The cleanliness and good condition of the sauna affect both the quality of the sauna and the sauna experience. Many people remember to throw the sauna, but the daily and regular maintenance of the sauna is easily overlooked. A well-maintained sauna will last for decades and provide a pleasant, healthy and safe sauna environment. When you can maintain your sauna weekly or monthly, you can avoid a major one-time operation. Here is a comprehensive guide to cleaning and caring for your sauna.
Why is sauna cleanliness important?
Sauna materials accumulate a surprising amount of moisture, sweat salts, dirt and bacteria. If surfaces are allowed to become dirty or moldy, the lifespan of the sauna will be shortened and the quality of the sauna will suffer. Cleanliness also affects the behavior of scents and aromas: when the sauna is clean, menthol crystals and other scents, for example, work more naturally and evenly.
Daily cleaning: the foundation for good sauna hygiene
After each sauna session, it is a good idea to do a little routine cleaning, which prevents dirt from accumulating and makes it easier to deep clean later. With a little effort, the sauna will stay in good condition.
1. Ventilate the sauna properly
Open the door and any vents to allow moisture to escape. Good ventilation prevents mold growth and keeps the structures dry. It is often a good idea to leave the sauna door open after a sauna session, allowing the hot air to spread into the bathroom and act as a drying function. The aromas of the used sauna scents will also evaporate better from the sauna.
2. Rinse the benches and floor
Use cool or lukewarm water. Rinsing removes sweat, foot prints and surface dust. In outdoor saunas, rinsing also removes sand and other excess debris from the outside.
3. Check the sauna stones
It is advisable to replace crumbling or cloudy stones in a timely manner. High-quality stones improve the softness of the sauna and extend the life of the heater. It is recommended to replace sauna stones every 1-2 years.
Weekly cleaning: surface maintenance
Weekly cleaning helps keep wooden surfaces in good condition and prevents dirt from absorbing deeper.
1. Wipe the benches with a mild detergent
Use a sauna-safe cleaner and a soft brush. Do not use harsh chemicals as they can affect the breathability and scent of the wood.
2. Clean the floors and drain
Detergents, dirt and hair accumulate on the floor. A clean floor improves the air quality in the sauna and reduces the risk of bacterial growth.
3. Vacuum or dust
Dust affects air quality and the spread of scents. Even a small amount of dust can change the scent of a sauna.
Monthly or seasonal deep cleaning
Regular, more thorough maintenance will do wonders for the overall appearance and lifespan of your sauna.
1. Washing and possible sanding of benches
If dirt or stains have been absorbed into the surface, light sanding will restore the freshness of the wood. Remember to treat the benches with a protective agent intended for saunas afterwards. The benches can also be varnished / recoated, but it is worth consulting a hardware store professional about when it would be a good idea to do this. Treatment will significantly extend the life of the benches.
2. Replacing the sauna stones
It is recommended to replace the stones at least once a year, depending on usage. Broken stones can damage the heater and reduce the quality of the sauna. Always remember to check that the heater's heating elements are not touching each other and that there are always enough stones between them.
3. Ventilation check
Clean the valves and make sure that the air is circulating properly. Good ventilation affects not only the condition of the structures, but also the feel of the sauna.
This is how you keep the sauna's scent world fresh
In a clean sauna, scents and aromas work more balanced. For example, Sauna Menthol gives the best refreshing effect when the air quality in the sauna is good, the air circulates and the surfaces are not caked.
Use sauna scents correctly
Add the fragrances to the sauna water, never directly to the heater. Correct dosage ensures a smooth and pleasant aroma without any pungent or bitter notes.
Change the sauna scent according to the situation
The use of refreshing scents such as mint, menthol and eucalyptus is emphasized in a clean, fresh sauna. Relaxing scents, on the other hand, come into their own when the sauna is drier and warmer.
Summary
A clean sauna is long-lasting, safe and pleasant. Daily, weekly and monthly routines keep surfaces in good condition and improve the quality of the sauna experience. Good ventilation, regular cleaning and proper handling of materials create a foundation for a sauna where sauna scents and menthol crystals work in the best possible way.
