How to Clean Your Indoor Sauna

Keeping your indoor sauna clean is key to preserving its appearance, performance and hygiene. Even though Canadian Hemlock is a premium timber known for its natural resistance to warping, mould and decay, regular maintenance ensures it stays beautiful and functional for years.

To maintain freshness and prevent bacteria or mildew:

• Wipe down all contact surfaces (benches, backrests, walls) with a clean, damp cloth.
• Leave the door open for 10 to 15 minutes after your session to ventilate and allow excess moisture to escape.
• Sit on a towel during use to absorb sweat and body oils. This reduces staining and prolongs the cleanliness of your wood surfaces.

At least once a week (or more often if used daily), perform a deeper clean:

1. Turn off the sauna and let it cool completely.
2. Sweep or vacuum the floor and corners to remove dust, hair and debris.
3. Wipe surfaces with a soft sponge or cloth using warm water mixed with a small amount of mild, natural soap.
4. Avoid harsh cleaners or chemicals, as these can damage the timber and emit fumes when heated.

Notice dark patches or marks?

• Lightly sand affected areas with fine-grit sandpaper, always in the direction of the grain.
• This technique refreshes the surface and removes build-up without harming the wood.

Though rare in well-maintained saunas, mould can still form in high-humidity environments. If it appears:

• Use a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water on a cloth to wipe affected areas.
• Dry the wood thoroughly with a clean, dry towel.
• Never use bleach. It may off-gas toxic fumes when the sauna heats up.

Maintaining your heater and stones is just as important:

1. Ensure the heater is off and fully cool.
2. Remove all stones and inspect them. Replace cracked or crumbling stones.
3. Wipe down the heater housing and vacuum around the base to remove dust or debris.
4. Re-stack the stones loosely, ensuring good airflow between them.

Refer to your Harvia heater guide for specific stacking instructions.

• Inspect and tighten all screws, brackets and hinges every few months.
• Never seal, paint or varnish the interior. Canadian Hemlock is designed to breathe. Sealing it traps moisture, encouraging mould and warping.
• If your sauna is in a humid location, consider using a small dehumidifier outside the sauna to keep the ambient moisture levels down.