Enhance your sauna experience with these accessories:
- Sauna hat: Made from wool, sauna hats protect your head from the heat of a traditional sauna. As your head heats up the fastest compared to your entire body, sauna hats allow you to spend more time under heat exposure. My personal favourite sauna hat is the Viking Style.
- Headband or hair tie: Headbands or heat ties are appropriate for preventing discomfort and managing sweat. If you have long hair, we’d recommend using a headband or hair tie in the sauna.
- Robe: Wearing a robe is an acceptable practice for maintaining comfort and modesty in the sauna. Similar to a towel, they are effective at absorbing sweat and provide full-body coverage. Otherwise, it is typically used when entering and exiting the sauna.
- Sauna slippers: Sauna slippers are designed for comfort and hygiene purposes. Sauna floors tend to become slippery due to excess moisture and sweat, so using Strong-grip sauna slippers can be very useful.
- Sauna seat covers: A sauna seat cover is a mat or cushion that creates a barrier between you and the hardwood. This benefits cleanliness as there is no leftover sweat after your session has concluded. Otherwise, it is general practice to sit on a towel instead.
Conclusion
Whether using a traditional or infrared sauna, adhering to general guidelines ensures a safe, comfortable, hygienic, and respectful experience.
Aim to wear as little clothes as possible, whilst still respecting the facility’s dress code. Then, opt for clothing made from cotton or linen. This will enhance comfort, prevent your body from overheating, and support hygienic practices.
To boost your sauna experience, consider using accessories such as a sauna hat, headband or hair tie, robe, sauna slippers, or seat covers. Otherwise, stop stressing and have a good time!
For a complete wellness experience, pairing your sauna sessions with ice baths can be highly effective. Check out our previous guide: How to Make an Ice Bath at Home (Step by Step).
FAQ
Can I wear a swimsuit in a sauna?
You can wear a swimsuit in a sauna, however, it is generally not recommended. Swimsuits can be unsafe if they are too tight, have dangling pieces, or are made of synthetic material. A towel is a better option.
Can I wear cotton clothing in a sauna?
Yes, cotton clothing is recommended for use in the sauna. As cotton is breathable, doesn’t stick to the skin, and absorbs sweat, it can be used to enhance comfort.
Should I wear flip-flops in a sauna?
For public saunas, flip-flops are recommended for hygiene. This is because it creates a barrier between your feet and the sauna floor, reducing contact with bacteria. We’d recommend going barefoot in a private sauna as there is less contamination.
Should I bring a change of clothes for after the sauna?
Yes, you should bring a change of clothes for after the sauna. As clothes retain sweat and bacteria, they will be dirty and gross after your sauna session. To prevent odours and benefit hygiene, take a shower and put on a fresh set of clothes once the session has concluded.
What clothing fabric is best for a sauna?
Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and wool, are best for their breathability and comfort. Avoid synthetic fabrics as they can induce overheating by trapping heat.
Can I wear my gym clothes in a sauna?
Only wear gym clothes if they are loose-fitting and made from breathable fabrics. Gym clothes like compression shirts or sports bras tend to be tight and are not recommended. They can result in a less comfortable sauna experience from exacerbated heating.
Can I wear a shower cap in a sauna?
Do not wear a shower cap in a sauna. Shower caps will not prevent sweating, but they will exacerbate heating. When using a shower cap, you run the risk of overheating, which can cause muscle cramps, nausea, sickness, and stroke.
Can I wear compression gear in a sauna?
Compression gear is not recommended as it is tight on the body and restricts blood flow. This can be a detriment to your natural temperature regulation and can contribute to overheating and discomfort.
Can I wear a towel in a sauna?
Yes, a towel is a common and practical solution for appropriate dressing in a sauna. Sitting on a towel is beneficial for cleanliness by preventing sweat transfer to the seat.
Can I wear jewellery in a sauna?
No, you should not wear jewellery in a sauna. Metal jewellery will increase in temperature from heat exposure which can cause skin burns.
Can I wear a headband or hair tie in a sauna?
Yes, if you’re hair tends to get in the way, a headband or hair tie is perfectly acceptable in the sauna. Not only will they benefit sweat management, but they’ll also keep your hair back in a comfortable position.
Can I wear a hat in a sauna?
No, you should avoid wearing a hat in a sauna. Whether it’s a cap, beanie, visor, or any hat for that matter, they are a detriment to the sauna experience. Your head heats up the fastest from heat exposure already, and a hat will exacerbate that. Be safe, and don’t wear a hat unless it’s a Sauna hat.
Can I wear a smartwatch in a sauna?
It’s best to remove your smartwatch before entering the sauna. Whilst most smartwatches can handle exposure to moisture, the combination of heat and water can easily destroy electronics. In my opinion, it’s best to avoid taking that risk.
Can I bring my phone or electronic devices in a sauna?
No, do not bring your phone with you in the sauna. High ambient temperature and moisture levels cause damage to electronics. We’d highly recommend leaving your phone outside and focusing on relaxing instead.
Can I wear earplugs or headphones in a sauna?
No, electronic devices are not suitable for the sauna environment. We get it, saunas are boring, but you’re risking damage when you bring electronic devices into extreme heat.