Build & Install

Maintenance

Sauna maintenance is simpler than most buyers expect, but the few things that matter do actually matter. For infrared cabinets, the main maintenance tasks are wiping down interior surfaces with a damp cloth after sessions (sweat and oil accumulate on the wood and will stain and smell if left), occasional light sanding of the bench wood if it becomes rough or stained, and keeping the heater area clear of debris. Traditional saunas add stone inspection to the list: check for cracked or crumbling stones annually, replace any that have significant fractures, and do a full stone replacement every 3–5 years depending on use frequency. The interior wood in a traditional sauna should not be sealed or treated — it needs to breathe and will naturally season over time. For outdoor saunas, exterior wood maintenance (oiling or staining to protect against UV and moisture penetration) is an annual task that significantly extends the life of the structure. My parents' Almost Heaven has held up well with annual exterior treatment. The guides here cover routine maintenance schedules, cleaning products that are safe on sauna wood, and the signs that indicate a heater or component needs attention.