Keeping your indoor sauna clean starts with the care instructions for your sauna, heater, and flooring. Wood benches, glass, removable walking surfaces, and heating equipment may require different cleaning methods.

This guide outlines a practical routine, but the instructions for your specific equipment should always take priority. Before cleaning, switch off the sauna and allow the heater, stones, and surfaces to cool.

For help finding care information for your sauna, email info@saunas.com or call 888-503-8157.

The Importance of Regular Sauna Cleaning

Regular cleaning helps remove sweat residue, dirt, and debris from benches, floors, and other accessible surfaces. It also gives you an opportunity to notice loose fittings, damaged wood, or moisture collecting beneath removable flooring.

Set your cleaning schedule according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and how often the sauna is used. A frequently used or shared sauna may need more attention than an occasionally used home sauna.

Cleaning alone does not correct ventilation problems or persistent moisture. If you notice musty odors, suspected mold, or deteriorating materials, ask the supplier or a qualified professional to investigate the cause.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Supplies for Your Sauna

Check the care instructions before choosing cleaning products. Use the tools and cleaners approved for each material, following any directions for dilution, application, residue removal, and drying.

A soft cloth or brush may be appropriate where the manufacturer permits it. Avoid abrasive tools, pressure washing, steam cleaning, and unapproved wood treatments.

Do not assume that vinegar, essential oils, hydrogen peroxide, bleach, or disinfectants are suitable for every sauna. Use these only when the relevant manufacturer explicitly approves the intended use. Never mix cleaning products or spray them onto heaters, controls, sensors, or electrical connections

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process for Indoor Saunas

Begin by switching off the sauna and letting the equipment and surfaces cool. Follow the manual’s instructions for any additional isolation required before maintenance. Do not open electrical compartments or work on wiring.

Remove towels and loose accessories. Clear away loose debris using a method approved by the manufacturer, then clean benches, backrests, and accessible wood surfaces with the recommended tools and products. Avoid soaking the wood or directing water into joints.

Clean the base floor according to its material and finish. If you use removable duckboard or Tru-Tile, lift and clean it as instructed, clean underneath, and allow the components to dry before replacing them.

Clean glass, handles, and other fittings according to their care instructions. Treat heater and stone maintenance as a separate task, following the exact heater manual rather than a general surface-cleaning routine.

Finish by following the manufacturer’s ventilation and drying instructions. Do not improvise a heating cycle or leave equipment operating contrary to its instructions.

Natural Cleaning Solutions for Sauna Maintenance

“Natural” does not automatically mean suitable for sauna wood, finishes, or equipment. Homemade mixtures can leave residue or affect materials, so they should not replace the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning method.

Do not add vinegar, essential oils, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or other ingredients to a cleaning routine unless the relevant manufacturer approves the product and application.

Use only the recommended cleaner at the specified dilution. Follow instructions for removing residue and drying and ask the supplier before trying a stronger treatment on persistent stains.

Maintaining Sauna Hygiene Between Deep Cleanings

Use clean towels on benches where appropriate, and remove them after each session for laundering. Remove loose debris regularly and keep the sauna free of stored items, particularly around the heater.

Follow the manufacturer’s ventilation and drying instructions after use. Keep ventilation openings unobstructed, and check beneath removable walking surfaces for trapped moisture.

There is no universal need to spray benches with disinfectant or essential-oil mixtures after every session. Follow the cleaning routine approved for your sauna rather than adding unapproved products.

Inspect accessible surfaces and fittings regularly. Have damaged components or unusual heater operation assessed before further use. For help locating care instructions, contact info@saunas.com or call
888-503-8157.