Sauna Accessories: What You Actually Need
A useful sauna setup doesn’t require a long list of accessories. What you need depends on your sauna type, heater, and the instructions for your specific model.
Traditional saunas may use stones and allow water to be poured over them, but only when the heater is designed for that use. Infrared saunas work differently and generally don’t use a stone heater. Check the owner’s manual before adding stones, water, scents, or other items.
In this article
Accessories for Traditional Saunas.
Traditional sauna accessories depend on the heater. Check its instructions before adding stones, water, or other equipment.
Sauna stones
Use only stones specified or approved for your heater. The right type and size depend on the heater, and stones need to be arranged according to its instructions. Inspect them periodically and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for cleaning or replacement.
Bucket and Ladle
A bucket and ladle are useful if your traditional heater is designed for water to be poured over its stones. Use them only as directed by the heater manufacturer. Some heaters and sauna systems use other methods to manage water or humidity.
Thermometer and Hygrometer
A thermometer measures air temperature; a hygrometer measures humidity. A combined unit can help you observe conditions inside the sauna. Follow your sauna’s guidance when choosing where to place it and what readings to expect.
Refer to your sauna manufacturer's manual for recommended temperature and humidity ranges for your specific model. Monitoring these helps you understand your sauna's operating conditions.
Comfort and Everyday Use
Once you've got the basics covered, comfort accessories can enhance your sauna experience.
Quality Towels and Robes
Towels are useful for sitting on, drying off, and keeping the sauna clean. Choose ones that are comfortable and easy to wash. A robe can make it easier to move between the sauna and the rest of your home wellness space.
If your sauna has upholstered seating, seat covers and cushions can add comfort. Check your sauna manufacturer's guidance on compatible accessories for your specific model.
Seat Covers and Cushions
A seat cover may make a bench more comfortable and easier to keep clean. Before using a cushion or cover, check that its material is appropriate for the temperatures in your sauna and permitted by the manufacturer.
Sandals and Footwear
Some people prefer sandals for walking between the sauna and nearby areas. Keep footwear outside the heated room unless the manufacturer says it is suitable for use inside.
Accessories for Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas do not use the same setup as traditional stone heaters. Many models have built-in controls, so a separate thermometer or hygrometer may be optional. Check your model’s manual before bringing in water, aromatics, cushions, or other accessories.
For example, the Finnmark FD-1 infrared sauna has model-specific operating instructions. Use those instructions to guide accessory choices.
A Simple Sauna Routine
Towels are useful during and after a sauna session. A robe can make it easier to move between the sauna and the rest of your home wellness space. Keep drinks outside the heated room unless your sauna’s instructions say otherwise.
Aromatics and Sauna Scents
Sauna scents are optional. Use them only if the heater and sauna manufacturer permit them, and follow the product directions. Some products are intended to be diluted in water and used with a traditional heater; others may not be suitable for infrared saunas or for direct application to stones.
Avoid pouring oils or fragrances directly onto a heater unless its instructions specifically allow it.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Choose cleaning products and maintenance supplies based on your sauna’s materials and equipment. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for benches, wood surfaces, heaters, and stones. Avoid assuming that a product suitable for one sauna model is appropriate for another.
A Simple Starter Checklist
For a traditional sauna, your starting list may include heater-approved stones, if required; a bucket and ladle, if water use is permitted; a thermometer or thermometer-hygrometer; and towels.
For an infrared sauna, start with towels and any accessories recommended in the owner’s manual. Add comfort items only when they are appropriate for your model.
If you’re planning a complete home wellness space, Prime Regeneration offers sauna equipment and accessories to complement it. Explore a SaunaLife outdoor sauna or browse options that fit your setup.
FAQ
What sauna accessories are essential versus optional?
It depends on the sauna. Traditional heaters may require specific stones, and some allow water to be poured over them. Towels are useful for either sauna type. Check your model’s manual before purchasing heater-related accessories.
How often should you replace sauna stones?
Inspect stones for damage and follow the heater manufacturer’s guidance for maintenance and replacement. Timing can vary by heater and use.
Can you use regular towels in a sauna?
Yes, if they are comfortable and easy to wash. You can choose towels marketed for sauna use, but check their care instructions.
Are aromatics safe to use in all sauna types?
No. Use scents only if the sauna and heater manufacturers allow them, and follow the product directions. Confirm that the product is suitable for your sauna type.
