Over time, even a beautifully built barrel sauna can start to show signs of regular use: sweat marks on the benches, footprints on the floor, and dust or leaves sneaking in from outside. If you’re wondering how to clean a barrel sauna without damaging the wood, you’re not alone.
The good news is that keeping your barrel sauna fresh is simple when you follow a gentle, step-by-step routine. With mild cleaners, soft cloths, and a few minutes of regular care, you can help maintain a comfortable, inviting space you’ll look forward to using.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to:
- Prepare your barrel sauna safely before cleaning
- Gently clean interior benches, walls, and flooring
- Spot-treat sweat marks and stains without harsh chemicals
- Care for the heater area and stones following best practices
- Create a simple maintenance routine that fits your schedule
Before You Start: Gather Gentle Cleaning Supplies
Always follow the care instructions provided by your sauna manufacturer. In most cases, you’ll want to avoid harsh chemicals and strong fragrances inside the sauna, especially on surfaces that heat up.
Common supplies people use to clean a barrel sauna include:
- Soft broom or small hand vacuum for dust and debris
- Bucket of warm water
- A small amount of mild, unscented soap or sauna-safe cleaner
- Microfiber cloths and soft sponges
- Soft-bristle brush for textured areas or floor duckboards
- Optional: fine-grit sandpaper for localized stains on raw wood (used carefully)
Important: Avoid bleach, strong detergents, or any products that leave heavy residue or strong fumes, as these can be unpleasant when the sauna heats up.
Step 1: Let the Barrel Sauna Cool and Air Out
Never start cleaning while the sauna is hot.
- Turn the heater off and allow the sauna to cool completely.
- Open the door and any windows or vents to let fresh air circulate.
- Remove towels, accessories, buckets, ladles, backrests, and floor duckboards.
This makes it easier to reach every surface and helps moisture escape while you work.
Step 2: Dry Clean the Interior Surfaces
Start with dry cleaning to remove loose dirt before introducing any moisture.
- Sweep or vacuum the floor, focusing on corners and under the benches.
- Dust benches, backrests, and upper walls with a dry microfiber cloth.
- Shake out removable duckboards or mats outside the sauna.
Removing dust and debris first prevents grit from being rubbed into the wood when you wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Step 3: Mix a Mild Cleaning Solution
Most people find that a simple, diluted solution is enough to refresh the wood.
- Fill a bucket with warm water.
- Add a small amount of mild, unscented soap or a sauna-safe cleaner.
- Stir gently to combine—aim for a very light solution rather than a heavy foam.
You’ll be working with a damp (not dripping) cloth so the wood doesn’t become saturated.
Step 4: Wipe Benches, Backrests, and Walls
Focus on the areas that come into contact with skin the most often—seating and backrests.
- Dip a microfiber cloth or soft sponge into the solution, then wring it out well.
- Wipe benches, backrests, and interior walls with gentle, straight motions.
- Rinse and wring the cloth frequently so you’re not spreading residue.
- Follow up with a separate cloth dampened only with clean water to remove any soap film.
Allow the wood to dry with the door open once you’re finished. Good airflow is key to keeping the sauna feeling fresh.
Step 5: Treat Sweat Marks and Local Stains
Over time, light discoloration or sweat marks can appear on raw wood surfaces. These are common signs of normal use.
For gentle stain care, many owners:
- Start with a slightly stronger dilution of mild soap and warm water on a soft cloth.
- Work on the marked area in small circles, then wipe with clean water.
- For persistent marks on unfinished wood, lightly sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper, moving with the grain.
After sanding, wipe away dust with a dry cloth. Avoid applying interior varnish or sealants unless recommended by your sauna manufacturer, as some coatings can change how the wood behaves when heated.
Step 6: Clean the Floor, Heater Area, and Stones
The floor and heater zone collect the most debris, so a little extra attention here goes a long way.
Floor and lower walls:
- Use your mild cleaning solution and a soft brush or cloth on the floor boards.
- Focus on corners and under the benches, where moisture and dirt can settle.
- Wipe with clean water and allow everything to dry thoroughly.
Heater and stones:
- Make sure the heater is completely cool and powered off.
- Wipe the exterior metal surfaces with a dry or slightly damp cloth, avoiding any electrical components.
- Do not use cleaning chemicals on the stones—follow the manufacturer’s guidance on when to inspect or replace them.
Always refer to your heater manual for specific maintenance recommendations and safety instructions.
Step 7: Freshen the Exterior and Set a Maintenance Routine
The outside of your barrel sauna is exposed to sun, wind, and seasonal weather, so caring for the exterior helps support its long-term appearance.
- Wipe exterior surfaces with a soft brush or cloth to remove pollen and dust.
- If your manufacturer recommends an exterior oil or stain, follow their guidance on product type and timing.
- Check door seals, handles, and steps to ensure everything feels secure and clean.
A simple routine many owners follow:
- Quick tidy: after every few uses (remove towels, let the sauna dry with the door open).
- Light clean: every 1–2 weeks during heavy use.
- Deeper clean: every 1–3 months, depending on climate and how often you sauna.
How Often Should You Clean a Barrel Sauna?
How often you clean your barrel sauna depends on how frequently it’s used, how many people share it, and your local climate. A busy family sauna in a humid environment will usually need more frequent light cleaning than a cottage sauna that’s used occasionally.
As a general guideline, it’s helpful to let the sauna dry out after each session, wipe benches regularly, and schedule deeper cleanings a few times per season.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Barrel Sauna Feeling Welcoming
Cleaning a barrel sauna doesn’t have to be complicated. With a gentle routine and the right supplies, you can help keep the wood looking inviting and the space ready for your next session. A few minutes of regular care can make your sauna feel like a calm, cared-for retreat every time you step inside.
Next steps you can take:
- Browse our curated Barrel Sauna Collection to explore different sizes, window styles, and layouts.
- Learn more about choosing the right sauna for your home in What Should I Look for When Buying a Sauna? A Beginner’s Guide .
- Compare traditional and infrared options in our Traditional and Infrared Sauna Collections if you’re still exploring different styles.
