As autumn sets in and temperatures drop, many of us find ourselves using our saunas more than ever. The warmth of the sauna becomes an inviting retreat, but this increase in use means it’s essential to give your sauna some extra care.
A few maintenance tips can make all the difference in keeping your sauna fresh, clean, and comfortable. Here’s a guide to caring for your sauna this autumn.
Why regular sauna care matters?
With more frequent use, a sauna accumulates moisture, sweat, and residue, which can lead to odors and wear on the wood surfaces. Regular cleaning in autumn helps:
- Preserve the quality and look of wooden surfaces.
- Maintain a clean, pleasant sauna environment by preventing moisture and mold build-up.
- Extend the lifespan of your sauna heater and have perfect sauna steam.
Essential sauna maintenance tips
🧽 Clean sauna benches
In autumn, it’s helpful to deep-clean your sauna. Heat your sauna at a low temperature (around 40°C) to open up the wood pores, wipe down benches and other wooden surfaces with a soft cloth to remove moisture and sweat. Use a mild, sauna-safe cleanser for deeper cleaning, like our Supi Saunapesu, designed specifically for wooden surfaces. This prevents stains from setting in and keeps your sauna smelling fresh.
After cleaning consider using Tikkurila wood protection oil Supi Laudesuoja or wax Supi Saunavaha to protect and nourish wood surfaces, preserving their color and smooth texture. Apply oil or wax with a sponge or brush. The product will fill the pores of the wood, creating a protective layer against moisture and dirt. Additionally, treated surfaces are easier to clean and maintain.
The difference between oil or wax? Both are good, but consider:
- Oil: soaks into the wood and creates a protective layer that repels water and dirt. The oil coating requires more frequent renewal.
- Wax: effectively absorbs into the wood, creates a protective layer against moisture and dirt, and gives the wood a naturally beautiful and silky surface. The wax coating needs less frequent renewal.
🪨 Check heater stones
Regularly inspect the sauna heater and stones for damage, replacing any cracked stones for even heat. Dust and check the heater for optimal performance. Annually mix the stones to remove "dead" ones and redistribute those used most during water pours, ensuring better airflow and heat distribution. This maintenance extends the heater's lifespan and keeps your sauna experience relaxing and efficient year-round.
👘 Use sauna textiles
Fresh sauna textiles can make all the difference. Accessories like sauna seat covers, towels, and pillows not only add comfort but also protect the wood from moisture, stains and sweats. Check out our textile collection, crafted to absorb moisture and stay fresh through heavy use.
🌬️Ventilation is key
Proper ventilation is essential for a sauna, especially in cooler, damp autumn months. After each session, open the ventilation valves to properly ventilate the room. Keep the door shut and let the sauna dry out to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to mold and mildew.
It's worth it
With these tips and our high-quality sauna care products, you can keep your sauna feeling and looking its best through autumn and beyond. Invest a little time in maintenance now to enjoy a welcoming, clean, and cozy sauna experience all season long 🤍