🧼 How to Clean Your Sauna Properly: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Your home sauna is more than a luxury—it's a wellness sanctuary. But like any personal wellness space, it requires regular cleaning to stay hygienic, fresh, and safe to use. Whether you have a traditional sauna or an infrared sauna, proper maintenance ensures a longer lifespan and a better experience every time you step inside.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to clean your sauna the right way.

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🔍 Why Cleaning Your Sauna Matters

While high heat helps kill many bacteria, sweat, body oils, and moisture can still build up over time—especially on wood surfaces, benches, and heaters.

Regular sauna cleaning:

• ✅ Prevents odors and mold growth

• ✅ Keeps wood surfaces looking like new

• ✅ Protects your investment

• ✅ Ensures a clean, relaxing environment

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🧽 What You’ll Need

• Soft microfiber cloths or sponges

• Mild soap or natural wood-safe sauna cleaner

• Bucket of warm water

• Soft-bristle brush

• Vacuum or broom

• Optional: white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for deeper disinfecting

Note: Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, bleach, or anything that leaves a residue—especially on cedar, hemlock, or pine wood, which are porous and sensitive.

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🪵 Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Sauna

✅ Step 1: Power Down and Cool Off

Always unplug or turn off the sauna and allow it to cool completely before cleaning. Never clean a hot sauna!

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✅ Step 2: Remove Accessories

Take out:

• Towels or mats

• Backrests

• Removable bench covers

• Any electronics or essential oil diffusers

Clean these separately based on material—many are machine washable.

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✅ Step 3: Vacuum or Sweep

Use a vacuum or broom to remove:

• Dust and hair

• Debris in corners or under benches

• Loose dirt on the floor and near heating elements

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✅ Step 4: Wipe Down All Surfaces

Use a soft cloth and warm water with a few drops of mild soap or sauna-specific cleaner. Focus on:

• Benches

• Walls

• Backrests

• Door handles

• Floor panels

💡 Wipe in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damage.

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✅ Step 5: Deep Clean (Monthly or as Needed)

For deeper disinfecting:

• Mix 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts warm water

• Wipe down all high-contact areas

• For stubborn spots, use a soft brush with vinegar solution

• Rinse thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove residue

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✅ Step 6: Clean the Heater (Gently)

Infrared Heaters: Use a dry cloth to dust—never use water
Traditional Sauna Heaters: Gently wipe the exterior, and remove any dust or debris near stones. Do not soak or scrub heating elements.

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✅ Step 7: Dry It Out

Leave the door open for several hours or overnight to allow the sauna to air out and dry completely. This prevents moisture buildup and mildew.

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🌿 Optional: Natural Deodorizing

Place a small dish of baking soda or activated charcoal inside your sauna when not in use to absorb odors naturally.

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📆 Sauna Cleaning Schedule

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🧠 Final Tips for Sauna Owners

• Use towels under you during use to limit sweat absorption into the wood

• Avoid wearing shoes or applying oils/lotions before using the sauna

• Never use harsh disinfectants or household sprays—they can damage wood and release fumes when heated

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🧖 Keep Your Sanctuary Clean & Serene

Cleaning your sauna may not be as relaxing as using it—but it’s essential for keeping your space safe, comfortable, and inviting. By building sauna care into your wellness routine, you’re protecting your investment and enhancing your self-care experience.

Looking for sauna-safe cleaners or accessories? Explore maintenance essentials at Relaxacare.ca and keep your wellness space spotless and serene.

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Home Saunas | Indoor Traditional Saunas