Finnish sauna rules

In this article you will learn all about Finnish sauna rules.

In my opinion, there are no so-called sauna rules in Finnish sauna culture. In Finland, everyone knows each other so well that there is no need for rules. But as is often the case, there are many unwritten rules. That’s why I would like to list all the Finnish sauna rules I know in this article.

These sauna rules apply to public saunas or saunas where other people are present. In your own sauna, of course, you decide for yourself.

Steam in the sauna

In public saunas, only one person has control over how often steam is poured. If you want to have control over this, find a place near the sauna heater where the water bucket is usually located.

Always remember to ask politely if you are allowed to make steam. Although in reality the question is somewhat rhetorical and the water is often already thrown when you ask if it can be thrown.

Only throw one ladle of water at a time. Remember that the heat often circulates on the other side of the sauna first and is a little milder for the thrower.

Often someone will tell the thrower to throw more water. This is a good sign that you can and dare to throw more.

Bad sauna manners include not listening to what others say and throwing several ladles of water at once and watching as people sit down on lower benches or even have to leave the sauna.

Competition is not part of the sauna experience. It’s not about who can last the longest in the heat. That is unhealthy and can even be dangerous.

You also have to remember that we people are all different and some tolerate the heat better than others.

Therefore, I think the best way to regulate the temperature for individuals in the sauna is to take a lower seat. This is possible in many large saunas.

Also remember that you should not be the first to leave the sauna after you have “Löyly” (Finn. the steam). You will be looked down upon, as this is not good sauna behavior.

Remember that as the thrower, you should make sure that the bucket is not empty when you leave the sauna. Fill up the bucket so that those following you not only feel good, but also get a good steam.

Things you should not do in the sauna

The unwritten rules include respecting other sauna visitors and not farting, spitting, arguing, shouting, raving or running in the sauna.

Cooking in public saunas is also absolutely unacceptable.

Some Finns roast sausages on the sauna stove. This is fine in your own home sauna, but not in public saunas.

Spitting in the sauna falls into the “under no circumstances” category, even in your own home sauna. Who would think of spitting on the sauna floor?

Having sex or masturbating in public saunas is certainly not acceptable. You have to respect other people enough to refrain from doing these things.

Talking loudly is also not appropriate in a sauna. Especially when it comes to sensitive topics such as religion or politics. Speaking quietly is allowed as long as it does not disturb others.

A great deal of care is required here, as people are very different. In Finland, people talk much more in the sauna than in Germany. But in public saunas you have to be mindful of others.

In my opinion, it is not advisable to dye hair, shave beards or remove other body hair in the sauna or public shower areas. These things are best done in the shower at home.

Scratching your skin in the sauna is also not good manners.

Summary: Be considerate of other people in the sauna. You are not alone in the sauna. Pay attention to what the people you are in the sauna with are saying and gesticulating.

What do you think of the Finnish sauna rules? Do you agree with what I have listed here? Feel free to comment about the Finnish sauna rules or tell me about your own experiences. I would be very happy to receive your comments!

Love, Sauna-Kati