How to Keep Your Home Sauna or Steam Room Clean and Well-Maintained

Having a home sauna or steam room is a luxury that offers relaxation, wellness benefits, and therapeutic relief. But to keep this space functioning at its best, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential.

If you’ve been wondering how to clean a home sauna or steam room, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything from daily upkeep to deep cleaning tips.

With proper care, you can extend the lifespan of your sauna or steam room and ensure it remains a safe, sanitary, and enjoyable space.

How to Clean and Maintain a Home Sauna or Steam Room

Why Cleaning and Maintenance Matter for Saunas and Steam Rooms

Saunas and steam rooms operate in hot and humid environments, which naturally attract mold, mildew, and mineral deposits.

Without regular upkeep, these wellness spaces can quickly develop odors, discoloration, or even structural damage.

By implementing a consistent sauna and steam room maintenance routine, you’ll protect the materials, improve your health experience, and prevent costly repairs.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Home Sauna or Steam Room

1. Clean Surfaces Regularly

Frequent surface cleaning is the foundation of sauna and steam room care. Body oils, sweat, and moisture accumulate quickly and should be removed after each use.

For Wooden Saunas:

Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust and debris.
Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth—not soaking wet—to avoid wood warping.
For deeper cleaning, use a mild, non-abrasive wood-safe cleaner.
Always let the wood dry completely after cleaning.

For Steam Rooms:

Steam room walls (often tile or stone) should be wiped down with a vinegar and water solution or a gentle tile cleaner.
Use a toothbrush or grout brush to scrub between tiles and along grout lines.

2. Remove Hard Water Deposits

Hard water stains and mineral deposits appear as white streaks, particularly on tiles, stones, and even sauna benches.

For Steam Rooms:

Spray affected areas with a 50/50 vinegar and water solution.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean.
Stubborn deposits? Add baking soda to the damp cloth for gentle scrubbing.

For Saunas:

Lightly wipe affected wood areas with a vinegar-water solution, then dry thoroughly to avoid damage.

3. Clean the Floors Thoroughly

Foot traffic in these areas increases the risk of dirt buildup, mold, and bacteria.

For Wooden Sauna Floors:

Sweep or vacuum to remove debris.
Wipe down with a minimal amount of water and a soft cloth.
Dry floors immediately after cleaning.

For Steam Room Tile Floors:

Use a vinegar and warm water solution or tile-safe cleaner.
Scrub corners and grout with a brush to remove grime and mildew.

4. Maintain Proper Ventilation

An efficient ventilation system keeps air circulating and prevents mold and bacteria from thriving.

Clean vents and ducts using a damp cloth to remove dust and buildup.
Schedule professional duct cleanings as needed for thorough maintenance.

5. Eliminate Odors and Deodorize Naturally

Moist, enclosed areas can develop musty odors if not managed.

Place a small bowl of baking soda in the room to absorb smells.
Use essential oils like eucalyptus or lavender on a cloth for a natural fragrance.
Avoid strong chemical deodorizers that can damage surfaces.

6. Check for Mold and Mildew Frequently

Due to consistent humidity, mold and mildew can form on surfaces or hidden corners.

Inspect corners, under benches, and any area prone to moisture.
Clean mold immediately with a vinegar and water solution or a mold-specific cleaner.
Severe infestations may require professional mold remediation.

7. Maintain the Sauna Heater

Your sauna heater is the heart of your relaxation space. Regular inspections will prevent hazards and improve efficiency.

For electric heaters, wipe with a dry cloth to remove dust and residue.
For wood-burning heaters, clean chimneys regularly to eliminate soot and creosote buildup.
Always follow your heater’s manufacturer’s care guidelines.

What Not to Do When Cleaning a Home Sauna or Steam Room

Avoid these common mistakes to keep your space damage-free:

Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of bleach or acidic cleaners on wood and tile.
Too Much Water: Never soak wooden surfaces; it causes warping.
Cleaning While Hot: Wait until the sauna or steam room is cool before cleaning.
Metal Brushes: These scratch surfaces—always use soft brushes or microfiber cloths.

Final Thoughts on Cleaning and Maintaining Your Home Sauna or Steam Room

Caring for your home sauna or steam room is easier than it seems.

With a consistent schedule of surface cleaning, deodorizing, heater checks, and mold prevention, you can enjoy a spotless, fresh, and functional wellness retreat for years to come.

Need help with more than just your sauna or steam room?

NW Maids offers professional house cleaning services to help keep every part of your home sparkling clean—without lifting a finger.

Effective Ways to Prepare Your Home for Allergy-Sensitive Guests →