Mildew and mold prevention

Properly maintained traditional saunas don't develop mildew. The conditions that lead to it, prevention practices, and what to do if you notice it.

Properly maintained traditional saunas don't develop mildew or mold. The high temperatures during sessions, the ventilation built into the design, and the after-session drying routine all work against mold growth.

Conditions that can lead to mildew

• Closing the door tightly after a humid session without allowing the cabin to dry
• Trapped moisture under benches or in corners that don't dry between sessions
• Storing damp items inside the cabin (towels, swimsuits, etc.)
• Long periods between sessions during humid weather without any drying ventilation

Prevention practices

• Always crack the door open after a session until the cabin is dry (Section 10.1)
• Don't leave wet towels or items in the cabin between sessions
• During long periods of disuse, run a heat cycle every 1 to 2 weeks if you're in a humid environment
• Verify airflow vents are working properly
• Inspect corners and under-bench areas during your monthly routine

If you notice mildew

• Wipe the area with a 50/50 water and white vinegar solution
• Dry the area completely
• Run a heat cycle to fully dry the wood
• Identify the cause (usually a moisture trap that needs better drying) and address it

Persistent mildew problems are uncommon and may indicate a ventilation issue. Contact our team if you can't resolve it with normal cleaning.