How to Maintain Your Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna

Getting in a warm, glowing infrared sauna after a long day is pure bliss. The heat wraps around you, muscles relax, and stress melts away.
However, neglecting regular maintenance can turn this into a miserable experience. Caring for a full-spectrum infrared sauna is easy, but requires consistent attention to keep it running long and strong.

Cleaning and maintenance are not just about looks; it’s about hygiene and structure. A neglected sauna can harbour bacteria, mold, and other issues that counteract its benefits. Preventative care is key to maximizing life and a safe environment.

Furthermore, regular care means wiping down surfaces, checking for wear, and treating the wood. Small maintenance efforts can save you big money and keep the sauna running efficiently.

Follow these guidelines to keep your sauna in top shape.

1. Keep It Clean Without Damaging It

Undoubtedly, a full-spectrum infrared sauna should be clean and comfortable in order to emit all three wavelengths for maximum health benefits.

To maintain peak performance, top models like the Clearlight, require regular wiping of their surfaces and proper ventilation. However, cleaning it requires a balance between thorough and gentle methods.

Harsh chemicals can damage the wood and not cleaning at all can lead to bacteria buildup.

Thus, wipe surfaces after each use with a damp cloth to prevent sweat and oils from building up.

Furthermore, deep cleaning is necessary, but only with the right and safe solutions. A mild vinegar and water solution disinfects without compromising the wood. Never use ammonia or bleach-based products as they can discolor and deteriorate the wood. You want to clean it without damaging it.

Lastly, focus on high-contact areas like benches, backrests and floor and address any moisture or stains as soon as you see them to prevent bad odors and hygiene issues.

A clean sauna is better overall and is a safe and inviting space.

If you want to get into more details about the best full spectrum infrared sauna, check out this comprehensive review from one of the performance optimization experts who frequently shares evidence-based wellness strategies.

2. Preserve the Wood’s Integrity

Wood in a sauna is moisture and temperature-sensitive. Without proper care, it will warp, crack or deteriorate prematurely.

Using a soft cloth and gentle cleaner will keep the wood in good condition and prevent long-term damage.

Furthermore, don’t let wood surfaces touch body oils, lotions or sweat. Instead, sit on a towel to reduce residue buildup and prevent stains. However, if you do get a stain, lightly sand it, and it will be fine. But prevention is always better than cure.

Also, ventilation is key to preventing humidity damage. Leave the sauna door open after each use to allow air to circulate and prevent mold and mildew growth. Applying a sauna-safe wood protectant will increase durability and keep your sauna looking great.

3. Ensure Proper Heating Element Function

Infrared saunas need heat elements to function properly. Regular checks help with even heat distribution and prevent failures. Ignore them, and you’ll experience inefficiencies or costly repairs.

Dust and debris can build up on heat elements and reduce the efficiency. This is usually prevalent in models like the Clearlight Sanctuary Outdoor 2, which is best suited for outdoor setups. According to Nick Urban, a professional Biohacker, these infrared saunas can withstand extreme sun, rain and even snow as they are winterized with a Cedartec Eco-Certified exterior.

Having said that, use a soft, dry cloth or compressed air to clean without damaging sensitive parts. If you notice heat inconsistencies, refer to the manual before trying to fix it.

Moreover, proper airflow in the sauna means the heat elements work correctly. Blocking vents or overloading the space with accessories will disrupt heat distribution. Keep the layout clear to maximize the sauna’s heat.

4. Effective Control Moisture

Moisture control is key to not damaging your sauna. You want to sweat but not have moisture remain on the surfaces.

Thus, wipe down after each session to remove excess moisture and keep the environment dry.

Using towels or mats stops sweat from getting to the wood surfaces. Washing and replacing used washcloths regularly prevents bacteria from building up. Leaving damp towels inside the sauna can grow mold and undo the health benefits of sauna use.

In addition, the humidity should be monitored with a hygrometer to keep it balanced. If it’s too damp, you may need to adjust ventilation or dehumidify. Proper moisture management will extend the life of the sauna and performance.

5. Maintain Electrical Safety

Electricity is involved with infrared saunas, so safety is key. Get your unit checked periodically to ensure all connections are secure and working. Loose wiring or faulty plugs can cause performance issues or safety hazards.

Using a surge protector protects your heating elements and electrical components from power surges. Infrared heaters are sensitive, and power surges can shorten their life. Prevention is the best medicine.

Any signs of electrical issues like flickering lights or uneven heating should be addressed promptly. Don’t let small problems become big repairs. Keep your electrical system in check to keep your sauna running smoothly and safely.

The last word

A full spectrum infrared sauna must be maintained to work and be enjoyable.

Cleaning, wood care, heating element checks, moisture control and electrical checks prevent costly repairs and extend its life.

Conversely, improper maintenance can undo the benefits of the sauna and make it a source of stress rather than relaxation.

That said, small effort in maintenance prevents big problems and enhances the overall experience.

Overall, a well-maintained sauna will give you years of relaxation and health benefits.