If you’ve ever stepped inside a tanning salon, you’ve probably noticed two main options: the classic lay-down tanning bed and the tall, upright version often called a standing tanning bed or stand-up tanning booth. The standing model looks more like a small vertical capsule than a bed, and instead of lying down, you step inside and stand while UV lamps evenly tan your skin.
Many people actually prefer these vertical booths over traditional lay-down beds. The reasons are simple: you don’t have to touch a surface where dozens of others have been lying, the airflow feels fresher, and the tan usually develops more evenly because you’re standing up with no pressure points against your skin. For busy people, another big plus is that standing tanning beds often work faster, so a session can be just a few minutes.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from the benefits and risks of using a standing tanning bed to how to use it safely, and even tips for buying one if you’re considering a home unit. Think of this as sitting down with a friend who happens to be a tanning expert, here to give you clear and honest advice so you can decide whether a standing tanning bed is right for you.
Understanding Standing (Stand Up) Tanning Beds
A standing tanning bed, also known as a stand up tanning bed or vertical tanning booth, is designed to give you an all-around, even tan while you remain standing inside a tall capsule-like unit. Instead of lying down on acrylic glass, you simply step inside the booth, close the door, and let the UV lamps do their work.
The booth is lined with high-intensity UV bulbs that surround your body. Because the lamps are closer to your skin and evenly distributed from head to toe, the exposure tends to be more uniform than in a lay-down bed. Most units also include built-in fans or ventilation systems, so you feel cooler during your session and don’t have to worry about that “stuffy bed” feeling. Some advanced models even have facial tanners or body-position markers to help you stand correctly.
Now, how does this compare to a traditional lay-down tanning bed? In a horizontal bed, you recline on your back and the lamps sit above and below you. This can sometimes leave pressure points where your skin touches the surface, causing faint lines or uneven tanning. In contrast, standing booths eliminate that issue since your skin never presses against anything. Another difference is time: because the lamps in stand-up beds are often stronger, sessions are usually shorter — sometimes just a few minutes.
You might also hear different names for these machines: tanning bed stand up, stand up tan bed, or simply vertical booth. No matter what term is used, the idea is the same — a quick, hygienic, and even way to tan without lying down.
Benefits of Stand Up Tanning Beds
One of the main reasons people choose a standing tanning bed is speed. These booths usually come with stronger UV bulbs that sit closer to your skin, which means you can achieve the same color in less time compared to a lay-down bed. For someone juggling work, family, and errands, saving even a few minutes during a tanning session can make a big difference.
Another big advantage is the even coverage. Since you’re standing up, your skin isn’t pressed against any surface, so you don’t get those faint pressure lines that sometimes appear after using a horizontal bed. The vertical design also lets UV light reach areas that are harder to tan when lying down, like the sides of your body or underarms.
Hygiene is another point people care about. In a stand-up booth, you’re not lying on acrylic glass that dozens of others have used throughout the day. While salons do clean their equipment, many clients feel more comfortable knowing that in a vertical bed, there’s less skin-to-surface contact.
Because of these benefits, many tanning enthusiasts — and even some salon owners — say stand up tanning beds are better for those who want a fast, consistent, and more hygienic experience. Of course, whether it’s “better” depends on personal preference, but for people who value speed and cleanliness, stand-up booths often come out on top.
Risks and Health Considerations
As convenient as a standing tanning bed might sound, it’s important to remember that it still uses UV light to darken your skin — and that comes with real risks. Just like natural sunlight, the rays inside a booth can cause long-term damage. Over time, repeated exposure increases your chances of skin cancer, speeds up premature aging (wrinkles, sun spots, and loss of elasticity), and can lead to serious eye damage if you don’t wear protective goggles.
Certain groups of people should be especially cautious or avoid stand up tanning beds altogether. If you have very fair or sensitive skin, you’re more likely to burn than tan, which raises the risk of permanent skin damage. People with a history of skin cancer, medical conditions like lupus, or those on medications that increase sun sensitivity should also stay away. And let’s not forget age limits — in many countries, it’s illegal for anyone under 18 to use indoor tanning beds because of the health risks.
Dermatologists are generally clear on this topic: no matter how quick or “safe” a tanning booth may seem, there is no such thing as risk-free UV tanning. Experts recommend limiting the number of sessions, protecting sensitive areas, and always using certified protective eyewear. Some even suggest considering alternatives like spray tans if you want the glow without the UV exposure.
Regulations vary around the world, but most countries have introduced stricter guidelines in recent years. Many require tanning salons to post safety warnings, provide goggles, and restrict session times. Others ban minors entirely from using tanning beds. If you’re using a salon or buying a home stand up tanning bed, always make sure the equipment is certified and complies with your local laws.
How to Use a Stand Up Tanning Bed Safely
If you’ve decided to try a standing tanning bed, using it the right way makes all the difference between a safe, even glow and painful overexposure. Think of it like preparing for a workout — a little prep before and good care afterward will protect your skin.
Prepare your skin first: Always start with clean skin. Exfoliating gently the night before helps remove dead cells so your tan develops evenly. Skip perfumes, makeup, or heavy lotions right before a session since these can block UV rays or irritate your skin. Instead, use a light, tanning-friendly moisturizer if your skin feels dry. And never forget protective eyewear — UV light can damage your eyes even in short sessions.
Positioning matters: Many people wonder how to stand in a stand up tanning bed. The goal is to keep your body open so UV light hits all areas evenly. Place your feet on the markers inside the booth, lift your arms slightly away from your sides, and keep your chin level. Rotate slowly if your booth doesn’t have full 360° coverage. This way, you avoid streaks or lighter patches.
Time it right: One of the most useful tools is a stand up tanning bed time chart. Session length usually depends on your skin type:
- Fair or sensitive skin (Type I–II): start with 3–5 minutes, never more than 2 sessions a week.
- Medium skin (Type III–IV): 5–8 minutes to start, 2–3 sessions a week.
- Darker or easily tanning skin (Type V–VI): 8–12 minutes, but still avoid daily use.
Remember, more time doesn’t mean a better tan — it just increases your risk of burning.
Frequency guidelines: For most people, 2–3 sessions per week is the maximum safe range. Give your skin at least a day or two to recover between tans. Once you’ve built up your base color, many find one quick session every 1–2 weeks is enough to maintain results.
The safest approach is to go slow, listen to your body, and stop immediately if you feel your skin getting too hot or uncomfortable.
Stand Up Tanning Bed vs Lay Down: Which Should You Choose?
One of the most common questions I hear at salons is, “Should I go with the stand up or the lay down tanning bed?” The truth is, both can work — but they feel very different, and which one is “better” depends on your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.
Comfort and convenience: In a lay down bed, you’re reclining, which can feel relaxing — some people even nap during their session. But for others, lying still on the acrylic surface feels cramped or uncomfortable, especially on a busy day. A standing tanning bed gives you more freedom of movement and feels less claustrophobic since you’re upright in a ventilated booth.
Tan quality and speed: Because the bulbs in stand up booths are stronger and closer to your skin, sessions are often shorter — sometimes only 5–10 minutes compared to 15–20 in a lay down bed. The vertical design also means you’re less likely to get pressure marks or uneven patches. On the other hand, some people find lay down beds give a softer, slower build that feels gentler on sensitive skin.
Cost considerations: At salons, pricing is usually similar, but some places charge slightly more for stand up sessions because of the faster bulbs and higher power. If you’re thinking about buying a home unit, lay down beds often take up more space, while vertical booths save room but can be pricier upfront. Maintenance costs are fairly similar — replacing bulbs, cleaning, and servicing will be part of either option.
Personal preference: At the end of the day, it really comes down to what feels right for you. If you like a quick, efficient tan and prefer less surface contact, a stand up booth might be your match. If you enjoy lying down, closing your eyes, and turning the session into relaxation time, the traditional bed might suit you better. Some people even mix both depending on their mood or schedule.
Buying Guide: Standing Tanning Beds for Sale
If you’ve ever considered getting your own standing tanning bed at home, you’re not alone. Many people love the convenience of skipping salon appointments and being able to tan on their own schedule. But before investing, it’s important to understand the options, features, and costs.
Home vs. commercial models: Commercial stand up booths are what you typically see in salons — tall, powerful units built to handle frequent use. They’re more expensive, larger, and require professional installation. Home stand up tanning beds, on the other hand, are usually smaller, slightly less powerful, and designed for occasional use. They save space and energy but still give you the same upright tanning experience.
Features to look for: When shopping, check the type of bulbs used (high-pressure vs low-pressure), since this affects tanning speed and comfort. Good ventilation is essential so you don’t overheat. A reliable timer system ensures you don’t overstay your session, and always make sure the machine carries proper safety certifications for electrical and UV standards. Some newer models even include adjustable facial lamps and built-in cooling fans for comfort.
Price and maintenance: Expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to over $10,000 depending on whether it’s a compact home booth or a full commercial model. Maintenance mainly involves replacing bulbs every 500–800 hours of use, cleaning the interior regularly, and occasionally servicing electrical parts. These costs can add up, so factor them into your budget.
Where to buy: The safest approach is to purchase from trusted salon suppliers, tanning equipment distributors, or reputable online retailers. While secondhand booths may look like a bargain, they often come with hidden issues like worn-out bulbs, damaged wiring, or missing certifications. If you do consider used equipment, make sure it’s inspected and serviced before installation.
Investing in a stand up tanning bed can make sense for salon owners or for individuals who tan regularly, but it’s not a decision to rush. Weigh the long-term costs and make sure it fits your lifestyle before buying.
Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though a standing tanning bed is easy to use, small mistakes can make your experience less safe or leave you with patchy results. Here are a few things I often remind clients about:
Avoid overexposure: Staying in longer doesn’t mean a darker tan — it just raises the risk of burning. Stick to your recommended time, especially if you’re new. A slow, steady build always looks more natural and is much kinder to your skin.
Don’t skip protective eyewear or lotion: Your eyes are especially vulnerable to UV rays. Skipping goggles, even for a single session, can cause long-term damage. The same goes for tanning lotions or moisturizers designed for indoor tanning — they help your skin tan evenly and stay hydrated.
Mind your posture: In a vertical booth, how you stand makes a difference. Keep your arms slightly raised, legs apart, and body relaxed. If you stay stiff with your arms at your sides, you’ll end up with lighter streaks along your torso and underarms. A few small adjustments can give you a much more balanced glow.
Don’t forget aftercare: Once you’re done, treat your skin gently. Drink plenty of water, apply a cooling gel or aloe-based moisturizer, and avoid harsh scrubs right after tanning. Protecting your skin afterward helps your tan last longer and keeps it looking smooth.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following simple aftercare steps, you’ll not only get a better tan but also protect your skin’s long-term health.
Alternatives to UV Tanning
Not everyone feels comfortable stepping into a standing tanning bed, and that’s completely okay. Luckily, there are plenty of UV-free tanning options that give you a sun-kissed look without the health risks of ultraviolet light.
Spray tans: One of the most popular alternatives, spray tans coat your skin with a fine mist of DHA (a sugar-derived ingredient) that reacts with the top layer of your skin to create a natural bronze. The color usually develops within a few hours and can last up to a week. Salons often offer spray booths for quick, even coverage.
Self-tanning lotions and mousses: These products can be applied at home, giving you control over how dark you want to go. With a little practice — and a tanning mitt to avoid streaks — you can achieve a smooth glow for a fraction of the cost of salon sessions.
Bronzers and instant tanners: These are makeup-style products that wash off at the end of the day. They’re perfect for special occasions when you just want temporary color without any commitment.
Comparing UV-free options: In terms of safety, UV-free methods are far gentler on your skin since they don’t expose you to harmful rays. They also vary in cost — spray tans at a salon may add up over time, but self-tanning products are budget-friendly. As for tan quality, modern formulas have come a long way; many leave a natural golden finish rather than the “orange” look people used to worry about.
If you love the look of a tan but want to avoid the risks, UV-free options are worth exploring. They might not last quite as long as a traditional tan, but your skin will thank you in the long run.
Conclusion
A standing tanning bed offers some clear advantages: faster sessions, more even coverage, and a cleaner, upright experience compared to traditional lay-down beds. At the same time, it’s important to remember the downsides — UV exposure comes with real risks, from premature aging to an increased chance of skin cancer.
If you do choose to use a stand up booth, focus on safe practices: keep your sessions short, always wear protective goggles, moisturize and care for your skin afterward, and give your body time to recover between tans. Little habits like proper posture and aftercare make a big difference in both results and skin health.
Most importantly, remember that every skin type is unique. What works for your friend may not be right for you. If you’re considering long-term tanning, it’s always smart to consult a dermatologist. A professional can guide you on safe exposure levels, skin checks, and healthier alternatives if UV tanning isn’t the best fit for your skin.
Used wisely, a standing tanning bed can give you that golden glow many people love — but your health and safety should always come first.
