First time using a sauna
Some people arrive having used saunas before. Others haven’t, if this is your first time using a sauna then below is some helpful hints and tips.
Sauna Hus is a traditional wood-fired mobile horsebox sauna available for hire at private events, retreats, festivals, outdoor gatherings and wellness experiences across Suffolk, Norfolk and surrounding areas.
There isn’t a fixed way to approach a first sauna session. People settle into it at their own pace. Some people stay in briefly. Others take more time. This page explains how sauna sessions typically work and what most first-time users find helpful.
There’s no set routine and no expectation to stay in longer than feels comfortable.
What to expect
Sauna Hus provides authentic wood-fired sauna experiences in a range of outdoor settings.
The sauna is heated using a traditional wood-fired stove and brought up to temperature gradually rather than rushed. Sessions may be shared or private, depending on the event or booking.
Some people stay in for a few minutes. Others step in and out. Both approaches are completely normal.
There is no rush and no pressure to stay in for any set length of time.
Before you enter the sauna for the first time
- Remove footwear
- Clean your feet
- Bring a towel with you. You’ll need it to sit on inside the sauna.
- During shared sessions, suitable swimwear is worn. During private sessions, nudity is permitted inside the sauna only.
- Clothing must always be worn outside the sauna cabin.
- Inside the sauna
Once inside
- Sit on your towel at all times
- Choose a lower bench if you are new to sauna use
- Allow your body to warm gradually
- You do not need to stay in for long.
- Some people stay in for a few minutes the first time. Others step out sooner. Some people stay in for a short while, others a little longer. There’s no set time you need to follow, especially on a first visit.
- If the heat stops feeling comfortable, step outside and cool down. That’s usually all it takes.
Heat and steam (löyly)
- Steam is created when water is added to the hot stones. This is known as löyly.
- Löyly briefly increases the heat, then fades.
- It is used in small amounts and should never feel sharp or overwhelming. If it does, too much water has been added.
If you are unfamiliar with sauna practice, staff are happy to guide you.
More information is available on our Löyly page:
Cooling down between rounds
Cooling down between sauna rounds is a normal part of sauna use.
Depending on the location and event, cooling options may include:
- Fresh air
- Cold showers
- Cold plunge tubs
- Lakes, rivers or the sea where appropriate and safe
- Rest areas between sauna rounds
Always follow the guidance provided by the event organiser or Sauna Hus staff.
Using the lake
If you choose to enter the lake:
- Stay within the designated swimming area
- Enter calmly
- Take care on wet ground
- The lake bottom is clay and can feel slippery.
Neoprene beach shoes or boots are recommended. - There are carp in the lake. They are calm and generally uninterested in sauna users.
How many rounds should I do if this is my first time using a sauna?
There is no set number.
Some people enjoy one short round, especially if this is your first time using a sauna. Others prefer several rounds with breaks in between.
Listen to your body. Short sessions with rest in between are encouraged.
Longer sessions are not better sessions.
Drinking water
Staying hydrated is important.
Bottled water is allowed inside the sauna
Plastic bottles only
Glass and metal containers are not permitted
Alcohol is not permitted before or during sauna use.
After your first time using a sauna
After your final round:
Cool down gradually
Get dressed before leaving the sauna area
Take your time before driving or continuing your day
Health and safety
Sauna bathing involves high heat and may not be suitable for everyone.
Before attending, please read:
Health & Safety guidance if this is you first time using a sauna.
If you have any medical concerns, consult a healthcare professional before booking.
A simple first-time rule
If something doesn’t feel right, step out and cool down.
There is no right way to use a sauna, only a safe and comfortable one.