How to Keep Your Sauna Clean & Hygienic for Maximum Enjoyment
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Why Sauna Hygiene Matters
A clean and well-maintained sauna enhances relaxation, extends the lifespan of your sauna, and ensures a hygienic and enjoyable experience for you and your guests. Whether you own a personal mobile sauna or rent it out for events and retreats, regular cleaning is essential.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best cleaning routines, hygiene tips, and maintenance tricks to keep your sauna fresh, safe, and long-lasting.
🧼 1. Daily Cleaning Routine for Your Sauna
If you use your sauna regularly (or rent it out), a quick clean after each session prevents bacteria buildup and maintains a fresh environment.
Post-Sauna Cleaning Checklist:
✔️ Wipe down benches & backrests with a damp cloth to remove sweat & oils.
✔️ Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dirt & dust.
✔️ Keep the door open after use to allow ventilation & moisture evaporation.
✔️ Check for any standing water and dry it with a towel to prevent mould.
Pro Tip: Use a 100% natural vinegar-water solution (50:50 mix) for wiping down surfaces—it’s a natural disinfectant that won’t damage the wood.
🛠️ 2. Deep Cleaning Your Sauna (Weekly or Monthly)
Over time, sweat, dirt, and bacteria can build up, so a deeper clean is necessary to keep your sauna fresh.
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Guide:
1️⃣ Vacuum or sweep thoroughly – Get into corners & under benches.
2️⃣ Scrub benches & walls gently with warm water & mild soap (avoid harsh chemicals).
3️⃣ Sanitise handles & touchpoints – Use a natural antibacterial spray.
4️⃣ Wash the sauna floor – Use a damp mop & a mild, non-abrasive cleaner.
5️⃣ Rinse and air dry – Always allow your sauna to dry completely before closing the door.
🚫 Avoid power washing! The high pressure can damage wood surfaces and force water into places it shouldn’t be.
🌲 3. Caring for Sauna Wood & Benches
Since sauna interiors are made of wood, special care is needed to prevent staining, odours, and bacteria growth.
How to Protect Your Sauna Wood:
✔️ Use sauna towels – Encourage users to sit on towels to reduce sweat absorption into wood.
✔️ Sand down stains – If sweat stains appear on benches, lightly sand them with fine sandpaper.
✔️ Avoid varnish or paint inside – Wood needs to breathe; sealed surfaces can trap moisture.
✔️ Apply sauna wood oil (optional) – Helps maintain wood colour & durability.
Pro Tip: If you rent out your sauna, provide washable sauna mats for extra hygiene.
💦 4. Managing Humidity & Preventing Mould
Moisture buildup can lead to mould and mildew, especially in mobile saunas used in damp environments.
How to Keep Your Sauna Dry & Mould-Free:
✔️ Leave the sauna door open after each use – Ventilation is key!
✔️ Use a dehumidifier if your sauna is stored in a humid location.
✔️ Check for mould in corners & under benches – Wipe with a vinegar solution if needed.
✔️ Ensure proper air circulation – A small exhaust vent can prevent trapped moisture.
🚫 Never store wet towels inside—they can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
🔥 5. Keeping Your Sauna Heater & Stones Clean
Whether you have a wood-fired, electric, or infrared heater, it needs regular cleaning to function properly and safely.
Wood-Fired Sauna Heater Maintenance:
✔️ Remove ash regularly – Prevents blockages & improves airflow.
✔️ Check the chimney for soot buildup – Clean it out to avoid fire hazards.
✔️ Use dry, seasoned wood – Wet or treated wood can create creosote buildup.
Electric Sauna Heater Care:
✔️ Vacuum or dust the heating elements monthly.
✔️ Check wiring & connections for signs of wear.
✔️ Never pour excessive water on the heater—this can cause damage over time.
Caring for Sauna Stones:
✔️ Rinse sauna stones occasionally to remove dust & debris.
✔️ Check for cracks – Replace damaged stones to maintain efficiency.
✔️ Don’t stack stones too tightly – Air needs to circulate for proper heating.
🧴 6. Using Essential Oils & Natural Scents (Optional)
Adding natural sauna scents can enhance relaxation and help keep your sauna smelling fresh.
✔️ Eucalyptus oil – Antibacterial & great for clearing sinuses.
✔️ Lavender oil – Promotes relaxation & reduces stress.
✔️ Cedarwood oil – Has natural antibacterial properties & enhances the wood aroma.
How to Use: Add a few drops to a water bucket & sprinkle onto sauna stones for a refreshing scent.
🚫 Avoid synthetic air fresheners—they can release toxins when heated.
📆 7. Seasonal Sauna Maintenance Tips
To keep your sauna in top condition year-round, follow these seasonal maintenance tips:
Winter Sauna Care:
✔️ Keep your sauna covered if stored outside.
✔️ Check for frozen pipes if your sauna has a water feature.
✔️ Increase ventilation to prevent condensation buildup.
Summer Sauna Care:
✔️ Inspect for pests – Wasps & insects may try to nest in warm wood areas.
✔️ Protect wood from sun damage – UV rays can fade untreated wood.
✔️ Ensure proper airflow – Hot summer air can cause excessive moisture inside.
📈 Keeping a Sauna Cleaning Schedule
To make sauna maintenance easy and stress-free, follow this simple cleaning schedule:
After Each Use:
✅ Wipe down benches & handles
✅ Sweep or vacuum the floor
✅ Leave the door open for ventilation
Weekly Maintenance:
✅ Deep clean benches & walls
✅ Sanitize high-touch areas
✅ Check heater & stones
Monthly Checks:
✅ Inspect for mould & mildew
✅ Clean the heater thoroughly
✅ Oil wooden surfaces (if needed)
Seasonal Maintenance:
✅ Protect from weather & sun damage
✅ Check all seals & vents
✅ Refresh sauna stones
Pro Tip: If renting out your sauna, provide a hygiene checklist for guests to follow after each use.
📩 Need a Low-Maintenance Mobile Sauna?
We design bespoke mobile saunas that are easy to clean, durable, and built to last. Whether for personal use, rentals, or events, we can help you create the perfect, hygienic sauna experience.
🔥 Want a hassle-free sauna setup? Submit an inquiry below, and let’s build your perfect mobile sauna!
