Easy Tips for Keeping Your Infrared Sauna Clean
Thinking about how to take care of your sauna? That’s a great mindset! It shows you value not just your sauna, but also the relaxation and wellness it brings. Keeping it clean isn’t just about maintenance—it’s about making sure every session feels just as good as the first one.
With a little care, your infrared sauna will stay a peaceful retreat for years to come. Let’s go over the simple steps to keep it fresh and inviting.
Less Cleaning? Yes, Please!
One of the best things about an infrared sauna is the dry heat. Why does that matter? Because it means less moisture buildup, which translates to less cleaning. And let’s be honest—anything that saves time on chores is a win!
Keeping Your Sauna Bench in Top Shape
The sauna bench is where you spend most of your time, so it’s important to keep it in great condition. We use a water-based varnish to protect the wood—it’s durable and water-resistant, but there’s one catch: it doesn’t mix well with alcohol. That means no alcohol-based cleaners! Stick to gentle, non-abrasive solutions to keep your bench looking and feeling its best.
A little regular upkeep is all it takes to keep your sauna fresh, cozy, and always ready for your next relaxing session.
Keeping Your Sauna Bench & Floor in Top Condition
Since your sauna is a long-term investment, it’s only natural that sweat and stains will build up over time. The key is to clean them as soon as you notice them! Here are some simple ways to keep your sauna bench fresh and well-maintained:
Maintaining Your Sauna Bench
- Use a Towel: Always place a thick towel on the bench while using the sauna. It helps absorb sweat and keeps the surface clean—especially important for shared or commercial saunas.
- Cleaning Light Stains: For minor stains, a damp towel with clean water or a diluted soda solution should do the trick. After wiping, turn on the heater to help dry it out. Repeat if needed.
- Removing Tough Stains: For deeper stains, gently sand the area with 180-240 grit sandpaper to restore the wood.
- Refreshing Worn Benches: If the bench looks worn, applying a fresh coat of water-based varnish will help bring it back to life.
By following these steps, your sauna bench will stay inviting and comfortable for every session.
Protecting Your Sauna Floor
Your indoor sauna features a foot heating plate beneath marble tiles or a wooden grid. Keeping the floor clean is important, but protecting the electrical components underneath is even more critical. Here’s how:
- Keep the Heater Uncovered: Never place towels or objects over the heater, as this can cause overheating and trigger the safety switch.
- Post-Session Cleaning for Light Sweaters: If you don’t sweat much, simply remove the grid and wipe the heater or tiles with a dry towel after each use.
- For Heavy Sweaters or Commercial Use: If sweating is more intense, lay down a disposable non-woven paper towel on the grid to catch moisture. Sealing the tile edges with a sealant can further protect the heater.
- Sanitizing Your Sauna: The far-infrared heat naturally helps kill bacteria. Occasionally, turn on the heater when the sauna is empty to dry and disinfect the space. Once done, open the door to ventilate before closing it again.
With these simple maintenance steps, your sauna will remain clean, efficient, and ready for deep relaxation anytime you need it!
Keeping Your Sauna Clean & Inviting
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure your sauna stays a safe, fresh, and comfortable space for relaxation.
Cleaning Your Sauna Walls
If you’re the only one using your sauna, you can take it easy on the cleaning—no judgment here! The great thing about far infrared saunas is that they naturally disinfect and sterilize surfaces with their heat. So, if your sauna isn’t looking too messy, you don’t have to scrub it all the time. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy your private retreat!
That said, a good cleaning routine helps keep everything fresh. Aim to wipe down your sauna every two weeks or after 5-10 sweat sessions. Trust me, your future self—and anyone else sharing the space—will appreciate it!
If multiple people are using the sauna, though, it’s time to step up your cleaning game. No one wants to walk in and find evidence of the last user’s sweat session! And if you’re running a rental sauna, proper cleaning between sessions is non-negotiable—because nobody wants to sit in a stranger’s leftover steam.
Here’s how to keep your sauna walls looking (and smelling) great:
- Light Stains: Wipe away small stains using clean water or a diluted baking soda solution. Dampen a towel, gently scrub the spot, then turn on the heater to dry everything out. If needed, repeat the process a couple of times.
- Deeper Stains: Stubborn marks? Use 180-240 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the affected area until the stain fades.
- Focus on High-Contact Areas: Pay special attention to spots that come into frequent contact with sweat and body oils—these are the areas that need the most care.
With just a little effort, your sauna will always be a fresh, welcoming space to unwind!
Easy Heater Cleaning Tips
Cleaning your sauna heater is a breeze! For safety, always unplug it first and wait for it to cool completely. Once it’s safe to touch, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. If you have a dry cloth handy, give it another quick wipe to ensure it stays spotless.
Just a quick note—avoid using any liquids or harsh materials that could damage the heater. A gentle clean is all it takes to keep it in top shape!
Keeping Your Sauna Floor Tiles Clean
When it comes to sauna cleaning, don’t forget about the floor! After each session, take a moment to wipe away any sweat that has built up on the surface of the marble heater.
If some sweat happens to seep through the gaps and reach the heater underneath, no need to worry—the high temperature will naturally evaporate any moisture. Just a quick wipe-down keeps your sauna fresh and ready for your next session!
Protecting Your Sauna Heater from Sweat Damage
Sweat can be more than just a cleaning issue—it can corrode the heater's wires over time, potentially causing damage that affects performance or even creates an electrical hazard. While this isn’t a rare issue, it’s something we want you to be mindful of for your safety.
To help prevent this, we’ve designed drainage holes at the bottom of the indoor sauna. If you tend to sweat heavily, placing your sauna on tiles or a carpeted surface ensures that excess moisture doesn’t stain or damage your expensive wooden flooring.
Keep Your Sauna Wood Looking Its Best
Wood Maintenance: Give Your Sauna Some TLC
Your sauna deserves a little love! Regularly check the wood for signs of wear—think of it as a mini spa day for your sauna.
If you notice any splinters, cracks, or discoloration, gently smooth out rough spots using fine-grit sandpaper.
To keep the wood strong and looking beautiful, apply a sauna-specific wood wax oil. This not only protects it from wear and tear but also helps maintain its natural glow for years to come.
Maintaining Ventilation: Let Your Sauna Breathe
After disinfecting your sauna, always leave the door open to allow the wood to air dry completely.
Proper airflow is essential to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. Make it a habit to keep the door open for a while after each use—this helps circulate fresh air, allowing the wood to dry thoroughly and keeping your sauna smelling fresh.
No one wants mold creeping into their peaceful retreat, so ventilation is key to keeping your sauna in top shape!
Protect Your Sauna with a Quality Cover
If your sauna is outdoors, it's constantly exposed to the elements—rain, snow, and UV rays can take a toll over time.
Investing in a high-quality, weather-resistant cover is a simple way to protect your sauna. Look for one made of durable, breathable material that fits snugly. This helps prevent moisture from getting trapped inside, reducing the risk of mold or wood damage.
The Outexer sauna cover has been a popular choice among sauna owners, and if you get one, I’m pretty sure you’ll love it too!
Smart Placement & Electrical Maintenance for Your Sauna
Choosing the Best Location for Your Sauna
Location matters! If possible, place your sauna in a sheltered area, such as under an awning or near a wall. This helps minimize exposure to harsh weather conditions while also creating a more private, peaceful environment for your relaxation sessions. A well-placed sauna not only lasts longer but also enhances your overall experience.
Checking Electrical Components: Stay Safe & Functional
Routine maintenance can help you spot small issues before they turn into bigger problems. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
- Inspect Wiring & Connections: Regularly check your sauna’s electrical components to ensure everything is in working order. If you notice frayed wires, loose connections, or signs of wear, address the issue before using your sauna again.
- Keep Heaters Clear: Any obstructions near the heaters can affect performance and cause uneven heating. Periodically inspect the area around them to make sure they are free from blockages and operating efficiently.
With these simple precautions, your sauna will remain a safe and comfortable retreat for years to come!
Keeping Your Sauna Temperature Just Right
Monitor Temperature Settings for Optimal Performance
To get the best sauna experience, keep an eye on the temperature settings and ensure your sauna is heating properly. If you notice fluctuations in temperature or if it’s not reaching the desired heat level, there could be an issue with the thermostat or heaters.
Possible causes include:
- The thermostat exceeding its tolerance range
- A sensor covered in dust or dirt, affecting temperature readings
If you run into any issues, check each component step by step and handle any necessary adjustments carefully to keep your sauna running smoothly.
Essential Winterizing & Maintenance Tips for Your Sauna
Winterizing Your Sauna: Keep It Warm & Efficient
If you live in an area with harsh winters, taking a few extra steps to winterize your sauna can make all the difference. Ensure that all components—especially doors and windows—are tightly sealed to prevent cold air from creeping in. You may also want to add extra insulation to improve heat retention and keep your sauna cozy even in freezing temperatures.
More Infrared Sauna Care Tips & Best Practices
We’ve covered the key cleaning and maintenance steps, but there are always little things that can help you extend the life of your sauna. Like anything else in your home, regular care ensures that your sauna remains a peaceful retreat for years to come.
That said, it’s always a good idea to anticipate potential issues before they arise. Be mindful of temperature drops, minor cracks in the wood, or even door malfunctions—addressing these early will prevent bigger problems down the line.
Pro Tips for an Even Better Sauna Experience
1. Take a Quick Shower Before Your Sauna Session
A quick 3–5 minute rinse before stepping into your sauna can make a big difference. It helps wash away dust, sweat, and other impurities, reducing the amount of bacteria and debris that might otherwise settle on the sauna’s surfaces. Plus, you’ll feel fresher when you start your session!
2. Always Use a Clean Towel
If you’re renting an infrared sauna, this is an absolute must. Even in your personal sauna, using a fresh towel each time helps absorb sweat and reduces the need for frequent deep cleaning. You can either wrap the towel around yourself or place it on the bench and floor to keep everything dry.
3. Keep Your Sauna Dry
Even if you air out your sauna daily, moisture can still sneak in—especially during rainy seasons. Keeping your sauna as dry as possible is one of the best ways to maintain cleanliness. After a session or cleaning, leave the sauna door open for about 10 minutes to promote airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
Your Sauna Is a Long-Term Investment
Your infrared sauna—whether indoor or outdoor—is more than just a piece of equipment. It’s a valuable investment in your health and well-being.
Maintaining it isn’t just about upkeep—it’s about caring for a space that brings you relaxation and renewal. The good news? Sauna maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying on top of small tasks, you’ll ensure your sauna lasts for many years to come. We hope these tips have been helpful in keeping your sauna in top shape!
