Sauna Etiquette in Germany: Essential Rules and Customs for Beginners

Walking into a German sauna unprepared can be awkward. The strict rules of nudity, silence, and showering might catch you off guard.

Imagine the embarrassment of breaking an unspoken rule in front of locals. But don't worry, this guide will help you navigate German sauna culture with confidence and ensure a relaxing and respectful experience.

• Shower Before Entering: Always clean yourself before stepping into the sauna to maintain hygiene.

• Respect Silence: Keep noise levels low and avoid using phones inside.

• Sit on a Towel: Use a towel as a barrier to keep benches clean and prevent skin contact.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink water before and after your session to prevent dehydration.

• Follow Dress Code: Nudity is the norm, but using a towel for modesty is acceptable.

• People are often shocked the first time they enter a German sauna: For first-time visitors, especially from countries like the U.S., it can be surprising to walk into a sauna where everyone is completely naked.

• Being naked in front of others feels weird at first, but only at first: Tanner, Risa, and Willa shared how strange it felt in their YouTube video, but that discomfort faded quickly once they were inside.

• No one looks at you because no one cares about how you look: They noticed that nobody stared or paid attention to anyone’s body, the real focus was on peace and relaxation.

• Germans go to saunas to relax, not to judge others: This body-positive mindset is a normal part of German sauna culture and helps people feel comfortable quickly.

• Sauna culture in Germany has been around for a very long time: It’s not just a trend, German saunas have deep roots going back to Roman times and have been influenced by Finnish traditions too.

• A sauna in Germany is more than just a hot room: It’s a place where people go to feel better, recharge, and take care of their health and well-being.

• Science says sauna visits can actually make you healthier: A review of 40 clinical studies shows regular sauna use can help your heart, lower your stress, and improve your general wellness.

• Following the rules makes the sauna better for everyone: You should shower first, sit on a towel, and avoid loud talking, this keeps things clean, quiet, and relaxing for all.

• Germans won’t stare, they’ll respect your space: As Tanner, Risa, and Willa noticed, people in the sauna respected their privacy and didn’t even glance at them.

• Always Shower Before Entering : Skipping a pre-sauna shower is a major faux pas.

• Remove Sweat, Dirt, and Oils : A quick rinse keeps the sauna clean for everyone.

• Use Soap for Hygiene : Washing with soap eliminates bacteria and reduces infection risks.

• Enhance Sweating Efficiency : Clean skin helps your body sweat more effectively.

• Respect Fellow Sauna-Goers : Good hygiene benefits both you and others sharing the space.

• People feel uncomfortable when you sit too close: Saunas are for relaxation, not crowding. Always leave enough space between yourself and others unless it's completely full.

• Talking loudly breaks the peace for everyone: If you talk, keep your voice low. Loud conversations ruin the calm vibe others came to enjoy.

• A quiet chat is okay only if it doesn’t disturb anyone: Whispering with a friend is fine, but if others start noticing, it's probably too loud.

• In some places, people will tell you to be quiet: Especially in places like Germany, sauna-goers expect silence, and they won’t hesitate to remind you if you're too loud.

• Using your phone ruins the peaceful environment: Phones don’t belong in a sauna. No calls, no videos, just leave it outside.

• Silence helps everyone relax better: Keeping quiet makes the whole experience better for everyone. The more peaceful it is, the more people can truly unwind.

• Sitting on a towel keeps things clean: A towel isn’t just for comfort, it works as a shield between your skin and the bench, helping keep the sauna clean.

• Your sweat can stay on the bench without a towel: Sauna benches soak up sweat. If you sit without a towel, that sweat stays behind, spreading germs and bacteria.

• Heat and sweat create the perfect place for germs: The hot, wet air in saunas mixed with bare skin makes it easy for bacteria and fungi to grow. This can lead to rashes or athlete’s foot.

• Not using a towel feels uncomfortable over time: Sitting directly on the wood may feel okay at first, but it quickly becomes sticky, sweaty, and unpleasant.

• A towel helps protect everyone, not just you: Using a towel keeps your sweat off the bench, making the sauna cleaner and safer for the next person too.

• Make sure your towel is big enough to do the job: Bring a towel that covers your whole sitting area, legs and back included so nothing touches the wood.

• Staying too long in the sauna can harm your body: Spending more than 10 to 15 minutes at a time in a sauna can be risky. Heat builds up fast, and your body can only handle so much before it starts to struggle.

• Your body will warn you when it's time to step out: Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or tired inside the sauna are signs you’ve had enough. Ignoring these signals can lead to fainting or serious dehydration.

• Taking short breaks keeps you safer and more comfortable: Doing a few short sessions with cooling breaks in between is better than staying in too long. This helps your body stay in control and enjoy the sauna safely.

• Drinking water before and after sauna keeps you from feeling weak: Sweating inside the sauna makes your body lose a lot of fluids, which can leave you dizzy or tired. Drinking water before and after helps you stay steady and feel good.

• Your body needs more water than you think during sauna use: Men usually need about 15.5 cups ( 3.7 liters ) of water a day, and women need about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters). This becomes even more important when you’re sweating in a sauna.

• Alcohol makes your body lose more water and feel worse: While it might feel relaxing, drinking alcohol before or after a sauna can make you more dehydrated and increase your chances of feeling lightheaded or faint.

• Choose water, herbal tea, or electrolytes instead of alcohol: If you want to stay refreshed, drink water, herbal teas, or electrolyte drinks. These help replace the fluids you lose in the sauna and keep your body balanced.

In Germany, nudity is common in mixed-gender saunas, but you can wrap yourself in a towel if you feel more comfortable.

Swimsuits are often discouraged because they trap heat and sweat. Removing jewelry is also a smart move, as metal accessories can become uncomfortably hot.

Always bring a separate towel to sit on. If you're unsure about the dress code, check the sauna's guidelines before entering.

Leaving a sauna should be done smoothly and quietly. Avoid rushing out, as sudden movements can make you feel dizzy and disturb others.

If someone is entering as you exit, be mindful and give them space. Holding the door briefly for the next person is a polite gesture, but don’t keep it open too long, as this lets heat escape.

• You don’t wear swimsuits in German saunas: In Germany, it’s normal to be completely nude in saunas. Swimsuits are not allowed at all, it’s a rule based on hygiene and tradition.

• A big towel is what you wear instead: Instead of clothes, people bring a large towel to sit or lie on. This keeps the sauna clean and protects the wooden benches from sweat.

• Being naked in the sauna is normal, but wrapping up outside is okay: If you feel shy, it’s totally fine to wrap yourself in a towel when walking around. But inside the sauna itself, most people are nude, that’s just how it works there.

• Sauna style depends on where you go: Saunas in big cities or spa towns often have themed rooms and modern setups. In smaller towns, the saunas are usually simpler and more traditional.

• Some places let you wear clothes, but it’s rare: A few wellness centers have areas where you can keep your clothes on, but these are uncommon. Most places follow the no-clothing rule.

• Knowing the rules helps you enjoy it like a local: When you understand these simple rules, you’ll feel more comfortable and enjoy the sauna experience just like someone from Germany.

• Showering before you enter keeps the sauna clean for others: Always take a full shower before stepping into the sauna. It washes off sweat, oils, and bacteria, so the space stays hygienic and pleasant for everyone who uses it.

• Skipping deodorant helps avoid weird smells during your session: Wearing deodorant in the sauna isn’t a good idea, heat makes it melt, mix with sweat, and cause bad smells. Better to skip it until after.

• Sitting on a clean towel protects both you and the bench: Bringing a clean towel to sit on is a simple way to keep things sanitary. It prevents direct contact with the bench and keeps sweat off shared surfaces.

• Wearing light clothes or nothing, helps your skin breathe and stay clean: Loose, breathable clothing or going nude (if allowed) keeps things hygienic and lets your skin sweat naturally, without trapping moisture or bacteria.

• Cooling off with a cold shower helps your skin and closes your pores: Once you're done, take a lukewarm or cold shower. It helps your body relax, rinses off sweat, and closes your pores to prevent irritation.

• Drinking water and using moisturizer help your body recover after sweating: After all that sweating, your body needs water, drink plenty to stay hydrated. Applying moisturizer afterward helps your skin stay soft and prevents dryness.

• A big towel keeps your body off the bench: A large towel isn't just for comfort, it’s what keeps your skin from touching the hot, often sweaty sauna bench directly. It’s more hygienic and makes sitting or lying down more relaxing.

• Soft, absorbent fabric makes a big difference: Towels made from cotton, bamboo, or fine linen soak up sweat better. Linen is a favorite in places like Germany because it stays strong and pulls moisture away from your skin fast.

• Thin towels can be better than thick ones: A lightweight towel that still absorbs well dries faster and stays fresher. It’s also easier to carry, especially if you're going to a public sauna or traveling.

• Clean towels work better and last longer: Washing your towels in hot water without fabric softener keeps them absorbent. Replace them every 6 to 12 months, especially when they start to feel rough or get thin.

• One towel isn’t enough to keep you dry and fresh: Having a second towel makes a big difference. It helps wipe away sweat, so you stay refreshed and don’t feel sticky during your sauna session.

• Using the same towel for your face can cause breakouts: When you wipe your body and face with the same towel, bacteria and oils can transfer to your skin. A separate towel keeps your face cleaner and healthier.

• An extra towel helps you cover up when you need it: In mixed-gender saunas or public spaces, a second towel gives you something to wrap around yourself. It helps you stay modest and feel more comfortable.

• If you sweat a lot, a second towel keeps you feeling dry: Some people sweat more than others. With a second towel, you can dry off anytime and avoid that soggy, uncomfortable feeling.

• A lighter towel is easier to carry and feels better in the sauna: Opting for a lightweight towel improves portability and comfort. Materials like microfiber and Turkish cotton dry quickly, preventing dampness after use.

• Microfiber dries fastest, but Turkish towels feel softer: While microfiber excels in absorbency and compactness, Turkish towels offer a balance of softness and fast drying.

• Towels with medium thickness don’t feel heavy or bulky: A GSM (grams per square meter) rating between 300–500 provides good absorbency without excessive bulk.

• Thin towels dry quickly, which is great if you go often: Thinner towels also dry faster, making them practical for frequent use.

• Towels with texture soak up sweat and let air pass through: Choosing a textured weave enhances sweat absorption while promoting air circulation.

• The right towel keeps you dry without feeling heavy or wet: A well-selected towel ensures you stay comfortable without the inconvenience of a heavy, soggy fabric.

A sauna session depletes fluids, making hydration essential. Stainless steel insulated bottles keep water cool, offering refreshment between rounds.

Room-temperature water is often preferable, as cold drinks can shock the body. Sipping small amounts throughout the session prevents dehydration without overwhelming the stomach.

• Wearing soft, airy clothes helps your body stay cool: Choosing the right sauna attire ensures maximum relaxation. Loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen allow heat to circulate, preventing discomfort.

• Clothes that trap sweat make the sauna uncomfortable: Synthetic materials trap sweat and restrict airflow, making them unsuitable for sauna wear.

• Heavy clothes in the sauna can make you feel hotter: Opt for minimal clothing, as heavy layers can cause overheating. Linen garments, known for their lightweight and moisture-wicking properties, offer a great alternative.

• A towel or loose robe is enough to feel comfortable: Whether wearing a simple towel wrap or a breathable robe, the goal is to stay cool while allowing the body to sweat naturally.

• Choosing the right outfit makes your sauna time better: Selecting proper attire enhances both comfort and the effectiveness of your session.

A sauna hat is a simple yet effective tool for managing heat exposure. Made from wool or felt, it shields your head from excessive temperatures, preventing dizziness and discomfort.

The insulating properties regulate head temperature, allowing for longer, more enjoyable sessions.

• Carrying a towel helps you stay comfortable while sweating: A small towel is handy for managing perspiration during sauna sessions. Regularly wiping sweat helps maintain comfort, especially in high temperatures.

• Soft towels feel better on sweaty skin: Soft cotton or bamboo towels work well, offering gentle absorption without irritating the skin.

• Wiping your face stops sweat from stinging your eyes: Keeping sweat out of your eyes prevents stinging and enhances relaxation.

• Your own towel is cleaner than using shared ones: Hygienically, a personal sweat towel reduces the need to use shared sauna cloths.

• A slightly wet towel makes the heat feel more refreshing: Some people prefer dampening their towel slightly for a refreshing cooling effect.

• Having a towel makes the sauna cleaner and more enjoyable: Whether dry or slightly wet, having a small towel on hand ensures a cleaner, more pleasant sauna experience.

A dry bag keeps damp towels separate from other belongings, preventing unpleasant odors and mess.

Waterproof materials like silicone-coated nylon are best, sealing in moisture while allowing air circulation. Regularly cleaning and air-drying them prevents mildew buildup.

• Staying longer in the sauna won’t help if you skip the cooling part: “A longitudinal study in Finland showed sauna reduces all-cause mortality, but the key is contrast bathing, hot sauna followed by cold exposure,” says Dr. Mark Cohen . It’s not just about heating up; how you cool down makes all the difference.

• Most Germans sit in the sauna for just 8 to 15 minutes: In Germany, people don’t stay in the sauna for too long. Around 8 to 15 minutes is considered ideal, giving the body enough time to sweat without overdoing it.

• If you’re new, keep your sauna time short and easy: Beginners should start slow, just 5 to 8 minutes is enough. Your body needs time to get used to the heat before trying longer sessions.

• Sitting too long can make you dizzy or dehydrated: Overstaying in the sauna might sound tough, but it can leave you feeling lightheaded or even sick. It’s not worth the risk.

• A cold shower or fresh air after the sauna keeps you safe and refreshed: Cooling down properly, either by stepping outside or taking a cold shower, is part of the full sauna experience in Germany. It helps your body recover and boosts the health benefits.

• Aufguss makes a normal sauna feel like a full experience: An Aufguss isn’t just sitting in a hot room, it's a guided ritual that transforms the sauna into something much more powerful and memorable.

• Scented steam fills the air and changes how the heat feels: The Saunameister pours water or ice mixed with essential oils onto hot stones, creating a cloud of steam that changes the mood and intensity of the session.

• The heat is moved around the room so you feel it more deeply: By waving towels in specific ways, the Saunameister pushes the hot air toward you, making the warmth stronger and more focused on your body.

• Some sessions help you relax, others feel like a live show: There are different types of Aufguss, some are calm and quiet, while others come with music, lights, and storytelling that turn the sauna into a show.

• Aufguss gives you something you won’t get from sitting alone: It’s not just about sweating, it’s about the whole experience , led by someone trained to guide your body and mind through heat, scent, and sensation.

Tipping sauna staff in Germany is not mandatory, but it's a nice way to show appreciation for good service.

Most Germans don’t tip for general sauna use, as the entrance fee covers the experience. However, if you receive a massage or special service, tipping around 5-10% is polite.