There's nothing quite like the soothing warmth of a cedar sauna, providing a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. However, to ensure its continued enjoyment and safety, regular cleaning and sanitizing are essential. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best practices for maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of your cedar sauna, preserving its natural beauty and promoting a healthy environment for your well-being.
Understanding the Importance of Cleaning and Sanitizing:
A cedar sauna's warm and humid environment creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew if not properly maintained. Regular cleaning not only keeps the sauna looking its best but also prevents the buildup of harmful pathogens that can compromise your health.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning and Sanitizing Your Cedar Sauna:
1. Gather Your Supplies: Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. You'll need a bucket of warm water (hot if cleaning in the winter), natural cleaning solution (see more below) or sauna cleaner, a soft sponge or cloth, a scrub brush, and a bucket of clean water for rinsing. Additionally, consider using a natural disinfectant such as vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for sanitizing.
2. Empty the Sauna: Remove any towels, mats, or other items from the sauna. Take this opportunity to inspect them for any signs of mold or mildew, and launder them as needed.
3. Remove dust and dirt: Using a portable shop vac (we love the Dewalt cordless wet/dry vac) vacuum the inside of your barrel. Pay special attention to corners, under the benches, under the cedar floor and around the wood stove where dust and dirt tend to accumulate.
4. Wash with Natural cleaner: Dilute a small amount of baking soda in a bucket of warm water. Dip your sponge or cloth into the soapy water and wipe down all surfaces inside the sauna, including benches, walls, and the floor. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the cedar wood. Pro tip: Do not clean your sauna with chemical-grade powerful disinfectants. These chemicals can be absorbed into the wood and affect your air quality during use.
5. Scrub Stubborn Stains: For simple swet stains, use a soft-bristled scrub brush to gently scrub the affected areas in a circular motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as cedar wood is soft and can easily be damaged. For stubborn stains such as a dropped glass of wine, you'll need to sand the wood using 150–180 grit sandpaper to lift the unsightly stains.
6. Rinse Thoroughly: Once you've cleaned the entire interior of the sauna, rinse all surfaces thoroughly with clean water.
7. Sanitize with Natural Disinfectant: To sanitize the sauna and kill any remaining bacteria or mold spores, mix equal parts of water and vinegar or hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the interior surfaces of the sauna and allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before wiping dry with a clean cloth.
8. Ventilate and Dry: After cleaning and sanitizing, leave the vent and sauna door open to allow proper ventilation and thorough drying. This helps prevent moisture buildup and discourages the growth of mold and mildew.
9. Regular Maintenance: Make cleaning and sanitizing your cedar sauna a regular part of your maintenance routine. For low frequency of use (1-2 timer per week), aim to clean the sauna at least once a month. For high frequency of use (4+ times per week), aim to clean the sauna weekly.
A clean and sanitized cedar sauna not only looks inviting but also promotes a healthy and hygienic environment for relaxation and well-being. By following these simple steps and incorporating regular maintenance into your routine, you can enjoy your sauna to the fullest while ensuring its longevity for years to come. So, why wait? Treat yourself to a pristine cedar sauna experience today!
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