How to Choose the Right Grooming Arm & Clamp (Step-by-Step Guide)
How to Choose the Right Grooming Arm & Clamp
A Step-by-Step Buying Guide for Professional Groomers
Choosing the right grooming arm and clamp doesn’t have to be confusing.
The key is understanding how your grooming table works — and then selecting components that fit it properly.
This step-by-step guide walks you through each decision so you can confidently
buy exactly what you need (and avoid paying for what you don’t.)
⬇️Jump To Our Visual Guide for Arms & Clamps⬇️
Step 1: What Kind of Grooming Table Do You Have?
This is the most important factor when shopping for grooming arms and clamps.
Your tabletop thickness and edge style determine which clamp will work safely and securely.
Standard Grooming Tables (Up to 1.25" Thick, Flat Edge)
✔ Compatible with Standard Thickness Clamps
✔ Available in Economy or Premium
✔ Fits most grooming tables on the market
✔ Common in salons, home grooming setups, and folding tables.
If your table has a clean, square edge and measures 1.25" inches thick or less, a standard clamp will work perfectly.
Thicker, Framed, or Non-Standard Grooming Tables
✔ Requires a Universal Clamp
✔ Designed for thicker tabletops and frames
✔ Larger grip provides better contact and stability
✔ Prevents slipping where standard clamps can’t seat properly
Quick rule of thumb:
If your table is over 1.25" thick or does not have a flat, square edge → choose a Universal Clamp.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Clamp
(Standard vs. Universal · Economy vs. Premium)
Standard Clamp
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Fits grooming tables up to 1.25" thick
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Available in Economy and Premium
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Most common clamp choice for salons and home groomers
Universal Clamp
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Fits thicker or irregular tabletops
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Wrap-style grip for added security
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Available only in Premium
Why isn’t there an Economy Universal Clamp?
The Universal design requires heavier materials and tighter tolerances to remain secure. An economy version would compromise performance and safety — so we only offer it in Premium.
Step 3: Choosing Your Grooming Arm
(All Arms Are Compatible)
Good news: All of our grooming arms use 1" square tubing.
That means every grooming arm works with every clamp we sell — no guessing, no mismatching. From here, your choice comes down to finish, weight, and personal preference.
Economy Grooming Arm
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Lightweight and durable
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Painted finish
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Budget-friendly
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Same size and shape as the Premium arm
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Great for everyday grooming
Premium Grooming Arm
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Heavier-duty feel
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Brushed Stainless Steel finish
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Ideal for busy salons, mobile grooming, and larger dogs
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Designed for long-term, high-use environments
Step 4: Do You Need a Standard Arm or an Overhead Grooming Arm Setup?
If you’d like the option to use multiple restraints or provide support from above, an overhead grooming arm setup may be the right choice.
Overhead Grooming Arm Setup Includes:
✔ Two clamps
✔ One overhead arm
✔ Support from above instead of the table edge
✔ Helps manage dogs that sit, spin, lean, or drop weight
Overhead systems are especially helpful for safety, control, and reducing strain during grooming.
Step 5: Buy Only What You Need — Kits or À La Carte
We offer individual grooming arms and clamps as well as complete kits, so you’re never forced into buying components you don’t need.
Whether you’re replacing a single part or building a full setup from scratch, you can customize your purchase to match your table, workload, and budget.
