Key Takeaways

• Accurate sauna thermometers and hygrometers help monitor and maintain ideal temperature and humidity for a safer, more effective sauna experience.

• Wooden ladles Wooden ladles are not only pretty, but they’re necessary for creating steam. Premium sauna rocks are essential to maintaining the genuine experience of age-old sauna traditions.

• Adding essential oils such as eucalyptus or lavender help to increase relaxation. Remember to always combine them with water prior to use and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness!

• Absorbent towels and heat-resistant seat cushions enhance both comfort and hygiene in the sauna. It’s worth the effort, as regular sauna cleaning helps keep bacteria and odors in check.

• Comfort-enhancing ergonomic backrests and sand timers help keep session times where they need to be—producing a routine that’s as effective as it is enjoyable.

• Look for accessories that are made from heat-resistant, durable materials to guarantee safety and longevity, particularly in American sauna environments.

Sauna accessories contribute to increasing comfort, maintaining cleanliness and overall efficiency of your sauna, and sauna experience. Wooden sauna buckets and ladles create steam when water is drizzled over hot rocks to make the sauna more relaxing.

Materials like soft towels and cushy headrests add luxury that will make home and gym saunas even more enjoyable. People in the U.S. Usually prefer thermometers that show Fahrenheit. They like timers with obnoxious alarms and non-slip mats custom cut to their area.

Scented oils, LED mood lights and Bluetooth speakers add a modern spin to typical steam or dry heat experiences. Whether it’s a big spa chain or a small home sauna, these accessories are all used to help maintain a smooth operation and ensure safety.

The following guide explains which sauna accessories will be the most useful to help you maximize a totally chill sauna experience.

1. Sauna Thermometer

A sauna thermometer helps make sure the heat is always where it needs to be. For a true sauna experience, aim for roughly 180°F! Getting an accurate reading is important as it really doesn’t take much of a difference to alter your comfort level from within.

Like any thermometer, especially the inexpensive ones, they aren’t always accurate. To give you an idea, one of the first things people reported was that their thermometer would take more than an hour to register the actual temperature. Selecting a model that’s certified accurate to within 2°F will go a long way toward preventing this.

Shop for craftsmanship. Choose a sauna thermometer constructed of rugged materials such as aluminum, bamboo or treated wood. Extreme heat and humidity can make glass pop out and all trim break off!

Most sauna bathers like dial thermometers. These devices are relatively inexpensively constructed using a heat-sensitive metal coil which can be recalibrated should they ever get out of whack. Many even include a hygrometer, which indicates levels of humidity, so you know when it’s time to get steamier.

To ensure you’re getting the most out of any sauna, be sure to periodically check and calibrate your thermometer.

2. Wooden Sauna Ladle

Wooden sauna ladles are especially known for creating the best steam and giving a traditional feel to each sauna session. Pouring water over hot rocks with a wooden ladle increases the steam and allows you more control over the temperature and atmosphere.

Look for a deep, broad wooden ladle, crafted from tough woods such as birch or pine. This selection minimizes the risk of warping or splitting under heat. It comes with a plastic lining which many people love for the durability aspect.

On the other hand, some have experienced issues with the lining flaking off or developing unusual odors. Eco-friendly alternatives include biocomposite options, which can be durable and sustainable.

Sizes can be all over the place, and many people find that smaller or shallow ladles are not as practical, particularly for larger sauna spaces. Some designs even allow the ladle to be used as a handle for carrying water, making it very convenient in that regard.

To avoid mold and ensure your ladle stays in tip-top shape, keep it clean and allow it to dry fully after each use.

3. Essential Oils for Aromatherapy

In addition, essential oils add an extra dimension of comfort and intention to sauna sessions. Choosing oils such as eucalyptus or lavender to fill the space not only fosters a peaceful atmosphere but promotes an environment conducive to relaxation.

Adding a few drops of oils mixed with water to the sauna rocks can gradually release the scent without risking a sudden burst of intensity. Experiment with oils to find what works best for you! To use peppermint to wake you up or sandalwood to help you focus and sleep — everyone has their own individual response.

Higher quality, 100% natural oils also have a longer shelf life and require less oil to achieve the desired effect. Certain oils, such as citrus and peppermint energize and stimulate, so avoid these in the evening.

As with any topical, always do a skin test first to check for any allergic reaction. To help prevent your oils from deteriorating, store bottles in a cool, dark place to preserve their potency and fragrance.

When you use the correct dilution and take care to avoid common pitfalls, aromatherapy is a delightful and safe experience.

4. Sauna Towels

Additionally, sauna towels increase your comfort level and help maintain a clean environment with every use. Towels that are highly absorbent will prevent benches from getting damp, which is especially useful on longer visits or at higher temperatures. We recommend using one towel for sitting to reduce any mess.

Plus, a separate towel for wrapping up provides a little variety! Towels woven with natural fibers—such as bamboo, linen or Turkish cotton—are known for their absorbency properties to soak up sweat and dry quickly. Bamboo towels are naturally more absorbent, able to absorb nearly three times their weight in water compared to traditional cotton.

Turkish peshtemals dry quickly, and they’re super light, making them a great choice for both contemporary and traditional sauna designs! Microfiber towels are quick-drying as well—up to 50% faster than cotton—which is a huge plus when switching between sessions.

With the ability to wash towels at 140°F, you are able to eliminate almost all bacteria, preventing smelly towels. Our towel weight guide: lighter towels dry faster but are less plush, while heavy towels feel luxurious but take longer to dry.

5. Sauna Rocks

Sauna rocks maintain consistent heat and evenly dispersed steam in any sauna. Only use igneous rocks, such as basalt, granite, or peridotite, as those are capable of withstanding the heat without exploding or cracking. Most people choose Vulcanite or gabro, and slate is never used because it can crack or emit strange odors.

Some people purchase their rocks, and some people go out and source their own, though sourcing from public areas is often prohibited. Tip #3 Examine rocks for chips, cracks and the like! Their lifespan will largely depend on the usage of your sauna. They typically last several years.

When stacking rocks in the stove, be sure to leave small gaps between them for air circulation and even heating. If too many rocks are too tightly packed, they can actually inhibit the production of steam or Löyly. This steam is what provides the sauna’s kick!

Occasionally rinse rocks to prevent mineral deposits from accumulating.

6. Backrest for Comfort

The one sauna backrest I’ve come across really excels by providing comfort by supporting the spine. Opt for one designed to contour to the curve of your back. This choice allows the bench to naturally support your body’s position and relieve back strain as you rest against the bench.

Things like cedar or aspen are the most popular because their properties make them heat up more effectively and clean off quickly. Some backrests offer a more cushioned plush feel, while others include a sturdy wood-based structure. Both are great options, and it just comes down to what’s most comfortable for you!

Finding the sweet spot for backrest tilt will help you get comfortable and basically locked in. This change is especially important for older adults or anyone with back problems.

Portable backrests are super helpful! Compact enough for home or gym use, they’re compatible with almost any sauna. The more adjustable the backrest is, the better able it is to customize height and angle for greater adjustability to help you find your ideal position.

7. Sand Timer

In addition to other devices, a sand timer provides a simple method to time and track sauna sessions. Since a sand timer doesn’t use batteries or plugs, it remains unaffected—and safe—when heat or steam levels increase. Most sauna sand timers are designed to run for 15 minutes or less.

They typically time in 5-minute increments, allowing the easy measuring of every session. For instance, you can flip over a wood-framed, white or colored sand-filled timer to signal the beginning. That easy-to-read countdown lets you know exactly when to stop for a drink or take a rest.

Pick one that matches the sauna decor. A simple pine model fits right in with your country cabin, while a more refined dark wood timer is ideal for contemporary homes. Price goes from $5–$8 for simple glass-and-wood types to $10–$50 for more ornate woods or sand colors.

Especially if it’s a timer with frequent use, checking the timer’s accuracy from time to time goes a long way.

8. Heat-Resistant Seat Cushions

Second, heat-resistant seat cushions are notable for their combination of comfort and fire-resistance. Cushions designed for saunas can withstand up to 248 °F temperature. They will hold up under long days—they won’t melt or get flat spots.

For instance, many are constructed using performance fabrics that resist soil so they can maintain their aesthetic after multiple uses. These usually come with a durable, easy-to-clean cover. That cleaning up after a hot gym session or soothing spa treatment has never been easier!

Finely woven surfaces provide a non-slip texture to cushions—no more butt-skidding on polished wooden pews. Most designs are impervious to intense dry heat and extreme humidity. They’re great to use in steam rooms as well as regular saunas!

Some even mimic the look and texture of linen for a more supple, comfy cushion. With cushions that offer all these qualities combined, it’s easy to ensure cleanliness and safety.

9. Sauna Bucket

After that, the sauna bucket shines for helping hold steam water. Most sauna buckets are 1-gallon capacity. That’s enough for a few rounds in the sauna!

Pour water on the hot sauna stones to generate steam. This steam, known as löyly, is an essential element of the Finnish sauna experience.

Wood buckets, especially cedar or pine, give a traditional appearance. Not only do they bring the heat, but they hold up beautifully to the extreme temps in saunas.

Some sauna buckets include a plastic liner, which extends the life of the wood and makes cleaning a breeze. Dimensions are typically around 9 inches wide and 5 inches deep—a size that’s comfortable to cart back and forth, even when loaded.

A hook handle or long-handled ladle allows for safe carrying and pouring. Wipe it down after every use to prevent mold from building up and the wood from discoloring.

10. Infrared Sauna Blanket

Infrared sauna blanket is a popular choice due to its home-friendly design and portable nature. People bring these into their wellness routine to have a sauna-like experience without stepping out their front door.

Sporting adjustable heat settings, most sauna blankets can get up to somewhere between 86 and 185 degrees Fahrenheit. Most include built-in timers that go as low as 10 minutes and as high as 60 minutes for safe, uninterrupted use.

The adjustable size and shape accommodates different height preferences, though taller users may find less coverage, according to some reviews. Water-resistant material allows for easy sanitation—just wipe down after every use to ensure your blanket stays in top condition.

Regular sessions, at least five times a week, can improve heart function and ease pain. While research is limited, some studies have been finding benefits such as increased detoxification, enhanced protein synthesis, and immune response support.

Some blankets require 20 minutes to warm up. To get the most out of your blanket, pay attention to care instructions included in the manual to keep your blanket in use longer.

Conclusion

Quality sauna accessories are essential for a truly transformative experience, where you can unwind and rejuvenate body and mind. Things like an authentic wooden ladle or a plush sauna towel can enhance your sauna experience exponentially. A sand timer or a strong backrest allows you to relax and not worry about the time. Even a fun accessory like a bucket or some sauna rocks can help mix things up. Each of these little details contribute to a home sauna that’s just perfect. To make the most of each steam, test a few of these favorites. Find the perfect accessories to complement your sauna experience! Jump in and ensure that your next sauna respite yields the most. Picking up the right accessories will help you soak in every second.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sauna accessories are essential for beginners?

Begin with a sauna thermometer, wooden ladle, and sauna bucket. These ensure you’re monitoring temperature safely and pouring hot water safely. Having towels and a comfortable backrest will add to your comfort and enjoyment.

Why should I use essential oils in my sauna?

Using essential oils in your sauna is a terrific way to add these aromatherapy benefits. They can put you in a more relaxed state, open your sinuses, and elevate your mood. Make sure to use only sauna-safe oils for your own safety.

How do sauna rocks improve the experience?

How do sauna rocks improve sauna experience? Pouring water over the sauna rocks produces steam, raising humidity and intensifying the classic sauna experience.

Are heat-resistant seat cushions necessary?

Are heat-resistant sauna seat cushions worth it? Look for cushions that are made to withstand extreme heat and humidity.

How do I choose the right sauna towel?

Choose cotton or linen towels. These materials are absorbent, natural, gentle on skin, and durable for repeated sauna use. Oversized towels provide more coverage and comfort.

What is the purpose of a sand timer in a sauna?

A sand timer is a great, affordable tool to help track your sauna session. This allows you to enjoy a safe, timed sauna experience while avoiding overheating.

Can I use an infrared sauna blanket at home?

You betcha — well, sort of. Infrared sauna blankets are a portable, more convenient way to experience many benefits associated with traditional saunas. As with any sauna accessory, be sure to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations for use.