Imagine sinking into the warm embrace of a sauna, the gentle heat melting away your worries. But before you can experience that blissful escape, there’s a crucial decision to make: what wood will build your sanctuary? Choosing the right wood for your sauna isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating a safe, healthy, and long-lasting space that truly relaxes you.
Many people find themselves scratching their heads when faced with all the different types of wood available. You want a wood that won’t splinter, won’t release bad smells, and will stand up to the heat and humidity. It can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces! Getting it wrong can mean a sauna that’s uncomfortable or even unsafe, and that’s not the kind of relaxation you’re looking for.
This post will guide you through the wonderful world of sauna woods. We’ll explore the best options, explain why they work so well, and help you discover the perfect wood for your dream sauna. By the end, you’ll feel confident and excited about your choice, ready to build a space that brings you peace for years to come.
Our Top 5 Wood For Sauna Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Wood For Sauna Detailed Reviews
1. Cedar Tongue and Groove Wall Panels 3 ft Long – Natural Cedar Wood Panels for Walls
Rating: 9.4/10
Transform your living space with these beautiful Cedar Tongue and Groove Wall Panels. Each 3-foot panel is crafted from natural Western Red Cedar, bringing the outdoors in with its stunning natural beauty and unique grain patterns. These panels are perfect for adding warmth and character to any room, from cozy cabins to modern interiors. They’re also great for saunas, bathrooms, and even exterior accents.
What We Like:
- Natural Beauty & Unique Grain Patterns: The rich colors and distinctive grain of Western Red Cedar add instant warmth and charm to any space.
- Durability and Longevity: Cedar is naturally resistant to decay and rot, and it stays stable, meaning it won’t warp or shrink easily. Your walls will look great for years.
- Aromatic Qualities and Air Purification: Enjoy the pleasant, natural scent of cedar, which also helps to freshen the air in your home.
- Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: These panels help keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, and they also help reduce noise.
- Eco-Friendly: Western Red Cedar is a sustainable choice, and its natural durability means fewer chemical treatments are needed.
- Easy to Cut, Install & DIY: The tongue and groove design makes installation simple. The wood is lightweight and easy to work with, perfect for DIY projects.
What Could Be Improved:
- Coverage Area: Each pack covers 9.7 sq ft, so you’ll need to calculate carefully for larger projects to ensure you buy enough.
- Natural Variation: While the natural grain is a pro, expect slight variations in color and pattern between panels, which is part of the natural charm but might require careful selection for a perfectly uniform look.
These cedar panels offer a fantastic way to enhance your home’s aesthetic and function. They are a beautiful and practical choice for many different projects.
2. Sauna Shield Sauna Wood Oil – 1 Liter (33.8 fl oz)
Rating: 8.7/10
The Sauna Shield Sauna Wood Oil is a special treatment for your sauna’s wood. It helps keep the wood healthy and strong. This oil protects the wood from getting too wet and from cracking. It’s made with natural ingredients and doesn’t have any smells or harmful chemicals. You can use it on all kinds of sauna wood, like benches and wall panels. It also makes the wood look nicer.
What We Like:
- Keeps sauna wood looking good and lasting longer.
- Protects wood from moisture and splitting.
- Safe to use – no strong smells, solvents, or bad stuff.
- Works on any type of sauna wood.
- One liter covers over 100 square feet of your sauna.
- Good for both hot steam saunas and infrared saunas.
What Could Be Improved:
- The coverage estimate might vary slightly depending on the wood’s condition.
This Sauna Shield oil is a smart choice for anyone who wants to take care of their sauna. It offers great protection and makes your sauna look its best.
3. Northwood Sauna – Sauna Cleaner – Natural Wood Cleaner & Deodorizer – Ready-to-Use Spray – 1 Quart (32 Fl Oz)
Rating: 9.3/10
Keep your sauna looking and smelling its best with the Northwood Sauna Cleaner. This ready-to-use spray is designed to gently clean all surfaces inside your sauna. It gets rid of dirt, sweat, and grime. It also makes your sauna wood look fresh and smell nice with a pleasant citrus scent.
What We Like:
- It’s a perfect sauna cleaner that is safe for regular use on all wooden and other sauna surfaces.
- It effectively removes dirt, sweat, and grime.
- It revitalizes your sauna wood.
- It leaves a fresh citric aroma.
- It’s made from natural ingredients and is free from bleach and harsh chemicals.
- It’s a ready-to-use spray for easy application.
- It’s proudly made in the USA.
- The company offers a hassle-free refund if you’re not satisfied.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is only available in a 1-quart size.
This Northwood Sauna Cleaner is a great way to maintain your sauna. It keeps it clean, fresh, and healthy for you to enjoy.
4. Northwood Sauna – Sauna Cleaner – Natural Wood Cleaner & Deodorizer – Makes 10x More Solution – 1 Quart (32 Fl Oz)
Rating: 9.3/10
Keeping your sauna clean and smelling fresh is important for a great experience. The Northwood Sauna Cleaner is designed specifically for this. It’s a natural wood cleaner and deodorizer that works on all surfaces in your sauna. This cleaner tackles dirt, sweat, and grime. It also brings back the natural beauty of your sauna wood and leaves a pleasant citrus scent.
What We Like:
- It’s gentle and safe for regular use on all sauna surfaces.
- It effectively removes dirt, sweat, and grime.
- It revitalizes your sauna wood.
- It leaves a fresh citric aroma.
- It’s made from natural ingredients.
- It is completely free from bleach and harsh chemicals.
- It’s an economical concentrate that makes 5-10 times more solution.
- It’s proudly made in the USA.
- The company offers a hassle-free refund if you’re not satisfied.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is a concentrate, so you need to mix it yourself.
- The instructions suggest using a clean cloth, sponge, or spray bottle, which are not included.
This Northwood Sauna Cleaner offers a natural and effective way to maintain your sauna. It’s a smart choice for anyone who values a clean, healthy, and inviting sauna space.
5. Northwood Sauna – Sauna Thermometer and Hygrometer 2 in 1 – Fahrenheit & Celsius – Handmade from Canadian Red Cedar Wood – Luxurious Golden Metal Dials
Rating: 9.4/10
Elevate your sauna experience with the Northwood Sauna Thermometer and Hygrometer. This 2-in-1 device measures both temperature and humidity, helping you create the perfect, relaxing atmosphere. It’s beautifully crafted from real Canadian Red Cedar wood, bringing the authentic scent and look of a Nordic spa right into your home. The golden metal dials add a touch of luxury and are easy to read, displaying both Fahrenheit and Celsius.
What We Like:
- Made from beautiful, real Canadian Red Cedar wood that smells great.
- The wood is knotless and polished for a smooth, premium feel.
- Shows temperature in both Fahrenheit (°F) and Celsius (°C) on clear, golden dials.
- Measures relative humidity (RH) accurately.
- Instruments are calibrated and can be easily adjusted if needed.
- Features a timeless Nordic design that looks elegant in any sauna.
- Comes in high-quality packaging, making it a fantastic gift idea.
- The company offers a hassle-free refund if you’re not completely satisfied.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for recalibration might be a bit complex for some users.
- While beautiful, the golden dials might show smudges easily if touched often.
This Northwood sauna accessory is a wonderful addition for anyone who loves their sauna. It combines practical function with stunning natural beauty, ensuring your relaxation sessions are always just right.
Choosing the Best Wood for Your Sauna: A Cozy Guide
Building or renovating a sauna is an exciting project. The right wood makes all the difference. It affects how your sauna looks, smells, and feels. This guide helps you pick the perfect wood for your cozy retreat.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy wood for your sauna, keep these things in mind:
- Durability: Good sauna wood lasts a long time. It can handle heat and moisture without rotting or warping.
- Low Heat Conductivity: You don’t want the wood to get too hot to touch. Woods that don’t hold much heat are safer and more comfortable.
- Pleasant Aroma: Many sauna woods release a nice scent when heated. This adds to the relaxing experience.
- Splinter Resistance: A smooth finish is important. You don’t want splinters when you’re trying to relax.
- Resistance to Moisture: Saunas are steamy places. The wood needs to resist moisture to prevent damage.
Important Materials: The Top Wood Choices
Several types of wood are popular for saunas. Each has its own benefits.
- Cedar (Western Red Cedar): This is a top choice for many. It smells great and is naturally resistant to rot and insects. Cedar also doesn’t get too hot. It looks beautiful with its reddish-brown color.
- Aspen: Aspen is a lighter wood. It has a subtle scent and stays cooler to the touch than some other woods. It’s a good option if you prefer a less intense aroma.
- Basswood: Similar to aspen, basswood is light in color and has a mild scent. It’s known for being knot-free and smooth. This makes it very comfortable.
- Hemlock: Hemlock is a strong and durable wood. It’s less prone to warping. It has a faint, pleasant smell. It’s a good choice for a long-lasting sauna.
- Spruce: Some types of spruce are used for saunas. They are usually more affordable. However, they can sometimes have more knots and might absorb more heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way wood is treated and its natural properties affect its quality.
- Kiln-Dried vs. Air-Dried: Kiln-dried wood is dried in an oven. This removes more moisture and makes it more stable. It’s less likely to warp or crack. Air-dried wood is dried naturally. It can be good, but kiln-dried is often preferred for saunas.
- Knots: Knots are natural imperfections in wood. Too many knots can make the wood weaker. They can also be rough spots that catch. Wood with fewer knots is generally higher quality.
- Grain Pattern: A straight grain pattern makes wood stronger and more stable. Wavy or irregular grain can lead to warping.
- Wood Treatment: Never use treated wood with chemicals in your sauna. These chemicals can release harmful fumes when heated. Always use natural, untreated wood.
User Experience and Use Cases
The wood you choose directly impacts your sauna experience.
- Relaxation and Aromatherapy: The natural scents of cedar or aspen can enhance relaxation. The aroma can feel like a spa treatment.
- Comfort and Safety: Woods that stay cooler to the touch are safer for everyone, especially children. Smooth, splinter-free wood makes the experience more enjoyable.
- Aesthetics: The color and grain of the wood contribute to the overall look of your sauna. Cedar offers a warm, rich look. Aspen and basswood provide a lighter, more modern feel.
- Maintenance: Some woods are naturally more resistant to moisture and require less upkeep. This makes them easier to maintain over time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sauna Wood
Q: What is the best wood for a sauna?
A: Cedar, especially Western Red Cedar, is often considered the best because it smells great, resists rot, and stays cool. Aspen and Basswood are also excellent choices for their mild scent and cool touch.
Q: Can I use pine for my sauna?
A: It’s generally not recommended. Pine has a strong scent that can become overpowering when heated. It also tends to have more knots and can get hotter than other sauna woods.
Q: Does sauna wood need to be treated?
A: No. You should never use chemically treated wood in a sauna. The heat can release harmful fumes. Always use natural, untreated wood.
Q: How do I know if the wood is good quality?
A: Look for wood that is kiln-dried, has few knots, and a straight grain pattern. It should also feel smooth to the touch.
Q: Will the wood smell too much?
A: Some woods, like cedar, have a noticeable scent. This is usually considered a positive feature. If you prefer less scent, choose aspen or basswood.
Q: How long does sauna wood last?
A: With proper care, good quality sauna wood can last for many years, often 10-20 years or even longer.
Q: Can I use plywood or particle board for my sauna walls?
A: No. These materials are not suitable for saunas. They can release harmful chemicals and do not hold up well to heat and moisture.
Q: What is the difference between interior and exterior sauna wood?
A: Interior sauna wood is specifically chosen for its ability to withstand heat and steam and provide a good user experience. Exterior wood is for the outside of the sauna and needs to be weather-resistant.
Q: Is it okay if my sauna wood has knots?
A: A few small knots are usually fine. However, too many large or loose knots can weaken the wood and make it less comfortable.
Q: Where can I buy good quality sauna wood?
A: You can buy sauna wood from lumber yards that specialize in wood for saunas or from online retailers that focus on building materials for saunas.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.