10 Things Every Tattoo Artist NEEDS in Their Station (That Aren’t a Machine)

So you’ve got your dream machine. Congrats, hotshot. But your setup doesn’t stop there—and your clients (and their immune systems) are counting on you. A good tattoo station isn’t just about what puts ink in skin. It’s about what keeps your process clean, professional, and stress-free from start to finish.

Here are 10 essentials every tattoo artist should have in their station—none of which plug in.

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1. Surface Disinfectant (Hospital-Grade)

You need a hard-surface disinfectant that’s rated against tuberculosis, HIV, hepatitis, and MRSA.
🧼 Why it matters: Bloodborne pathogens can live on surfaces for hours. A simple wipe isn’t enough.
📌 Examples: OPTIM 33TB, MadaCide-FD, Cavicide.

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2. Disposable XL Armrest Covers or Drape Sheets

Your client’s skin should never touch an uncovered surface.
🖤 Why it matters: Cross-contamination risk from reused or unprotected padding is real.
📌 Electrum XL Armrest Covers are a disposable, barrier-grade option sized for studio furniture.

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3. A Proper XL Armrest

If your armrest looks like it belongs in a dentist's office from 1993, it’s time to upgrade. A stable, adjustable, extra-large armrest isn’t just a flex—it protects your posture and gives clients real support during long sessions.

Electrum’s XL Armrest is wide enough for sleeves, strong enough for backpieces, and padded enough to keep your clients from squirming. It’s fully adjustable, built like a tank, and designed to make your station feel (and function) like a pro’s.

Because you can’t do solid work if your client is hanging off a wobbly barstool with a throw pillow on it.

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4. Skin Prep Solution (Chlorhexidine-Based Preferred)

You need an antimicrobial skin cleanser that doesn’t irritate or foam excessively.
💧 Why it matters: Proper skin prep reduces infection risk and helps stencils adhere.
📌 Example: Electrum Cleanse contains chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG), is skin-safe, and doesn’t leave residue.

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5. Stencil Paper + Transfer Agent That Doesn’t Wipe Off

Your stencil is your roadmap—don’t let it vanish halfway through.
📌 Example: Spirit Classic Transfer Paper or Eco Stencil Paper with Electrum Gold Standard transfer gel.
🎯 Pro Tip: Use nitrile gloves when applying to avoid oils disrupting adhesion.

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6. Sharps Container

If you're tossing used cartridges into the regular trash, stop reading and go fix that immediately. Every station needs a proper red sharps container—no exceptions.

It’s legally required in most regions and protects both you and your waste handlers from needle-stick injuries and biohazard risks. Toss those cartridges like a professional, not a raccoon.

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7. Gloves (and a Backup Box)

Gloves aren’t optional. You should always have a fresh box within reach—and a backup box just in case.

Nitrile is the standard for durability and latex sensitivity, and black gloves tend to hide ink and blood better. Pro tip: Keep a second size on hand for guest artists or swollen hands during long sessions.

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8. Trash Can (Lined, Lidded, and Hands-Free)

Your garbage setup should be just as hygienic as the rest of your station.

Use a foot-pedal trash can lined with a medical-grade bag, and position it close enough that you don’t have to do a Cirque du Soleil move mid-tattoo just to toss a paper towel.

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9. Disposable Machine Bags + Clipcord Covers

Cross-contamination is out. Fully wrapped machines are in.
Have extras on hand and actually use them—even during touch-ups and quick walk-ins. It’s not overkill. It’s called being a professional.

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10. A Setup Checklist or Station Flow Diagram

Yes, even if you’re experienced.
📋 Why it matters: Cognitive fatigue and distractions cause mistakes. Having a printed or mental checklist helps with consistency.
📌 Include: barrier placement, equipment wrapping, disinfecting steps, and post-tattoo cleanup.

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TL;DR:

If your setup is just “a machine and vibes,” it’s time to upgrade.
These 10 tools don’t just improve your workflow—they protect your clients, your rep, and your peace of mind.

👉 Shop the gear trusted by real artists at Electrum Supply and build the station you (and your clients) deserve.