The etiquette of tipping your massage therapist is not something that people talk about often. So, we’re going to take a look at it right now! Whether you are visiting the spa for the first time or have been coming back on a regular basis, there are some important things that you should know. In order to be courteous and polite, here’s what you need to do before and after your session.
Are You Supposed To Tip Your Massage Therapist?
If you have had a massage before, you may be wondering if it is appropriate to tip your therapist. The answer to this question really depends on the person and their situation. For instance, some people don’t mind tipping because they feel like it recognizes the amount of work that went into providing such an amazing service. On the other hand, some people feel that it’s not necessary to tip because they believe the cost of the service is already paid for.
Tipping your massage therapist is appropriate and expected in the United States, Canada, Australia and UK. Tips are not expected in countries like India, Sri Lanka, Japan and China. A tip may be included in your final bill. A tip jar is also available at the reception for those willing to do so.
You should also keep in mind that your therapist is not the only person who deserves a tip. If you’ve had someone do something for you, such as give you a manicure or pedicure, then it would be appropriate to leave them some gratuity too!
Tipping Your Massage Therapists: How Much Is Enough?
If you do decide to tip your massage therapist, there are some ways that you can be courteous and polite. For instance, it’s a good idea to ask the front desk how much they would like before going in for your appointment. This way, if you don’t have enough cash on hand or want to use another form of currency, then you can either go to the ATM or take care of it beforehand.
In most cases, the suggested tip ranges from 20% to 25% in the United States and 10% to 15% in the UK.
Another consideration is that your therapist may not want a tip in exchange for their services. But if they do and are willing to accept one, try giving them cash instead of something like chocolate or wine because those items will expire while money never does!
Lastly, be sure to ask them if they have any specific preference about how you should tip. For instance, some therapists may be okay with a higher or lower percentage than the standard 20-25%.
Expected Tip for a 60 Minute Massage:
You should pay 20% to 25% of the billed amount as a tip to the massage therapist in the US and 10% to 15% of the billed amount in the UK.
Expected Tip for a 90 Minute Massage
You should pay 20% to 25% of the billed amount as a tip to the massage therapist in the US and 10% to 15% of the billed amount in the UK.
Social Norm: Gifting Your Massage Therapist
You can gift your massage therapist, if you are on friendly terms and if you have been a long standing customer. Otherwise, giving a gift on your first visit may be awkward and undesired.
You should give a gift to your massage therapist if they have done something for you in the past or if it is their birthday.
For instance, one idea could be giving them flowers at their next session! It will make them feel appreciated and loved while also providing an opportunity to connect with each other more deeply on another level. Another option is to give them a card or present that they can open at their next session.
Gift Ideas for Your Massage Therapist:
-Fruit basket or Cokkie Basket
-A bottle of wine, beer, liquor etc. (if they drink)
-Heated socks or slippers
-A plant
-Candles ! (they make a great gift!).
Thanking Your Massage Therapist for Their Service
If you’re not sure what to say, try saying
-Thank you so much for the service.
-I really appreciate all your efforts to help me feel better!
-I am so grateful for the healing you have been offering me.
-Thank you for what you do! I really appreciate it.
Final Thoughts
Tipping your massage therapist is a common practice in the United States, Canada, Australia and UK. If you have had someone do something for you such as give you a manicure or pedicure then it would also be appropriate to leave them some gratuity too! It may be awkward on your first visit if you don’t know how much they want. While tipping should never feel like an obligation, it’s always polite to ask what their preferred amount is before going into the appointment so that there are no uncomfortable surprises at the end of the session.
