Our Top 5 Sauna Accessories this Autumn - Finnmark Sauna
Finnmark Blog

Our Top 5 Sauna Accessories

Feb 01, 2025

At Finnmark Sauna, we believe that the details define a truly authentic sauna experience. The right accessories not only enhance comfort and well-being but also ensure your sauna sessions are both safe and enjoyable. Whether you are new to sauna bathing or a seasoned enthusiast, investing in quality sauna accessories can transform your routine. 

By carefully selecting items that serve both practical and cultural purposes, you can elevate each sauna session into a ritual of relaxation, restoration, and tradition. Below, we explore five must-have items — all available from our carefully curated collections.

Sauna Hats

A sauna hat is one of the most traditional and practical accessories you can own. While they may appear unusual to UK sauna users at first, their benefits are undeniable. By insulating the head, a sauna hat prevents overheating, allowing you to enjoy longer, more comfortable sessions. 

In addition to regulating temperature, sauna hats also protect hair from excessive dryness, brittleness, or damage caused by repeated exposure to high heat. This makes them especially useful for regular sauna-goers who want to safeguard both comfort and appearance. Traditionally crafted from felt or linen blends, sauna hats are soaked in cold water before use. As the water evaporates during the sauna session, it cools the head, refreshing the user and enhancing endurance. Read more about the reasons to wear sauna hats here.

Many sauna enthusiasts in Finland and across Europe consider the sauna hat a vital accessory for gaining the maximum health benefits of longer sauna sessions, including improved cardiovascular health, stress reduction, and better respiratory function. Explore our range of authentic, high-quality designs here: Sauna Hat Collection.

Finnmark Traditional White Sauna Hat 100% Wool Sauna Hat | Finnmark Sauna

Sauna Towels and Seat Covers

Maintaining hygiene and comfort in your sauna is essential, and towels and seat covers are indispensable for doing so. They serve three vital purposes: protecting wooden benches from perspiration, providing a barrier between the skin and hot surfaces, and offering a softer, more comfortable seat. Without them, benches can become unhygienic and uncomfortable, detracting from the overall sauna experience.

Our sauna textiles are designed specifically for the sauna environment. Made from natural fibres such as cotton and linen, they are highly absorbent, durable, and pleasant against the skin. Over time, these fabrics actually become softer and more luxurious, while retaining their durability. The hypoallergenic qualities of linen make it particularly well-suited for individuals with sensitive skin.

Sauna towels are typically thicker and used for drying sweat during and after sauna bathing, while seat covers remain on the benches, providing a practical yet decorative element. The addition of textiles can personalise your sauna interior, creating a welcoming, homely space. Browse our selection of premium sauna textiles here: Sauna Textiles Collection.

Rento Kenno Towel Dark Blue Sauna Towel | Finnmark Sauna

Sauna Scents and Oils

Aromatherapy and sauna bathing are a natural pairing that can transform the atmosphere and enhance the benefits of each session. While the sauna itself promotes relaxation, and improved circulation, adding sauna-specific scents and oils deepens the therapeutic experience. Fragrances such as pine, eucalyptus, or birch infuse the steam with natural aromas, helping to clear the airways, ease stress, and elevate mood.

Unlike generic essential oils, which may release harmful compounds at high temperatures, our sauna scents and oils are developed for safe use in the sauna. They are diluted into the sauna water and poured onto the hot stones to create a fragrant, steam. Options range from light, refreshing scents that invigorate the senses to more grounding aromas that promote calm and rest.

For those seeking variety, natural sauna scent bags are an increasingly popular choice, offering a biodegradable and eco-friendly way to enjoy fresh, herbal infusions. The ability to tailor your sauna session with scents makes each experience unique, adding an extra layer of luxury to your bathing ritual. For a truly authentic löyly, discover our range of sauna-safe aromatherapy products here: Sauna Scents & Oils.

Rento Natural Sauna Scent Gift Box Sauna Scents | Finnmark Sauna

Sauna Whisks (Vihta / Vasta)

Sauna whisks, known in Finnish as “vihta” or “vasta”, are one of the oldest and most traditional sauna accessories, embodying centuries of cultural heritage. Traditionally made from fresh birch branches, these whisks are gently brushed or tapped against the skin during sauna bathing. The process stimulates blood circulation, exfoliates the skin, and releases a soothing birch fragrance into the steam, creating a multisensory experience.

The birch leaves themselves contain natural saponins and tannins, which have cleansing and soothing properties. This not only benefits the skin but also creates a refreshing sensation that contrasts beautifully with the sauna heat. Whisks can be dipped in cold water before use, offering bursts of cooling relief during a session.

Using a whisk connects you with the authentic traditions of Nordic sauna culture, providing not only physical benefits but also a sense of ritual and grounding. Today, sauna whisks remain a symbol of true Finnish sauna practice. Discover our collection here: Sauna Vihta Whisks.

Dried Hand Made Sauna Whisk / Sauna Vihta - Black Currant Sauna Whisks / Sauna Vihta | Finnmark Sauna

Sauna Buckets and Ladles

No sauna session is complete without a bucket and ladle. These accessories are essential for creating “löyly” — the invigorating steam that arises when water is poured onto the hot sauna stones. The act of using a ladle to release steam is at the very heart of traditional sauna bathing, and the quality of your bucket and ladle can significantly influence your experience.

Our collection includes a wide range of designs to suit different styles and preferences. From traditional wooden buckets that exude authenticity to sleek anodised aluminium pails with bamboo handles, each product is designed to withstand the heat and humidity of the sauna environment. Many of our wooden designs are fitted with plastic inserts, which protect against water damage and ensure greater longevity while retaining the traditional aesthetic.

A well-crafted ladle allows precise control over the amount of water poured, making it easy to adjust the intensity of steam to suit your preference. This simple ritual of adding water to the stones connects bathers with centuries of Finnish sauna culture. Shop our full range here: Sauna Buckets & Pails.

Enhance Your Sauna Experience with Finnmark

At Finnmark Sauna, we are passionate about bringing authentic Finnish sauna culture to the UK. Each accessory in our collection is chosen for its quality, durability, and ability to enhance your wellbeing. By investing in the right accessories, you can create a sauna environment that balances tradition, comfort, and personal preference. Whether you wish to extend your sauna sessions, add aromatherapy to your bathing, or uphold hygienic practices, these essentials will help you achieve the most from every visit to your sauna.

Explore our full range online, or get in touch for expert advice on creating the perfect sauna experience.

Sauna Accessories - Frequently Asked Questions

What accessories do you need for a sauna?

Essential sauna accessories include a sauna hat, seat covers or towels, sauna scents or oils, a sauna whisk, and a bucket with a ladle. These items enhance comfort, improve hygiene, and create the authentic löyly experience.

Can I use essential oils in the sauna?

No, essential oils are not suitable for sauna use as they can release harmful compounds when heated. Instead, choose sauna-specific scents and oils designed to be safe in high temperatures.

How do sauna whisks work?

Sauna whisks are made from birch branches and are gently used to brush the skin during sauna sessions. This stimulates circulation, opens pores, and releases a refreshing birch aroma into the sauna.

Why should I wear a sauna hat?

A sauna hat helps regulate body temperature by keeping your head cool, allowing for longer and more comfortable sauna sessions. It also protects your hair from excessive heat exposure.

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