Customer Hits Out After Being Asked To Tip 50%, 70% Or 90% For A Walk-In Haircut

Some people expressed concern that the expectation to tip has become excessively demanding in the United States. 

On the other hand, there's criticism directed at those who choose to tip 10 percent or less, suggesting that such practices are insufficient.

The discussion around tipping, traditionally associated with dining and food service industries, has broadened to include other service areas, notably hair salons and barbershops. 

The debate has been raging for quite some time and it doesn't look like it's dying down anytime soon.

A particular point of contention emerged from a server's comment on social media, arguing that if customers aren't prepared to tip at least 20 percent, they probably shouldn't dine out at all. 

Would you tip for a walk-in haircut? Credit: Pexels / Dmitry Zvolskiy

This comment highlights the issue faced by servers in the U.S., who may earn slightly more than $3 an hour, placing the onus on customers to compensate for wages that employers may not be willing to increase.

Meanwhile, a customer shared that they're not inherently against tipping but believe it should be reserved for exceptional circumstances, such as enjoying a "great three-course meal" coupled with "good service." 

This customer advocates for tipping to remain a voluntary gesture, not a compulsory one.

But the conversation takes a peculiar turn when considering a visit to the barber or hairdresser. 

Is it expected to tip in such scenarios, especially after a simple chat and trim?

A Reddit user, CapablePerformer8582, stirred the pot by posting a screenshot of the payment screen following their "walk-in haircut," revealing the tipping options presented

The screen displayed a haircut cost of $15, with tipping options set at 50 percent ($7.50), 70 percent ($10.50), and 90 percent ($13.50).

Credit: Reddit

Additionally, customers could choose to enter a "custom tip" or opt for "no tip" at all.

And other Redditors have a lot to say about it.

With such a wide range of opinions and experiences shared, the question remains:

what is the appropriate etiquette for tipping at hair salons and barbershops, especially for walk-in services?