You bought the sauna. You fired it up, threw some water on the rocks, and immediately understood what all the hype was about. But after a few sessions, you start wondering: what else should I have in here? The internet will happily sell you dozens of sauna gadgets you'll never use. This guide cuts through the noise and focuses on the sauna accessories that actually make a measurable difference in your sessions — the ones experienced sauna bathers swear by and newcomers wish they'd bought sooner.
Sauna Bucket and Ladle — The One Accessory You Cannot Skip
If you use a traditional sauna with a heater and stones, a quality sauna bucket and ladle is not optional — it's essential. Pouring water over heated sauna stones (a practice the Finns call löyly) creates a burst of steam that raises the perceived temperature and humidity inside the room, intensifying the entire experience. Without a proper bucket and ladle, you're leaving the best part of traditional sauna bathing on the table.
Look for buckets made from Nordic pine, aspen, or cedar. These woods handle high heat and moisture without warping or cracking over time. Stainless steel or plastic liner inserts are worth choosing because they prevent leaks and make cleaning simple. For the ladle, a long handle (around 16–18 inches) keeps your hand safely away from the heater while giving you good control over how much water you pour.
Cheap plastic buckets technically work, but they look out of place and don't last. A well-made wooden bucket and ladle set costs between $30 and $80 depending on the wood species and craftsmanship, and it should last years with minimal care. Many sauna owners keep a second bucket filled with cool water and a few drops of essential oil for a scented steam — a simple upgrade that transforms the experience.
Red Light Therapy Panels — The Performance Upgrade
This is where sauna accessories enter genuine wellness-tool territory. Red light therapy panels for saunas deliver concentrated wavelengths of red (typically around 630–660nm) and near-infrared light (810–850nm) that penetrate the skin to varying depths. Research published in peer-reviewed journals has explored how these wavelengths may support collagen production, aid muscle recovery, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health.
Mounting a red light panel inside your sauna means you're combining two modalities — heat therapy and photobiomodulation — in a single session, which is more time-efficient than doing them separately. Most sauna-rated panels are designed to operate safely in high-heat, high-humidity environments, with sealed electronics and heat-resistant housings. Look for panels that list their irradiance (measured in mW/cm²) and wavelength specs clearly, since these numbers determine actual effectiveness.
Position the panel so it faces the area you want to target — many people mount them at torso or face height on the wall opposite the bench. Keep in mind that near-infrared wavelengths (800nm+) penetrate deeper into tissue than visible red light (600nm range), so panels that offer both wavelengths provide more versatile coverage. This is one of the fastest-growing sauna accessory categories for a reason — once you try it, regular sauna sessions without it feel incomplete.
Sauna Air Circulation System — The Underrated Essential
Here's an accessory most people never think about until they experience the difference firsthand: a sauna air circulating system. The air inside a traditional sauna stratifies dramatically — the temperature near the ceiling might be 200°F while the air at bench level sits around 160°F and the floor is even cooler. That stratification means your head is roasting while your feet are lukewarm, which isn't ideal.
An air circulation system gently moves the air within the sauna room to even out the temperature distribution. The result is a more uniform heat from floor to ceiling, meaning every part of your body experiences a consistent temperature. This doesn't just feel better — it also means you can achieve the same perceived heat at a lower thermostat setting, which can extend the life of your heater and reduce energy consumption.
The Saunum system is one of the most well-known examples in this category. It integrates with your sauna heater and uses a quiet, low-speed air circulation mechanism to distribute heat and humidity evenly. Users consistently report that their sauna feels hotter, more comfortable, and more "Finnish" after installing one. If you've ever sat in a sauna where the heat felt perfectly enveloping rather than just hot at the top, an air circulation system was likely the reason.
Sauna Thermometer and Hygrometer — Know Your Environment
You might think you can just "feel" when your sauna is at the right temperature. And you can, eventually. But a reliable sauna thermometer and hygrometer takes the guesswork out of your sessions and helps you dial in the conditions you enjoy most.
A thermometer tells you the air temperature (traditional saunas typically run between 150°F and 195°F), while a hygrometer measures relative humidity (usually 10–20% in a dry sauna, rising to 40–60% after a good löyly). Together, they let you understand the relationship between temperature and humidity and find your personal sweet spot. This matters because a sauna at 170°F and 50% humidity feels significantly hotter than the same room at 180°F and 10% humidity.
Mount your thermometer at head height on the wall opposite the heater. This gives you the most accurate reading of the heat you're actually sitting in, since heat stratifies — the air near the ceiling can be 30–50°F hotter than the air at floor level. Most quality sauna thermometers are analog, made from heat-resistant wood with a brass or stainless steel mechanism. Digital options exist but tend to have shorter lifespans in the extreme conditions inside a sauna room.
Aromatherapy Essential Oils — Elevate Every Session
Adding aromatherapy essential oils to your sauna routine is one of the simplest upgrades with the most noticeable impact. A few drops of eucalyptus oil in your bucket water before pouring it over the stones turns an ordinary session into something that feels like a spa-level experience.
Eucalyptus is the most popular sauna scent for good reason — it opens up the airways and creates an invigorating, clean aroma. But it's far from the only option. Birch is the traditional Finnish choice and has a mild, woody character. Pine and cedarwood create a forest-like atmosphere. Lavender promotes relaxation, making it a strong choice for evening sessions before bed. Peppermint adds a cooling sensation that pairs surprisingly well with high heat.
The key rule: never apply undiluted essential oils directly to sauna stones or heater surfaces. This can damage certain stone types and heater finishes, and concentrated oils can produce an overpowering burst of scent. Instead, add 3–5 drops to a full ladle of water, mix briefly, then pour. You can also use a purpose-built aromatherapy diffuser cup that sits near the heat source and releases scent gradually throughout your session.
Backrests and Headrests — Comfort That Extends Your Sessions
Sitting on a flat wooden bench for 15–20 minutes is fine. Sitting on a flat wooden bench with a curved backrest supporting your lower back is significantly better. Ergonomic sauna backrests are one of those accessories that seem unnecessary until you use one, and then you can't imagine going back.
Most sauna backrests are made from the same heat-friendly woods used in sauna construction — cedar, aspen, alder, or abachi. They're designed with a gentle curve that supports the natural shape of your spine, relieving pressure on your lower back and letting you truly relax instead of constantly shifting positions. Headrests serve a similar function for your neck and are especially useful if you like to recline on the upper bench.
The practical benefit goes beyond comfort. When you're more comfortable, you tend to stay in the sauna longer, and longer sessions (within safe limits) generally produce better results for relaxation, circulation, and muscle recovery. A good backrest costs $25–$60 and takes seconds to place on your bench — it's one of the highest-value, lowest-effort upgrades you can make.
Sauna Cushions — For Longer, More Comfortable Sessions
If backrests handle your spine, sauna cushions handle the bench-to-body contact that gets uncomfortable over time. Sitting or lying directly on hot wood isn't painful at typical sauna temperatures, but after 15+ minutes it can become less comfortable than you'd like — especially on harder wood species.
Sauna cushions designed for high-heat environments are made from materials that can handle temperatures well above 200°F without degrading, off-gassing, or becoming too hot to sit on. Marine-grade vinyl and specialized sauna fabrics are the most common materials. They're easy to wipe down, dry quickly, and hold up to the moisture and heat cycle session after session.
These are particularly popular in infrared saunas where sessions tend to run longer (30–45 minutes versus 15–20 in a traditional sauna), but they work equally well in any sauna type. Look for cushions with non-slip backing so they stay in place on the bench.
Sauna Timers — Stay Safe and Consistent
It's surprisingly easy to lose track of time in a sauna, especially once you're deeply relaxed. A sauna timer mounted on the wall serves as both a safety feature and a session-management tool. Most are simple 15-minute hourglasses or mechanical timers, though digital options are available for those who prefer precision.
Sand timers are the traditional choice and arguably the most aesthetically fitting — there's something satisfying about flipping an hourglass as you begin your session. They require no batteries, produce no electromagnetic interference, and work reliably in any temperature or humidity level. Mount the timer at eye level where you can easily see it from your seating position.
Consistent timing helps you build a routine. If you know your ideal session length is 12 minutes in a 180°F sauna followed by a cold plunge, a timer helps you replicate that experience every time. This kind of consistency is how you get the most out of regular sauna practice over the long term.
Cold Plunge Tubs — The Perfect Sauna Companion
Technically, a cold plunge tub isn't a sauna accessory — it's its own category of wellness equipment. But the combination of hot sauna sessions followed by cold water immersion (known as contrast therapy) is one of the most powerful wellness practices you can adopt, and the two are so commonly paired that it belongs in this conversation.
Contrast therapy — alternating between extreme heat and extreme cold — has been practiced in Nordic and Eastern European cultures for centuries. Modern research supports its use for improved circulation, reduced muscle soreness, enhanced mood through endorphin and norepinephrine release, and faster recovery after exercise. The basic protocol is simple: spend 10–20 minutes in the sauna, then immerse yourself in cold water (typically 39–59°F) for 1–3 minutes. Repeat 2–3 rounds if desired.
Cold plunge tubs range from simple unheated basins to fully chilled units with filtration systems that maintain a set temperature. If you're serious about making contrast therapy a habit, a dedicated cold plunge with active cooling is worth the investment because it eliminates the hassle of filling and icing a tub before each use. Place it near your sauna for the smoothest transition between hot and cold.
Sauna Cleaners — Protect Your Investment
Saunas are naturally resistant to bacteria growth because of the high-heat environment, but that doesn't mean they're maintenance-free. Sweat, body oils, and mineral deposits build up on benches and walls over time. Dedicated sauna cleaners are formulated specifically for use on untreated wood surfaces — they clean effectively without leaving chemical residues that could off-gas when the sauna heats up.
Never use standard household cleaners, bleach, or harsh chemicals inside a sauna. These products can damage untreated wood, leave toxic residues, and produce harmful fumes in an enclosed, high-temperature space. Sauna-specific cleaners are typically plant-based, scent-neutral, and safe for the softwoods used in most sauna construction. A quick wipe-down of the benches after each session and a deeper clean once a month keeps your sauna looking and smelling fresh for years.
Decorative Sauna Stones — Function Meets Design
The stones sitting on top of your sauna heater do real work. They absorb, store, and radiate heat evenly throughout the room, and they're the surface that creates steam when you pour water. But not all sauna stones are created equal, and decorative sauna stones let you upgrade both the performance and the visual appeal of your heater.
Standard sauna stones are typically olivine diabase or peridotite — dense, dark volcanic rocks chosen for their ability to withstand rapid temperature changes without cracking. Decorative options like soapstone, ceramic stones, and polished granite offer a cleaner, more modern look while still performing well. Ceramic sauna stones, for example, are extremely durable, resist thermal shock, and heat up faster than natural rock. They also tend to produce a softer, more even steam.
Replace your sauna stones every 1–2 years if you sauna frequently (3+ times per week), or every 2–3 years for lighter use. Over time, stones develop micro-fractures from the constant heating and cooling cycle, which reduces their ability to hold and release heat effectively. When you swap them out, it's a perfect opportunity to upgrade to decorative stones that match your sauna's aesthetic.
Sauna Accessory Packages — Everything at Once
If you're outfitting a new sauna from scratch or upgrading a bare-bones setup, sauna accessory packages bundle the essentials together — typically a bucket and ladle, thermometer/hygrometer, headrest or backrest, and sometimes aromatherapy oils or a sand timer. Buying a package is more cost-effective than purchasing each item individually and ensures that everything matches in terms of wood type and design style.
These packages are also a solid gift option for someone who just installed a sauna and hasn't thought about accessories yet. They take the decision-making out of the equation and guarantee the recipient has everything they need for a complete, comfortable session from day one.
Interior Wood Finish and Waterproof Covers — Long-Term Protection
For outdoor saunas especially, protecting the wood inside and out extends the lifespan of your investment significantly. Interior sauna wood finishes are specifically designed for high-heat environments — they penetrate the wood to resist moisture absorption and staining without creating a surface film that could become slippery or trap heat unevenly.
What About Sauna Lighting and Audio?
While not strictly essential, sauna lighting and audio systems can meaningfully enhance the ambiance of your sessions. Warm, dimmable LED lighting in the 2700K–3000K range creates a calming glow that's far more relaxing than a harsh overhead bulb. Many sauna owners install LED strips beneath the benches or behind backrests for indirect lighting that sets a meditative mood.
For audio, waterproof Bluetooth speakers rated for high-heat environments let you play music, guided meditations, or podcasts during your session. Just make sure any speaker you put inside the sauna is specifically rated for sauna use — standard consumer speakers will fail quickly in that environment.
Prioritize Based on Your Sauna Type
Not every accessory on this list applies equally to every sauna type. Here's a quick breakdown of what matters most based on what you own:
Traditional (Finnish) sauna with electric or wood-burning heater: A bucket and ladle set is the absolute top priority, followed by a thermometer/hygrometer, quality stones, aromatherapy oils, and an air circulation system. Backrests and cushions round out the comfort upgrades.
Infrared sauna: Since there are no stones and no steam, skip the bucket and ladle. Instead, focus on comfort accessories like cushions and backrests (you'll be sitting longer), red light therapy panels if your unit doesn't have them built in, a thermometer, and a timer. Aromatherapy diffusers designed for infrared cabins work differently than those for traditional saunas — look for electric or passive diffusion options.
Outdoor sauna: Everything for your sauna type above, plus a waterproof cover and interior wood finish for long-term protection against the elements.
The Bottom Line
The best sauna accessories are the ones that make you want to use your sauna more often and more comfortably. A bucket and ladle set, a thermometer, and a backrest will transform a basic sauna into a genuinely enjoyable daily ritual for under $150 total. From there, additions like essential oils, decorative stones, red light therapy panels, and a cold plunge for contrast therapy take the experience from good to exceptional.
Start with the essentials, build from there, and don't overthink it. Every accessory on this list earns its place by making a real, noticeable difference — no gimmicks, no filler. Browse the full sauna accessories collection to find exactly what your setup needs.
Haven Of Heat and its affiliates do not provide medical, legal, electrical, building, financial, or professional advice. All content published on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for advice from qualified professionals. Always consult a licensed medical provider regarding health-related questions, and consult licensed contractors, electricians, inspectors, or local authorities for installation, electrical, building code, zoning, HOA, or safety requirements.
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