How to Sauna Like a Finn: A Beginners Guide

Want to avoid rookie mistakes and earn your sauna stripes? Here’s how to do it the Finnish way.

1. Shower First. Always.

This isn’t just hygiene, it’s respect. Wash up before stepping in. A clean body makes for clean steam.

2. Towel Etiquette

Sit on a towel. Always. It protects the bench and shows good sauna manners. Naked or swimsuit? Depends on the company but in Finland, birthday suits are the norm.

3. Loyly is Sacred

Pour water over the stones to create steam (called "loyly"). But do it gently. A sudden deluge is considered bad form. And don’t be that person who pours water every 30 seconds.

4. Silence is Golden

Some saunas are social, others are for quiet reflection. Follow the rooms vibe. Loud chatting or phone-scrolling? Big no.

5. Cool Down, Then Repeat

After 10/15 minutes, step out, cool down maybe even plunge into a cold lake or snowbank if you’re brave and then go back in. Rinse and repeat.

Master these, and you’ll earn your honorary Finnish passport in no time.