While a quality sauna provides a wonderful experience on its own, the right accessories can elevate your sessions from good to exceptional. From traditional items that have been used for centuries to modern conveniences, these accessories enhance comfort, functionality, and the overall ritual of sauna bathing.
This guide covers the essential accessories every sauna owner should consider, explaining their purpose and helping you decide which items deserve a place in your sauna.
Traditional Finnish Accessories
These classic items have been part of sauna culture for generations and remain essential for traditional sauna enthusiasts.
Sauna Bucket (Kiulu)
The wooden bucket holds water for creating löyly—the burst of steam produced when water is thrown on hot rocks. Beyond its practical function, a beautiful wooden bucket adds authenticity to your sauna environment.
- Material: Typically Finnish birch, aspen, or cedar
- Capacity: Usually 4-7 litres
- Features to look for: Rope handle, plastic liner (prevents leaks), quality joinery
- Care: Keep damp between uses to prevent wood from drying and shrinking
Sauna Ladle (Kauha)
The ladle is used to scoop water from the bucket and pour it over the sauna rocks. A long-handled ladle keeps your hand safely away from the intense heat of the heater.
Select a ladle with a handle at least 40cm long for safety. Wood handles stay cool, while metal bowls are durable. Many quality ladles feature a wooden handle with a copper or stainless steel bowl for the best of both worlds.
Vihta or Vasta (Birch Whisk)
This bundle of fresh birch branches is a traditional Finnish accessory used to gently beat the skin during a sauna session. The practice improves circulation, releases a pleasant aroma, and is believed to have mild antiseptic properties. While less common in home saunas, authentic enthusiasts swear by the experience.
Temperature and Timing Tools
Thermometer and Hygrometer
Knowing your sauna's exact temperature and humidity helps you maintain consistent sessions and stay within safe parameters. Many combination units display both readings.
- Mounting: Place at seating height (where you experience the heat), not near the ceiling
- Types: Traditional dial gauges, digital displays, or classic wood-mounted units
- Temperature range: Look for scales up to at least 120°C for traditional saunas
Sand Timer (Hourglass)
Traditional sand timers are both functional and decorative. They help you track session duration without bringing electronic devices into the sauna. Common intervals include 15, 20, and 30 minutes.
High heat and humidity can damage phones and smartwatches. A sand timer respects the sauna tradition of disconnecting from technology while keeping you aware of time.
Comfort Accessories
Headrest
A sauna headrest allows you to lie down comfortably during your session. They're typically made from the same wood as your sauna benches and are shaped to support your neck and head.
- Curved designs: Ergonomically shaped to cradle your head
- Adjustable options: Some allow different angles
- Inflatable options: Portable and adjustable (for infrared saunas)
Backrest
A curved backrest attached to the wall provides lumbar support during sitting sessions. It keeps your back away from the hot wall while offering comfortable support.
Sauna Seat Cover
While sitting on a towel is standard practice, dedicated seat covers provide a consistent, comfortable, and hygienic surface. They absorb sweat, are easy to wash, and protect wood benches.
Hygiene and Safety Essentials
Sauna Towels
Invest in several high-quality towels designated specifically for sauna use:
- Sitting towel: Place between you and the bench
- Drying towel: For post-session drying
- Head wrap: Some users like to wrap their hair
Look for towels made from cotton or linen that can handle high temperatures and frequent washing.
Non-Slip Mat
Place a non-slip mat outside the sauna door for safe entry and exit when your feet are wet. Heat-resistant versions can also be used inside some saunas.
Water Bottle or Insulated Flask
Staying hydrated is crucial. An insulated bottle keeps water cool during your session. Some people add electrolytes for longer sessions.
Aromatherapy Additions
Essential Oil Diffusers
For infrared saunas, a small battery-operated diffuser can add pleasant aromas. Popular sauna scents include eucalyptus, pine, birch, and lavender.
Sauna Scents for Traditional Saunas
Add a few drops of sauna-specific essential oils to your löyly water for aromatic steam. Look for products specifically designed for high-temperature use.
Only use essential oils specifically formulated for saunas. Regular essential oils may have flash points that make them dangerous at high temperatures. Never apply undiluted oils directly to hot rocks.
Maintenance Tools
Sauna Cleaning Kit
A basic cleaning kit should include:
- Soft-bristle brush for benches
- Microfibre cloths
- Sauna-safe cleaner or plain water
- Small bucket for cleaning solutions
Wood Treatment Oil
Sauna-specific wood oil (paraffin-free) can be applied periodically to protect and nourish wood surfaces. Never use standard varnishes or sealants.
Building Your Accessory Collection
- Must-have: Good towels, water bottle, thermometer
- Highly recommended: Headrest, bucket and ladle (for traditional saunas)
- Nice to have: Sand timer, backrest, aromatherapy items
- For enthusiasts: Full accessory sets, specialty items
Quality matters with sauna accessories. Items made from appropriate woods and heat-resistant materials last longer and perform better than cheap alternatives. Consider starting with a basic kit and adding items as you discover what enhances your personal sauna ritual.
Many accessory kits bundle essential items at a discount compared to buying separately. These make great gifts for new sauna owners.
For guidance on using your accessories effectively, check out our guide on creating the perfect sauna routine.
