SAUNA FAQs
Curious about sauna? You're in the right place.
Whether it's your first time or your hundredth, we've answered some of the most common questions to help you feel comfortable, prepared, and ready to enjoy the heat.
NEW TO SAUNA?
Let's start here.
Whether you're just curious or completely new to sauna, these answers will help you feel confident and prepared for your first visit.
1. I've never tried sauna. Is Balsam Haus for me?
Absolutely! You don't need any sauna experience to enjoy Balsam Haus.
Whether you're curious about the health benefits, looking for a way to unwind, or simply want to try something new, you're welcome here.
Start slow, listen to your body, and find what feels comfortable for you. There's no competition, no pressure, and no right way to enjoy the experience.
There's room for you on the bench!
2. What should I wear?
Swimwear or comfortable athletic clothing. Balsam Haus is a clothed sauna experience, so nudity isn't permitted.
Lightweight, clean clothing that feels comfortable in the heat is your best bet.
We recommend arriving already dressed for sauna so you can spend more of your reservation enjoying the experience. But don't worry, changing areas are available if you need them!
3. Will I be sharing the sauna with strangers?
Most likely, yes! Balsam Haus is a shared sauna experience, which means you may be enjoying the heat alongside other guests.
But don't worry, there's absolutely no pressure to socialize. Some people love a good sauna conversation, while others prefer a little peace and quiet. Both are welcome.
Prefer to have the entire place to yourself and your group? Check out our Private Haus experiences.
4. What should I bring?
Not much! We recommend bringing a water bottle, shower sandals, and a change of clothes if you'd like one.
We'll provide fresh towels, and lockers will be available for your belongings.
Just bring yourself. We'll take care of the heat!
5. What is a sauna hat, and do I need one?
A sauna hat is typically made from wool or felt and helps insulate your head and ears from the intense heat, making longer or hotter sauna sessions more comfortable.
They're especially popular in traditional Finnish sauna culture.
Do you need one? Nope! It's completely optional. But if you already have one, feel free to bring it along.
6. What can I expect during my first visit?
It's pretty simple!
Arrive, use your access code to enter, store your belongings, and get comfortable. When you're ready, head into the sauna and enjoy the heat.
TURN UP THE HEAT
Here's how it works.
From your reservation to sauna etiquette, these FAQs cover what to expect during your visit.
7. What does my one-hour sauna reservation include?
Your reservation gives you one hour to enjoy both saunas and our cool-down spaces at your own pace.
Move between the saunas, step out to cool down, relax, hydrate, or rinse off whenever you'd like.
Changing and showering are included within your one-hour reservation, so we recommend arriving already dressed for sauna if you want to maximize your time in the heat.
You don't have to stay the entire hour, and there's no required routine.
It's your hour. Enjoy it your way.
8. How hot is the sauna?
Traditional Finnish-style saunas typically range from 150–195°F. The upper benches are generally hotter, while lower benches offer a gentler introduction to the heat.
And then there's löyly (pronounced LOW-lü), the Finnish tradition of pouring water over hot sauna stones to create a burst of steam.
At Balsam Haus, guests can create their own löyly by adding water to the stones. This increases humidity and makes the heat feel more intense.
A little goes a long way! Start small, follow the posted instructions, and be considerate of others sharing the sauna.
9. How long should I stay in?
There's no prize for staying in the longest!
If you're new to sauna, start with 5–10 minutes and see how you feel. More experienced guests may enjoy rounds of around 10–20 minutes.
We recommend limiting any single round to no more than 30 minutes. Longer isn't necessarily better, and extended heat exposure can increase your risk of dehydration and overheating.
Take breaks, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or uncomfortable, it's time to step out.
10. What do I do between sauna rounds?
Whatever feels good!
Step out of the heat, cool down, grab some water, enjoy a little fresh air, or simply relax in one of our cool-down spaces.
You can also take a refreshing rinse before heading back into the sauna.
Some people enjoy several rounds of heat and cool-down. Others are perfectly happy with one.
There's no set routine. Find your rhythm!
11. Do I have to shower or rinse off?
Nope! It's entirely up to you.
At Balsam Haus, we'll have open rinse showers for a quick, refreshing cool-down between sauna rounds, as well as separate, enclosed showers with doors if you'd prefer a little privacy.
Want to rinse off between rounds? Go for it. Prefer a full shower afterward? We've got you covered. Rather skip the water altogether? That's fine, too!
There's no required shower routine. Enjoy the experience your way.
12. Are there any sauna etiquette rules?
Just a few simple things to help everyone enjoy the experience!
Always sit on a towel.
Wear clean swimwear or athletic clothing.
Be mindful of others. Some guests enjoy conversation, while others prefer quiet.
Leave phones and electronics outside the sauna. Extreme heat can damage devices, and we want everyone to feel comfortable and respected.
Use water on the sauna stones responsibly and follow posted instructions.
Keep yourself hydrated and take breaks when needed.
Most importantly, be kind and share the bench!
GOOD TO KNOW
A little knowledge goes a long way.
Sauna can be a powerful tool for your health and wellbeing. These answers cover the benefits, who can use the sauna, and important safety information.
13. What are the benefits of sauna?
Turns out, sitting in a hot room can do more than just make you sweat!
Sauna has been part of Finnish culture for centuries, and modern research has linked regular sauna use to some pretty impressive health benefits:
Heart health: May support healthy blood pressure, circulation, and cardiovascular function.
Brain health: Research has associated frequent sauna use with a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Muscle recovery: Heat can help ease muscle tension, stiffness, and soreness.
Stress relief and better sleep: A chance to unwind, relax, and recharge both physically and mentally.
Longevity: Long-term studies have found associations between frequent sauna use and lower rates of cardiovascular-related death and overall mortality.
In fact, one Finnish study found that men who used a sauna 4–7 times per week had a 66% lower relative risk of dementia compared with those who used it once a week.
Of course, these findings show associations, not guarantees. But the research is pretty fascinating!
And sometimes, the best benefit is simply taking an hour for yourself.
14. Can kids and teens use the sauna?
We plan to welcome guests ages 12 and up. Guests ages 12–17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.! We believe healthy habits can start young, and sauna can be a great experience for families to enjoy together.
Younger sauna-goers should start with shorter sessions, take plenty of breaks, and stay hydrated. Kids and teens can be more sensitive to heat, so parents should supervise their experience and help them recognize when it's time to cool down.
No need to be a grown-up to enjoy a little heat!
15. Is sauna safe for everyone?
Sauna is generally safe for most healthy people, but everyone's body responds to heat differently. A few simple precautions can help make your experience a good one.
If you're pregnant, have a heart condition, experience blood pressure issues, or take medications that may affect your body's response to heat, consult your healthcare provider before using the sauna.
Avoid sauna if you're feeling ill, dehydrated, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Sauna isn't an endurance contest! Stay hydrated, take breaks, and leave the sauna immediately if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or unwell.
If you're unsure whether sauna is appropriate for you, check with your healthcare provider before booking.
16. What is your phone policy?
Phones aren't allowed inside the saunas or in shower and changing areas. The heat isn't great for your phone, and everyone deserves a little privacy. Besides, it's a pretty good excuse to unplug for an hour.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
We're here for it.
If you don't see what you're looking for, feel free to reach out. We're happy to help.