The Complete Guide to Cleaning Your Sauna

A clean sauna ensures safety, comfort, and durability. Regular maintenance preserves the quality of the wood and enhances the overall sauna experience. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your sauna in pristine condition.  

If you're looking for tips on the best cleaning practices for commercial saunas, read our article below: 

Cleaning a Commercial Sauna   

Why Cleaning Your Sauna Matters

Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your sauna by preventing mildew, mould, and bacteria from building up. Regular cleaning also ensures that the sauna wood lasts longer and maintains its quality, remaining odourless and free from unsightly stains or damage.

Regular sauna cleaning will elongate the lifespan of the sauna wood and keep it looking spotless.

Types of Saunas and Their Unique Cleaning Needs

Different sauna types—like traditional wood-burning, electric, and infrared saunas—require slightly varied cleaning routines.

1. Traditional Saunas with Wood-Burning and Electric Heaters: Traditional saunas are usually made of wooden benches and cladding, and need special care to avoid saturating the wood with excess moisture, which can lead to warping, decay, and mould growth .
2. Infrared Saunas: Infrared saunas do not get as hot, so there’s less moisture, but infrared panels may need gentle dusting and occasional spot-cleaning.

It is important to clean between all gaps in the paneling and underneath the sauna benches.

Essential Cleaning Supplies

Using natural, gentle cleaners is key to maintaining the integrity of sauna materials, especially wood. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Soft-bristle brush or sponge
• Microfiber cloth 
• Gentle, natural cleaning solution (e.g., diluted vinegar or baking soda) OR a  specialist sauna cleaner 
• Fine-grit sandpaper for stains
• Paraffin oil (recommended 1-2 a year)
• Hoover or a long brush 

Daily Maintenance

1. Always Use Seat Covers: Use towels or sauna seat covers on the benches. This will help keep the benches clean.
2. Wipe Down After Use: Wipe down benches, walls, and floorboards after each session with a damp cloth to remove sweat and oils.
3. Ventilation: After each use, leave the door open or open the dump vent to let the sauna air out, which reduces moisture build-up.

Seat covers will help keep the benches clean. 

Weekly Deep Clean: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Dust and Vacuum: Start by sweeping and vacuuming to remove any loose dirt and dust.
2. Scrub Surfaces Gently: Use a soft brush or sponge with a diluted natural cleaner, or sauna cleaner wiping benches, walls, and floors. Avoid oversaturating the wood.
3. Stubborn Stains: For tough stains, try a baking soda paste or gently sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper.
4. Vent and Dry Thoroughly: Turn on the heater for 30 minutes after cleaning to help dry the sauna completely.

Annual Deep Clean

An annual deep clean can include sanding benches for an even surface and applying paraffin oil to the sauna benches and cladding. This step protects the wood from discoloration and maintains its durability.

Open the door or the ceiling dump vent to air out the sauna after each session. This will help get rid of excess humidity and prevents moisture damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Avoid Using Bleach or Harsh Chemicals: These can damage wood, create odors, and are unsafe for sauna environments.
2. Don’t Soak the Wood: Wood is porous and can warp if oversaturated.
3. Skipping Ventilation: Consistent airflow helps prevent mold and odour build-up.

FAQs About Sauna Cleaning

Q: How often should I clean my sauna thoroughly?
A: Light cleaning should be done after every use, with deeper cleaning every week and either a twice-a-year or an annual full refresh, depending on how often you use the sauna

Q: How do I get rid of sweat stains?
A: Try a paste made of baking soda and water or lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper.

Q: Can I use essential oils?
A: Yes, but use sparingly to avoid overwhelming scents. Add a few drops to a bucket of water rather than directly on wood.

By maintaining this routine, you’ll ensure a fresh, hygienic sauna space, enhancing each session and prolonging your sauna’s life.