Using steam rooms or saunas relaxes the muscles and improves blood circulation. However, sitting in such extreme heat while in a public facility does pose the need for safety precautions that all users must take before enjoying the steam room or sauna. Rules for steam rooms and saunas vary from place to place, although there are some common etiquette guidelines for hot room users.
Step 1
Know when to avoid the steam room. Saunas and other heat rooms reach very high temperatures. While safe for those in good health, the high temperatures may not be healthy for those who are pregnant, according to Mamashealth.com.
Saunas should also be avoided by children and those who have heart disease, high or low blood pressure, circulatory problems, or any other health condition that may affect their body's reactions to the high temperatures of a sauna. Do not step into the sauna or steam room if you have been drinking alcohol.
Step 2
Follow hygiene guidelines. According to the Spavelous sauna use guidelines, many steam rooms and saunas require their users to shower beforehand. It is generally considered bad etiquette to use hot rooms you when you are ill, especially if you are running a fever or have an open wound of any type. Your illness may get much worse in the sauna and you risk infecting others in the close quarters of a steam room.
Step 3
Wear appropriate attire. Attire considered appropriate may vary in different locations. Many saunas are clothing-optional, while others require users to wear a bathing suit or towel.
A general spa etiquette guideline is that if the facilities are co-ed, clothing is required. In clothing-optional steam rooms, a swimsuit or towel may always be worn if you would feel more comfortable doing so. If you do not wear clothing in the hot room, place a small towel on the bench for sanitary reasons before you sit. Never wear metal into the sauna, because it will heat quickly and could cause burns.
Step 4
Adjust the heat if allowed. Some heat rooms invite patrons to adjust the temperature of the room, either by using a thermostat or throwing water on the hot stones in the room. Others do not allow adjustment of the temperature.
Never prop the door open as a way to cool the steam room. Check with the spa for its policies. If you feel that the heat room is too hot for you and do not have the option of adjusting the heat, avoid using the heat room.
Step 5
Do not spend too long in the sauna. For your first time, stay in the room for only a few minutes to allow your body to adjust to the high temperature. Some users plan to spend up to a full hour for full relaxation.
However, do not stay beyond your limit to tolerate the heat of the steam room. If you begin to feel uncomfortable, faint, or nauseated, leave the room. Request medical attention from the facility's staff if you feel that it is necessary.
Step 6
Take your time cooling down. When you are done in the steam room, step into the changing room. Cool down slowly and allow yourself to dry before putting on street clothes. Drink plenty of water to re-hydrate your body. While in a hot room, large volumes of fluid are lost through perspiration.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask the spa or health facility if you are unsure of the rules for using its sauna or steam room.
- Do not use the sauna or steam room if you feel ill.
Things You'll Need
- Bathing Suit
- Towel
- Shower shoes
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