What to Wear in a Sauna
Wondering what to wear in a sauna? The simple answer is: wear as little as you feel comfortable in and choose lightweight, breathable materials.
Whether you're using a traditional sauna or an infrared sauna, your clothing should allow your body to sweat comfortably without trapping unnecessary heat.
What should you wear in a sauna?
Good options include:
A clean cotton towel Loose, lightweight cotton clothing Cotton underwear Minimal swimwear if preferred No clothing, with a towel underneath you, when using a private sauna
For many people, a 100% cotton towel or lightweight cotton clothing is a great choice. Cotton is breathable and avoids having synthetic fabrics sitting against your skin while you sweat.
If you'd prefer to minimise your exposure to synthetic fibres, choose 100% cotton rather than polyester, nylon or elastane-based clothing.
Can you wear swimwear in a sauna?
Yes, you can wear swimwear in a sauna, particularly if it makes you feel more comfortable.
However, most swimwear is made from synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon and elastane. If avoiding synthetic fabrics is important to you, a cotton towel or loose cotton clothing may be a better option.
Avoid swimwear with metal buckles, zippers or other metal details, as these can become hot and uncomfortable.
What shouldn't you wear in a sauna?
Avoid tight activewear, compression clothing, leggings, heavy clothing and anything with metal components.
You should also remove jewellery, watches, fitness trackers and other electronics before entering the sauna.
Shoes should generally be left outside the sauna.
Traditional vs infrared sauna
The advice is similar for both.
Traditional saunas operate at higher air temperatures, so minimal clothing or a towel is generally the most comfortable option.
Infrared saunas typically operate at lower air temperatures but can still produce significant sweating, so lightweight, breathable clothing or a towel works well.
Whichever sauna you choose, always sit or lie on a clean towel to absorb sweat and help keep the sauna hygienic.
What should you wear after a sauna?
After your session and shower, choose loose, comfortable clothing such as a cotton T-shirt, relaxed shorts or other breathable clothing.
At Zen Wellness Studios, our sauna and contrast therapy suites are completely private, with private showers provided. That means you can change, sauna and shower comfortably in your own space.
The simple rule:
keep it minimal, keep it breathable and choose natural fibres such as cotton where possible.
