To clean the steam sauna properly and to remove bacteria and odor, you should first air the space thoroughly, and then scrub all the wooden surfaces with a soft brush and a solution of warm water and mild detergent or a vinegar-water mixture.
For the steam generator and the heating elements a solution of vinegar or citric acid should be used on a regular basis to descale, to break down the mineral deposits, and finally, to wipe down benches with a dry cloth to avoid moisture build-up.
There is nothing quite like the enveloping warmth of a steam sauna after a long day. The relaxation, the sweat, and the feeling of detoxification cannot be compared to anything else.
However, that humid, warm environment – which feels so good on your skin – is also the perfect bedding ground for the bacteria, mold and mildew. If you’ve been noticing a musty aroma or have noticed discoloration on your benches, it’s time to roll up your sleeves.
Learning how to clean a steam sauna correctly isn’t only about looks; it’s about hygiene and helping to preserve the life of your investment.
Whether you have a traditional cedar room, a portable tent or a home steam unit, keeping them sanitized requires a special approach. You can’t just shoot it with bleach (please don’t!). So let’s get into the nitty-gritty of taking care of your sanctuary.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. Always consult and follow the specific cleaning, maintenance, and safety instructions provided by your sauna’s manufacturer, as improper cleaning methods can damage the unit or void warranties. If you are unsure about handling electrical components or steam generators, please contact a qualified professional technician.
Key Takeaways
- Ventilation is Step One: Never began the cleaning process when the sauna is hot or still damp. Air it out thoroughly to prevent the settling of mold spores.
- Wood Requires Tender touching: Soak not the wood in water in order to stop it from swelling and warping therefore use soft brushes to clean it.
- The Generator is Key Descaling the steam generator is key for the removal of mineral formation and bacteria hiding in the water lines.
- Natural Solutions Work: A combination of water and vinegar or mild detergent is sometimes the best cleaner for use in the sauna, and is safer than the use of harsh chemicals.
- Frequency Matters: A quick wipe-down after every session and a deep clean once a month will keep odors at bay.
Why Cleaning a Steam Sauna Is So Important
Before we get into the “how” though, let’s talk about the “why.” When you go in to a steam sauna, your body is releasing toxins, salts, and oils. These are collected on the benches and floors. Combine this organic matter with high humidity and heat and you have a Petri dish for bacteria.
Furthermore, if you live in an area with hard water, mineral deposits (scale) can cause the steam generator to become clogged. This not only decreases the life of the unit, but can harbor bacteria. How to keep a steam sauna clean can really be a lesson in how to avoid these two types of problems: organic build-up and mineral scale.
Essential Tools and Best Sauna Cleaner Recipes
You don’t need to have a cabinet full of industrial chemicals. In fact, when using chemicals that are harsh, in a small room where it is heated, you could breathe them in and they could be dangerous to your health.
The Natural Sauna Cleaner Recipe
Many people ask what safe for wood and skin sauna cleaner recipe. Here is the gold standard to how to clean a steam sauna at home:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Warm Water | 1 Gallon | Base solvent |
| White Vinegar | 1 Cup | Disinfects, breaks down mineral deposits (mild acid) |
| Baking Soda (Optional) | 1 tbsp | Gentle abrasive for tough spots |
| Essential Oils (Tea Tree or Eucalyptus) | 10-15 drops | Natural antibacterial and pleasant scent |
Note: If you dislike the smell of vinegar, you can substitute it with a mild, pH-neutral dish soap.
Tools You Will Need:
- Soft-bristle brush or hand held vacuum
- Microfiber cloths (one for scrubbing the other for drying).
- A bucket for your solution.
- Spray bottle (if using sauna cleaner spray).
- Sandpaper (fine grit, 120+) for deeper stains that are in the wood
How to Clean a Steam Sauna Properly (Step-by-Step)
The wood in your sauna (usually cedar, hemlock or spruce) is a porous material. It absorbs moisture and whatever is in that moisture. Here is the correct technique of how to clean sauna wood without harming it.
1. The Pre-Clean Vacuum
Prior to applying any liquid, remove all loose hair, dust and dead skin cells. Use a vacuum on soft brush attachment to get between the corners and between the bench slats. If you don’t do this, when you add water later, all you’re doing is spreading the mud around.
2. The Wash Down
Dip your soft cloth or your sponge into your cleaning solution. Wring it out thoroughly. It should be damp, but not dripping.
- Technique: Wipe the wood with the grain.
- Stains: If you have dark stains (typically from sweat), sprinkle a bit of baking soda on the spot and scrub gently with a damp cloth.
3. How to Clean the Sauna Wood with Vinegar
For stubborn odours or deeper sanitation, how to clean sauna wood with vinegar is a common search as vinegar is a natural disinfectant. However undiluted vinegar is too acid for some woods.
- The Ratio: Follow the 1 cup of vinegar to gallon of water ratio recommended above.
- Rinsing: After cleaning with vinegar, wipe the wood over again with a cloth moistened with clean water to get rid of the leftover acid smell.
4. Drying is Key
This is the step that most people miss. Leave the door open and turn on the fan in the floor, or leave it open just to air it out for few hours. Never close a damp sauna.
How to Clean a Steam Sauna Generator
The steam head and the generator tank are the place where the water converts to steam. If you have hard water, you will have a build up of calcium and lime here.
- Turn Off and Unplug: Safety first. Make sure to cool the unit completely. Check the Manual: Always refer to your manufacturer’s guide. There are even units that have self-cleaning functions.
- Descaling the Tank: In case it is allowed by your manual, fill the tank with a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water. Let it sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Scrub the Nozzles: Use a soft toothbrush to scrub the holes of steam outlet (steam head). Mineral build up here could be impeding the flow of steam or causing uneven pressure.
- Rinse: Clean the tank thoroughly with clean water. Run a short steam cycle (with the door open) to clean out any vinegar taste or smell.
Specialized Cleaning How to Clean a Steam Sauna Tent
Portable sauna are becoming more and more popular. How to clean a steam sauna tent is slightly different since they are made out of fabric and not wood.
- Material Check: Majority of tents are made from waterproof nylon or vinyl.
- The Process:
- Take down the tent if you can (check your instructions).
- Use a cloth with warm water and mild soap to wipe the inside.
- Pay special attention to the zipper places because sweat collects there.
- Never put the tent in the washing machine unless the manufacturer specifically says it is safe to do this.
- Air dry thoroughly before storing to avoid mildew.
How to keep a portable steam sauna clean is wiping it down after every single use. With the fabric folded up, moisture trapped inside it will rapidly become a terrible, sour smell.
How To clean A Pop Up Steam Sauna
Pop-up models are even more prone to holding moisture due to their collapsible frame. After cleaning, make sure the frame is expanded and the tent is fully dry before collapsing the tent for storage.
1. Removing Tough Odors and Bacteria
If you haven’t used your sauna in some time, a simple wipe-down may not suffice. Here is how to address deep-seated problems.
2. The “Baking Soda Bomb”
If you have stains from sweat that is darkening the wood, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain and leave it for 10 minutes and scrub it gently.
3. Sanding the Wood
If the wood is rough or deeply stained, you may have to sand it. Use fine sandpaper (120 or higher). Sand lightly going with the grain to remove the top layer of the wood in which the bacteria and stains reside. Immediately wipe away the dust.
4. Essential Oils for Freshness
After cleaning you can add a few drops of essential oil such as tea tree, lavender or pine oil to a damp cloth and wipe the benches. Warning Do not apply oils directly to the heating elements or steam rocks unless you have a designated diffuser. Direct contact can cause a risk of fire or damage to the heater.
Maintenance Schedule: How Often to Steam Sauna (And Clean It)?
It is easier to be consistent than it is to be intense. If you’re cleaning up a little bit every time, you’re not going to have to do a heavy deep clean very often.
Here is a handy chart to keep you on track:
| Frequency | Task | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| After Every Use | Ventilate & Wipe Benches | Removes sweat and prevents bacteria growth. |
| Weekly | Vacuum Floors & Check Drains | Removes hair, dust, and ensures water drains properly. |
| Monthly | Deep Clean Wood & Vacuum Heater | Keeps grime from settling into wood grain and heaters. |
| Every 3-6 Months | Descale Generator | Removes hard water mineral buildup from the tank. |
| Yearly | Sand Wood (if needed) | Restores the smooth surface and removes deep stains. |
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FAQs
Can I use bleach to clean my sauna?
It is very much recommended NOT to use bleach. Chlorine produces harsh fumes when it is heated, which is detrimental to your lungs when you breathe in the sauna after. Stick with natural cleaners such as vinegar or special sauna-safe sprays.
How to clean home steam sauna that smells like mildew?
If you smell mildew, chances are that you have moisture trapped somewhere. Check the drain and corners behind the benches. Clean the area with a vinegar solution then keep the sauna light on (if safe) or small fan running for 24 hours to make sure it is bone dry.
Is there a brand of sauna cleaner spray that you recommend?
There are commercial products, but find bio-degradable, non-toxic products that are specifically labeled for use in saunas. However, the DIY vinegar water solution is often regarded as the best sauna cleaner because it is cheap, effective and leaves no chemical residue.
How to clean a steam sauna tent zipper if it is stuck?
Use a toothbrush and warm soapy water to clean the teeth of the zipper gently to remove salt and sweat crystals. Rinse with a damp cloth. Once they are clean, you can lubricate them with a little silicone spray (wipe off excess) to make sure they slide easily.
How frequent is the steam sauna for health benefits?
This is a health question, but users tend to search this in conjunction with cleaning. Most experts recommend 3-4 times a week for 15-20 minutes for both cardiovascular and detox benefits.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to clean a steam sauna is the secrets to using it for years to come. Whether you are trying to determine how to clean a portable steam sauna for your apartment unit or maintain a large cedar unit in your backyard, the principles are the same: keep it dry, keep it ventilated, and use gentle, natural cleaning agents.
By following this guide, you are making sure that every time you step inside, you are greeted by the fresh aroma of cedar and the clean, healing power of steam – without the presence of bacteria and unwanted smells. Happy steaming!
