A steam room is an enclosed space that uses a steam generator to create an atmosphere of high heat and near 100% humidity, with temperatures typically ranging between 110°F and 120°F. This environment promotes sweating and offers benefits like improved circulation and muscle relaxation. Proper attire is important for personal comfort, modesty, and maintaining the hygiene and safety of the shared space. Understanding what to wear ensures the best experience while respecting facility etiquette.
Acceptable Core Attire
The primary clothing worn in a steam room must be minimal and made from suitable materials to allow the body to breathe and sweat efficiently. For most public facilities, swimwear is the standard and most widely accepted form of attire. Opt for a simple bathing suit or swim trunks without excessive ornamentation or metal components.
Many facilities also permit the use of a clean, wrapped towel as the main form of covering, especially in spa settings. A large, absorbent towel made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo is ideal, as these materials wick moisture and do not restrict airflow. Clothing should be loose, as tight garments can trap heat against the skin, making the session uncomfortable and potentially leading to overheating.
Synthetic fabrics, such as nylon or polyester, should be avoided completely. They do not absorb moisture well and can quickly become sticky and uncomfortable in the high humidity, potentially releasing unpleasant odors or irritating the skin. In public settings, the priority is always on modesty and hygiene for all users.
Essential Safety and Hygiene Items
Footwear is a non-negotiable safety item when moving to and from the steam room, and it should be worn right up to the entrance. Waterproof sandals or flip-flops are necessary to prevent slips on wet, tiled floors. Protective footwear also prevents the transmission of fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, which thrive in the warm, damp environment of communal facilities.
A separate, clean seating towel is required for proper steam room etiquette, regardless of the core attire worn. This towel acts as a hygienic barrier between your skin and the communal seating surface. Placing the towel down before sitting absorbs perspiration, preventing sweat from soaking into the seating and reducing the spread of bacteria and germs to the next user.
The seating towel also provides comfort, as it prevents bare skin from touching surfaces that may be excessively hot. It is best practice to bring two towels: one for sitting on and a second, clean towel for drying off after the session is complete. Showering thoroughly both before and immediately after using the steam room complements these hygienic practices.
What Must Be Removed Before Entering
Any item containing metal must be removed before entering the steam room due to the risk of thermal burns. Metal is an excellent conductor of heat and quickly absorbs the high ambient temperature. Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and metal components on swimwear can become hot enough to cause immediate and severe skin burns.
The intense heat can also cause damage to the items themselves, as certain metals like sterling silver can tarnish rapidly in the humid environment. Watches, especially smartwatches and fitness trackers, should also be left outside. The combination of high humidity and heat can compromise their internal electronic components and seals, potentially leading to mechanical failure even if the device is rated as waterproof.
Prescription glasses should also be removed, as the sudden change in temperature and high moisture content can cause lenses to fog completely or warp plastic frames. The general rule is to leave all non-essential personal items, electronics, and jewelry in a secure locker to ensure both personal safety and the preservation of your valuables.