Maintenance Requirements for a Cabin Sauna vs. an Indoor Home Sauna Kit?
Posted on 21 March 2025

Regardless of what type of sauna you have, regular maintenance is essential for extending its lifespan and ensuring that it can function correctly. However, different saunas have different maintenance requirements in order to achieve the best results. Outdoor cabin saunas differ significantly from home sauna kits and require unique routines in order to maintain their appearance and functionality. Outdoor saunas need to be protected from the elements, whereas sauna kits do not require any exterior protection. If you are interested in a home sauna, reach out to SauanFin. Our team can help you determine what kind of sauna is best for you and will ensure that you are aware of any and all maintenance protocols for your product. Call now to get started!
Maintenance Requirements for Cabin Saunas
Outdoor cabin saunas require a unique approach when it comes to maintenance, simply given the fact that they are exposed to the elements. An outdoor cabin sauna will be exposed to rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures throughout its useful life, and this needs to be accounted for in its maintenance routine.
Weather Protection
Your outdoor cabin sauna should be protected against harsh weather conditions to maintain its appearance. Over time, excessive rain and snow can result in wood rot. In order to prevent this, you should aim to cover your outdoor sauna in the winter and spring. A weatherproof tarp is best, especially if you are going for an extended period of time without using your sauna. If you choose to use your outdoor sauna even in harsh weather, consider applying a weatherproof coating every year. A high-quality sealant will help prevent both moisture and UV damage.
Cleaning and Upkeep
Regular cleanings and upkeep are also essential for outdoor saunas especially. Outdoor saunas may collect foliage, dirt, and debris from your backyard, and without regular cleaning, your sauna can harbor bacteria and germs. To prevent this, ensure that you wipe down your sauna benches and close the door after every single use. After every session, you should also conduct a quick inspection to ensure no insects or foliage are left in your sauna. Then, on a weekly basis, you should conduct a more thorough cleaning of your sauna. Vacuum or sweep the floors and clean all surfaces with a towel and gentle soap. This will eliminate dirt and help kill bacteria that can irritate the skin.
Maintenance Requirements for Home Sauna Kits
Since sauna kits are found indoors, the environment is highly controlled. As a result, sauna maintenance may seem more simple, however, a unique approach is still required to adequately care for your sauna kit.
Strong Ventilation
Maintaining proper ventilation in an indoor home sauna kit is essential for preserving its performance and longevity. Unlike outdoor cabin saunas, indoor saunas operate within a controlled environment, making moisture management critical to avoid damage to both the sauna and surrounding areas. Excess moisture can cause wood rot and even mold if left unaddressed. To prevent this, ensure that you leave your sauna door open after use to allow for air circulation. It is also recommended that you place your sauna somewhere with strong ventilation and/or exhaust fans.
Regular Cleanings
Similarly to outdoor cabin saunas, home sauna kits need to be cleaned regularly. Given the fact that they are less prone to mess and dirt, you can get away with cleaning them less frequently. However, a wipe-down after every session is still strongly recommended to prevent bacteria growth.
Maintain a Healthy Sauna with SaunaFin
Overall, sauna maintenance is essential to ensure that your sauna maintains its appearance and functionality for years to come. However, it is crucial to take a tailored approach to sauna care depending on what kind of sauna you have. Outdoor saunas may require some weatherproofing and extra cleaning time, whereas ventilation should be a priority for indoor sauna kits. Regardless of what kind of sauna you have, SaunaFin is here to help you! Contact us today to learn more about our cabin saunas.