Bathhouses and social saunas are booming in Australia, and most people walking in are newcomers. A few simple habits make the experience better for everyone.
Before you go
- Book ahead. Most venues run timed sessions (often 60–120 minutes) and popular slots sell out.
- Check the dress code. Australian venues are almost always swimwear-on. Some provide towels and robes; others ask you to bring your own.
- Bring: swimwear, a towel to sit on, a water bottle, thongs and a hair tie.
In the sauna
- Shower first and always sit or lie on your towel.
- Keep voices low. Many saunas are quiet zones, and others are social. Follow the room.
- Ask before adding water to the stones; a big burst of steam affects everyone.
- Leave your phone in the locker. Heat damages electronics, and nobody wants to be filmed.
- Don’t overstay. Leave when you need to; there’s no prize for lasting longest.
Aufguss and guided sessions
Some venues run Aufguss rituals, where a sauna master pours scented water on the stones and wafts the heat around the room with a towel. Arrive on time, as doors usually close once it starts, and stay seated until the end.
After your session
Rinse off, rehydrate and give yourself time to cool down before driving. Then find your next sauna.