10 Home Sauna Etiquettes to Follow

Having a sauna at home is a luxury, but with it comes the responsibility of good etiquette. Unlike public saunas, home saunas rely on the respect and care of everyone who uses them to keep the experience enjoyable for all.

Whether it’s about cleanliness, sharing the space, or keeping noise to a minimum, following a few simple rules can make all the difference.

Here are ten easy-to-follow etiquette tips that’ll help you and anyone else sharing your sauna enjoy a comfortable, clean, and relaxing experience every time.

1. Keep It Clean

Keeping the sauna clean is essential. Since home saunas are often shared spaces, it’s important to make sure you’re not leaving behind sweat, dirt, or anything that could make the experience unpleasant for the next person.

Before and after each session, give the benches a quick wipe-down with a towel. This small habit doesn’t just show respect to others—it also helps keep your sauna hygienic and welcoming over time.

2. Shower Before Entering

Taking a quick shower before entering the sauna is a must. A rinse removes any oils, sweat, or lingering scents that can cling to the sauna space and make it less pleasant for others.

Plus, starting your sauna session clean helps keep the interior in better condition, reducing any need for frequent deep cleans. It only takes a moment and goes a long way in keeping the sauna fresh for everyone.

3. Respect Personal Space

Respecting personal space in a home sauna is key, even if you’re sharing it with family or close friends. Saunas are meant for relaxation, and crowding others can take away from that peaceful vibe.

If someone else is using the sauna, make sure there’s enough space between you. This simple courtesy helps create a calm, comfortable atmosphere where everyone can fully unwind.

4. Avoid Overstaying

Limiting your time in the sauna is considerate, especially in a shared setting. A good session usually lasts around 15-20 minutes, giving you the benefits without overstaying.

This guideline is even more important when others are waiting for their turn. Stick to a reasonable timeframe so everyone can enjoy the sauna without feeling rushed or left out.

Also read: How long should I stay in a sauna?

5. Mind the Noise Level

Keeping the noise down is essential to maintain the sauna’s relaxing atmosphere. Conversations, music, or even humming can disrupt the calm, especially if others are in the sauna or nearby.

If you’re sharing the space, try to keep voices low, or even better, enjoy the silence. A quiet sauna session is often the most refreshing for everyone involved.

6. Dress Appropriately

Dressing appropriately in a home sauna comes down to personal comfort and the preferences of others. If you're alone, you can go as you please, but if you're sharing the space, a towel wrap or light, breathable clothing is a considerate choice.

This way, everyone can feel comfortable without distractions. Being mindful of your attire helps create a more relaxed and inclusive sauna experience.

7. Limit Use of Strong Scents

Avoid using strong perfumes, colognes, or essential oils in the sauna unless everyone is okay with it. Saunas are confined spaces, and strong scents can linger and even overwhelm some people.

If you enjoy using essential oils, consider checking with others or applying them sparingly. This way, everyone can breathe easy and enjoy the sauna’s natural atmosphere.

8. Stay Hydrated (But Avoid Bringing Drinks Inside)

Staying hydrated is crucial for a good sauna experience, but it’s best to hydrate before or after your session rather than bringing drinks inside. Spills can create messes, and glass bottles or cups can be safety hazards in high heat.

Drink plenty of water beforehand and keep a water bottle handy outside for after your session, so you can rehydrate as needed.

9. Leave the Sauna as You Found It

Make it a habit to leave the sauna as you found it. Wipe down any surfaces where you were sitting or leaning to remove sweat and help maintain cleanliness. This small act is a courtesy to others and keeps the sauna space feeling fresh and ready for the next user.

Think of it as paying forward the respect you’d want in return. This also avoids mould growth in the long term.

10. Follow Up with a Quick Air-Out

After you finish your session, open the door for a minute or two to let fresh air circulate. This quick air-out helps release any excess heat, sweat odors, and moisture from the space.

It’s a small final step, but it keeps the sauna pleasant for everyone who uses it next, ensuring that each session starts off with a clean, welcoming atmosphere.