What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna: A Complete Guide

Infrared saunas offer amazing benefits, like improving heart health, easing chronic pain, boosting your immune system, and helping you unwind from stress.

But knowing what to wear can be tricky. Too much clothing can trap heat and reduce effectiveness. Confused about what’s best?

Don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll help you choose the perfect sauna attire for maximum comfort and benefits.

Why Does Your Sauna Outfit Matters?

Choosing the right outfit for a sauna session is crucial for comfort and relaxation. The wrong clothes can cause discomfort by trapping too much heat, restricting movement, or causing irritation.

A good sauna outfit allows your skin to breathe, helping you sweat efficiently and detox your body. Dr. Mark Fierstein, a New York-based Northwell Health physician, explains that in the intense heat of the sauna, you can lose up to one pint of water through sweating in a single session.

This shows how important it is to dress appropriately, as it helps you stay comfortable and relaxed during your session.

Cultural norms also influence sauna attire. In some countries, people may wear minimal clothing or none at all, while others may expect you to wear a towel or swimsuit for modesty.

Knowing what to wear based on these rules ensures a more enjoyable and respectful experience.

Clothing vs. No Clothing in an Infrared Sauna

Sweating Efficiency

Sweating works best when your skin is fully exposed to infrared heat, making no clothing the more efficient choice.

Clothing, especially tight or synthetic materials, can block heat and reduce sweating. However, if you prefer some coverage, use lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton.

For optimal results, going without clothing is better when you aim for deep detox. If modesty is a concern, choose minimal clothing that allows good airflow.

Comfort Level

Comfort depends on personal preference. Some people feel more relaxed without clothing, as it allows unrestricted heat absorption.

Others might prefer wearing a towel or light clothing to feel at ease. The most important thing is to choose what helps you stay comfortable and focused on your session.

Hygiene Concerns

Hygiene is crucial, regardless of clothing choice. Sitting directly on the bench can spread bacteria, so always use a towel as a barrier.

If you wear clothing, make sure it is clean and breathable to avoid trapping bacteria. Keeping the sauna clean and using a towel ensures a hygienic experience, whether clothed or not.

Best Fabrics for an Infrared Sauna

Cotton

Cotton is a breathable, natural fabric perfect for saunas. Organic cotton is the best option as it avoids harmful chemicals.

Examples include lightweight cotton towels or t-shirts. It absorbs sweat effectively and allows airflow, keeping you comfortable.

Linen

Linen, made from flax fibers, is highly breathable and quick-drying. Organic or European linen is a top choice for quality and comfort.

Linen wraps or loose-fitting robes are common examples. It wicks moisture, stays cool, and dries fast, making it a practical fabric for sauna use.

Bamboo

Bamboo fabric is soft, breathable, and eco-friendly. Bamboo viscose or organic bamboo provides the best quality.

Examples include bamboo towels or bathrobes. It wicks moisture, resists odors, and regulates temperature.

Hemp

Hemp is a durable, breathable fabric that works well in saunas. Organic hemp is a great choice for maintaining its natural properties.

Examples include hemp towels or clothing. However, it can feel rough compared to other fabrics unless softened. Consider pre-washed hemp products for a more comfortable feel.

Silk

Silk is lightweight and smooth, made from silkworm cocoons. Mulberry silk offers the highest quality. Examples include silk scarves or wraps. It regulates body temperature but does not absorb moisture well, making it less practical for heavy sweating in the sauna.

Wool

Wool is a natural fabric made from sheep’s fleece, and it is excellent for insulation and breathability. Look for merino wool, which is soft, lightweight, and non-itchy.

Examples include wool sauna hats or lightweight wraps. Wool helps maintain your body temperature while allowing moisture to evaporate, making it a reliable choice for saunas.

However, it’s important to choose thin wool fabrics and avoid overheating, as heavier wool may trap too much heat.

Towels vs. Clothing: Which is Better?

When it comes to an infrared sauna, choosing between towels and clothing is all about what feels right for you. Towels are simple and practical:

Great for absorbing sweat, keeping you comfortable and dry.
They’re soft and feel great on your skin.
Easy to clean and carry with you.
Affordable and hassle-free.

Clothing can be an option too:

It traps heat, which can feel uncomfortable or restrictive.
Can look more stylish if that’s important to you.
Harder to clean and sometimes pricey.

For most people, towels are the easier and more comfortable choice, but it’s all about what makes you feel good!

Wearing Accessories and Footwear in an Infrared Sauna

When stepping into an infrared sauna, it’s important to think about the accessories you wear. Here’s a quick guide to keep it simple and safe:

Jewelry: Avoid metal jewelry; it heats up quickly and can cause burns.
Smartwatches and Electronics: Leave them outside as heat can damage them.
Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses: If you wear glasses, consider switching to contact lenses. However, ensure the lenses are designed for heat resistance, as some may dry out or become uncomfortable in high temperatures.
Hair Accessories: Use wood or fabric ties; avoid plastic ones that may melt or release chemicals.
Hats and Bulky Accessories: Skip them, as they trap heat unnecessarily.
Minimalism: Stick to a sauna towel or wrap—less is always better.
Hydration: Bring a heat-safe water bottle to stay hydrated during your session.

Thoughtful choices will make your sauna experience safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable.

How Clothing Affects Detox and Skin Benefits

The Right Clothing Can Boost Sweating and Detox

Wearing light, breathable clothing or none at all in an infrared sauna increases sweat production. This process removes heavy metals, toxins, and impurities from the body.

Unrestricted sweating keeps your pores open, improving circulation and enhancing the detox process.

To achieve the best results, avoid tight or heat-trapping fabrics that block sweat.

Breathable Fabrics Support Skin Health

Allowing your skin to breathe fully in the sauna is essential for proper detoxification.

Lightweight or no clothing helps your pores stay open, improving airflow and heat absorption. This promotes oxygen flow to the skin and helps remove waste effectively.

Clothing Choice Helps Regulate Body Temperature

Minimal, loose clothing helps your body manage heat during the session. Overheating or poor heat distribution can disrupt the detox process.

Wearing light fabrics or none ensures even heat absorption, raising your core temperature safely.

Avoiding Irritating Fabrics Prevents Skin Sensitivity

Tight or synthetic fabrics can trap moisture and irritate the skin during a session.

Choosing loose, natural materials or going without clothing minimizes friction and prevents rashes or redness.

Clean Clothing Can Protect Against Bacteria and Breakouts

When you sweat in a sauna, bacteria and toxins are pushed to the surface of your skin. If clothing traps this sweat, it can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

Using a clean towel or wearing light cotton clothing can act as a protective barrier. These options absorb sweat while letting it evaporate, keeping your skin cleaner and reducing the chances of breakouts or infections.

Maintaining good hygiene during your session helps protect your skin and enhances your overall detox experience.

Hygiene and Post-Sauna Clothing Tips

Shower Before and After the Sauna

Shower before the sauna to remove dirt, sweat, and oils that block your pores, using warm water and mild soap to clean your skin thoroughly.

This prepares your body to sweat effectively and prevents impurities from mixing with your sweat during the session.

Do not take a cold shower immediately, let your body cool down naturally first to avoid shocking your system.

Showering after ensures your skin stays clean and prevents bacteria buildup.

Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing

Wear loose, breathable clothing after your sauna session to let your body cool and your skin breathe.

Since your body continues to sweat even after leaving the sauna, tight or synthetic fabrics can trap moisture, irritate your skin, and cause discomfort.

Change Into Clean Clothes

Always change into clean clothes after a sauna session to prevent bacteria and odor from sweat-soaked fabrics.

Dirty clothes can cause skin irritation or infections, undoing the cleansing effects of the sauna.

Stay Hydrated for Recovery

Hydrate immediately after the sauna to replenish fluids lost through sweat. Water helps flush toxins and prevents dizziness or fatigue from dehydration. Sip water right after your session and throughout the day.

Skip Heavy Perfumes and Lotions

Do not use heavy perfumes or lotions before or after a sauna session, as they clog pores and irritate skin. Saunas open your pores, and these products interfere with your body’s natural detox process.

Dry Off Properly to Prevent Bacteria

Dry off thoroughly after the sauna to avoid bacteria growth on damp skin. Use a clean towel to pat dry, focusing on moist areas like underarms and toes.

Leaving sweat on your skin can lead to irritation or infections, so ensure you dry every area completely.

Final Thoughts on What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna

To make the most of your infrared sauna sessions, it’s important to find the right balance between enjoying the benefits and being mindful of the risks.

Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing or going without can help your body sweat more efficiently, boosting detox and skin health.

But always go with what makes you feel most comfortable. It’s also crucial to stay clean, stay hydrated, and listen to your body during your sessions.

Remember, the goal is to support your body’s natural detox process while enjoying the experience safely.

If you ever have concerns, don’t hesitate to ask a professional for advice to make sure you’re getting the best results.