What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna

The simple rule for any sauna is: let your skin breathe and sweat. What you wear changes only with where you are and who else is around.

What should you wear at home?

In your own infrared sauna, less is more. Most owners go nude or sit on a clean 100% cotton towel, with a second towel underneath. Bare skin lets you sweat freely and rinse off afterward, and the towel keeps the bench clean and absorbs sweat. That is the whole system.

What should you wear in a public infrared sauna?

In a gym, spa or studio, cover up to what the venue requires, usually a towel, a swimsuit, or loose lightweight cotton. Always sit on your own towel for hygiene. A clean cotton T-shirt and shorts are fine if you would rather stay covered; just keep them loose so heat and sweat are not trapped against your skin.

What fabrics work best?

• Best: 100% cotton (towel, light tee, loose shorts), breathable and sweat-absorbing.
• Okay: linen and other natural fibers.
• Avoid: polyester, nylon and other synthetics. They trap heat against the skin, can hold odor, and feel clammy as you sweat.

What should you take off?

Remove jewelry, watches, rings and metal accessories, metal heats up and can become uncomfortable. Take off makeup so pores can clear, and leave your phone outside (heat is hard on batteries and screens). Glasses are fine but may fog and warm up.

Does it differ for men and women?

Not really, the principles are identical. At home, comfort and hygiene decide. In public, follow the venue's dress code and always use a towel barrier. Choose whatever lets you relax and sweat without overheating fabric against your skin.