Doing löyly the right way
Löyly technique, etiquette, and what good löyly should feel like — plus the rule on essential oils.
Löyly is the Finnish word for the steam released when water is poured on hot sauna stones. It's the central ritual of traditional sauna use and the basis of the longevity research on traditional sauna.
How to do löyly
- Heat your sauna to your target temperature (most users start at 175°F / 80°C and work up)
- Fill the wooden bucket with cool water (don't use hot water; cool water makes better steam)
- Use the wooden ladle to scoop a small amount of water (about 1/4 cup, no more)
- Pour the water gently onto the top of the stone pile, in the center
- The steam will rise immediately. The temperature near the ceiling will spike, then settle.
- Wait 30 to 60 seconds before the next pour
Löyly etiquette
- Ask others in the sauna before you pour. Some people prefer dry heat; pouring without asking is considered rude in Finnish sauna culture.
- Don't overdo it. Three to five small pours per session is typical. Excessive löyly is uncomfortable and not more beneficial.
- Use clean water. Tap water is fine in most areas. If you have very hard water, mineral buildup on stones is more pronounced; consider filtered or distilled water occasionally.
- What löyly should feel like
- Done well, löyly produces a warm, soft heat wave that wraps around you. The temperature rise lasts a few minutes, then settles back. The humidity makes the heat feel more intense even if the actual temperature doesn't change much.
- If löyly feels harsh or stinging
- You may be pouring too much water at once, or pouring on stones that aren't hot enough. Wait for the heater to recover, then try a smaller pour.