Sauna Maintenance. 10 Easy Steps to Follow.


Having a sauna in your home is a luxury that offers numerous health benefits, including relaxation, improved circulation, and detoxification.
However, to keep your sauna in top condition and ensure its longevity, regular maintenance is crucial.
In this article, we will discuss why sauna maintenance is important, how often you should perform maintenance tasks, and provide a detailed guide on the 10 easy steps to maintain your sauna.
Additionally, we will share essential safety tips to ensure you and your loved ones enjoy your sauna sessions without any risks. Let’s dive in!
Why Is Sauna Maintenance Important?
- Keeping the Sauna Working Well and Safe: Regular maintenance stops problems like mold, wood damage, and electrical faults.
- Cleaning Stops Mold and Germs from Growing: Wiping benches, walls, and floors with mild soap keeps sweat and dirt from causing mold and bacteria.
- Using Safe Cleaners Keeps the Sauna Healthy: Choose gentle glass cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals that can release harmful fumes when heated.
- Oiling the Wood Protects It from Cracking and Fading: Applying cedar or teak oil every few months keeps the wood looking good and stops it from drying out.
- Cleaning the Heater and Rocks Helps Sauna Heat Better: Keeping these parts clean makes sure the sauna heats up properly and lasts longer.
- Checking Vents Keeps Air Fresh and Dry: Good airflow stops moisture buildup that causes mold and keeps the sauna comfortable.
How Often Do I Need To Perform Sauna Maintenance?
- Sauna maintenance should be done every month: Doing small maintenance tasks every month keeps your sauna working well and prevents bigger problems later.
- Sauna surfaces need regular cleaning to stay fresh: Cleaning benches, walls, and floors often stops dirt, bacteria, and mold from building up in your sauna.
- Benches should be sanded once a year to stay smooth: Sanding sauna benches yearly removes stains and keeps the wood nice and comfortable to sit on.
- Heating parts must be checked and fixed to keep heat steady: Regularly checking the heating system helps it work right, so your sauna heats up quickly and stays warm evenly. Replace parts when needed to keep it working longer.
Maintenance Task | Needs Monthly Maintenance? (Yes/No) |
Clean sauna benches, walls, and floor | Yes |
Check and maintain heating elements | Yes |
Inspect and clean ventilation system | Yes |
Replace worn-out sauna components | No (Only when needed) |
Inspect sauna rocks | Yes |
Clean sauna bucket and ladle | Yes |
Test electrical connections | No (Every 6 months) |
Check sauna door and seals | No (Every 6 months) |
10 Easy Steps To Maintain Your Sauna
1. Check and clean the sauna door

2. Inspect the sauna interior for any signs of damage

3. Clean the sauna benches and backrests

4. Wipe down the sauna walls

5. Empty and clean the sauna bucket and ladle

6. Inspect the sauna heater and control panel

7. Clean or replace the sauna rocks

8. Check and clean the sauna ventilation system

9. Inspect the sauna lighting

10. Check the sauna floor for any signs of wear or water damage

Sauna Safety Tips
- Ensure proper ventilation to avoid excessive heat buildup
- Always use sauna stones designed for high temperatures
- Keep sauna sessions to a reasonable duration and avoid overheating
- Hydrate before and after using the sauna to prevent dehydration
- Regularly test the sauna heater and electrical components for safety
Following these safety tips will help prevent accidents and ensure that your sauna sessions are both enjoyable and safe.
Essential Sauna Accessories for Easy Maintenance
- Use a soft brush to clean sauna wood gently: A soft-bristle sauna brush removes sweat and dirt without scratching, keeping your sauna wood fresh and in good shape.
- Clean with safe solutions and protect the floor: Using a gentle cleaning solution helps get rid of bacteria and odors, while floor mats stop dust and moisture from making your sauna dirty too fast.
- Keep air flowing to stop mold and smell: Good ventilation lets fresh air in and keeps moisture down, which prevents mold and keeps the sauna smelling nice.
- Add cushions that stay clean and comfortable: Antimicrobial cushions make sitting more comfortable and stop bacteria from building up, helping keep your sauna hygienic.
Conclusion
Maintaining your sauna is essential to ensure its longevity and create a safe and enjoyable environment for its users.
By following the easy steps outlined in this sauna maintenance checklist, you can keep your sauna in top condition and continue to reap the wonderful benefits it offers.
Remember to regularly clean, inspect, and address any issues promptly. Your well-maintained sauna will become a cherished retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation for years to come.
FAQs
Can I Use Essential Oils During Sauna Sessions, and Do They Affect Maintenance?
You can safely use pure essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender, or cedarwood in your sauna for a fresh scent without harming the wood. Avoid oils with strong dyes or synthetic additives to prevent staining. Use oils sparingly and clean surfaces regularly to avoid buildup and keep your sauna in good condition.
How Do Seasonal Changes Impact Sauna Maintenance Needs?
Seasonal changes impact sauna care: wood expands and contracts, risking cracks; higher humidity can cause mold, so clean regularly. Outdoor saunas need frost and moisture protection in winter. Condensation can damage electrical parts, so check them often. Winterize by sealing gaps and drying the sauna to keep it safe.
Is It Necessary to Sand Sauna Benches or Walls?
Sanding sauna benches and walls keeps the wood smooth, clean, and safe by preventing splinters and removing stains. Regular sanding, especially of benches, maintains comfort and durability. It’s effective for most sauna woods when done with proper tools and techniques.
How Do I Prevent Wood Discoloration or Staining Over Time?
Wood discoloration in a sauna happens due to moisture and heat, which cause stains and color changes. To prevent this, clean the wood regularly to remove sweat and dirt, and apply natural oils or special treatments every few months to protect it from moisture and heat.