Your Leisurecraft sauna is built to last and requires very little maintenance. A few simple steps will help keep your sauna clean, comfortable, and looking beautiful for years to come.
Cedar is naturally strong and durable. The most important things you can do are keep the sauna well ventilated, clean it regularly, and check the heater and other parts from time to time.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Make sure the sauna is clean and free of personal items or debris.
• Check that the air vents are open and not blocked.
• Make sure nothing is touching or too close to the heater.
• Check that the sauna stones are in place and have not moved too much.
• Use a towel on the benches when possible. This helps protect the wood from sweat and moisture.
• If you have a wood-burning heater, check the firebox and chimney before starting a fire.
AFTER EACH USE
• Open the door after your sauna session to let fresh air in and moisture out.
• Use a clean, dry towel to wipe moisture from the benches, backrests, and other wooden surfaces.
• Leave the benches and floor uncovered so they can dry completely.
• Remove wet towels, clothing, and other items from the sauna.
• If needed, lightly rinse areas of the benches that get heavy use with clean water, then let them dry completely.
• Never leave standing water inside the sauna.
REGULAR CLEANING
How often you clean your sauna depends on how often you use it.
• Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth or soft brush.
• Clean the benches, backrests, floors, and other areas that are touched often.
• Rinse or wipe away any soap.
• Leave the door open and allow the sauna to dry completely.
• If the cedar becomes rough or stained, lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain.
• Sweep or vacuum under the benches regularly to remove dust, hair, and other debris.
• If your sauna is used often or in a commercial setting, clean it more frequently.
HEATER & SAUNA STONES
Your sauna heater should be checked regularly and cared for according to the heater manufacturer's instructions.
• Check the sauna stones for cracks, damage, or signs that they are breaking down.
• Rearrange the stones when needed to allow air to move through the heater.
• Replace broken or damaged stones.
• Do not pack the stones tightly together. Good airflow is important for proper heater performance.
• Keep towels, buckets, clothing, and other items away from the heater.
• If you have a wood-burning heater, remove ashes only after they are completely cool.
• Check the chimney and flue regularly.
• Always follow the care and safety instructions provided by your heater manufacturer.
CARING FOR YOUR CEDAR
INTERIOR CEDAR
The cedar inside your sauna is normally left natural and unfinished. Over time, the wood may become darker or develop changes in color. This is completely normal and does not affect the performance of your sauna.
If you want to help protect or enhance the interior cedar:
• Use only products made specifically for sauna interiors.
• Leisurecraft recommends Livos Meldos Sauna Oil for interior cedar.
• Always follow the product's instructions.
• Never use paint, varnish, or regular exterior wood stain on the inside of your sauna.
EXTERIOR CEDAR
The outside of your sauna can be left natural or protected with an exterior wood finish.
If you leave the cedar untreated, it will naturally change to a beautiful silver-gray color over time. This is normal and does not reduce the durability of the wood.
If you want to keep the original color of the cedar:
• Use a high-quality penetrating wood finish made for exterior cedar.
• Leisurecraft recommends and stocks Livos exterior wood finishes.
• Apply the finish to clean, dry wood.
• Reapply the finish when the color begins to fade.
• Never use an exterior wood finish on the inside of the sauna unless the product is specifically approved for sauna use.
BARREL SAUNA BANDS
If you have a barrel sauna, check the stainless-steel bands regularly.
Cedar naturally expands and contracts as the weather and humidity change. This is normal.
• Check the bands within the first month after installation.
• Continue checking them periodically.
• If a band becomes loose, tighten it with a ¾-inch wrench.
• The bands should be secure but should not be overtightened.
• The goal is to allow the cedar to naturally expand and contract while keeping the sauna securely together.
SEASONAL CARE
We recommend giving your sauna a quick inspection in the spring and fall.
• Check the exterior cedar and roof.
• Check doors, hinges, handles, and hardware.
• Check barrel bands, if applicable.
• Make sure air vents are clear.
• Check the heater and sauna stones.
• Look under the benches and around the floor for dirt or debris.
• Make sure water can drain away properly from the sauna base.
• Lightly sand rough areas of cedar if needed.
• Reapply exterior wood finish if desired.
Throughout the year, remove leaves, snow, and other debris from the roof and around the sauna.
WINTER CARE
Leisurecraft outdoor saunas are designed for year-round use, including cold winter weather.
• Remove heavy snow from the roof.
• Keep the entrance and area around the sauna clear of snow and ice.
• Make sure snow does not block the ventilation openings.
• Do not use sharp metal tools to remove ice from cedar surfaces.
• Continue to open the sauna door after every use to allow moisture to escape.
• Let the inside of the sauna dry completely after each session.
ONCE A YEAR
At least once a year, give your sauna a more thorough inspection.
• Deep clean the interior.
• Check the benches and backrests.
• Tighten any loose screws, bolts, or hardware.
• Check the doors, hinges, and handles.
• Make sure the ventilation openings are clear.
• Visually check the heater and electrical connections.
• Inspect and rearrange the sauna stones and replace any damaged stones.
• If you have a wood-burning heater, inspect the chimney and have it cleaned when needed.
• Check the barrel bands, if applicable.
• Inspect the exterior cedar and lightly sand rough areas if needed.
• Reapply exterior wood protection if desired.
• Check the roof and other exterior parts for signs of damage or wear.
WHAT TO AVOID
To help protect your sauna, do not:
• Use bleach, chlorine, or harsh household cleaners on the cedar.
• Pressure wash the inside of the sauna.
• Use rough or abrasive cleaning pads on the cedar.
• Paint, varnish, or use regular exterior stain on the inside of the sauna.
• Block the sauna's ventilation openings.
• Leave wet towels or standing water inside the sauna.
• Place towels, clothing, or other combustible items near the heater.
• Pack sauna stones tightly together.
• Overtighten barrel sauna bands.
A LITTLE CARE GOES A LONG WAY
With regular cleaning, good airflow, and a quick inspection from time to time, your Leisurecraft sauna will require very little maintenance. These simple steps will help protect the cedar, keep your sauna performing properly, and ensure you can enjoy it for many years to come.
