What is buffer time
Buffer time is the gap between consecutive appointments. It gives providers time to clean up, prepare for the next client, take a break, or handle any overrun from the previous session.
Navigate to: Sidebar → Services → Select Service → Buffer Time setting
Why buffer time matters
Without buffer time, appointments stack back-to-back with no breathing room. If a 60-minute session runs 5 minutes over, the next client's appointment starts late, creating a domino effect for the rest of the day.
Setting buffer time
- Open the service you want to configure
- Find the Buffer Time setting
- Set the buffer duration (e.g., 10 minutes, 15 minutes)
- Choose whether the buffer applies before, after, or both before and after the appointment
- Save the service
Screenshot: The buffer time configuration with before, after, and both options
The buffer time configuration with before, after, and both options
Before vs. after buffer
- After buffer — Most common. Adds time after the appointment ends before the next one can start. Use for cleanup, sanitizing equipment, or resetting a room.
- Before buffer — Adds prep time before the appointment. Use when the provider needs to set up equipment or materials.
- Both — Adds buffer on each side. Use for services requiring both setup and teardown.
How it affects availability
Buffer time is invisible to customers. If you have a 60-minute service with a 15-minute after-buffer, the service still shows as "60 minutes" to the customer. But Wemu blocks 75 minutes in the provider's schedule, ensuring the next available slot isn't offered until the buffer has passed.
Different buffer per service
Each service can have its own buffer time. A quick consultation might need just 5 minutes between appointments, while a massage therapy session might need 15 minutes.
Tip: Start with a 10-15 minute buffer for most services. Adjust based on real-world experience. If providers consistently feel rushed between appointments, increase the buffer. If there's too much idle time, reduce it.
Buffer time and group classes
For group classes, buffer time works the same way — it adds a gap after the class ends before the next session can begin. This is useful for clearing the room and preparing for a different group.