Choosing what to wear in a sauna directly affects how your body sweats and regulates heat. Sweating in synthetic fabrics, whether during workouts or inside a sauna, often works against the body rather than supporting it. Polyester and nylon trap heat, hold odor, and restrict airflow. Plus, you will be sweating in plastic, which isn’t ideal for detoxification. In this guide, we will be looking at some clothing sauna essentials from merino wool swimsuit alternatives, cotton towels and robes, and felt sauna hats.
Many traditional sauna cultures, particularly across Scandinavia and Germany, prioritize minimal or no clothing at all, allowing the skin to breathe freely and sweat naturally. However, coverage with a robe or towel between the saunas is used. Natural fibers such as merino wool, cotton, and linen perform far better in hot environments because they regulate temperature naturally, manage moisture efficiently, and remain comfortable even when damp.
Read more: What a Sauna Does: 7 Benefits for Health, Recovery, and Well Being
Merino wool, in particular, allows sweat to evaporate rather than pool against the skin, helping prevent overheating while remaining soft and odor-resistant. Of course, we have to mention the iconic felted wool sauna hats, which protect the head from excessive heat buildup, too.
Many saunas recommend bringing two towels, one to sit on for hygiene and to protect the bench, and one for drying or showering afterward. If space is limited, a small hand towel or felt sauna seat pad works well as a barrier.
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At a Glance: Sauna Clothing
- Best Merino Performance Short: IBEX Springbok Men’s Merino Wool Athletic Shorts with Pockets
- Best Merino Blend Sports Bra: Icebreaker Merino Blend 125 Cool-Lite Sprite Racerback Bra
- Best Built-In Support Tank: Woolly Women’s Flex Merino Active Tank
- Best Merino Swimsuit Alternative: Women’s Merino Wool Underwear by Woolly
- Best Bikini Fit: Women’s Merino Wool Bikini by Woolly
- Best Merino Wool Sauna Hat: SAUNOM Premium Merino Wool Sauna Hat
- Best 100% Cotton Sauna Towel Wrap: Sauna Guru Towel Wrap for Men / Sauna Guru Towel Wrap for Women
- Best Linen Travel Towel: Pure 100% Linen Bath Towel
- Best 100% Cotton Robe: TowelSelections Men’s Cotton Robe / TowelSelections Women’s Cotton Robe
- Best Hooded Changing Robe: Dryrobe Towel Swim Robe
Merino Wool Sauna Apparel
These IBEX shorts are designed as performance running shorts but work exceptionally well as a sauna-friendly swimwear alternative for men who prefer modest coverage. The built-in merino brief manages moisture naturally and stays comfortable even when wet, allowing sweat to evaporate instead of trapping heat like synthetic liners often do. Merino’s temperature regulation helps prevent overheating during longer sessions, while natural odor resistance supports repeated use when traveling or moving between sauna cycles. The lightweight outer shell dries quickly and avoids excess fabric bunching on sauna benches, making transitions between hot and cold areas easy and comfortable.
Key Specs:
Material: Shell 82% nylon, 18% elastane; lining 83% merino wool, 12% nylon, 5% elastane
Best use: Public sauna sessions, travel, warm environments
Notable feature: Built-in merino brief that stays comfortable when damp
Fit: 5-inch inseam with integrated liner
Sustainability: PFAS-free fabric
This lightweight racerback bra offers breathable coverage for women who prefer a minimal sauna alternative without heavy compression or synthetic cling. The merino and TENCEL blend moves moisture efficiently and remains comfortable when damp, helping the skin cool naturally instead of trapping sweat against the body. The open-back racer design improves airflow in high heat, while flatlock seams minimize friction during longer sessions or when transitioning between sauna, cold plunge, and rest areas. It dries quickly and packs small, making it practical for travel and spa days.
Key Specs:
Material: 40% merino wool, 56% Lyocell, 4% elastane
Best use: Sauna sessions, warm climates, travel
Notable feature: Cool-Lite fabric for moisture control in heat
Support: Light to medium support
Design: Open racerback construction
This merino tank provides more coverage than traditional swimwear while remaining breathable and comfortable in high heat environments. Merino fibers regulate temperature naturally and continue to feel soft even when damp, allowing sweat to evaporate instead of building heat against the skin. The built-in shelf support offers gentle structure without tight compression, making it suitable for relaxed sauna sessions and cooling breaks. Its versatile styling allows it to double as everyday travel wear, reducing the need for extra packing.
Key Specs:
Material: 95% merino wool, 5% elastane
Best use: Sauna sessions, travel, light activity
Notable feature: Built-in shelf support without compression
Fit: Scoop neck tank design
Certification: RWS certified merino wool
This merino bikini offers lightweight coverage while allowing the skin to breathe freely in high heat. The fabric manages moisture naturally and stays comfortable when wet, preventing the sticky feeling often caused by synthetic underwear in saunas. Merino’s odor resistance supports repeated use during travel, and the soft waistband and smooth seams remain comfortable when sitting on wooden benches or sauna mats.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% merino wool
Best use: Sauna sessions, daily wear, travel
Notable feature: Natural moisture management and odor resistance
Fit: Low-rise bikini
Performance: Breathable and temperature-regulating
This classic-cut merino bikini focuses on consistent comfort for sauna use and everyday wear. The fabric regulates temperature naturally and remains soft when damp, supporting healthy sweating without overheating. Gentle stretch maintains shape without compression, while low-profile seams reduce friction during sitting and movement. Odor resistance makes it especially practical for multi-day travel or wellness retreats.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% merino wool
Best use: Sauna sessions, travel, daily layering
Notable feature: Low-profile seams for seated comfort
Fit: Classic bikini cut
Performance: Moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating
These fitted merino boxer shorts provide comfortable coverage for those who prefer a more modest sauna option without heavy fabric. The breathable merino fibers wick moisture efficiently and remain comfortable when damp, helping the body regulate heat naturally. The mid-length fit stays secure when sitting or stretching, making them suitable for longer sauna sessions and recovery periods.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% merino wool
Best use: Sauna sessions, travel, daily wear
Notable feature: Seamless construction for seated comfort
Fit: Mid-length fitted boxer
Performance: Temperature-regulating and breathable
The PetriStor Sauna Hat uses dense natural wool to slow heat buildup during sauna sessions. Instead of trapping heat, the wool allows gradual temperature regulation around the head. This helps reduce early discomfort, especially in longer or hotter saunas. The construction feels substantial without becoming heavy when worn.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% natural wool chosen for steady heat regulation
Construction: Dense wool structure that balances insulation and airflow
Fit: Standard adult sizing with full head coverage
Best Use: Traditional sauna and banya sessions
Notable Feature: Decorative Ukrainian ornament paired with functional thickness
This stylish felted wool hat creates a consistent thermal barrier while maintaining breathability. The firm structure holds shape well across repeated use. An adjustable drawstring keeps the fit secure during movement or repositioning. It performs best in higher heat environments.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% felted wool
Best Use: High heat sauna use
Notable Feature: Firm felt construction
Fit: Adjustable drawstring
Thickness: Approximately 2 to 2.5 mm
This subtle natural wool sauna hat balances insulation with moisture release, making it well suited for humid sauna environments. Handmade construction supports even fiber distribution and long-term comfort. It can be lightly soaked for a gentle cooling effect during intense sessions, supporting temperature regulation without sacrificing breathability.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% natural wool
Best use: Sauna and steam room sessions
Notable feature: Can be soaked for cooling effect
Fit: One size fits most
Construction: Handmade wool build
Sauna Towels
This cotton wrap provides absorbent, secure coverage between sauna sessions and cold plunges. The adjustable closure maintains comfort while moving through spa spaces, and the breathable cotton terry fabric dries efficiently without trapping heat. The large front pocket adds practical storage for small essentials.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% cotton
Best use: Sauna transitions and poolside use
Notable feature: Adjustable secure wrap design with pocket
Fit: Waist wrap structure
Certification: OEKO-TEX certified
This women’s cotton wrap offers the same absorbent coverage and secure fit, supporting easy movement between sauna, showers, and relaxation areas. The breathable cotton fabric manages moisture comfortably while maintaining airflow, and the front pocket provides convenient storage in shared spa environments.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% cotton
Best use: Sauna transitions and poolside use
Notable feature: Adjustable secure wrap design with pocket
Fit: Waist wrap structure
Certification: OEKO-TEX certified
This cotton terry robe works well as a post-sauna recovery layer for drying off, regulating body temperature, and staying warm between heat cycles. The absorbent fabric pulls moisture away from the skin quickly while remaining breathable, preventing chills without trapping heat. The kimono cut allows easy layering in spa and locker environments.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% cotton terry cloth
Best use: Sauna recovery, spa, poolside, gym
Notable feature: Highly absorbent breathable fabric
Design: Kimono-style robe with two pockets
Certification: OEKO-TEX Standard 100
This women’s cotton terry robe provides soft, absorbent coverage after sauna sessions while supporting natural cooling and moisture evaporation. The breathable fabric prevents overheating during rest periods, and the waist tie keeps the fit secure while moving through spa spaces or accommodations.
Key Specs:
Material: 100% cotton terry cloth
Best use: Sauna recovery, spa, travel, poolside
Notable feature: Absorbent towel-style fabric for fast drying
Design: Kimono cut with waist tie and pockets
Certification: OEKO-TEX Standard 100
Dryrobe is iconic when it comes to changing robes and post swim warmth. It is made with organic cotton and the towel poncho provides convenient coverage for changing, drying, and warming up between sauna sessions and cold immersion. Thick cotton toweling absorbs moisture efficiently while remaining breathable, and the hood supports warmth without overheating. The poncho design allows discreet changing without needing a separate towel.
Key Specs:
Material: Organic cotton toweling
Best use: Sauna changing and cold plunge recovery
Notable feature: Hooded poncho design for private changing
Fit: Oversized relaxed cut
Performance: Absorbent and breathable
This oversized Turkish cotton poncho offers lightweight coverage for drying and changing around sauna and pool areas. The breathable cotton fabric absorbs moisture quickly and allows airflow on warm skin, while the hood provides light warmth without trapping heat. Its compact pack size makes it ideal for travel and wellness retreats.
Key Specs:
Material: Turkish cotton
Best use: Sauna changing and travel
Notable feature: Oversized poncho design for easy changing
Fit: Large relaxed sizing with hood
Performance: Lightweight and fast drying
Why Fabric Choice Matters When Sweating in a Sauna
When the body heats up in a sauna, sweat is the primary way it cools itself and releases built-up heat. Fabrics that trap moisture interfere with this process by holding dampness against the skin rather than allowing evaporation. Synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon tend to create a humid microclimate that increases discomfort and can make the body feel hotter than it actually is. This often leads to shorter, less enjoyable sessions and lingering odor in clothing that is difficult to remove.
Natural fibers behave differently under heat. Merino wool, cotton, and linen allow air movement through the fabric while absorbing and releasing moisture gradually. This supports steady temperature regulation rather than sharp spikes in heat or clamminess. When fabrics remain breathable even when damp, skin stays more comfortable and less prone to irritation. Over time, this can improve how consistently and safely the body adapts to sauna use.
In many European sauna traditions, especially in Germany and Finland, it is common to sauna without clothing or with minimal coverage. The goal is unrestricted sweating and airflow across the skin. In modern mixed or public saunas where coverage is required, choosing the right fabric becomes even more important. Lightweight natural fibers provide respectful coverage without compromising the physiological benefits of heat exposure.
Merino wool stands out as one of the best fabric choices because it manages moisture exceptionally well while resisting odor and staying comfortable against the skin. It continues to insulate lightly when wet and does not feel heavy or sticky. Cotton towels and wraps work well for cooling phases and drying, while linen offers fast drying performance for travel. Together, these materials support a balanced, comfortable sauna routine.
Sauna Hats and Head Temperature Regulation
The head heats quickly in a sauna because blood flow increases and heat rises toward the upper body. Without protection, this can shorten sessions due to dizziness, pressure, or general discomfort. Wool sauna hats create a protective buffer that slows heat transfer while still allowing moisture to escape. This helps maintain steadier body comfort during longer or higher temperature sessions.
Felted and natural wool hats regulate temperature through trapped air pockets that provide insulation without sealing in moisture. This keeps the scalp from overheating while allowing sweat vapor to release gradually. Many sauna users find that wearing a hat improves endurance and reduces post-session fatigue, especially in dry or wood-fired saunas where temperatures rise quickly.
Wool hats also remain functional when damp, which is useful in steam rooms or during repeated heating cycles. Some users lightly soak the hat for additional cooling in very hot environments. Adjustable designs improve stability when changing positions on benches or moving between rooms.
Choosing a natural fiber hat supports comfort, durability, and hygiene. Wool naturally resists odor and holds structure over time, making it a practical long-term accessory for frequent sauna use.
FAQs
What is the sauna etiquette in countries such as Scandinavia, Germany, and Austria?
In traditional sauna cultures, minimal or no clothing allows unrestricted sweating and airflow. A swimsuit can disrupt these natural processes, so it is recommended to use the sauna without a swimsuit, and it is compulsory in specific saunas. This makes the session more effective, which means more benefits for both health and skin. In public or mixed spaces where coverage is required, lightweight natural fibers offer a comfortable alternative to get the best benefits.
What is the best swimsuit to wear in a sauna?
Most people wear their swimsuits to the sauna, but if you have the option to switch to a natural fiber due to health benefits to improve detoxification, then merino wool is your best bet. Swim suits are made from synthetic fabrics that trap heat and moisture. This can increase discomfort and odor buildup. Natural fiber alternatives perform better in high heat.
Why is merino wool good for sauna use?
Merino regulates temperature, manages moisture efficiently, and resists odor. It stays comfortable even when damp and supports natural sweating.
How many towels should I bring to a sauna?
Two towels are ideal. One is used to sit on for hygiene and bench protection, and the second is for drying or showering afterward.
Do sauna hats really make a difference?
Yes. Wool sauna hats reduce rapid heat buildup around the head, improving comfort and allowing longer sessions.
