Why is a barbers pole red and white?

The barber's pole stands as an iconic symbol that stands out. It originates from centuries-old traditions deeply rooted in the history of barbering and medicine. If you've ever wondered, "Why is a barber's pole red and white?" we're here to answer your questions—and you might just be surprised!

Here's what you need to know about the humble barber's pole.

Barbering in the past

The origin of the barber's pole can be traced back to mediaeval Europe. During the Middle Ages, barbers held roles that extended beyond cutting hair. They were also known as surgeons or "barber surgeons" and performed various medical procedures alongside their grooming services.

These procedures included bloodletting, tooth extractions, and minor surgeries. The red and white stripes on the barber's pole were symbolic representations of these dual roles.

Historically, the red stripes represented blood. Barbers were trained in bloodletting—a common medical practice believed to balance the body for treating various ailments.

The white stripes symbolised the clean bandages or dressings used in medical treatments.

What was the barber's pole used for?

The barber's pole served a practical function, acting as a visual indicator for people seeking specific services. In mediaeval times, many people couldn't actually read, so they used signs and symbols to indicate what a business was so people could understand.

The rotating pole outside a barbershop would display bandages that had been washed and wrapped around the pole, and these would flutter in the wind to signify the services offered.

Over time, the role of barbers shifted away from surgical practices. Advances in medical knowledge and establishing distinct medical professions led to the separation of barbers and surgeons. However, the barber's pole retained its symbolic significance.

While the classic red and white striped helix remains the traditional design, variations of the barber's pole can be found worldwide. Some regions might incorporate different colours or design elements, reflecting cultural nuances or modern interpretations.

The barber's pole holds more symbolic value in the modern era than its historical functions. It has become a traditional representation of barbershops, signifying grooming, hairstyling, and traditional men's grooming services.

What other barbering traditions no longer happen?

In the past, barbers performed minor surgeries, tooth extractions, and bloodletting. With advancements in medicine and the establishment of distinct medical professions, these practices no longer exist within barbershops.

Barbershops were traditionally male-dominated spaces. However, the modern era sees many barbershops welcoming clients of all genders. The exclusivity of these spaces has shifted, fostering more inclusive environments.

Barbershops used to offer a narrower range of services, mainly focusing on haircuts, shaves and basic grooming. Today, many modern barbershops provide a wider array of services, including styling, colouring, beard care and more. Traditional barbershops were known for meticulous grooming rituals like straight razor shaves, hot towel treatments, and specific hair styling. While some shops continue these practices, others have adapted to quicker, more convenient grooming methods to suit modern lifestyles.

While barbershops historically served as social hubs, social dynamics and technological changes have altered how people interact. While some barbershops still maintain a strong sense of community, the nature of interactions might differ from the past.

Barbershop quartets singing a cappella in traditional harmonies were common in older barbershops. While barbershop singing remains popular, having formal quartets perform in every shop has become far less common.

Times have changed, and with them, the dynamics and offerings of barbershops. While some traditional aspects have evolved or disappeared, new elements have emerged to keep these spaces relevant and appealing in contemporary society.

With its rich historical roots, the barber's pole stands as a lasting symbol of the evolution of the barbering profession. While its original significance may have faded, the enduring image of the rotating helix of red and white stripes continues to capture the essence of traditional barbershops.

Specialist barber insurance through Ripe

If you're a barber, you may want to get specialist insurance for peace of mind when working with clients. 

Specialist barber insurance arranged by Ripe includes up to £10m Public and Products Liability cover and up to £5m Treatment Risk cover as standard.

You can also add cover for your equipment up to the value of £250k, so you don't have to pay to replace it in the worst-case scenarios. 

Discover more about how we can help here, or get an instant online quote today.