Should you wear a towel in infrared sauna?

Author: Jody Feeney  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Choose a soft, light, cotton towel to wear for best results and comfort. A heavy towel will prevent you from sweating sufficiently, limiting the beneficial effects of the sauna.

What should you wear in an infrared sauna?

For the best-infrared sauna experience, wear something loose-fitting and light. This may vary from shorts and a light cotton shirt to your bathing suit, a towel, or nothing. You'll want maximum ventilation because the infrared sauna raises your core body temperature and produces a lot of sweat.

Are you supposed to wear a towel in the sauna?

Regardless of whether you use a bathing suit or not, you need a towel in the sauna. Basically, if you do not want PVC fabrics on your skin while you enjoy the heat, the towel is all you need. Otherwise, you can wear a swimsuit, but also use the soft towel to put on a bench before sitting.

What is the etiquette for an infrared sauna?

When it comes to choosing what to wear in an infrared sauna, just remember this friendly sauna tip: the less clothing, the better! Going completely naked is actually the best way to enjoy your sauna session. Of course, this is only an option for your own personal sauna, for public saunas just a towel is enough.

Should you wipe sweat in infrared sauna?

You'll need a towel to sit on and a smaller towel to wipe down with once you start sweating. Remember, your body will be sending out toxins, including heavy metals, with your sweat, and you won't want your sauna bench or floor to absorb these.

Joe Rogan and Ben Greenfield on The Health Benefits of Infrared Vs Dry Saunas

What not to do in infrared sauna?

Be Aware
  1. The use of drugs, medication or alcohol prior to or during the infrared sauna session may lead to dizziness or unconsciousness. ...
  2. Please consult your physician if you are in doubt of your ability to use the infrared sauna for health reasons.
  3. No one under the age of 18 is permitted in the infrared sauna.

Why do I get black spots on my towels after infrared sauna?

You may see some black or grey spots or residue on your towel after a session — that is perfectly normal.

How soon should you shower after infrared sauna?

We do not have a shower in our office. However, we actually recommend not showering immediately after your session, if possible, as you continue to sweat out toxins and burn calories while your body cools down. It could take an hour to fully cool down, but feel free to shower 30 minutes after your session.

Can I bring my phone into an infrared sauna?

The longer the room temperature stays above 35 degrees Celsius, the more (permanent) damage will be done. Also, remember that infrared saunas achieve heat intensities of 45-60 degrees Celsius (113 - 140 F). With those temperatures, you'll be killing your phone over time.

Why sit on a towel in a sauna?

Should I Bring a Towel With Me to the Sauna? Yes, sitting on a towel creates a barrier between your bottom and the bench. This not only prevents you from sweating all over the bench, but it also prevents someone's sweat from contaminating your body.

Why do you cover your head in a sauna?

It will prevent your head, ears or hair from feeling too hot. This way you can enjoy the benefits of the sauna for longer periods of time. Sauna hats also help to regulate your body temperature, decreasing the risk of feeling dizzy in the heat.

Do you wear bra in sauna?

Instead, opt for a loose-fitting swimsuit made from natural fibres, to allow your skin to sweat naturally. Take care not to wear a swimsuit with metal buckles or parts, as these can get very hot and burn your skin – ouch! Avoid tight-fitting clothing like bras, as these will feel extremely uncomfortable in the heat.

How do I get the best results from an infrared sauna?

Tips for using infrared saunas
  1. Start low and slow. Dial down the temperature and keep your sessions short when you begin using an infrared sauna. ...
  2. Max time. Even if you're an experienced sauna user, keep sessions below 30 minutes to avoid putting too much stress on your body. ...
  3. Stay hydrated. ...
  4. Rinse off afterward.

Should I cover my hair in an infrared sauna?

Before stepping into an infrared sauna, consider wrapping your hair in a damp towel or using a specific sauna hat to help keep the moisture in and the heat out.

Is 20 minutes in an infrared sauna enough?

If you're new to using a sauna, it's best to start with shorter sessions of 15 to 20 minutes. You can gradually increase the duration as your body gets used to the infrared heat. Typically, experienced infrared sauna users enjoy sessions between 30 to 45 minutes, aiming to maximise the potential benefits and comfort.

Do infrared saunas burn fat?

Fat Loss. Some studies suggest that infrared sauna use might help stimulate the breakdown of stored fats through a process called lipolysis. As the body works to cool itself down during a sauna session, it expends energy and taps into fat reserves for fuel.

Can you overdo infrared sauna?

Sitting in an infrared sauna for too long can be counterproductive, as it can cause your body to become overheated – causing dehydration, dizziness, headaches, or sickness.

Does infrared sauna increase electric bill?

If you're considering purchasing a sauna for your home, it's natural to wonder how much electricity a sauna will cost. A single session in an infrared sauna will use about as much electricity as a dishwasher, and a traditional sauna using an electric heater is comparable to running a larger appliance like a dryer.

What is the etiquette for infrared sauna?

This approach enables the infrared light to penetrate your skin effectively and regulate your body temperature. Sauna Wear for Men: Loose shorts or a bathing suit are ideal. Going shirtless is encouraged for maximum skin exposure. Sauna Wear for Women: A sports bra and loose shorts, or a swimsuit, work well.

What to avoid after an infrared sauna?

What Not to Do After Infrared Sauna Sessions
  • Eating heavy foods. Consuming heavy or oily foods can often make your skin feel more oily as well as feed more unhealthy ingredients back into your body. ...
  • Drinking sugary drinks or alcohol. ...
  • Doing intense exercise. ...
  • Overstaying in the sauna.

Is it better to do infrared sauna in morning or night?

There isn't a definitive answer, as sauna benefits can be reaped at any time of the day. Morning sauna sessions tend to gear you up for the day, improving metabolism, concentration level, and productivity. On the other hand, saunas at night can help you wind down, relax, and prepare for a good night's sleep.

What are the symptoms of detoxing from infrared sauna?

A review of infrared sauna detox therapy found some side effects. Although mild, the most common ones include heat discomfort, dehydration, low blood pressure, lightheadedness, and nausea. I suggest starting with 10-15 minute sessions at 100-130 F.

Why do people wear towels in saunas?

1. Use the proper towels and cushions in the sauna. We ask that you sit or lie on a body-sized towel in all sauna rooms to prevent perspiration from dripping onto the wooded benches. For hygienic purposes, we ask that you use the seating cushions provided in the ceramic steam and warm air rooms.

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