How to Maintain and Clean an Infrared Sauna

An infrared sauna is a great investment in your health, providing numerous wellness benefits, from muscle relaxation to detoxification. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your sauna working efficiently and looking great. Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas don’t produce steam or high humidity, so they’re much easier to keep clean. Here’s everything you need to know about maintaining and cleaning your infrared sauna to ensure it stays in top shape.

1. Daily Maintenance: After Every Use

To keep your infrared sauna in excellent condition, performing some basic maintenance after each use is a good habit. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Wipe Down the Surfaces: After each session, use a clean, soft towel to wipe down the bench, backrest, and floor of the sauna. This helps remove sweat, oils, and any debris, preventing buildup and making deeper cleans easier.
• Use Towels During Your Sessions: Placing a towel on the bench and floor during use can help absorb sweat, making cleanup simpler and keeping surfaces dry. For added protection, you can also place a small towel on the backrest to prevent sweat from reaching the wood.
• Run the Ionizer: If your infrared sauna is equipped with an oxygen ionizer, be sure to run it after each use. Ionizers use electrical currents to sterilize the air and remove allergens and other particles from the sauna. Just be sure to check and clean the filters as needed.

2. Weekly Cleaning Routine

Every week, give your sauna a quick cleaning to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria:

• Dust and Vacuum the Interior: Dust particles can accumulate on the bench, heater panels, and floor over time. Use a soft, microfiber cloth to wipe down all surfaces, including any nooks and crannies. For the floor, a small handheld vacuum can help remove dust and debris efficiently.
• Wipe Down with a Damp Cloth: Use a soft cloth slightly dampened with water to wipe down the sauna's interior surfaces, including benches, backrests, and walls. Avoid using too much water to prevent it from seeping into the wood.
• Clean Glass Doors and Windows: A mixture of water and vinegar works well for streak-free cleaning for saunas with glass doors or windows. Spray a small amount onto the glass and wipe with a microfiber cloth to keep it clear and smudge-free.

3. Monthly Deep Clean

Once a month, perform a deeper clean to keep your infrared sauna looking and smelling fresh. Here’s what to focus on:

• Wood Maintenance: Infrared saunas are typically made from high-quality wood, such as cedar or hemlock, which require gentle cleaning. Mix a small amount of natural wood cleaner or a natural disinfectant like a water/vinegar solution, and gently wipe down the wood surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the wood and leave an unpleasant odor. Once a month, wipe the outside of the sauna with a microfiber cloth to remove dust.
• Clean the Floor Thoroughly: Over time, the floor can collect dirt and sweat. After vacuuming, use a mild cleaning solution or a natural disinfectant to wipe it down. Make sure the floor is completely dry before using the sauna again.
• Clean the Heater Panels Gently: Heater panels should be cleaned with a damp cloth to remove dust or residual sweat, and the surface should be immediately wiped with a dry towel. Never use cleaning chemicals on the heater panels, as that can affect their integrity.

4. Seasonal Deep Cleaning and Maintenance

Every few months, take some time to perform a more thorough cleaning and inspect for any signs of wear. Here’s how to approach it:

• Remove Sweat Stains: If your sauna contains raw wood, do not use any chemicals to treat or polish the wood they can heat up during use and may be inhaled by the user. Instead, remove sweat stains with a mild water/vinegar solution. If the stains remain, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand away the stains.
• Clean the Exterior: If needed, wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. This will keep the sauna looking good and protect it from dust accumulation.
• Check Electrical Components and Ventilation: Inspect the electrical connections to ensure everything is working properly. If you notice any issues, consult the manufacturer or a professional technician to make repairs.

Tips for Keeping Your Sauna in Great Shape

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Saunas are sensitive to harsh chemicals, which can damage wood and linger in the air. Stick to mild, natural cleaners and water whenever possible.
• Use an Oxygen Ionizer (If Available): Some saunas, like Rocky Mountain Saunas’ Elite models, come equipped with a hideaway oxygen ionizer that helps purify the air and maintain freshness. Use the ionizer regularly to reduce odors and keep the sauna air clean.
• Monitor Humidity and Temperature: Infrared saunas do not have the same humidity as traditional steam saunas, but moisture can still build up. If you live in a humid area, use a hygrometer to keep track of humidity levels. The sauna should remain dry when not in use to prevent mold and mildew.
• Replace Towels Regularly: Using fresh towels with each session keeps your sauna clean and prevents sweat from seeping into the wood. Wash towels and the backrests regularly to ensure maximum cleanliness.

Deodorizing Your Sauna

Over time, saunas may develop a slight odor from regular use, especially if sweat and moisture are allowed to accumulate. Here’s how to keep your sauna smelling fresh:

• Air Out the Sauna Regularly: Leave the sauna door open occasionally to circulate fresh air. This is especially helpful if you use your sauna daily, as it allows any remaining heat and moisture to escape, preventing any unwanted smells.
• Add Essential Oils for a Fresh Scent: Place a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon, on a cotton ball and leave it in a corner of the sauna for a refreshing aroma. Be sure to never use oil directly on a heater panel as that can interfere with the integrity of the heater itself. 

Maintaining Your Infrared Sauna

Regular maintenance and cleaning not only keep your infrared sauna looking great but also ensure that it continues to deliver health benefits safely and effectively. By following these simple daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can preserve the beauty and function of your sauna for years to come. Taking the time to care for your sauna will enhance every session, letting you enjoy your relaxation and wellness routine without worry.