What You Can and Cannot Put on Sauna Stones

Before you grab the ladle, let’s talk about what you can – and absolutely shouldn’t – put on the sauna stones for the perfect burst of steam. Of course, water is your sauna’s best friend! Pouring small amounts of water on the hot stones creates that perfect burst of steam. If you want to enhance your sauna experience, you may try diluted essential oils and herbal infusions.

Sauna-safe essential oils like eucalyptus or lavender can elevate your relaxation experience to the nest level, but here’s the trick: always dilute them in water. Pouring oils directly on the stones can lead to burnt smells and even damage your heater.

Herbal infusions can add a touch of nature to your session. Steep some chamomile or mint, strain it, and then carefully ladle the liquid onto the stones for a natural, earthy aroma. Just remember—keep it light and simple.

What is big no-no? Undiluted essential oils and alcohol (or alcohol-based liquids): they can burn, leaving your sauna smelling like a campfire gone wrong. And it’s a serious fire hazard! So, let’s talk about what you can and cannot put on sauna stones and why it matters.

What You Can Put on Sauna Stones

Water (The Classic Choice)

Let’s start with the obvious one: water. When poured onto the hot sauna stones, water instantly evaporates, turning into that signature burst of steam that fills the sauna with heat and moisture. The key here is moderation—use a small ladle to gently add water, ensuring the steam is dispersed evenly without overwhelming the space.

Water is the safest and most effective way to increase humidity in the sauna without damaging the stones or heater. It evaporates quickly and provides an instant sauna experience upgrade. Use clean, filtered water whenever possible to avoid mineral buildup on the stones. Hard water with high mineral content can leave residue that reduces the efficiency of the heater over time.

Sauna-Safe Essential Oils (Diluted, Please!)

Adding a little aroma to your sauna experience can be delightful, but it’s important to do it the right way. Sauna-safe essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender, or pine can be mixed with water and added to the stones in small amounts.

The result? A relaxing, fragrant steam that enhances your session. Essential oils, when properly diluted, can safely evaporate with the water, adding a gentle fragrance without damaging the stones or heater. Always dilute essential oils in water before adding them to the stones. Directly pouring oils onto the stones can cause them to burn, creating an unpleasant smell and potentially damaging the sauna equipment.

Herbal Infusions (Used Sparingly)

Herbal infusions can add a touch of natural goodness to your sauna session. You can create an herbal mixture by steeping herbs like chamomile, mint, or rosemary in hot water, then straining the liquid and adding it to the stones.

The result is a subtle, earthy aroma that complements the sauna experience. Herbs, when infused in water, release gentle aromas without adding harmful chemicals to the sauna. As long as you strain the herbs and only add the liquid, you’re in the clear. Keep it light. Too many herbs can create an overpowering scent, and the oils from the plants can leave residue on the stones over time.

What You Cannot Put on Sauna Stones

Undiluted Essential Oils

While essential oils can enhance your sauna experience when used correctly, pouring them directly onto the stones is a big no-no. Undiluted essential oils are highly concentrated and can burn when exposed to high heat. This not only creates a harsh, unpleasant odor but can also damage the stones and heater.

• Why it’s a problem: Undiluted oils don’t evaporate cleanly like water; instead, they can burn and leave sticky residue on the stones, reducing their effectiveness. They can also be a fire hazard.
• Tip: Always dilute essential oils in water first, and use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the sauna with too much fragrance.

Alcohol or Alcohol-Based Liquids

It might sound tempting to experiment with alcohol-based liquids in your sauna—after all, what’s better than a little relaxation and indulgence? But resist the urge! Pouring alcohol onto sauna stones can be extremely dangerous. Alcohol is highly flammable and can ignite when exposed to high heat, posing a serious fire risk.

• Why it’s a problem: Alcohol evaporates quickly and, when exposed to extreme heat, can easily catch fire. It’s a significant safety hazard and should never be used on sauna stones.
• Tip: Keep all alcohol far away from your sauna, and stick to water-based liquids for creating steam.

Food or Beverages

While a sauna session can feel like a personal spa day, it’s not the time or place for food or beverages on the stones. Pouring juice, soda, or even tea onto sauna stones might sound like a fun experiment, but it can cause a sticky mess and release unwanted odors.

• Why it’s a problem: Sugary or acidic liquids can create a sticky residue on the stones, which is difficult to clean and can reduce the effectiveness of your heater. Plus, the smell of burning sugar or other foods isn’t exactly spa-like.
• Tip: Keep your snacks outside the sauna, and stick to water and sauna-safe essential oils for steam.

Non-Sauna-Safe Cleaning Products

If you’re tempted to freshen up your sauna stones with a bit of cleaning spray, think again. Most household cleaning products contain chemicals that are not designed to be exposed to high heat. When poured onto hot stones, these chemicals can release toxic fumes, which can be harmful to breathe in.

• Why it’s a problem: The heat of the sauna can cause cleaning products to break down and release chemicals into the air, turning your relaxing sauna session into a toxic experience.
• Tip: Clean your sauna stones with water only, and replace them if they become too dirty or cracked. Avoid using any harsh chemicals inside the sauna.

Best Practices for Maintaining Your Sauna Stones

Now that you know what you can and cannot put on your sauna stones, let’s talk about how to keep them in top shape. Proper care and maintenance will ensure your sauna stones last longer and continue to provide the perfect steam.

• Clean the Stones Regularly: Over time, minerals from water and residues from essential oils can build up on your sauna stones, reducing their effectiveness. Clean the stones periodically by scrubbing them with a brush and warm water. Avoid using any chemical cleaners.
• Rotate the Stones: To ensure even wear, it’s a good idea to rotate your sauna stones every few months. This helps prevent uneven heating and prolongs the life of the stones.
• Replace Damaged Stones: If you notice any stones that are cracked or crumbling, it’s time to replace them. Damaged stones can cause uneven heating and may even damage your heater if left unchecked.
• Use High-Quality Stones: Not all sauna stones are created equal. Invest in high-quality stones that are designed for sauna use. These stones are typically made from igneous rock, which can withstand high temperatures without breaking down.

Safety Tips for Using Sauna Stones

• Stay Safe with Steam: When adding water (or water mixed with essential oils) to the stones, do so slowly and carefully. The steam that rises from the stones can be extremely hot, so make sure to pour from a safe distance to avoid burns.
• Keep Flammables Out: Never add flammable substances like alcohol to the stones. Keep any flammable materials far away from the sauna to reduce fire risks.
• Know When to Cool Down: If the sauna feels too hot or the steam too intense, step out and cool down. Listen to your body, and avoid adding more water if you’re already feeling overheated

Sauna stones are the heart of your sauna experience, so treating them right is key to enjoying the perfect steam every time. Stick with water, sauna-safe essential oils, and light herbal infusions for a safe and enjoyable sauna session.

And remember, what you don’t put on the stones is just as important as what you do! So, stick to water, sauna-safe scents, and natural infusions for a steam session that’s smooth, safe, and oh-so-soothing. Keep your sauna fresh, your stones happy, and your experience pure bliss!