Sauna Etiquette: A First-Timer's Guide for Australian Saunas and Bathhouses
Shower first, sit on a towel, keep it quiet and step out when you need to. A first-timer's guide to sauna etiquette in Australia.
Quick answer
Shower before you go in, sit on a towel, keep conversation low, ask before adding water to the rocks, and step out whenever you need to. Sauna hats are welcome. Follow the venue's rules on swimwear, and leave phones outside.
The basics
- Shower first. It's hygienic and helps you warm up evenly.
- Sit on a towel so sweat doesn't go on the timber.
- Keep it calm. Quiet conversation is fine in most places, but read the room.
- Ask before adding water to the stones. Steam affects everyone.
- Close the door quickly to keep the heat in.
- Leave phones outside. Heat isn't good for them, and nobody wants a camera in the sauna.
What to wear
Australian bathhouses and gyms usually require swimwear in shared saunas. Check the venue's rules. A sauna hat is always welcome and common among regulars.
CALOR Merino Sauna Hat
3mm New Zealand merino, hand-felted
Shields your head and hair from the hottest air in the sauna. One size, four colours. Bundle 2–4 hats and save up to 20%.
How long should you stay?
Many people do rounds of about 10–15 minutes, followed by a cool-down and a rest. Beginners should start shorter. Listen to your body and leave whenever you need to.
Sauna use isn't right for everyone. If you're pregnant, have a medical condition or take medication, check with your doctor first. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol before and during sessions, and leave the sauna straight away if you feel dizzy or unwell.
Bringing your own sauna kit
- A towel to sit on (and one to dry off)
- A wool sauna hat
- A water bottle
- Thongs or slides for wet floors
- A hook or bag to hang your hat between rounds
Frequently asked questions
Do you wear clothes in a sauna in Australia?
In most shared Australian saunas, swimwear is required. Always check the venue's rules.
Is it rude to pour water on the sauna rocks?
In a shared sauna it's polite to ask others first, because steam makes it feel hotter for everyone.
Can I wear a hat in a public sauna?
Yes. Sauna hats are common and welcome in public saunas and bathhouses.
Keep reading