Ideally, you should use the sauna naked, like Finns. However, this isn't appropriate in most cases.So, what to wear in the sauna? There are a few options that make suitable clothing for saunas.
You can wear swimsuits, towels, and loose cotton or linen clothes. For footwear, you can use flip-flops or shower sandals.
What about the things we shouldn't put on? This post will break down what to wear and avoid in the sauna.
The 5 Best Options to Wear in the Sauna
Here's a list of the best clothing and footwear to use in the sauna:
1. Swimsuit
Swimwear is a perfect option to wear in the sauna. It exposes most of the body to direct heat, except for the small covered portion. This is exactly what you need from sauna clothing.
That said, choose swimsuits made of natural fabrics and avoid PVC ones.
2. A Towel
Getting into the sauna without clothing but with only a towel loosely covering your body is also an excellent option.
The towel will soak up your sweat while still being loose enough to allow your body to breathe.
Further, using a towel as a seat cover is recommended, even if you're wearing clothing. This is to protect your lower body from the excessive heat of the sauna seat.
3. Loose Cotton Clothes
The breathable nature of cotton clothes makes them ideal for use in the sauna.
However, when picking cotton clothing for the sauna, ensure it's loose such as oversized t-shirts, shorts, and bathrobes. This is to give your skin the space to breathe freely.
4. Linen Garments
Like cotton, linen is one of the natural fabrics that are suitable to use in the sauna. You can choose clothes made entirely of linen or a mix of cotton and linen.
5. Flip-Flops or Shower Sandals
Although some people prefer not to wear footwear when in the sauna, it's not a good idea to do so. That's because saunas' floors are full of germs in most cases.
Therefore, wearing a pair of shower sandals or flip-flops in the sauna can provide considerable protection.
What Things to Avoid Wearing in the Sauna?
Here are a few things to avoid wearing while using the sauna:
Workout Clothing or Any Sweaty Clothes
You should avoid using dirty or sweaty clothes in the sauna. That's because they won't be comfy and will likely cause an unpleasant odor. So, if you usually use the sauna after working out, avoid using damp exercise clothing. Instead, bring a clean garment for the sauna along with workout clothes.
Jewelry and Accessories
The high temperature inside the sauna will significantly heat up any metal jewelry or accessory. This will make them uncomfortably hot and may cause burns to you.
Creams and Lotions
Wearing creams or lotions before entering the sauna can be highly uncomfortable. That's because they can irritate the skin and scalp when exposed to heat.
Wrap Up
What to wear in the sauna? Swimwear, cotton clothes, a towel, a flip-flop, or shower sandals are all excellent options. If you are lucky enough to have a built-in sauna or steam room at home, we recommend following the lead of the Scandanavians and wearing nothing inside the sauna.
Nonetheless, you need to avoid wearing your workout clothes or any other sweaty garment in the sauna. Likewise, you should avoid wearing jewelry, accessories, creams, and lotions.
We'd be happy to answer any other Sauna questions you may have by reaching out to one of our experts at 1-877-587-5387 or customercare@nordicasauna.com.
