What to Wear in a Sauna and What to Avoid for Maximum Comfort?

There’s scientific evidence that saunas offer incredible health benefits, but wearing the wrong garment can prevent you from reaping them. 

Proper preparation before entering saunas is key, especially for infrared saunas. 

That’s why I have curated a list of what to wear in a sauna for both men and women, along with what not to wear. So read along to find your perfect sauna attire.

What to wear in a Sauna: Men

Let’s first discuss the sauna attire options for men.

Wear Nothing

The ideal way to enjoy a sauna is to wear nothing. The Finnish, who invented the sauna, traditionally used it naked.

Going into a sauna naked has greater chances of health benefits, including better skin and improved detoxification. 

Whether or not you should go naked depends on a few factors.

If you're using a home sauna, going naked is usually fine. In public saunas, however, make sure it doesn't violate any rules.

Even if allowed, respect the comfort of others. If you’re going naked, always bring a towel to sit on to protect the bench from sweat and avoid germ transfer. 

This ensures a hygienic and pleasant experience for everyone.

But what if going naked isn’t an option? In that case, here's what to wear in a sauna. 

Wrap a Towel

If going naked isn’t suitable, the next best option is to cover with a towel. 

Wrap the towel around your waist to cover the lower body. Choose a towel that's large enough to cover essential areas. 

Avoid synthetic fabrics, as they can trap heat and moisture, causing discomfort. 

Using a towel offers privacy and hygiene by preventing direct contact with the bench. 

This is especially important in traditional or steam saunas, where multiple people use the same space. 

Breathable Cotton Clothing

Now let’s discuss what to wear in a sauna i.e. a proper wearable.

Some people feel naked even with a towel. So if you’re one of them,  breathable cotton clothing is a great option too. 

Loose cotton garments like shorts and tank tops are ideal, as they allow your skin to breathe and help sweat evaporate. 

Cotton is preferred because it's soft, absorbent, and doesn't trap heat. And choosing a cotton cloth that’s loose further prevents overheating. 

Get in a Swimwear

When considering what to wear in a sauna at the gym, swimwear is a practical option, especially if your gym has a swimming pool.

It is common to wear swimwear in public and gym saunas. If swimwears are your pick,  you should choose loose-fitting swimwear to allow proper air flow and comfort. 

Opt for natural or quick-drying fabrics like nylon or polyester blends. 

Be cautious with certain swimwear materials, as they might not be heat-resistant and could pose risks, particularly in infrared saunas. 

What should a woman wear in a Sauna?

For women wondering what to wear in an infrared sauna, the first option is the same as that for men: minimal to no clothing. 

Infrared home saunas are more common among women, and using them naked has the best anti-aging effect they desire.

But in case your home recovery gear is lacking, here’s what to wear in a sauna outside.

A Two Piece Swimwear

A two-piece swimwear is ideal for saunas as it provides maximum comfort and flexibility next to going nude. 

The minimal coverage ensures better heat dissipation which prevents overheating. 

Opt for swimwear made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like nylon or spandex to avoid discomfort from sweat. 

Swimwear also offers a hygienic barrier between your skin and the sauna bench.

Wear a Robe

A robe is also a common sauna attire. 

You should choose a lightweight, breathable robe with a head covering to hold your hair and protect it from heat. 

Robes provide modesty and are easy to slip on and off, which makes them convenient for quick transitions in and out of the sauna. 

Kaftan made of Cotton

Looking for what to wear in a sauna that’s both modest and comfortable?

Then consider going for a kaftan, which is both stylish and comfortable for women in the sauna. 

These loose-fitting garments provide just the right amount of coverage without feeling restrictive. 

Opt for kaftans made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to ensure proper air circulation and moisture absorption. This helps keep you cool and comfortable during your sauna session. 

Sauna Belt for your Tummy Fat

Conscious about your weight and wondering what to wear in a sauna to lose weight? A sauna belt can be a great option. 

Sauna belts work by increasing your core temperature, which promotes sweating and helps burn calories. 

To maximize weight loss, choose a belt made from neoprene or similar materials, as these provide good insulation and enhance sweating. 

Just remember that while sauna belts can aid in weight loss, you should also have a water bottle by your side to stay hydrated.

Don’t Forget the Hair Tie

Don’t make the mistake of going without a hair tie like most first-timers. 

Tying your hair up keeps it from sticking to your neck and face, which can be uncomfortable in the heat. 

It also helps prevent sweat from soaking your hair, which makes it easier to manage post-sauna. 

What not to wear in a Sauna?

Enough of what to wear in a sauna. Let me tell you about things you should avoid wearing in a sauna.  

Tight Clothing

Wearing tight garments in a sauna can restrict blood circulation and airflow. 

They trap sweat and heat against your skin which can potentially irritate the skin and reduce detoxification benefits of the sauna. 

It’s a common mistake to wear tight leggings, compression shorts, or snug tops to a sauna. 

These items can impede your ability to relax and fully enjoy the sauna session. 

So always opt for loose, breathable attire instead to maximize comfort and health benefits.

PVC Garments

PVC garments, often used in raincoats and some workout gear, are not suitable as sauna attire. 

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic plastic material that traps heat and prevents sweat from evaporating. 

Wearing PVC in a sauna can cause overheating and skin irritation. It also hinders the body's natural cooling process.

Metal Accessories

Wearing metal accessories like jewelry, watches, and piercings in a sauna can be harmful. 

Metal heats up quickly, which can cause burns and discomfort. 

Your sauna attire also shouldn’t have any metal pieces.

Skincare & Makeup 

For healthy skin, enter the sauna with a clean face, free from any cosmetic products such as foundation, creams, and lotions.

The heat can cause makeup and skincare products to melt and clog pores, which can lead to skin irritation and breakouts. 

FAQs

Can you wear contact lenses in an infrared sauna?

It’s not recommended to wear contact lenses in an infrared sauna. The heat can cause dryness and irritation in your eyes. It's better to remove your contact lenses before entering for a safe experience.

What to wear after the session?

After a sauna session, wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow your skin to cool down and breathe. You can opt for items like cotton shirts, shorts, or a lightweight robe.