Welcome to our guide on sauna etiquette! Taking a moment to relax in the sauna is an excellent way to take care of your physical and mental health. However, there are certain things you should keep in mind when it comes to what you wear in the sauna.

You should always wear swimwear or wrap a towel around your body. Never enter the sauna nude, as this is considered disrespectful in a public gym sauna.

It is also important to remember that hygiene is key - avoid wearing sweaty clothing and never wear anything made of synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester.

In this guide, we'll be discussing what clothing is appropriate for use in a sauna and how it can help improve your experience. We'll also provide some tips on choosing the right fabrics so that you don't overheat during your session.

So let's get started learning about how best to dress for a relaxing time at the spa.

What Is The Best Clothing For A Sauna Session?

When it comes to what to wear in a sauna, LESS is always more. While it may be tempting to stay covered up, wearing minimal clothing can help your body better regulate its temperature and promote more effective sweating. Let's take a closer look:

Swimwear

If you’re heading to a public sauna, swimwear is the best choice. Wearing a bathing suit is more HYGIENIC than wearing your own clothing, and it won’t feel too hot or heavy when exposed to the heat of the sauna.

Towels

It is also acceptable to wrap just a towel around your body while in the sauna. Not only will it PROTECT you from surfaces that may be too hot, but it can also help preserve modesty if you’re concerned about being seen without clothing.

Lightweight Clothing

Lightweight clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton or linen is the best choice for a sauna session [1]. Try to wear clothes that are not too TIGHT or too loose. If you prefer to cover up, opt for something loose-fitting that won’t trap in excess heat.

Pro Tip: Avoid wearing synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester, as these can cause you to overheat in a steam room.

Avoid Wearing Tight Fitting Clothes

Tight-fitting clothes, such as leggings, should be AVOIDED in the sauna. Not only can they become uncomfortable due to the heat, but they may also trap in sweat and body oils which can clog your pores.

Is It Appropriate To Go In A Sauna Naked?

Going to a sauna naked is a COMMON practice in many cultures, and it's not considered rude or unhygienic. In fact, it's often seen as the best way to get the full benefits of a sauna experience. However, it's important to be aware of local customs and etiquette when visiting a sauna.

In some places, nudity might not be expected, so it's best to look around and see what others are doing before taking off your clothes. In Europe, for example, wearing swimsuits in the sauna is seen as strange and UNNECESSARY [2].

Additionally, if you're uncomfortable with being NUDE around strangers, you can always wear a towel or swimsuit instead.

No matter where you go or what you decide to wear (or not wear), following BASIC sauna etiquette will ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.

Does The Type Of Sauna Affect Appropriate Attire?

When it comes to sauna etiquette, the type of sauna you are using will AFFECT what kind of attire is appropriate.

Public Sauna

In a public sauna, it is generally accepted that you should wear something such as a swimsuit or towel to COVER yourself. In an infrared sauna, lightweight, breathable fabrics are best.

Private Sauna

If you are in a private personal sauna with friends and family, you can dress (or not dress!) however you like as long as it is RESPECTFUL of everyone’s personal space.

Some people prefer to go nude, while others may wear COMFORTABLE clothing such as an oversized t-shirt and shorts.

Pro Tip: No matter which option you choose, make sure that the material is lightweight and breathable so that you don't overheat.

Gym and Spa Saunas

It's also important to remember that some gyms and spas have specific RULES regarding the dress codes for their saunas, so be sure to check with them before entering.

Additionally, avoid wearing any SHOES inside the sauna, as this can damage the wood or other materials used in its construction.

Common Gym Sauna Etiquette Tips

When using a public sauna, it's important to be MINDFUL of the space and other people in the sauna. Here are some common etiquette tips to follow when using a public sauna:

1. Respect the dress code - Most public saunas require that you wear nothing or just a towel while inside.
2. Be quiet - Public saunas are a place for relaxation and meditation, so keep your voice low and avoid loud conversations.
3. Don't play music - Music can be distracting for others in the sauna, so leave your phone outside or keep it put away.
4. Use a towel - Bring your own towel to sit on or wrap yourself in, as this will help protect you from the heat of the benches and prevent any germs from spreading around.
5. Leave your jewelry at home - Metal jewelry can get very hot in a sauna, so it's best to leave it at home or take it off before entering the sauna room.
6. Shower before entering - It's important to shower before entering the sauna to ensure that everyone is clean and comfortable inside.
7. Don't stay too long - The heat of a sauna can be intense, so don't stay too long (usually 15-20 minutes is enough). Especially in a traditional sauna, you should take breaks every few minutes.
8. Leave quickly - Open doors, let out steam and cool down the room, so leave quickly after you're done using the sauna.

By following these simple etiquette tips when using a public sauna, you'll ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is A Sauna Suit?

A sauna suit is a revolutionary design that helps you sweat more during physical activity.

Crafted from lightweight materials and featuring tight-fitting seams to ensure superior insulation, it's the perfect way to take your training routine further [3].

Can You Wear Gym Clothes In A Sauna?

It is not recommended to wear gym clothes in a sauna as they can quickly become uncomfortable and trap heat. Instead, opt for lightweight and breathable materials such as a cotton tee shirt or shorts.

What To Wear In A Sauna To Boost Weight Loss?

To maximize weight loss while in a sauna, it is best to wear lightweight and breathable materials such as a tank top and shorts. Especially in infrared saunas, these materials will help you sweat more effectively while keeping your body cool.

Conclusion 

Now you know what to wear and how to behave in a sauna. Even if you're uncomfortable with being nude around strangers, there are other clothing options that can help you feel comfortable.

Be sure to wear loose and breathable fabric, respect the dress code of the sauna you're using and follow basic etiquette tips to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience.

Saunas are a great way to relax and unwind – just remember to have fun, stay safe and enjoy your time.

Sources -

1. Kati. Why linen is the best material for sauna textiles - Sauna Maailmalla. Sauna Maailmalla. Published December 8, 2020. Accessed February 5, 2023. https://worldofsauna.com/why-linen-is-the-best-material-for-sauna-textiles/
2. facebook.com/allnatalie. What to Wear in a Sauna: Nude Sauna Etiquette Around the World. A Pair of Travel Pants. Published January 30, 2019. Accessed February 5, 2023. https://www.apairoftravelpants.com/2019/01/30/nude-saunas-and-sauna-etiquette
3. Frothingham S. Should I Work Out in a Sauna Suit? Healthline. Published May 21, 2019. Accessed February 5, 2023. https://www.healthline.com/health/sauna-suit-benefits

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