Top Sauna Cleaning Supplies for Maximum Efficiency

Top Sauna Cleaning Supplies for Maximum Efficiency

Keep your sauna fresh, safe, and ready—without the hassle.

A sauna is your sanctuary for relaxation, detox, and recovery—but without proper cleaning, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mould, and stale odours. To enjoy every session with confidence, it's essential to maintain a clean, hygienic space. With the right supplies and a solid routine, cleaning your sauna becomes a simple and efficient process. Here’s what you need in your cleaning kit and how to use each item effectively.

Microfibre Towels and Cloths

Soft on heat-worn surfaces, tough on sweat and dirt.

After a sauna session, sweat residue lingers on benches, walls, and floorboards. Microfibre towels are ideal because they’re absorbent, gentle on wood, and reusable. Use them damp for wiping and dry for buffing surfaces.

Why they're essential:

• Gentle on cedar, hemlock, or aspen benches
• Lint-free and streak-free finish
• Reusable and eco-friendly
• Help absorb moisture quickly

Wipe first, dry next—microfibre does both with ease.

Sauna-Safe Multi-Surface Cleaner

One bottle for benches, floors, walls—clean with confidence.

A gentle cleaner designed specifically for saunas is key. It needs to be effective at removing sweat and odour without harming wood or heating stones. Look for pH-neutral, non-toxic formulas that are also biodegradable.

What to check for:

• Safe on natural timber
• No harsh chemicals or fragrances
• Antibacterial properties
• Environmentally friendly

Disinfectant Spray or Wipes

Keep it hygienic—sauna surfaces are shared by many.

Between deep cleans, a quick spritz with a sauna-safe disinfectant helps eliminate lingering germs. Select alcohol-free, wipe-on sprays made for wooden environments.

Great for:

• Bench tops and headrests
• Door handles and windowsills
• Around heating elements (if manufacturer safe)

Frequent sanitising keeps germs at bay without fuss.

Natural Wood Oil or Restorer

Revitalise wood after many sessions and cleaning cycles.

Over time, sauna benches may dry out or stain from sweat. A natural wood oil refreshes the wood while keeping it smooth and protective. Use sparingly—just enough to maintain the wood’s natural texture.

Ideal for:

• Wooden benches and backrests
• Floorboards and trim
• Pre-season touch-ups

Soft-Bristled Brush or Sponge

Scrub gently—preserve your wood while cleaning deep.

For stubborn residue in bench grooves or floorboard gaps, a soft-bristled brush helps without scratching or damaging wood. Use it with your cleaner, then wipe dry.

Best for:

• Grout lines or tongue-and-groove benches
• Floor mat cleaning
• Light scrub without splinter risk

Sauna Floor Mat or Board Cleaner

Shield your feet—and your floors—from sweat and grime.

Sauna floor mats made of rubber or bamboo need regular cleaning to stay hygienic. A mild cleaner and towel is usually enough, but occasionally a deep scrub is warranted.

Tips include:

• Spray mat materials and wipe with microfibre
• Flip and clean underneath too
• Wash bamboo mats gently with warm water and dry flat

Steam or Humidifier-Friendly Cleaner

Sanitise through steam—deeper cleaning with heat.

Some sauna owners use steam cleaners (or humidifiers) to sanitise the entire room. Look for compatible, steam-safe cleaners—free from solvents or waxes. Steam lifts grime and opens wood pores for deeper cleaning.

Use it for:

• Walls and ceiling boards
• Hard-to-reach corners
• Enhancing organic cleansers

Odour Neutraliser or Natural Air Freshener

Breathe easy—ditch stale smells before your next session.

A sauna can develop stale smells if ventilation and cleaning aren't maintained. Use natural air fresheners like essential oil diffusers or citrus sprays post-clean for a fresh scent.

Go-to solutions:

• Spray eucalyptus or lavender on benches
• Hang small essential oil sachets
• Place charcoal deodorisers for moisture absorbance

Protective Gloves

Handle cleaners—and heat—with care.

Cleaning a sauna often means warm surfaces and cleaners on hands. Protective latex or nitrile gloves help protect skin from heat, cleaners, and splinters.

Key benefits:

• Safe against hot surfaces
• Shields from chemical cleaners
• Easy to slip on/off mid-clean

Cleaning Caddy or Carry Basket

Bring everything you need in one organised kit.

Keep your cleaning supplies in a sturdy caddy—cleaner sprays, cloths, gloves, brushes, oils. That means no trips back and forth when you're already in a heat wave after a sauna session.

Why it's worth it:

• Helps keep supplies ready
• Easy to carry in and out
• Encourages cleaning routine

Sauna Thermometer & Infrared Heat Gun

Clean smart—keep interiors consistent and safe.

For true hygiene, monitor sauna temperature and humidity. A thermometer ensures the environment is hot and dry enough to deter pathogens. An infrared heat gun helps pre-heat surfaces before cleaning to open pores for better absorbency.

Smart tools include:

• Wall-mounted sauna thermometer
• Infrared tool to check surfaces
• Digital hygrometer for humidity levels

Vent Maintenance Tools

Keep airflow open—clean vents for maximum freshness.

Sauna vents can gather dust, pollen, or lint. Regularly dust and vacuum them to maintain airflow and prevent blockages. A small handheld vacuum or dust wand works well.

Maintenance tips:

• Vacuum vent slots regularly
• Wipe surfaces lightly
• Disinfect gently after dusting

Deep Clean Routine Checklist

Keep it on track with a simple schedule.

• Daily: Wipe benches lightly and open for ventilation
• Weekly: Clean surfaces with sauna-safe spray and microfibre cloth
• Monthly: Deep scrub wood with soft brush and rejuvenate with oil
• Seasonally: Steam-clean walls, check vents, inspect for mould

Scheduled simplicity keeps your sauna safe, fresh, and inviting.

Safety First—Know What to Avoid

Protect your wood and your health—skip the harmful products.

Avoid bleach, strong solvents, or abrasive cleaners—they can damage your sauna’s wood, affect heat resistance, and release toxic fumes when heated.

Avoid these:

• Bleach or ammonia
• Oil-based or wax cleaners
• Abrasive scrubbing pads
• Strong chemical disinfectants

Skip harsh chemicals—your sauna deserves gentle care.

Final Thoughts: Cleaner Sauna, Calmer Mind

Your relaxation zone should feel and smell fresh... every time.

The right cleaning supplies and a clear routine help keep your sauna clean, safe, and inviting. Regular maintenance prolongs the life of your wood, ensures effective hygiene, and enhances each session. Invest a little effort—you’ll reap the benefits every time you step inside.