A Warm Welcome to Our World of What to Wear in a Sauna
Hey there, sauna lovers! Let’s dive into the steamy world of saunas and explore what to wear for the ultimate comfort and health benefits. Saunas have been enjoyed for centuries, with roots tracing back to Finland. Today, they’re loved worldwide for their relaxation and wellness perks. But before you step into the heat, let’s talk about an essential aspect – what you wear!
Understanding Sauna Etiquette
First off, it’s crucial to respect sauna traditions. Sauna etiquette varies, but generally:
Keep it clean: Always shower before sauna use. This shows respect for the space and others, ensuring everyone enjoys a hygienic experience. Even in a private sauna a shower is a good idea before sauna use.
Towel talk: Bring a towel. In many places, it’s customary to sit on a towel for hygiene reasons. Plus, it’ll come in handy to wipe away sweat.
Whisper zone: Keep conversations low. Saunas are places of relaxation and recuperation. Loud chats can disturb the peaceful ambiance.
Dress appropriately: Wear what makes you comfortable, keeping in mind the cultural norms of the sauna you’re visiting. Some saunas may require swimwear, while others are more lenient with rules.
Limit your time: Be mindful of how long you stay. It’s recommended to take breaks, especially for sauna newbies, to prevent overheating.
Following these norms not only shows respect but also enhances everyone’s experience.
What Not to Wear in a Sauna Session
Any conversation about what to wear would be incomplete without a conversation about what not to wear. We recommend you avoid wearing the following:
Jewelry and metal accessories: Metal parts heat up quickly and can cause burns, so it’s best to leave your jewelry at home. The extra moisture in a steam room can erode or tarnish some jewelry very quickly.
Synthetic fabrics: Materials like polyester and nylon can melt or become uncomfortably hot. Stick to natural fibers if you’re wearing any clothing. Too much heat to fast can be hard for the body to regulate and make the sauna session dangerous. Doubling down with a sauna suit is not a great idea.
Heavy makeup: The heat in a sauna can cause makeup to melt and clog your pores. Go in with a clean, bare face for the best experience.
Shoes of any kind: Saunas are typically shoe-free zones to keep them clean and hygienic. Shower shoes are an option if foot coverage is a concern.
Glasses: The heat can damage your frames and lenses, and it can be uncomfortable on your face.
Large, bulky clothing: Not only is it impractical, but it can also inhibit your body’s ability to sweat properly.
Watches and fitness trackers: Like jewelry, these can heat up and potentially cause burns or damage to the device.
Contact lenses: The heat can cause discomfort and dry out your lenses, so consider switching to glasses for the way to and from the sauna.
Perfume or heavily scented lotions: Scents can intensify in the heat and may not be pleasant for you or fellow sauna-goers. Hygiene considerations are even more important if you are headed to a public sauna.
Complicated swimwear: Elaborate ties or decorations can become uncomfortable. Opt for simplicity and comfort if you choose to wear swimwear.
Tight or restrictive clothing: Saunas are all about relaxation and improving your circulation. Wearing tight clothes or restrictive clothing can hinder your circulation and detract from the sauna’s health benefits. It’s best to opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothes if you choose to wear any.
Street clothes: Your everyday attire, like jeans, t-shirts, and other casual wear, is best left outside the sauna. These items are not designed for high-heat environments and can become uncomfortable, restrict your ability to sweat and inhibit the overall sauna benefits. They also have the potential to introduce germs to an otherwise clean environment.
Remember, the goal is relaxation and health, so wearing less and choosing materials carefully can greatly enhance your sauna experience.
What to Wear in a Sauna for Comfort and Health
Now let’s cover what we should wear in the sauna to maximize the experience. We recommend you choose any of the following sauna attire:
Lightweight cotton towel or robe: Opt for soft, breathable clothing like a towel or robe to sit on or wrap around yourself. Loose cotton clothing is excellent because it’s absorbent and doesn’t retain heat excessively. The most common practice is just a towel wrapped around our body.
Swimwear (if required): Choose a comfortable, simple-designed bathing suit if the sauna requires it. Avoid anything too tight or with complicated ties. A loose-fitting swimsuit you don’t mind sweating in is a great option. Use will still want to bring a towel.
Cotton or linen clothing: If you prefer not to be in swimwear or a towel, opt for loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibers like cotton or linen. These materials allow your skin to breathe and don’t trap heat. Be sure to wear clean clothes and avoid workout clothes unless you use the sauna before the workout.
Flip-flops or sandals: If your sauna allows walking wear, choose footwear that’s easy to clean and won’t get damaged by heat or moisture. Remember, these are typically worn only in communal areas and not inside the sauna itself. Shower shoes work well for sauna use.
Wooden sauna hat: Though not common everywhere, a wooden sauna hat can protect your head and hair from intense heat, keeping you comfortable during longer sessions. Sauna hats or a sauna belt are just some of the sauna accessories to consider adding to your sauna attire.
Cotton headband: To keep sweat from dripping into your eyes, a soft cotton headband can be a handy accessory when the sweating begins.
Nothing at all: In many a traditional sauna, the best way to experience a sauna is without any clothes, as this allows your body to sweat freely and benefits from the heat uniformly. If you are all about a sauna naked session, private saunas are probably your better choice. We would still recommend a soft towel.
Remember, the key is to maintain personal comfort while respecting the sauna’s cultural and hygienic standards. The right materials allow your skin to breathe and sweat freely, maximizing the sauna’s benefits.
Sauna Fashion Trends and Innovations
Sauna fashion is evolving, with trends like:
Eco-Friendly Fabrics: Sustainability is key with materials like bamboo, organic cotton, and recycled fibers leading the pack. These fabrics are not only gentle on the environment but also on your skin, allowing it to breathe and sweat naturally.
Minimalist Designs: Think simple, clean lines and unisex styles that focus on comfort and versatility. These designs prove that less is indeed more, especially in the serene setting of a sauna.
High-Tech Moisture Management: Advanced fabrics that wick sweat away from the body to keep you dry and comfortable are on the rise. This tech ensures that even as you sweat, you stay cool and comfortable throughout your session.
Vibrant Prints and Colors: Say goodbye to the traditional whites and neutrals. Bold prints, vibrant colors, and unique patterns are making waves, allowing sauna-goers to choose clothing that expresses their personal style.
Mix and Match Pieces: Customizable sauna wear is becoming increasingly popular. Mix and match pieces like shorts, tops, and wraps in different colors and fabrics allow users to create a sauna outfit that’s uniquely theirs, fitting both their style and comfort needs.
These innovations merge function and fashion, with sustainability in mind.
Wrapping Up
Wearing the right gear in a sauna is key for comfort, health, and respecting sauna culture. By choosing breathable, loose-fitting attire and following sauna etiquette, you’ll be all set to enjoy the rejuvenating heat! If you can’t find the perfect attire, don’t worry. Just go with a good old cotton towel and enjoy the heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bring a water bottle into the sauna?
Absolutely! Staying hydrated is crucial. Opt for a plastic or stainless-steel water bottle to avoid any accidents with glass. Cold water is a refreshing break as you relax in the sauna. Keeping the water cold in a hot room is a whole different conversation.
Is it okay to talk inside the sauna?
While quiet conversation can be okay, it’s important to keep the volume low to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for everyone.
How long should I stay in the sauna?
Start with 5 to 10 minutes and see how you feel. It’s important to listen to your body and not overdo it. Most people find 15 to 20 minutes to be a sweet spot to get the full benefits of sauna time. The high temperatures can cause you to quickly shed water weight so be careful to avoid getting dehydrated.
Should I shower before entering the sauna?
Yes, a quick rinse is recommended to help keep the sauna clean and for your personal hygiene. Plus a quick blast of warm water will help open the blood vessels in preparation for the high temperatures that are next.
Can I use the sauna if I’m pregnant?
It’s best to consult with your doctor first. Saunas can significantly raise your body temperature, which might not be advisable during pregnancy.
Is it better to go in the sauna before or after a workout?
Both have benefits. Before a workout, it can help to warm up your muscles. After a workout, it can aid in relaxation and muscle recovery. Some workout clothing is not meant for the high temperatures and hot surfaces of a sauna so be sure your gym shorts aren’t going to melt while you sweat.
What do I do if I feel dizzy or unwell in the sauna?
Leave immediately, cool down, and drink water. Always listen to your body and exit the sauna if you feel uncomfortable at any point. If you are wearing clothing consider shedding a layer to help the body cool down.
Remember, everyone’s sauna experience is unique, so what works for one person may not for another. Enjoy discovering what makes your sauna visits most enjoyable for you!
