A gym sauna is a shared, high-heat environment designed for post-workout relaxation and recovery. Attire and behavior in a public gym setting are governed by modesty, safety, and hygiene standards. What you wear must prioritize adhering to facility policies, ensuring personal comfort, and preventing contamination of the shared space. Preparation involves selecting appropriate coverings and bringing specific accessories to optimize the experience.
Essential Garments and Coverage
Minimum required clothing in a co-ed gym sauna is determined by modesty and respect for fellow patrons. Nudity is almost universally prohibited in mixed-gender, public gym facilities. Acceptable coverings must fully obscure private areas. Appropriate options include a clean swimsuit, dedicated gym shorts, or an athletic wrap. Many users opt for a large towel or a designated sauna robe, wrapped securely for full coverage. Any garment must be clean and not the same attire worn during a sweaty workout, as this transfers bacteria into the sauna cabin. Street clothes are generally inappropriate for the hygienic environment.
Why Fabric Choice Matters
The high temperatures inside a sauna make the choice of fabric important. Synthetic materials common in activewear, such as polyester, spandex, and nylon, are problematic. These fabrics trap heat against the skin, hindering the body’s natural cooling mechanism and potentially leading to overheating.
Furthermore, extreme heat can cause chemical off-gassing and material degradation. Some synthetic fibers can break down, potentially releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Certain plastics may melt or become hot enough to irritate the skin. The preferred choice is natural, loose-fitting material like cotton or linen, which are breathable and allow the skin to sweat and cool effectively.
Mandatory Safety and Hygiene Items
Several non-clothing items are mandatory to ensure the safety and hygiene of a shared sauna space. Users should ideally bring two towels.
The first towel, often referred to as a bench towel, must be spread completely over the wooden bench where you sit or lie down. This practice absorbs sweat and oils, protecting the wood from staining and preventing the transfer of bacteria to other users.
The second towel is for personal use, such as patting down sweat or using as a wrap when moving. Waterproof footwear, such as rubber flip-flops or sandals, is another requirement.
These prevent slipping on wet tile floors and protect the feet from fungal infections. Finally, a water bottle is necessary for hydration, as intense sweating rapidly depletes the body’s water reserves.
Items to Leave Outside the Sauna
Certain items must be left in a locker because they pose a safety risk or are susceptible to heat damage. Any metal object, including jewelry and watches, can rapidly absorb heat and become hot enough to cause burns.
Electronic devices, such as cell phones and fitness trackers, are not designed to withstand high temperatures and humidity, which can lead to internal damage or battery failure. Eyeglasses with plastic frames can warp, and the heat can dry out contact lenses, causing eye irritation.
Users should also avoid applying heavy lotions, perfumes, or strong deodorants before entering. These substances can become overwhelming when volatilized by the heat, creating an unpleasant environment for others.