Sauna clothing, what to wear before and after

Short answer: The best sauna clothing is soft, dry and easy to put on, so your body can cool down at its own pace. Choose loose layers in a fabric that feels pleasant on warm skin, and bring something warmer for the trip home.

Sauna clothing before you go in

Before the sauna, your clothes should be easy to take off and put aside, so you do not have to fight with laces, tight cuffs and thick layers. Pack a bag for wet things and leave dry clothes ready, so they do not turn damp in the locker.

What you wear inside the sauna

Many people use only a towel or swimwear, and the rules vary from place to place, so always follow the rules of the venue. Clothes that have turned warm and damp rarely make a good start to the rest of the day, so keep them dry outside.

Let the body cool down first

When you step out of the heat your skin is warm and damp, and your body needs time to settle before you dress. Use a dry towel and take your time, especially if you feel dizzy. If you have health concerns, talk to your doctor. See also bamboo clothing for men.

The first layer after the sauna

The first layer against the skin should be soft, smooth and not too close, so that it does not cling to warm skin. A thin fabric of viscose from bamboo often feels pleasant while the skin is still warm, but that depends on your own feeling.

Long sleeves for the walk outside

If it is cold outside, your upper body should not cool down too fast when you go from warmth to cold. A thin, soft layer with sleeves keeps the temperature even, and long sleeve models are an easy way to stay warm under a thicker sweater.

Warm feet afterwards

The floor in the changing room can be cold, and wet feet lose heat quickly. Dry them well and pull on a pair of clean, dry bamboo socks before you head on to the car or home.

Wash and air damp clothes

Clothes that have been in a warm, humid building should be aired and washed, so that no smell settles in. Wash on a gentle cycle and skip the tumble dryer if the fabric is soft, and it will keep its shape and its soft surface for longer.

Pack the bag sensibly

A good bag holds a towel, a bag for damp things and a set of dry clothes, in the order you will need them. That makes it easy to get going, and you avoid putting on anything that has gone damp at the bottom of the bag.

Frequently asked questions

What should you wear after a sauna

Choose dry, soft clothes in loose layers that are easy to put on. Adjust the layers to the weather outside, and bring something warmer for the trip home.

Should you wait before getting dressed after the sauna

Let the body cool down and dry yourself well before dressing, so the clothes do not cling to warm, damp skin. Listen to your body, and ask your doctor if you are unsure.

How do I wash clothes that have been with me in the sauna

Air them so the moisture can evaporate, then wash on a gentle cycle. Skip the tumble dryer if the fabric is soft, and always follow the care label.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.