Selecting the right attire for a sauna session plays a critical role in comfort, heat efficiency, personal hygiene, and overall safety. Whether you are stepping into a traditional Finnish sauna, a modern infrared sauna, or a high-humidity steam room, understanding what to wear helps optimize wellness outcomes and elevate the user experience.
This guide provides clear, practical direction on appropriate sauna clothing, cultural expectations, and important safety considerations.
Should You Wear Anything in a Sauna?
Sauna etiquette can vary significantly across cultures and environments:
Finland & Scandinavia: Nude sauna bathing is traditional, especially in private or gender-separated settings.
North America, Europe & Asia: Towels, swimsuits, or lightweight sauna-appropriate clothing are more common in public and mixed-gender facilities.
The correct choice ultimately depends on:
The type of sauna
Facility rules
Hygiene guidelines
Personal comfort level
What to Wear in a Sauna
1. Towel
Wrapping a towel is one of the most universal and practical choices.
Benefits
Allows skin to breathe efficiently
Hygienic barrier between skin and bench
Maximizes heat exposure for sweat release
Considerations
Secure properly to avoid slipping
Always sit on a personal towel for hygiene
2. Swimsuit
Ideal for public saunas or mixed-gender environments.
Benefits
Ensures modesty
Widely accepted in commercial wellness venues
Considerations
Avoid tight or synthetic fabric
Heat-resistant swimwear made from natural fibers is preferred
3. Lightweight Sauna Clothing
Organic cotton or linen garments designed for heat environments.
Benefits
Breathable, skin-friendly
Maintains modesty without trapping heat
Considerations
Avoid overly thick fabrics
Remove clothing that restricts perspiration
4. Nude (Private Saunas Only)
Nude sauna use supports:
Maximum heat penetration
Natural perspiration release
Zero fabric interference
Recommendation: Always place a towel under the body for hygiene.
What NOT to Wear in a Sauna
| Item | Risk |
| Synthetic fabrics | Trap heat and sweat, increase overheating risk |
| Jewelry & metal accessories | Heat burn risk |
| Shoes or slippers | Hygiene concerns |
| Lotions, oils, heavy skincare | Clogs pores, reduces detox benefits |
Sauna Attire Recommendations by Sauna Type
Traditional Dry Sauna
Best: Towel or no clothing (private settings)
Acceptable: Lightweight cotton
Infrared Sauna
Best: Light clothing or towel
Infrared waves require skin exposure for optimal penetration.
Steam Room
Best: Swimsuit or towel
High humidity saturates fabrics quickly; cotton becomes heavy.
Essential Hygiene & Comfort Tips
Shower prior to entering
Sit on a clean towel
Bring an extra towel for drying
Avoid perfumes or strong fragrances
Remove contact lenses & jewelry
Hydrate before and after the session
Final Takeaway
There is no universal “right” way to dress in a sauna. The optimal choice depends on:
Cultural norms
Public vs private setting
Heat type: traditional, infrared, or steam
Personal comfort & hygiene preference
Aim for breathable, clean, and minimal clothing to support natural sweating and maximize wellness benefits.
