Wolff is a recognized leader in the tanning bed industry. Friedrich Wolff lays claim to bringing the first tanning bed to America, in 1978, and since then the Wolff trademark has become synonymous with quality in the health and beauty industry. Wolff tanning bed parts are still widely available and patronized by those who own Wolff beds.

But since Wolff tanning bed parts are so plentiful, a tanning bed owner may wish to ask: can they be used on other beds? Say you have a Tropical Rayz bed, or a Solar Storm bed - could you use Wolff parts on them?

Admittedly, this is not a question that is commonly raised. The best place to look for parts is still the manufacturer of the bed you bought, which is why it is important to safekeep the warranty, in case the need for emergency repairs or replacements should arise. One could also contact the authorized dealer where one bought the bed. A salon owner or a home tanning bed owner could simply go online or pick up the phone and have new parts delivered. So even if Wolff parts abound, new parts are still easily available.

However, Wolff parts continue to stand a breed apart from other tanning bed items and accessories. Some tanning bed manufacturers even make it a point to mention that their beds are "powered by Wolff," which is to say they are using Wolff bed parts, but are not paying royalties to the Wolff Systems for their use. It is not necessary to purchase a license to use Wolff lamps for commercial tanning beds, after all. But it is necessary to indicate in some way that the bed makes use of the "Wolff System."

Can you use non-Wolff parts for beds that say they are "powered by Wolff," or they are making use of the "Wolff System"? Generally, you can. Bulbs are interchangeable among brands, for example, and you can purchase a Cosmedico bulb for use on a bed that has that label on the side. Just make sure that the strength of the bulb and the size matches the original bulb that was replaced. The "Wolff System" does not only mean bulbs, after all - it means that the setup of the lighting system is a Wolff trademark.

To maximize the performance of one's tanning implements, such as lamps and beds, all the parts should be properly cared for and maintained. But if you purchased signature parts, such as Wolff tanning bed parts, you could assure that the parts you are using could perform in top condition in the first place.