Having your own sauna not only means pure relaxation, but also responsibility for its care and hygiene. To ensure that your sauna remains a pleasant place and that you can enjoy it for many years to come, you should clean it regularly. With the right cleaning methods and care instructions, you can clean your sauna easily and sustainably – so that it always remains hygienic and functional.
Cleaning the sauna

Why should I clean my sauna?
In a sauna with high temperatures and humidity, it is important to clean it regularly. After all, the warm, humid climate is the perfect breeding ground for microorganisms and bacteria. In the worst case, they can discolour the wood and cause health problems. Sweat and dirt can also leave stains and damage the sauna wood in the long term. As a sauna owner, cleaning your sauna regularly will extend the life of your sauna cabin and protect its materials – so you can enjoy your private wellness oasis for longer.
Important care instructions before using the sauna
Cleaning the sauna itself is not that difficult, provided you follow the right steps. You can take measures before and immediately after using the sauna. With just a few simple steps, you can minimise the cleaning effort and keep the environment hygienic.
Cleaning tips before using the sauna:
Shower before using the sauna
To protect the sauna wood, you should always shower before using the sauna. This removes sweat, dirt and residues from personal care products, which could otherwise stick to the wood and cause stains.Use a sauna or bath towel as a base
Always use a sauna towel on the sauna benches or loungers to prevent sweat from coming into direct contact with the wood. This protects the sauna wood and makes cleaning easier later on.Ventilate after using the sauna
After using the sauna, it is essential to ventilate the room so that excess heat and moisture can escape. This allows the wood to dry and remain in good condition.
Cleaning tips after using the sauna: Effective cleaning tips
It is best to clean the sauna after it has cooled down completely. Here are some important steps for maintenance:
Clean from bottom to top
Start by cleaning the ceiling of the sauna cabin and work your way down. This prevents dirt from falling back onto areas that have already been cleaned.Clean the sauna benches and loungers too
Don't forget the sauna benches and loungers when carrying out regular sauna maintenance. First remove coarse dirt with a dry cloth. Then wipe the benches with a slightly damp cloth. Due to its extreme dryness, sauna wood is very sensitive to moisture. Avoid cleaning wooden panelling, loungers and benches with water or high pressure. If necessary, stubborn dirt can be removed with fine-grained sandpaper (P100). In commercial saunas, loungers and benches should be sanded once or twice a year, or more often depending on use.Clean the sauna floors thoroughly
You can clean heavily soiled sauna floors with a vacuum cleaner. Then wipe the floor with a slightly damp cloth or sponge. Avoid using a high-pressure cleaner, as this could damage the sauna wood.Clean the sauna heater
The sauna heater is the heart of your sauna and should therefore be maintained regularly. Coarse dirt can be easily removed with an organic cleaner or household remedies such as vinegar. Sauna stones should only be rinsed carefully with water and a brush – do not use aggressive cleaning agents, as these may emit harmful vapours. Replace the sauna stones every three to six years. Damaged stones must be removed immediately to protect the heating elements from splinters.

Cleaning your sauna: proven cleaning methods and products
For thorough sauna cleaning, you should only use organic cleaners that are explicitly suitable for saunas. These cleaning agents protect the wood and dissolve sweat, grease and other residues without damaging the material. Sauna cleaners are also free from harmful vapours and are therefore ideal for use in your sauna. For heavier soiling or even discolouration, you can use gentle household remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or citric acid. These will remove even stubborn stains and clean the sauna wood without damaging the material. However, be careful not to use harsh cleaning agents that will affect the natural condition of the wood.
Caring for and cleaning sauna wood
As the owner, you should also pay attention to the sauna wood when cleaning your sauna. After all, wood is the key component of your sauna and must therefore be treated with particular care. To clean sauna wood properly, use only mild cleaning agents and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the wood. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and lukewarm water prevents the wood from drying out too much and preserves its natural beauty.
Cleaning your sauna heater properly
Sauna heaters and sauna stones should always be kept free of deposits such as dust or dirt, as this is the only way to ensure that they distribute heat evenly. To clean the sauna heater, it is usually sufficient to remove coarse dirt with a damp cloth or brush. For more stubborn deposits, you can use an organic cleaner or vinegar. Sauna stones can be easily rinsed with water – but you should make sure that the stones do not come into contact with the water. Once a year, you should thoroughly clean the sauna stones and replace them if necessary to ensure the best heat distribution and sauna effectiveness.
Easy-care RUKU saunas – your tailor-made oasis of well-being
With a custom-made RUKU sauna, you are choosing quality, durability and low maintenance. Our premium saunas, made from high-quality sauna wood and specially treated materials, feature surfaces that are particularly easy to maintain. After all, our infrared cabins and classic saunas are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also easy to clean and maintain. Every RUKU sauna is unique and offers a relaxing atmosphere. For unique sauna experiences every time you use the sauna.
Of course, we also support you in finding your perfect home sauna and maintaining it sustainably. RUKU Sauna Manufactory stands for high-quality, masterfully crafted, made-to-measure saunas – contact us to find out more about our tailor-made sauna solutions!
Phone
+49 7303 90510Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How do I clean my sauna properly?
To clean your sauna properly, you should start cleaning from top to bottom once a week. Use a slightly damp cloth and special sauna cleaners that protect the sauna wood and remove sweat, grease and dirt residues.
How can I clean and disinfect my sauna?
Regular cleaning of your sauna with organic cleaning products ensures good hygiene. If necessary, you can also use disinfectants that are suitable for use in saunas to prevent mould and germs.
How often should you clean your sauna?
Regular cleaning of your sauna is necessary, ideally after each use. Thorough cleaning with special cleaning agents should be carried out at least once a month, or more often depending on usage.
How hygienic is a sauna?
A sauna is hygienic if it is cleaned regularly and well ventilated. High temperatures during sauna use kill many bacteria and germs, but additional regular cleaning maintains hygiene.