Do you need flip flops for sauna?

Author: Ryley Reynolds DVM  |  Last update: Thursday, January 15, 2026

Make sure to bring flip-flops with you, and wear them the moment you pull off your gym socks. They should be worn when walking to and from the pool and even in the sauna and shower. Carpeted areas in a locker room are also never completely free from the risks of Athlete's Foot.

Should I wear flip-flops in the sauna?

Flip-Flops or Shower Sandals. Although some people prefer not to wear footwear when in the sauna, it's not a good idea to do so. That's because saunas' floors are full of germs in most cases. Therefore, wearing a pair of shower sandals or flip-flops in the sauna can provide considerable protection.

What to wear on your feet in a sauna?

Footwear: Typically, you'll be barefoot inside the sauna. However, you might want to wear sandals or flip-flops in the common areas leading to the sauna. Avoid Tight or Heavy Clothing: Loose-fitting, breathable fabrics are best if you choose to wear clothing. Avoid heavy or tight materials that can trap heat.

Can I go barefoot in the sauna?

To maintain a clean and effective sauna environment, it's best to not wear shoes inside the sauna.

What are you supposed to wear in a sauna?

Typically, sauna-goers are encouraged to wear minimal clothing, such as a bathing suit or towel, to allow the skin to breathe and sweat freely, facilitating the body's natural cooling process. Wearing natural fibers like cotton can be more comfortable and less irritating to the skin compared to synthetic materials.

What to Wear in the Sauna?

What is proper sauna etiquette?

Respect Personal Space

Do: Choose a spot that's a comfortable distance from others. If the sauna is particularly crowded, it's okay to sit closer, but always be conscious of personal boundaries. Don't: Engage in prolonged eye contact or stare. A sauna is a shared space, and it's important to respect everyone's privacy.

Can I take my phone in the sauna?

The short answer is that it's generally not recommended to bring your phone into a sauna. The high temperatures and humidity levels can cause damage to your phone's internal components, and the risk of overheating or even explosion is not worth the convenience of having your phone with you.

Why are there no shoes in the sauna?

Footwear. When it comes to footwear in the sauna, remember this golden rule: no outdoor shoes are allowed. They can bring in dirt and germs that nobody wants in this clean, calming haven.

Can I take AirPods in the sauna?

Don't swim with or otherwise submerge your AirPods. Don't put AirPods in the washing machine or dryer. Don't wear AirPods in a sauna or steam room. Don't expose AirPods to high-velocity water, such as while water skiing.

Should I wear flip-flops in a gym shower?

Wear Flip-Flops

To prevent infections like athlete's foot or warts, always wear flip-flops in the shower. This simple precaution is one of the most effective ways to maintain personal hygiene.

Why do people put their legs up in the sauna?

Raising your legs against the wall of your sauna helps flow stagnant blood that has been pooling in your lower legs and feet. Doing so for 5-10 minutes will help detox the legs, take the puffiness away, and help slim your legs.

Should I shower after a sauna?

STAGE TWO COOLING DOWN

According to the classic Finnish method, there is a short bath in ice-cold water, which can be replaced by a shower in cold or lukewarm water, waiting at least two minutes after leaving the sauna.

How do you wear your hair in a sauna?

Wear a sauna hat to reduce the heat exposure to your hair

By keeping your hair in a good quality sauna hat, you can reduce its exposure to the high temperatures. If you don't have a hat available, a towel will do the trick too.

What shoes to wear in a sauna?

Avoid wearing shoes in the sauna. Not only are they going to trek in outside dirt, but it's also considered rude, especially if you place them directly on the bench. By all means, wear shower shoes around the spa area to avoid slipping on the tiles, but leave those shoes outside the sauna door!

What's the healthiest time to sit in a sauna?

When is the Best Time to Use a Sauna to Maximise the Benefits?
  • morning sauna: Kickstart your day with a heat boost. ...
  • Pre-Workout Sauna: Loosen Up and Prevent Injury. ...
  • Post-Workout Sauna: Enhance Muscle Recovery and Relaxation. ...
  • Evening Sauna: Wind Down and Improve Sleep Quality. ...
  • Sauna for Cardiovascular Health: Timing Matters.

Is it OK to wear flip-flops?

“While flip-flops are perfectly fine – and far better than going barefoot – in a number of settings, they do have some drawbacks,” said Christina S. Long, DPM, a podiatrist and instructor in orthopaedic services at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. “They really don't offer too much support or protection.

Can an iPhone survive a sauna?

The short answer is that while you can physically bring your phone into a sauna, it is not the best idea. High temperatures and humidity in traditional and infrared saunas can pose risks to electronic devices. Electronic devices like phones are not designed to withstand extreme heat and moisture​​.

What to wear to a sauna?

Comfort is essential in a sauna, therefore lightweight, breathable textiles such as cotton or linen are perfect. These materials improve heat regulation and prevent overheating, keeping you comfortable during your exercise.

Can I wear flip-flops in a sauna?

Make sure to bring flip-flops with you, and wear them the moment you pull off your gym socks. They should be worn when walking to and from the pool and even in the sauna and shower.

Is it OK to be shirtless in sauna?

If you do not care about conventions, strip down and let every part of your body enjoy the high temperatures and resulting sweating. Of course, if you have your sauna at home, you do not have to worry about clothing either. In this case, you can enjoy the benefits of a sauna even naked.

Does sauna burn calories?

A 2019 study revealed that four 10-minute sauna sessions, interspersed with 5-minute cooldowns, led to a loss of 0.65 kg, primarily from water loss. An average of 73-134 calories burned in the sauna for 10 minutes was recorded, totaling a minimum of around 200 calories burned in an infrared sauna over 30 minutes.

Can you listen to music in a sauna?

Audio in the sauna creates that next level experience. Whether it is the sauna or steam room at your home or in a wellness center. Listening to a relaxing playlist, nature sounds, singing whales or an interesting podcast provides even more relaxation.

Is it better to go to the sauna before or after a workout?

Still, if you do want to hop in the sauna before or after a workout, experts typically suggest doing so afterward. In some cases, a pre-workout sauna might alleviate a little joint or muscle stiffness before exercise, but preliminary studies point to greater recovery benefits from post-exercise saunas.

Can I bring a book in the sauna?

- Don't take any phones or books into the sauna!

The heat and humidity could fry your phone's electronics, as well as warp the pages and spine of the unlucky book you bring in.

Previous article
Does running fast help you lose weight?
Next article
Do hairy men have higher testosterone?