Prolonging the Lifespan of Your Backyard Sauna

How to Take Care of Your Custom Outdoor Sauna: Maintenance Tips

Saunas are one of those structures that need regular maintenance due to constant contact with water. Proper care will help the sauna stay in good shape, allowing it to serve you for as long as possible. Surprisingly, taking care of an outdoor sauna can be easier and more economical than taking care of a swimming pool or a hot tub. In this blog post, we have prepared tips on how to best take care of an outdoor sauna.

What type of maintenance is required for a custom outdoor sauna?

Proactive Maintenance Tips For the Best Sauna Performance

1. Before buying a sauna:
It is important to invest in a high-quality sauna from the very beginning. A properly constructed sauna minimizes future maintenance needs and prolongs its service life. Choose saunas made of high-quality moisture-resistant wood. Such initial selection can significantly reduce the cost of long-term care.

2. Before the first use:

Before you start heating your sauna for the first time, you need to make some preparations. Treat all wooden parts with a high-quality wood preservative to protect the wood from rotting. To begin, preheat the sauna to its maximum temperature for about 45 minutes to an hour. Then clean the stones by pouring at least a liter of water over them. This procedure should be repeated if the sauna has not been used for a long time.

3. Routine Cleaning:

Regular cleaning, such as vacuuming and wiping surfaces, can greatly affect the condition of your sauna. If you don’t use your custom outdoor sauna often, we recommend you to clean it thoroughly before the next use. Check for mold in less visible areas and eliminate it immediately. Use only special cleaning products for the sauna, and avoid the use of aggressive chemicals.

4. Precautionary Steps:

Simple habits can be of great importance in maintaining the appearance and functionality of an outdoor sauna. Always wash your feet and use a towel when sitting on the benches to protect the wood from discoloration due to sweat. Immediately after use, clean the inner surfaces and let them dry completely by leaving the door and vents open

5. Water Quality: 

Hard water can lead to lime deposits, making cleaning difficult and potentially damaging sauna stones. If there is a problem with hard water in your area, try using distilled or softened water. Sand the affected areas regularly and retreat the wood if necessary.

6. Maintain Moving Parts:

Moisture can cause the wooden doors and vents to swell, which will make them difficult to operate. Check these components regularly and sand down all swollen parts to ensure smooth operation.

7. Heater Maintenance:

Usually, the heating element requires minimal maintenance. Before adding stones, rinse them to remove any debris. Under normal conditions, these elements should function effectively without interference for up to ten years. If problems occur, allow the heater to cool down before restarting it. During dust-related maintenance, cover the heater to prevent contamination.

8. Aftercare:

After use, wipe all surfaces immediately and open a sauna to dry. Do not use the sauna to dry clothes or towels, as this will add unnecessary moisture, which can contribute to mold growth.

At BW we bring more than just warmth

Now that you are armed with these tips, taking care of your custom outdoor sauna will become a simple matter, ensuring that your custom outdoor sauna remains a beloved part of your site for years to come. If you are ready to explore sauna options or need additional recommendations, feel free to visit our website or contact us directly at BW Sauna Co. Immerse yourself in the world of saunas and start enjoying a healthier and more relaxed lifestyle today!

Download Your BW 2024 Catalog

When you start exploring what a custom sauna could look like, you might already have that exact idea in mind: that perfect finish with a wide panorama window. Or something more true to its history, humbly nestled in the lakeside corner. Either way, we hope this catalog offers inspiration for your journey

Address5137 Jean Duluth Rd, Duluth, MN 55803, United States 

Download Your BW 2024 Catalog