Saunas have been a cornerstone of wellness for centuries, offering numerous benefits such as stress relief, detoxification, and improved circulation. However, the question many first-timers and seasoned enthusiasts alike often ask is: what should you wear in a sauna? Ensuring you are appropriately dressed can enhance your experience, providing the right mix of comfort, modesty, and health benefits. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide on what to wear in a sauna, covering different types of saunas, personal preferences, and best practices.
Understanding Sauna Etiquette and Types
Before diving into specific clothing options, it’s crucial to understand that sauna customs can vary based on the type of sauna and the region you are in. Some cultures advocate for nudity in the sauna, while others may require specific attire for hygiene and modesty.
There are several types of saunas, and each one may have a slightly different dress code:
- Traditional Finnish Sauna: Nudity is commonly practiced, but you may choose to wear a towel.
- Infrared Sauna: Lightweight clothing is recommended as the heat is milder.
- Steam Sauna (Hammam): Swimsuits or towels are typical due to the high humidity.
- Public Saunas: For shared or mixed-gender saunas, wearing bathing suits or towels is often required for modesty.
What to Wear in a Sauna
1. Clothing Options for a Sauna
When deciding what to wear in a sauna, consider comfort, safety, and hygiene. The material of your clothing plays an important role in how effectively your body can sweat and cool down.
A. Nudity with a Towel
In many traditional saunas, especially in Finland, nudity is encouraged. This allows your skin to breathe and sweat freely without any obstructions. If you feel uncomfortable with full nudity, draping a towel around your body is an acceptable and often preferred alternative. Ensure the towel is large enough to cover yourself and to sit on, maintaining both modesty and hygiene by protecting the sauna’s wooden benches from sweat.
B. Lightweight Cotton Clothing
For individuals who prefer to wear clothing, lightweight, breathable cotton is ideal. Loose-fitting cotton shorts, tank tops, or light dresses allow your skin to breathe and wick away sweat. Cotton is absorbent, and it won’t cling to your body or cause discomfort in the sauna’s intense heat.
Why Cotton?
- Breathability: Cotton allows air to circulate and keeps your skin cool.
- Moisture Absorption: Cotton absorbs sweat, preventing you from feeling overly wet and sticky.
- Non-Toxic: Unlike synthetic fabrics, cotton won’t release harmful chemicals when exposed to heat.
C. Bathing Suits
Swimsuits are a popular choice in public or mixed-gender saunas. Opt for a bikini, swim trunks, or a one-piece made from natural fibers if possible, as synthetic materials can become uncomfortable in extreme heat. Make sure your swimsuit is non-restrictive and doesn’t have metal components (like zippers or clasps), as these can heat up and burn your skin.
While sauna culture varies across countries, the general rule of thumb is to wear breathable, lightweight fabrics. Here’s a breakdown of the best sauna attire options:
What to Wear in a Sauna For Men
Men’s sauna attire generally consists of simple, comfortable, and minimal pieces. Here are a few great options:
- Loose-fitting swim trunks or cotton shorts: These allow your skin to breathe while keeping you modest.
- Towel wrapped around the waist: This is a popular choice, especially in European saunas. It offers coverage without being restrictive.
- Sauna kilt: For a more traditional and comfortable option, sauna kilts are designed specifically for men and offer breathability while keeping you covered.
What to Wear in a Sauna For Women
Women have a few more options, depending on the type of sauna and whether it’s coed or women-only:
- Bikini or swimsuit (without metal details): A simple cotton or natural fiber swimsuit allows comfort and modesty while minimizing heat retention.
- Loose-fitting cotton dress or skirt: This is ideal for women who prefer more coverage in coed saunas.
- Towel or sarong: Wrapping a towel around your body is a simple, comfortable choice that works well in any sauna environment.
- Kimono or linen spa gown: A soft, breathable gown made from linen or cotton can be a great option for women who prefer full-body coverage.
Sauna Accessories
While clothing is essential, accessories can also enhance your sauna experience. Here are a few you might consider:
- Sauna hat: Traditional in Finnish culture, sauna hats protect your head from overheating.
- Slip-resistant flip flops: Protect your feet from hot surfaces and maintain hygiene.
- Headband or hair tie: Keeps your hair away from your face and neck, reducing the discomfort of sweat-drenched hair.
- Towel for sitting: Always have a clean towel to sit or lie on in the sauna, especially in shared spaces. This helps prevent infections and keeps the sauna clean.
What Not to Wear
To ensure a comfortable and effective sauna experience, it’s important to avoid certain types of clothing. Cotton and synthetic fabrics should be avoided. Cotton absorbs moisture, making you feel uncomfortable and damp. Synthetic fabrics, on the other hand, trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort and potential skin irritation. Additionally, it’s best to remove jewelry before entering the sauna to prevent burns and discomfort.
Additional Tips
To further enhance your sauna experience, consider these additional tips:
- Tie your hair up to avoid discomfort.
- Wear flip-flops or sandals to protect your feet.
- Shower before and after your sauna session.
- Drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids.
4. Understanding Cultural Differences
Cultural norms for sauna attire can vary widely from country to country. For instance, in some Nordic and Eastern European countries, nudity is the norm, while in other regions, modesty requires wearing swimwear or a towel. When traveling, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific sauna etiquette of the country or facility you’re visiting.
A. Finnish Saunas
In Finland, where the sauna tradition is deeply rooted, nudity is often expected, especially in same-gender saunas. However, wearing a towel is acceptable for modesty in public or family saunas.
B. Japanese Onsen and Bathhouses
In Japan, saunas are often located within onsen (hot spring) bathhouses, and patrons are required to bathe naked after thoroughly washing their bodies beforehand. Wearing clothing in these environments is considered impolite, as they emphasize cleanliness and relaxation.
C. North American Saunas
In North America, swimwear or towels are typically required in public saunas for reasons of modesty and hygiene. Many facilities also have separate sections for men and women or mixed-gender saunas that may require specific attire.
FAQs: Common Questions About Sauna Attire
Q. Should You Shave Before the Sauna?
A. Shaving before a sauna is a personal choice. However, if you have sensitive skin, it’s better to shave several hours or even a day before your session to avoid irritation. The heat can exacerbate razor burn or redness.
Q. What Should You Wear in an Infrared Sauna?
A. Infrared saunas typically operate at lower temperatures than traditional saunas, but the same principles apply. Wear minimal, breathable clothing like a cotton swimsuit, shorts, or a towel. This allows the infrared rays to penetrate your skin and deliver maximum benefits.
Q. Can You Apply Lotion Before a Sauna?
A. Avoid applying lotions or creams before entering a sauna. These products can clog your pores and prevent the skin from sweating and detoxifying effectively. It’s best to keep your skin clean and dry.