Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL QUESTIONS
How do I use Sauna Seal Sauna Oils and Waxes?
Detailed instructions can be found here.
Should I clean my sauna before using Sauna Wood Oil or Wax?
Yes, it is best to thoroughly clean wood surface to remove stains, body oils and dirt before apply Sauna Seal products. Detailed cleaning instructions can be found here.
What is the difference between wood oil and wood wax?
The main difference is the addition of wax.
Pure sauna wood oil provides great general protection throughout the sauna. Sauna wood oil penetrates deeply into the wood fibers to condition the wood.
Sauna Seal’s Sauna Wax and Sauna Bench Wax are best for areas like benches, back rests & door handles that are more likely to get dirty or direct water contact. The natural waxes provide an additional water repellent layer.
Do your products contain fragrance?
No, we believe the pure natural wood smell in a sauna is all that is needed, why ruin it? Also, essential oils are considered VOC’s which many people are sensitive to, so when formulating our products, we believe pure is best.
What is mineral oil?
Mineral oil is a high purity, refined oil made from petroleum that is clear, odorless and tasteless. It is used in a variety of industries such as food, skincare and pharmaceutical.
Mineral oil may also be referred to as paraffin oil (common in Finland and used by Harvia), or white oil.
Some common products that contain mineral oil are:
Baby oil
Lotions and skin creams
Cosmetics
Food safe lubricants
Why is Vitamin E Added?
Vitamin E is a great natural antioxidant that stabilizes oil and wax, extending the shelf life.
How often do I need to reapply Sauna Wood Oil or Wax?
This depends on how often the sauna is used and cleaned. Cleaning is essential, but cleaning products will remove oils and waxes from the surface over time.
Are your products safe for all types of wood?
Yes, Sauna Seal products work great for all wood types if they have not been previously sealed with a paint or hard curing sealer such as varnish. Since the oil and wax absorbs into the wood fibers; the wood must be raw and porous.
Will Sauna Oils and Waxes change the color of wood?
Our products enhance the natural color of the wood so depending on the wood species, wood color may change sightly. The appearance will be similar to when the wood is wet. Typically, white woods such as pine or spruce will have enhanced grain and matte finish with little color change. However, a colored wood such as cedar may darken, bringing out rich wood tones. It is best to test the product in an inconspicuous place such as the underside of a bench before use.
Sauna Wood Wax and Bench Wax contain natural waxes that can darken when heated above 185F.
Can your products be used in both traditional and infrared saunas?
Yes, sauna wood oil and waxes are designed for use in both traditional and infrared saunas. When using Sauna Seal Wood Oil in wood fired or electric saunas, we do not advise applying near the stove or chimney as temperatures above 300F can cause the oil to vaporize. This typically isn't an issue as saunas should not be that hot, except for the heater or stove themselves.
Due to the wax content in Sauna Seal Wood Wax and Bench Wax, these products should only be used in areas where temperatures do not exceed 185F or the wax may darken over time. Typically benches and lower areas will be cooler (and cooler than air temperature), so this is rarely an issue.
Will my sauna smoke after using Sauna Wood Oil or Wood Wax?
No, Sauna Seal products will not smoke when treated wood is exposed to normal sauna conditions.
If the product does developed smoke, turn off the heat source and ventilate the sauna. This indicates that a treated surface is overheating (300°F+), causing the oil to vaporize and burn when it reaches the stove.
These conditions would only be present when a sauna has not been built using proper clearances and indicates an existing fire hazard.
In some cases, oil or wax may have accidently dripped on the stove or stones. In this case, it's best to clean up drips before sauna use.
Do I need to wear gloves when applying Sauna Wood Oil and Wax?
No, our products are skin (and butt) safe, so gloves are not required. All ingredients are used in the cosmetics and food industry, so they are safe! However, it may make cleaning up easier.
How much will one bottle cover?
It varies depending on the wood type, thickness of application and the product.
- A 16oz bottle of sauna oil or liquid wax will cover approximately 50-60sq ft.
- An 8oz jar of bench wax will cover 75sq ft.
Orders & Shipping
When Is Customer Service Available?
Anytime, just send us a message in the contact form here and we will respond as soon as possible!
Where does my order ship from?
All orders are shipped from Iowa via standard ground shipping unless an expedited service is selected. Processing typically takes 1-2 business days, and transit times range from 1-7 business days, depending on your location.
What is your return policy?
We are confident that you will love our products, but if you are unhappy for any reason, reach out and we will make it right! Our return policy can be found here.