Essential Sauna Accessories: Gear Every Sauna Owner Should Consider

Owning a sauna is about more than just the sauna itself. The right sauna accessories can enhance comfort, improve safety, and help you get the most out of your sauna sessions.

Whether you have a traditional Finnish sauna, steam sauna, or infrared sauna, a few key accessories can significantly improve the experience.

Some accessories are considered essential equipment, while others simply make your sauna sessions more relaxing and enjoyable.

In this guide we’ll walk through the most common sauna accessories, including:

• Sauna hats
• Sauna buckets and ladles
• Thermometers and hygrometers
• Sauna towels
• Sand timers
• Backrests and headrests
• Sauna suits and blankets

Most Important Sauna Accessories

Sauna Bucket & Ladle

One of the most recognizable sauna accessories is the sauna bucket and ladle.

These are used to pour water over hot sauna stones to create steam (called löyly in Finnish). This steam increases humidity and intensifies the sauna experience. 

Buckets are typically made from:

• cedar
• pine
• aluminum
• stainless steel

Many modern buckets include a plastic liner to prevent leaks and extend the life of the wood.

A good ladle should be long enough to safely pour water onto the rocks without getting too close to the heater.

Sauna Thermometer & Hygrometer

Monitoring temperature and humidity is important in any sauna.

A thermometer measures the temperature, while a hygrometer measures humidity levels.

Traditional saunas typically operate between 150°F and 195°F, depending on personal preference. 

These gauges help ensure:

• the sauna stays within a comfortable range
• sessions remain safe
• humidity levels are appropriate

Many sauna owners prefer classic analog wood-framed gauges, which fit the aesthetic of traditional saunas.

Sauna Hats

A sauna hat may look unusual, but it serves an important purpose.

Sauna hats help protect your head from excessive heat, allowing you to stay in the sauna longer and more comfortably.

They are especially common in:

• Finnish saunas
• Russian banyas

Most sauna hats are made from felt or wool, which provide insulation against high temperatures.

See our full guide:Best Sauna Hats and Why People Wear Them

Sauna Towels

A good sauna towel serves several purposes.

First, it absorbs sweat and keeps the sauna bench clean. It also provides a comfortable barrier between your skin and the hot wood.

Sauna towels are usually made from:

• cotton
• linen
• bamboo

Many sauna users place a towel on the bench before sitting to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Sauna-specific towels are designed to dry quickly and withstand high heat environments.

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Sauna Sand Timers

A sauna sand timer helps track how long you’ve been inside the sauna.

Most timers measure about 15 minutes, which is a typical sauna session length.

Benefits include:

• avoiding overexposure to heat
• maintaining consistent sessions
• adding a traditional sauna aesthetic

Many sauna timers are made from heat-resistant glass and wood frames.

Comfort Accessories For the Sauna

Beyond the essentials, there are several accessories designed to make sauna bathing more comfortable.

Sauna Backrests

A wooden sauna backrest provides ergonomic support when sitting on a sauna bench.

Benefits include:

• improved comfort during longer sessions
• better posture
• reduced pressure on the lower back

These are especially helpful in home saunas where people relax for extended periods.

Sauna Headrests & Pillows

Some sauna users prefer to lie down on the bench. A sauna headrest or pillow makes this more comfortable.

Most headrests are made from:

• cedar
• basswood
• bamboo

They support the neck and allow you to relax while enjoying the heat.

Fitness Related Sauna Gear

Some sauna accessories are used outside of traditional sauna rooms but still fall under the broader category of sauna gear.

Sauna Suits

Sauna suits are typically used during exercise to increase sweating and simulate a sauna-like environment.

They are commonly used by:

• athletes
• boxers and wrestlers cutting weight
• people attempting temporary water weight loss

However, sauna suits should always be used carefully and with proper hydration.

See our guide: All About Sauna Suits 

Aromatherapy and Wellness Accessories

Many sauna users enhance their sessions with aromatherapy.

Popular options include:

• eucalyptus oil
• pine essential oil
• birch sauna scents

A few drops added to the water bucket can create a relaxing aroma when steam is produced.

Do You Need Sauna Accessories?

While a sauna can certainly be enjoyed without accessories, a few basic items can make the experience significantly better.

The most commonly recommended sauna accessories include:

• sauna bucket and ladle
• thermometer and hygrometer
• sauna towels
• sauna hat
• sauna timer

These items help create a more comfortable, safe, and traditional sauna experience.

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