Why Does My Sauna Smell? Troubleshooting Odors for a Fresh Sauna

A sauna is meant to be a place of relaxation and rejuvenation, but unpleasant odors can quickly disrupt the experience. If your sauna has developed a musty, smoky, or chemical-like smell, it’s essential to identify the cause and eliminate it quickly. In this guide, we’ll troubleshoot common sauna odors, their causes, and how to keep your sauna fresh and inviting.

Common Sauna Odors and Their Causes

Different odors can indicate different underlying issues in your sauna. Here are the most common smells and their potential causes:

1. Musty or Moldy Smell

A damp, musty odor is often caused by moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or mildew growth. This is particularly common in indoor saunas with poor ventilation.

Possible Causes:

• Inadequate air circulation
• Excess humidity trapped inside the sauna
• Improper drying after use
• Water leaks from the walls or ceiling

2. Burnt or Smoky Odor

If your sauna smells like something is burning, it may be due to excessive heat exposure from the heater being to close to walls or benches or improper maintenance of the heater.

Possible Causes:

• Dust or debris on the electric sauna heater burning off
• Overheating of wood surfaces inside the sauna
• Incorrect placement of sauna rocks in wood-burning sauna heaters

3. Chemical or Plastic Smell

A sharp, chemical-like smell inside your sauna is concerning and may indicate materials off-gassing due to excessive heat.

Possible Causes:

• New sauna materials, such as fresh sealants or adhesives
• Improper use of cleaning chemicals
• Plastic components inside the sauna overheating

4. Sweaty or Body Odor Smell

Over time, a sauna can absorb sweat and oils, leading to a lingering body odor.

Possible Causes:

• Lack of regular cleaning
• Body oils absorbed into wooden surfaces
• Unwashed towels or seating cushions

How to Eliminate Sauna Odors Fast

Once you identify the cause of the smell, you can take the necessary steps to eliminate it.

1. Improve Ventilation

Proper airflow is essential to keep your sauna fresh. Ensure your outdoor sauna or indoor model has adequate ventilation by keeping vents open and allowing fresh air circulation after each use.

2. Deep Clean Your Sauna

Regular cleaning prevents odors and extends the lifespan of your sauna. Here’s how:

• Wipe down benches and walls with a damp cloth after every session.
• Use a mild solution of vinegar and water to clean wooden surfaces.
• Vacuum or sweep sauna floors weekly to remove dirt and debris.
• Clean sauna rocks if you use a traditional sauna heater.

3. Allow Your Sauna to Dry Completely

Moisture buildup leads to mold and mildew. After each use:

• Keep the sauna door open for at least 30 minutes.
• Use a fan or dehumidifier in humid climates.
• Wipe down excess moisture from walls and benches.

4. Replace or Refresh Sauna Wood

Over time, wooden sauna components absorb odors. If cleaning doesn’t help, consider lightly sanding the surface of your thermo spruce sauna wood or other sauna wood types to remove the absorbed smell.

5. Avoid Chemical Cleaners

Harsh chemicals can linger in your sauna and create strong, unpleasant odors. Always use natural or sauna-safe cleaners.

6. Refresh with Essential Oils

To maintain a pleasant aroma, use a few drops of essential oils such as eucalyptus or lavender in your sauna bucket and ladle. The steam will naturally disperse the scent.

Preventing Future Sauna Odors

Once your sauna is odor-free, follow these maintenance tips to keep it fresh:

• Use towels on benches to absorb sweat.
• Clean and dry sauna accessories after each session.
• Schedule routine maintenance for commercial sauna heaters and home units.
• Store sauna cushions and mats in a dry place.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining a clean and odor-free sauna ensures a pleasant and relaxing experience. By identifying the cause of unwanted smells and using proper cleaning and maintenance techniques, you can enjoy your sauna for years to come. If you’re looking for high-quality sauna accessories or planning to upgrade your sauna, explore our collection of sauna accessories to enhance your experience.

Need help troubleshooting a persistent odor in your sauna? Contact us for expert advice and high-quality sauna solutions.