How to Clean and Maintain Your Sauna
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How to Clean and Maintain Your Sauna

SaunaInfo Team2024-01-158 min read
cleaningmaintenancewood carehygiene

How to Clean and Maintain Your Sauna

Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your sauna and ensuring a hygienic bathing experience. Follow this comprehensive guide to keep your sauna in pristine condition.

Weekly Cleaning Routine

After Each Use


  • Wipe down benches with a damp cloth

  • Leave the door open to air out moisture

  • Allow the heater to run for 10-15 minutes to dry the interior

    • Weekly Deep Clean


    1. Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dust and debris
    2. Scrub benches with warm water and a soft brush - no soap needed
    3. Wipe walls with a barely damp cloth
    4. Clean the heater guard to remove any debris near the stones

    Monthly Maintenance

    Inspect and Clean Sauna Stones


  • Remove stones and inspect for cracks

  • Replace any cracked or deteriorating stones

  • Rinse stones with water to remove dust

  • Rearrange stones to ensure proper airflow

    • Check Ventilation


  • Ensure air vents are unobstructed

  • Clean vent covers if dusty

  • Test that air flows properly during heating

    • Wood Treatment


  • Inspect wood for any signs of mold or mildew

  • Sand any rough spots on benches

  • Consider applying sauna-safe oil to benches annually

    • Deep Cleaning (Quarterly)

    For a thorough clean every 3-4 months:

    1. Remove all accessories (buckets, ladles, thermometers)
    2. Scrub benches with baking soda paste - mix with water to form a paste, scrub gently, rinse thoroughly
    3. Clean floor thoroughly with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner
    4. Disinfect surfaces using a 1:10 vinegar-water solution (never use bleach!)
    5. Polish any metal fixtures
    6. Inspect door seals and hardware

    What NOT to Do

  • Never use harsh chemicals - they can damage wood and release fumes when heated

  • Never pressure wash the interior - too much moisture damages wood

  • Avoid scented cleaners - the fragrance can become overwhelming when heated

  • Don't seal or varnish interior wood - it needs to breathe

    • Signs Your Sauna Needs Attention

  • Musty or moldy smell

  • Dark stains on wood

  • Cracked or crumbling stones

  • Uneven heating

  • Door not sealing properly

    • Extending Your Sauna's Life

    1. Always sit on a towel to protect benches from sweat
    2. Keep humidity balanced - some steam is good, flooding is not
    3. Ensure proper ventilation during and after use
    4. Address any water leaks immediately
    5. Schedule professional inspection every 2-3 years

    With regular care, a quality sauna can last 15-30 years or more. The key is consistency - a little maintenance each week prevents major problems down the road.