How to Maintain a Sauna: Essential Tips for Long-Lasting Performance

How to Maintain a Sauna? A sauna is more than a luxury—it’s an investment in your health, relaxation, and well-being. But like any investment, proper care and regular maintenance are crucial to ensure your sauna stays safe, hygienic, and functional for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to maintain a sauna, from daily routines to monthly deep cleaning and more.

1. Why Sauna Maintenance Matters

Whether you own a traditional Finnish sauna, infrared model, or outdoor wellness cabin, consistent upkeep offers several benefits: How to Maintain a Sauna?

• Extended lifespan of wood, heaters, and electronics

• Improved hygiene, preventing mold, mildew, and bacteria

• Optimal performance of heating systems

• Preserved appearance and scent of sauna wood

Skipping maintenance can lead to costly repairs and reduce the overall sauna experience.

2. Daily Sauna Maintenance Routine

After each sauna session, a few quick steps can make a big difference: How to Maintain a Sauna?

• Wipe down benches and walls with a clean, dry towel to absorb sweat and moisture.

• Leave the door open for at least 30 minutes after use to ventilate the space.

• Remove used towels, buckets, and ladles to avoid moisture buildup.

• Inspect floor mats or duckboard slats, shake them out if needed.

These habits only take a few minutes but significantly reduce the risk of odor, staining, or mildew.

3. Weekly Cleaning Tips

Set aside 15–20 minutes weekly for a deeper clean: How to Maintain a Sauna?

• Vacuum or sweep the floor to remove hair, dirt, and dust.

• Clean glass doors and windows with a non-ammonia cleaner.

• Wipe wooden surfaces with a slightly damp cloth (not soaked!). Avoid harsh chemicals.

• Disinfect high-contact items, such as the door handle or temperature dials, with natural, non-toxic products.

Optional: Mix a mild solution of white vinegar and water for a gentle wood-safe cleaner.

4. Monthly Deep-Cleaning Checklist

Once a month, go beyond surface cleaning:How to Maintain a Sauna?

• Scrub benches and walls with a soft brush and a wood-safe cleanser to remove any buildup.

• Check the heater stones (for traditional saunas): remove, inspect for cracks, and replace damaged ones.

• Vacuum or clean under the benches, where debris often collects.

• Inspect wiring and connections for visible wear, especially in infrared saunas.

If you use your sauna more than 3 times a week, consider doing this deep clean twice a month.

5. Maintaining Sauna Heaters and Controls

The heart of your sauna lies in its heating system. Whether you’re using an electric heater, wood-burning stove, or infrared panels:

• Turn off the power before inspecting any components.

• Clean dust and lint off heater vents and surfaces.

• Replace heater stones every 1–2 years, or sooner if they show signs of crumbling.

• Ensure temperature sensors are functioning correctly and not blocked.

Always refer to your manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions.

6. Ventilation and Humidity Control

Ventilation isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential to preserving your sauna structure: How to Maintain a Sauna?

• Check intake and exhaust vents regularly for blockages.

• Ensure the sauna can fully dry out between uses—ventilation fans or windows help.

• Avoid high humidity over long periods by keeping water off wooden surfaces.

Outdoor saunas should have slightly sloped floors for proper drainage.

7. Wood Care and Preservation

The beauty of a sauna lies in its natural wood. Keep it looking and smelling fresh:

• Never paint, stain, or varnish sauna interiors. Wood must “breathe.”

• Use fine-grit sandpaper to remove stains or marks from benches and walls.

• Avoid sitting directly on the wood—use towels or seat covers.

• If odor develops, scrub surfaces with a lemon juice and water mix to neutralize smells naturally.

For outdoor saunas, treat the exterior wood with a weatherproof oil or finish annually.

8. Common Sauna Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common errors:

• Using harsh chemicals that damage wood and create toxic vapors.

• Failing to dry the sauna after each use, leading to mold.

• Overloading heater stones or ignoring worn-out elements.

• Skipping regular inspections, especially before high-use seasons.

Consistency is key—neglecting small tasks now leads to bigger problems later.

9. When to Call a Professional

Some issues require expert attention:

• Electrical problems or heater malfunctions

• Persistent mold or wood warping

• Infrared panel damage

• Major installation or refurbishment

Schedule a professional inspection annually, especially for commercial or high-traffic saunas. How to Maintain a Sauna in 2025?

---

Conclusion: Keep Your Sauna in Top Shape

Maintaining your sauna doesn’t require hours of work—but it does require regularity and care. With the right routine, your sauna will stay clean, efficient, and inviting for decades. Whether you’re a first-time owner or a seasoned wellness enthusiast, protecting your investment starts with simple, smart habits.

Saunadekor is here to support you every step of the way. From premium materials to professional installation and advice, we’re committed to long-lasting sauna satisfaction How to Maintain a Sauna?