
A well built sauna is largely a one-time investment that will richly reward the practiioner every time it’s used for decades thereafter. A little bit of care after each use, and some regular monthly and annual maintenance will ensure your sauna remains in top condition for a lifetime of use.
Care with each use (1 minute):
Remove all your water bottles, cups, etc (they can melt if left in sauna)
Use a cloth or brush dipped in water to wipe down the benches.
Mop up any access water on the floor.
Hang your towels up to dry.
Inspect the heater to ensure it is free of debris and ready for next use.
Monthly Maintenance (30 minutes):
Deep Clean Benches and Walls
Use a mild wood-safe cleaner or a mixture of water and white vinegar to scrub benches and walls. Here is a link to a dedicated sauna cleaner.
Avoid abrasive scrubbing tools to prevent damage to wood surfaces.
Clean the Floor Thoroughly
Mop the floor thoroughly
Pay special attention to corners and edges where dirt or water can accumulate and cause damage to the wood.
Inspect Heater Functionality
Ensure the heater is working properly and heating to the desired temperature.
Check for any signs of wear or damage to electrical coils.
Replace cracked or crumbling stones to maintain efficient heating.
Annual Maintenance (2 hrs)
Inspect Wood Condition
Check for any cracks, splinters, loose bench boards or warping in the wood.
Consider sanding down benches to remove rough spots, prevent splinters, and give the surface a nice refresh.
Apply an annual coat of natural wood preservative designed for saunas to increase the longevity and aesthetic of your sauna. Here’s a link to a great sauna wax.
Identify any problem areas where water may be accumulating and damaging floor or wood. Figure out solution to prevent further damage.
Replace Sauna Stones
Completely replace sauna stones if they show significant wear or damage.
Inspect heating elements for wear or damage, replace if necessary.
Clean the heater thoroughly to remove dust and debris before adding new stones. Here is a link to some good sauna rocks.
Tighten screws and Ensure Optimal Door Function
Tighten loose bench boards
Ensure door opens and closes freely without rubbing, adjust if necessary.
Replace any rusty or corroded hardware
Consider hiring a sauna expert to this annual refresh and maintenance for you.
Hire Suomi to do a 2 hour annual sauna inspection/maintenance for you. Contact us for more information.
By following these maintenance steps, your sauna will remain a clean, safe, and relaxing space for years to come.
Happy steaming!

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