Sauna Maintenance Guide: How to Keep Your Sauna in Perfect Shape

Daily Routine

• Leave the door open after use to air out the sauna completely
• Wipe down benches with a damp cloth — use a towel while sitting to absorb sweat
• Clean the floor weekly with a mild sauna cleaner (avoid bleach or harsh chemicals)

Wood Care

The interior wood should never be oiled or stained — it needs to breathe and will absorb sweat. The exterior of outdoor saunas should be oiled annually with a sauna-specific exterior oil to protect against weathering.

Lightly sand the bench wood with fine-grit sandpaper annually to refresh the surface and remove any gray discoloration.

Heater Maintenance

For traditional saunas with stone heaters: replace the stones every 1–3 years. Stones become porous over time and can crack dangerously. Only use heat-appropriate stones (not river stones).

For infrared saunas: heaters require no maintenance. If a panel stops working, contact the manufacturer — most quality brands cover heaters under warranty.

Deep Cleaning

Once per month, mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 gallon warm water. Wipe down all surfaces, leave to air dry completely. This neutralizes odors and kills bacteria without damaging the wood.

Dealing With Discoloration

Gray or black discoloration on wood is usually mold. Address immediately with a sauna-safe wood cleaner. Improve ventilation and leave the door open longer after sessions to prevent recurrence.