How to Maintain and Care for Your Barrel Sauna Year-Round

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content may reference third-party research or studies and does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Salus Saunas. No content on this site should be interpreted as a recommendation for any specific treatment or health-related action. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before using a sauna or making any changes to your health or wellness routine. Salus Saunas disclaims any liability for decisions made based on the information presented in this blog.

Stepping into your own barrel sauna is a magical experience—a wellness ritual and a quiet escape. You've invested in your well-being, and we want you to enjoy that feeling for years to come.

Protecting that investment is surprisingly straightforward. With a little consistent care, your personal oasis will remain as stunning and effective as the day it was installed. This guide is your simple, year-round companion to ensure your Salus Sauna is always ready for your next session.

The Essentials of Barrel Sauna Care: A Quick Overview

Before we break things down by season, let’s cover the fundamental principles of barrel sauna maintenance. The beauty of the barrel design, pioneered in Nordic countries, is its inherent durability. The curved shape naturally sheds water and withstands snow loads, while the thick staves of high-quality wood provide excellent insulation.

Your primary goals are simple:

1. Keep it Clean: Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of sweat, oils, and dirt, keeping the interior fresh and hygienic.

2. Protect the Wood: The exterior wood needs protection from the elements (sun, rain, snow) to prevent weathering and preserve its rich color.

3. Ensure Structural Integrity: Periodically checking and tightening the stainless steel bands keeps the sauna perfectly sealed and secure.

4. Care for Your Heating System: Whether you have a traditional, infrared, or hybrid model, a well-maintained heater is crucial for safety, efficiency, and performance.

With these four pillars in mind, let’s explore how to apply them throughout the year.

Seasonal Sauna Care: A Year-Round Guide

Your sauna interacts with the environment differently each season. By aligning your maintenance routine with the changing weather, you can proactively address potential issues and keep your sauna in peak condition.

Spring Spruce-Up: Waking Your Sauna from Winter

As the world comes back to life, it’s the perfect time to give your sauna some attention after the long winter.

1. Exterior Wash-Down: Winter can leave behind a layer of grime, salt, or dirt. Start your spring care by giving the exterior a gentle bath. Use a soft-bristled brush and a simple solution of mild soap and water. Gently scrub the wood, moving with the grain, and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose on a low-pressure setting. Crucially, never use a high-pressure washer, as it can damage the wood fibers and force water deep into the staves, leading to long-term problems.

2. Inspect and Tighten the Bands: Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. After a cold, dry winter, the staves of your sauna may have contracted slightly. Now is the ideal time to check the stainless steel bands that hold your sauna together. They should be snug, but not overly tight. If you can easily fit your fingers underneath, use a wrench to gently tighten the nuts on each side, alternating between them to ensure even pressure. A few turns is often all that’s needed to restore a perfect seal.

3. Check for Wood Damage: Do a thorough walk-around and inspect the exterior wood for any signs of weathering or damage that may have occurred over the winter. Pay close attention to the areas most exposed to the elements. This inspection will help you decide if it’s time to apply a protective stain.

4. Deep Clean the Interior: Give the inside of your sauna a fresh start for the season. Lightly sand any stains on the benches or backrests with fine-grit sandpaper. Vacuum the entire interior, including under the benches, to remove any dust or debris. For a deeper clean, you can wipe down the benches with a cloth dampened with a simple solution of baking soda and water. This is a natural and effective way to clean and deodorize the wood without introducing harsh chemicals into your sauna environment.

Summer Lovin': Protecting Your Sauna from Sun and Use

Summer often means more frequent sauna sessions and intense sun exposure. Your focus now shifts to protection and regular upkeep.

1. UV Protection is Key: The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are the biggest threat to your sauna’s exterior during the summer. If you noticed during your spring inspection that the wood was looking faded or dry, early summer is the perfect time to apply a high-quality exterior stain. Choose a semi-transparent stain with UV inhibitors specifically designed for outdoor wood structures. This will not only restore the wood’s beautiful color but also create a protective barrier against sun and moisture. Remember, the interior of the sauna should never, ever be stained, sealed, or painted. The raw wood is essential for breathing and creating the authentic sauna experience.

2. Manage Ventilation: With higher ambient humidity, it’s important to ensure your sauna can dry out properly between uses. After each session, leave the door propped open for at least an hour to allow air to circulate and moisture to escape. Using the built-in vents will also help with this process. Proper drying is the number one way to keep the interior fresh and prevent any potential for mildew.

3. Regular Interior Wipes: During periods of heavy use, it’s good practice to keep a small towel handy. Laying a towel down on the bench where you sit will absorb most of the sweat and significantly reduce the need for deep cleaning. After your session, a quick wipe of the bench with a damp cloth can go a long way in maintaining the wood’s pristine condition.

Autumn Prep: Getting Ready for the Colder Months

As the air turns crisp, your maintenance tasks are about preparing your sauna for the demands of fall and winter.

1. Another Band Check: Just as the wood contracted in the dry winter air, it likely expanded during the humid summer months. As the air becomes drier again in the fall, it’s wise to do another check of the bands. They may have loosened slightly, so give them a quick tightening to ensure your sauna is snug and ready for the temperature drops to come.

2. Inspect the Door and Seals: Ensure your sauna door closes securely and forms a good seal. A proper seal is crucial for efficient heating, especially in colder weather. Check the alignment and adjust the hinges if necessary. This simple check will save energy and help your sauna heat up faster on those chilly evenings.

3. Heating System Check-Up: Before the season of peak use begins, give your heating system a thorough inspection.

• For Traditional Saunas: This is the time to inspect your sauna stones. Carefully remove them from the heater (when it is completely cool). Rinse them with plain water to remove any dust or mineral buildup. Discard any stones that are cracked or crumbling, as they can impede airflow and reduce the heater’s efficiency. When you place them back, arrange them loosely to allow for optimal air circulation around the heating elements.
• For Infrared Saunas: Gently wipe down the surfaces of the infrared emitters with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove any dust. For any smudges, you can use a cloth slightly dampened with a 50/50 solution of water and white vinegar. Ensure the emitters are completely cool before cleaning.
• For Hybrid Saunas: You’ll do both! Follow the instructions for inspecting and cleaning the sauna stones on the traditional heater component, and then gently wipe down the infrared emitters as described above.

Winter Wellness: Keeping Your Sauna in Top Shape

Using your sauna in the winter is a truly magical experience—stepping from the cold snow into a cocoon of warmth is invigorating. Winter care is all about managing the elements and ensuring efficiency.

1. Manage Snow and Ice: The durable, curved design of a Salus barrel sauna is excellent at shedding snow. However, after a particularly heavy snowfall, it’s a good idea to gently brush off any large accumulations from the roof with a soft broom. This prevents excess weight from sitting on the structure for extended periods. Avoid using metal shovels or sharp tools that could gouge the wood. Also, be mindful of ice buildup around the door, ensuring it can always open and close freely.

2. Prioritize Ventilation (Still!): It might seem counterintuitive to ventilate when it’s freezing outside, but it’s more important than ever. The drastic temperature difference between the inside and outside can create condensation. Always use your vents and prop the door open after use to let the moist air out and allow the interior wood to dry completely.

3. Efficient Heating Tips: In the winter, it will naturally take your sauna a bit longer to reach its target temperature. You can help it along by ensuring the door seal is tight and the vents are closed during the heat-up phase. Once you’re inside, you can open the vents as needed for comfortable air circulation. A well-maintained heating system—whether traditional, infrared, or hybrid—will perform much more efficiently in the cold.

Deep Dive into Key Maintenance Tasks

While the seasonal guide provides a great framework, let’s look more closely at the most important ongoing tasks.

The Art of Cleaning: Inside and Out

Exterior Cleaning: As mentioned, a gentle wash with mild soap and water is all you need. The goal is to remove surface dirt without saturating or damaging the wood. Think of it as bathing your sauna, not pressure washing it.

Interior Cleaning: The inside is a chemical-free zone. Your body absorbs what the air holds, so you should never use harsh detergents, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners inside your sauna.

1. For general cleaning: A wipe-down with a cloth dampened with water is sufficient.
2. For light stains or scuffs: Use a piece of 150-grit sandpaper, moving lightly with the grain of the wood.
3. For deeper cleaning or deodorizing: A paste of baking soda and water is your best friend. Apply it to the benches, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub with a soft brush and rinse with a clean, damp cloth.

To Stain or Not to Stain? Protecting Your Sauna's Exterior

This is one of the most common questions we get. While the high-quality cedar or pine used in Salus Saunas is naturally resistant to rot and insects, applying a stain to the exterior is highly recommended for two reasons:

1. Moisture Protection: It helps repel water, preventing it from soaking into the wood.
2. UV Protection: It shields the wood from the sun, which would otherwise cause it to weather to a silvery-gray color over time.

While some people appreciate the weathered gray look, a quality stain will preserve the rich, warm tones of the natural wood for many years. When choosing a stain, look for a high-quality, oil-based, semi-transparent product that is specifically formulated for outdoor use on woods like cedar or pine. Apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically every 2-3 years, depending on your climate.

Heater Health: The Heart of Your Sauna

Your Salus Saunas heating system is built for durability, but a little care ensures its longevity and performance.

For Traditional Heaters:

1. Keep it Clean: Regularly wipe down the exterior of the heater to keep it free of dust.
2. Mind the Rocks: The sauna stones (peridotite) are designed to absorb and radiate heat. Over time, through countless cycles of heating and cooling (and having water thrown on them), they can crack. Inspect them annually and replace any that are broken. We recommend replacing the full set of stones every 3-5 years to ensure your heater is working at its best.

For Infrared Emitters:

1. Dust Regularly: The primary task is to keep the emitters free of dust, which can hinder their performance. A gentle wipe with a soft, dry cloth when the unit is cool is usually all that's needed.
2. Check Connections: Periodically ensure all electrical connections are secure.

For Hybrid Systems:

1. Best of Both Worlds: Your maintenance combines the care for both systems. You will need to inspect and clean the sauna stones on the traditional heater element while also regularly dusting the infrared emitters. This ensures both heating methods are always ready to perform at their peak.

The Salus Saunas Advantage: Built to Last

When you choose a Salus Sauna, you’re already a step ahead. We meticulously select the highest-grade cedar, pine, hemlock, or spruce, woods renowned for their natural beauty and resilience. We offer a range of heating technologies—from the steamy bliss of traditional heaters to the deep, penetrating warmth of infrared, and the versatile experience of hybrid systems—to perfectly match your wellness goals. Our thick staves provide superior insulation and structural strength, and the robust, marine-grade stainless steel bands and hardware are designed to withstand the elements without rusting or failing.

By following the simple maintenance steps outlined in this guide, you are complementing the quality craftsmanship built into every Salus Sauna. This partnership between our construction and your care is the secret to a lifetime of wellness and relaxation.

Barrel Sauna Care: Your Top 10 Questions Answered

1. How often should I really clean the inside of my barrel sauna?

For regular users, a monthly deep clean is a good rule of thumb. If the sauna is used daily, aim for a cleaning every two weeks. The most critical step is to air out the sauna after every single use by propping the door open. This prevents moisture buildup more effectively than anything else.

2. Can I use essential oils in my sauna, and will they damage it?

Yes, with care. For traditional saunas, mix a few drops of oil into your water bucket before ladling it onto the hot stones. For infrared saunas, use a separate, small diffuser on the floor. Never apply oils directly to wood surfaces or any part of the heating system.

3. My sauna's exterior wood is turning gray. Is this bad, and can I reverse it?

This graying is a natural, cosmetic patina from UV exposure and is not harmful. To restore the original color, simply sand the exterior lightly and then apply a quality exterior stain with UV protection. This will bring back the rich tones and protect the wood moving forward.

4. What are the signs that my sauna heater needs professional attention?

Watch for these key signs. For traditional heaters: slow heating times or frequently tripping the circuit breaker. For infrared heaters: emitters that don’t glow or significant cold spots. If you notice any of these, contact our support team for guidance.

5. I see small gaps between the wood staves. Should I be worried about leaks?

No, small gaps are normal. Wood naturally contracts in dry conditions. As long as your sauna bands are snug, the tongue-and-groove construction is designed to accommodate this movement and will remain watertight. The gaps typically close up as humidity returns.

6. How can I prevent mold or mildew in my outdoor sauna, especially in a damp climate?

Proper ventilation is the key. Always prop the door open for at least an hour after use to let the sauna dry completely. Also, ensure your sauna’s foundation allows water to drain away from the base. Cedar wood’s natural antimicrobial properties also provide excellent resistance.

7. Is it necessary to cover my barrel sauna with a tarp in the winter?

We advise against it. A plastic tarp traps moisture against the wood, which can cause discoloration or mildew. Your sauna is designed to withstand winter weather. A quality exterior stain is the best form of protection, allowing the wood to breathe while repelling moisture.

8. My infrared sauna isn't getting as hot as it used to. What are the first things I should check?

Run through this quick checklist:

1. Ensure the door is forming a complete seal.
2. Double-check the temperature settings on the control panel.
3. Make sure no towels or backrests are blocking the emitter panels.
4. Confirm the emitters are clean and free of dust.

9. What is the "curing" process for a new traditional sauna heater?

Curing is a one-time break-in for your new heater. Before your first use, run the heater at its highest temperature for one hour with the door and vents open. This safely burns off any harmless residues from the manufacturing process, ensuring your future sessions are perfectly fresh.

10. What is the best foundation for my barrel sauna?

The most important rule is that your foundation must be solid and perfectly level to prevent door alignment issues. We recommend a concrete pad, a paver patio, or a properly reinforced deck. A simple foundation of solid concrete blocks on level ground also works very well.

Your Sanctuary, For Life

Your barrel sauna is a long-term investment in your well-being. It’s a place of peace, health, and connection that deserves to be cared for. As you’ve seen, this care isn’t complicated or time-consuming. It’s a simple rhythm of seasonal tasks that keeps your personal sanctuary beautiful, functional, and always ready to welcome you. By staying in tune with your sauna and the seasons, you ensure that the magic you felt on your very first session will be there for you year after year.

Have more questions about caring for your specific model or looking to enhance your sauna experience with our range of accessories? Our team of experts is here to help. Contact us today, and let’s make sure your Salus Sauna journey is everything you dreamed it would be.