As sauna culture becomes more popular around the world, more people are able to enjoy the relaxation and health benefits of saunas. However, this wonderful experience can be completely ruined when you're suddenly touched by someone's sticky thighs, disturbed by noisy sounds, or overwhelmed by strong cologne. Although saunas offer many benefits, these situations can quickly make the experience unpleasant. Therefore, when using a public sauna, it’s important to follow proper sauna etiquette—knowing what to do and what not to do.
Of course, a sauna is meant to be a relaxing activity. If you prefer not to be restricted by these rules, you can customize your own home saunas, allowing you to be in control and enjoy tranquility and comfort in one person.
Sauna Etiquette: Elegance and Politeness
Saunas, an ancient method of promoting health, are widely popular, whether in public facilities or private homes. Due to regional differences in sauna culture, knowing how to follow the appropriate sauna rules not only allows you to enjoy a better experience but also helps create a peaceful and harmonious environment for others. Below are some important etiquette guidelines to follow in public saunas. Please review them carefully for future reference.
Respect Personal Space and Maintain Hygiene
If it’s your first time in a public sauna, you might be curious, but remember to choose a seat that provides enough space between you and others. Avoid sitting too close, giving both yourself and others adequate room. If possible, choose a seat on the side and avoid staring at others to respect their privacy. Additionally, as the high temperature will cause you to sweat, place a towel or seat cover on the bench before sitting down to avoid contact with sweat left by the previous guest, and to minimize the risk of your own sweat and oils transferring to the sauna bench. This helps maintain hygiene for everyone.
Enjoy in Silence and Avoid Noise
It’s natural to feel excited when you visit a public sauna with friends, but be mindful that loud conversations can disturb other guests. Saunas are typically quiet environments, so if you do chat, keep the conversation brief and the volume low. Ideally, avoid talking altogether to enhance your relaxation and allow others to enjoy the quiet. Sound is one of the biggest distractions for those meditating in a sauna, so maintaining a peaceful atmosphere is crucial.
Respect the Sauna Environment
People have different tolerances for heat—some prefer higher temperatures, while others enjoy lower heat with a slower steam buildup. It’s respectful to maintain the sauna’s current temperature and humidity levels in a public setting. If you wish to pour water on the stones to increase heat or humidity, consult with others first. Changing the environment without considering everyone’s preferences can negatively impact the overall sauna experience.
Dress Code Awareness
While traditional Finnish saunas often involve nudity, customs vary by culture and location. In some countries, saunas allow nude bathing, while in others, swimsuits or towels are required. Be sure to understand and respect the dress code of the local sauna culture. In a nude sauna, remain natural and polite, taking care not to cause discomfort to others.
Avoid Strong Scents or Sprays
The sauna is a closed, high-temperature environment, and any scent can spread quickly. Avoid wearing perfume or bringing products with strong odors into the sauna, as this can disturb the atmosphere and affect others’ experiences.
Limit Your Time and Avoid Hogging the Space
A typical sauna session lasts 10 to 15 minutes, followed by a rest period. In a public sauna, be mindful of your time and avoid occupying the space for too long. Overstaying can place stress on your body and prevent others from enjoying the sauna. Share the time and space so that everyone has an opportunity to benefit.
Differences and Peculiarities of Sauna Culture
In traditional Finnish saunas, sauna use is not only a practice for health but also a way of life. Finns typically prefer to be naked in the sauna, emphasizing a natural and relaxed state. Additionally, saunas serve as places for deep conversations and family gatherings, playing an important role in everyday life.
Russian sauna culture, while similar to that of Japan, has its own unique aspects. In Russia, saunas are both a form of heat therapy and a social activity. People often use birch branches to gently slap their bodies, stimulating blood circulation, and after the sauna, they plunge into ice-cold water. This alternating hot and cold method is believed to boost the immune system by stimulating the body. It combines the benefits of both heat and cold therapy, offering more advantages than a sauna session alone.
In Japan, where hot springs (onsen) are popular, the sauna culture often blends with the onsen experience to provide a comprehensive spa treatment. In Japanese public saunas, it is customary to shower beforehand to ensure cleanliness, as hygiene is strictly maintained. Additionally, Japanese saunas often provide various aromatic spices and essential oils to enhance relaxation.
The Middle Eastern sauna culture is famous for the "Hamam." Unlike traditional saunas, Hamams use steam baths, incorporating hot water, steam, scrubbing, and massages to emphasize both socializing and physical cleanliness. This form of sauna culture has a strong ritualistic element and is often tied to social gatherings.
In North America, sauna culture has gradually merged with fitness culture. Many gyms and spas are equipped with sauna facilities, with the primary focus on relaxation and recovery. Although North American saunas are influenced by Finnish and Russian traditions, the emphasis is more on comfort and convenience than on ritual.
Each region has its own unique sauna culture. When enjoying a public sauna in a different country, it's important to understand the local customs and etiquette to avoid discomfort for yourself and others. Understanding these cultural differences not only enhances your travel experience but also fosters respect for different traditions.
Why Buy a Home Sauna
After learning about sauna etiquette, you may feel that following strict rules isn't always enjoyable. If you prefer not to be constrained by these guidelines, I recommend buying a home sauna. Not only does this allow you to set your own rules, but it also gives you and your family the freedom to enjoy a more comfortable and private sauna experience. You won’t be limited by the opening hours of public saunas, and you can enjoy the benefits of sauna whenever you want.
Of course, choosing the right supplier for your home sauna is essential. Fortunately, Alphasauna is a trusted supplier with over ten years of experience in sauna production. We offer a wide variety of saunas, sauna accessories, hot tubs, ice baths, ice bath chillers, and provide one-stop service along with high-quality after-sales support. You can count on us! Contact us today and start enjoying your own custom sauna experience!
