Last reviewed 23 October 2026
Public saunas are friendly places, and nobody expects you to know everything on your first visit. These are the habits that make it work for everyone.
Before you go in
- Book your slot. Most public and community saunas in the UK sell timed sessions, and popular slots sell out. Arrive a few minutes early.
- Shower first. It’s basic hygiene, and many venues ask you to.
- Check the dress code. In UK public saunas, swimwear is the norm. Some bathhouses and women-only or men-only sessions have their own rules, so check the venue’s page.
- Take off jewellery and watches. Metal gets very hot.
Inside the sauna
- Sit on a towel. Put a towel under you, including your feet if you lie down. It’s about sweat, not modesty.
- Keep the door shut. Go in and out quickly so the heat stays in.
- Ask before pouring water on the stones. A ladle of water (löyly) makes the room hotter for everyone. A quick “Mind if I add some water?” is enough. If there’s a sauna host or a scheduled aufguss (a guided steam ritual), let them lead.
- Keep the noise down. Quiet conversation is usually fine at community saunas; some sessions are silent. Follow the room.
- No phones. They overheat, and nobody wants to be photographed in a sauna.
- Make room. Shuffle along when people come in, and don’t take up a whole bench.
Between rounds
- Shower before a plunge pool or hot tub, so the water stays clean.
- Don’t hog the cold plunge. A minute or two, then let the next person in.
- Drink water. Most venues have refill points.
A few things to avoid
- Alcohol before or during a session.
- Shaving, scrubbing or applying products in the sauna itself, unless the venue offers a scrub ritual.
- Staying in when you feel dizzy or unwell. Leave, cool down and sit down.
If you’re unsure, ask a member of staff or a regular. Most people are happy to help a newcomer.