Best Way to Clean a Sauna: Tips and Techniques for Maintaining Your Sanctuary

By George From Sweat N Chill Zone •  Updated: 02/07/24 •  13 min read


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Looking for the best way to clean a sauna? You’ve come to the right place.

We begin with the Initial Cleaning of the Sauna, which involves sweeping, dusting, and taking care of any visible dirt or grime. Following this, we move onto dealing with Removing Lime or Water Stains Around the Sauna Oven, a common issue that can affect your sauna’s functionality if not addressed.

The third step involves Scrubbing and Disinfecting Surfaces for Regular Maintenance, which helps keep your sauna looking pristine and hygienic. For stubborn issues, we cover Treating Tougher Stains and Surface Marks.

Next up is keeping everything in working order with Regular Upkeep of Sauna Components, ensuring that every part of your sauna is in top condition. Lastly but importantly, we will guide you on how to leverage proper hygiene practices into your routine by Incorporating Hygiene Practices for Users in the Sauna Maintenance Process.

Following these tips will ensure you have a perfectly clean sauna ready for use at all times.

best way to clean a sauna

Initial Cleaning of the Sauna

The first step to maintaining your sauna’s cleanliness is to begin by sweeping or vacuuming. This routine will help in removing any superficial dirt that might be lurking in those corners. No matter how minute it looks, taking care of that dirt right at the beginning is crucial.

Removing Lime or Water Stains Around the Sauna Oven

In any case, as you sweep and vacuum, make sure you pay keen attention to areas with lime or water stains – especially those ones hiding around the sauna oven. To remove these stains effectively, use a firm brush along with a lye made of citric acid or vinegar. This combination will surely evaporate those pesky stains.

Scrubbing and Disinfecting Surfaces for Regular Maintenance

Moving forward into our cleaning journey; scrub all surfaces paying extra attention to sweat and dirt marks. For this job, I recommend using diluted organic cleaning solutions like Dr.Bronners, mild detergent or warm soapy water. You see, harsh chemicals can damage your sauna’s woodwork over time.

Don’t forget about those cedar saunas too! If you have one before you start scrubbing away wear cleaning gloves and utilize a hand brush for thorough results.

Beyond scrubbing surfaces put some elbow grease into disinfecting ventilation areas and other elements in your installation as well. I love using natural products like cider vinegar mixed with water in a 1:3 ratio or a solution containing baking soda and high-quality essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, lemon oil etc.

Treating Tougher Stains and Surface Marks

Now that I think about it, tougher stains can be quite stubborn. For these types of marks, consider gentle sanding using fine-grit sandpaper combined with light scrubbing using a solution of baking soda in water. You’ll be surprised at how effectively this helps—granted that you’re patient.

Regular Upkeep of Sauna Components

The next crucial part is regular checks as they are necessary for ensuring everything is functioning correctly. And remember it’s equally important to care not just for visible parts but also components like steam generators which must cool down sufficiently after each use before cleaning.

All things considered, treating handles and floorboards periodically with good wood sealant or polyurethane finish makes maintenance much easier. This routine ensures your sauna lasts longer while enhancing its function over time.

Incorporating Hygiene Practices for Users in the Sauna Maintenance Process

Last but certainly not least—insist users place a towel on the benches to absorb sweat and provide better hygiene. Cleanliness is key but comfort should not be compromised!

It’s my hope that by following these steps diligently, you’ll maintain your sauna’s pristine condition enhancing its longevity and performance over time.

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Maintaining a clean sauna not only ensures high performance but also keeps your sauna experience blissful. If you’ve recently purchased the best infrared sauna for home use, it’s crucial to know the most effective cleaning methods. The same applies even for those owning 2-person infrared saunas.

If you’re a health enthusiast looking to detoxify, then knowing how to cleanse your sauna effectively can assist in creating the ideal environment for sauna detox. Consistent sanitation and cleanliness can also help in optimizing the benefits of using the best sauna with red light therapy or any other top-of-the-line models.

With this in consideration, whether you are scheduling your routine at the best sauna and steam room in London, or enjoying a session at home, cleanliness should be prioritized. Proper upkeep guarantees longevity and effectiveness of your unit, ensuring that it remains one of the best saunas in the world.

In conclusion, from our insights into choosing between asauna vs steam room costs, the benefits and routines for various sauna types, to tips on maintaining cleanliness, you have all you need for a rewarding sauna experience. Enjoy the detoxifying benefits of a clean and well-maintained sauna!

My Personal Take about Best way to clean a sauna

Hello, dear friend! My name is George, and I have dedicated my life to understanding the wonders of saunas and cold plunges.

Now that I think about it, you may be wondering about the best way to clean a sauna. In this case, you should always use natural cleaning agents such as white vinegar or baking soda and lightly scrub the surfaces without scratching the wood.

In any case, let me assure you — spending time in a well-maintained sauna followed by a refreshing cold plunge is an incomparable experience.

  • A sauna session can help you relax,
  • A cold plunge rejuvenates your senses,
  • The contrast between hot and cold boosts your circulation.

You see, adopting such practices can lead to enhanced overall health.
In other words: it’s more than just a luxury—it’s an investment in yourself! With each visit to these sanctuaries of heat and frost, I promise you’ll find greater peace of mind and vitality awaiting.

To conclude with words of advice – if you haven’t yet enjoyed the benefits of these wellness practices, there’s no better time than now to start. Trust me: once you dive into this world of warmth relaxation followed by ice-cold invigoration, there’s no turning back!


For those looking to clean a larger sauna, the Sunray Tiburon 4-Person traditional sauna is an excellent choice and our guide will help you maintain it in pristine condition. If you’re trying to take care of a more compact and cozy space, our tips also apply to maintaining something like the Vulcana indoor cabin sauna kit. Rest assured, our guide will ensure your sanctuary stays fresh no matter what type of sauna it is.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Best way to clean a sauna

Before you go…

Takeaway 1: Cleaning and maintaining a sauna requires attention to detail.

To keep your sauna in tip-top shape, don’t overlook the small things. Start by sweeping or vacuuming to get rid of any surface dirt. But don’t forget about those pesky lime or water stains, especially around the sauna oven. Remember to give them some extra love with a firm brush and a lye made of citric acid or vinegar. Trust me, they’ll be gone in no time!

Takeaway 2: Stick to gentle cleaning solutions and methods.

When it comes to cleaning your sauna, go easy on the harsh chemicals. They may do more harm than good to the lovely wood that makes up your sanctuary. Instead, opt for organic products like Dr. Bronners or mild detergent mixed with warm soapy water. Your cedar sauna deserves some tender loving care! And hey, don’t forget those cleaning gloves and hand brush for a thorough scrubbing.

Takeaway 3: Don’t neglect the little details for long-lasting maintenance.

Keeping your sauna clean isn’t just about wiping down surfaces and scrubbing away dirt stains. You’ve got to pay attention to all elements of your relaxation haven, including ventilation areas and all other parts of the installation. Give them a good disinfection every now and then using natural products like cider vinegar mixed with water or a solution containing baking soda and essential oils. Oh, and there’s one more thing – wipe down seating areas and benches with a damp cloth after each use! This simple step helps prevent bacteria buildup from sweat residues over time. Remember, maintaining your sauna shouldn’t feel like a chore. Take it as an opportunity for self-care! Treat handles and floor boards with wood sealant or polyurethane finish periodically for easier upkeep. And don’t forget about those hidden components like steam generators – they need some cooldown time too! Lastly, tell your sauna users to always bring a towel for better hygiene. Placing it on the benches will absorb sweat, keeping things fresh and clean. It’s all about finding that balance between cleanliness and comfort. So go ahead, embrace this comprehensive care routine with open arms. Your sauna will thank you for it with longevity and top-notch performance over time. If you’re curious about how much a typical sauna session may set you back, check out our guide on how much does a sauna session cost. Additionally, it’s important to decide on the right temperature for your sauna session, whether that’s for overall health benefits at the best sauna temperature for health or aiming to lose weight at the best sauna temperature for weight loss, while also keeping in mind how much does a sauna cost overall.
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George From Sweat N Chill Zone

George, the passionate founder of Sweat N Chill Zone, is an ardent advocate for holistic wellness through the healing powers of saunas and cold plunges. With a background in health sciences and a fervent dedication to sharing the benefits of thermal therapy, George curates an informative space, offering insights, tips, and expert advice to help individuals optimize their health and well-being through the transformative effects of heat and cold treatments. Through Sweat N Chill Zone, George aims to inspire and educate, fostering a community centered around rejuvenation and vitality.