how to clean a cedar sauna

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

19-01-2025

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Cedar saunas offer a luxurious and therapeutic experience. However, keeping your cedar sauna clean is crucial for maintaining its beauty, longevity, and hygiene. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of sweat, mildew, and other contaminants, ensuring a safe and enjoyable sauna session for years to come. This guide will provide a comprehensive cleaning routine to keep your cedar sauna sparkling.

Why Clean Your Cedar Sauna Regularly?

Regular cleaning of your cedar sauna isn't just about aesthetics; it's essential for your health and the well-being of your sauna. Here's why:

• Hygiene: Sweat and other bodily fluids can harbor bacteria and fungi. Regular cleaning prevents the growth of these microorganisms, minimizing the risk of infection.
• Longevity: Dirt and grime can damage the cedar wood over time, leading to premature aging and deterioration. Cleaning protects your investment.
• Pleasant Experience: A clean sauna is a relaxing sauna. A clean environment contributes significantly to a more enjoyable and stress-relieving sauna experience.

What You'll Need:

Before you begin cleaning, gather these essential supplies:

• Soft-bristled brush: Avoid harsh brushes that could scratch the cedar wood.
• Microfiber cloths: These are gentle and highly absorbent.
• Mild soap: Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for wood. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, and ammonia. A simple solution of warm water and mild dish soap often suffices.
• Bucket: For mixing your cleaning solution.
• Vacuum cleaner (optional): To remove loose debris before wet cleaning.
• White vinegar (optional): For disinfecting and removing stubborn stains (dilute with water).

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:

1. Preparation is Key:

• Turn off the heater: Ensure the sauna is completely cool before you begin cleaning. Never clean a hot sauna.
• Ventilate the room: Open windows and doors to improve air circulation. This helps to dry the sauna more quickly after cleaning.

2. Dry Cleaning:

• Vacuum or sweep: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a soft-bristled broom to remove loose dust, dirt, and debris from the benches, floor, and walls. Pay close attention to crevices and corners.

3. Wet Cleaning:

• Mix your cleaning solution: In your bucket, mix warm water with a small amount of mild soap. Test the solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the finish.
• Wash the surfaces: Dip your soft-bristled brush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the benches, walls, and floor. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and a separate microfiber cloth.
• Pay attention to details: Clean the corners, crevices, and areas where sweat tends to accumulate.
• Treat stubborn stains: For stubborn stains or mildew, apply a diluted solution of white vinegar (equal parts vinegar and water) to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

4. Drying:

• Air dry completely: Leave the sauna doors and windows open to allow for thorough air drying. This prevents the growth of mold and mildew. Use microfiber cloths to wipe down surfaces if necessary.
• Avoid excessive moisture: Don't over-wet the wood, as excessive moisture can damage the cedar.

5. Post-Cleaning Inspection:

• Inspect your work: Once the sauna is completely dry, inspect the entire sauna for any remaining dirt or stains. Re-clean any areas that require attention.

How Often Should You Clean Your Cedar Sauna?

The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use your sauna. As a general guideline:

• After each use: Wipe down the benches and floor with a damp cloth to remove sweat and moisture.
• Weekly cleaning: A thorough cleaning, as described above, should be done at least once a week.
• Deep cleaning: A more intensive cleaning, potentially involving a stronger cleaning solution (always test first!), should be performed every 3-6 months.

Maintaining Your Cedar Sauna: Beyond Cleaning

• Regular ventilation: After each use, leave the door ajar for proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
• Protect from excessive moisture: Avoid splashing water directly onto the wood.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Always use gentle, wood-friendly cleaning products.
• Periodic conditioning: Consider using a wood conditioner specifically formulated for cedar to maintain its moisture balance and prevent drying.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your cedar sauna clean, hygienic, and in excellent condition for years to come, ensuring many relaxing and rejuvenating sauna sessions. Remember, preventative maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan and beauty of your sauna.