenance Checks

Once a week, take a few minutes to inspect your equipment more closely.

Check the hose for any signs of splitting or cracking, especially near connection points.

Inspect seals and O-rings for wear or swelling, as these parts are essential for preventing leaks and maintaining consistent pressure.

Test the spray pattern to ensure it remains even. Changes often indicate build-up or a part that needs attention.

Common Mistakes That Shorten Equipment Life

Leaving solution sitting in the gun
Skipping proper flushing with hot water and metho
Not holding the trigger down long enough
Failing to dry the gun internally using airflow
Ignoring dirty machine filters

When to Replace Parts

Some parts naturally wear over time. Hoses, seals, nozzles and filters are consumable components and should be replaced when signs of wear appear.

If your gun starts leaking, spraying unevenly or using more solution than usual, it’s often a sign that a part needs replacing.

What This Means for Your Equipment

Your spray tan machine and gun are an investment. Treating them with care ensures they continue delivering consistent, professional results and supporting your business long-term.

Consistent equipment care leads to consistent tans, and consistency is what keeps clients coming back.