How to Use Sauna Wood Oil and Wax
Protecting your sauna with sauna wood oil (aka paraffin) or wax is a simple yet effective way to ensure its longevity and maintain a clean, inviting space for relaxation. By treating the wood, whether in a traditional or infrared sauna, you nourish the wood fibers and create a barrier against moisture, sweat, and dirt. This not only makes cleaning easier but also prevents these elements from deeply penetrating the wood, ultimately resulting in a more durable sauna that you can enjoy for years to come. This guide will walk you through the straightforward process of using Sauna Seal oils and waxes, offering practical tips to help you achieve a professional-quality finish and reap the long-term benefits of a well-maintained sauna.
Why Use Sauna Oil and Wax?
- Sauna Oil: Ideal for general wood surfaces throughout the sauna, nourishing the wood and providing a protective layer that enhances durability.
- Sauna Wood Wax: Perfect for high-contact areas like benches and backrests, offering added protection against moisture and wear.
- Sauna Bench Wax: Specifically designed for benches, delivering extra water resistance to combat moisture exposure and water marks.
Whether you own a traditional or infrared sauna, these treatments can elevate your sauna’s performance and appearance. Let’s dive into the process.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- Sauna Seal Sauna Cleaner and cleaning supplies
- Fine-grit sandpaper (optional)
- Applicator pad, sponge, or lint-free cloth
- Sauna Seal Sauna Wood Oil, Wax and/or Bench Wax
The preparation process for each product is the same, we want to start with a clean, smooth surface that is completely dry.
Preparation
Clean the Sauna Thoroughly
Start with a clean slate. Use a sauna-friendly cleaner to remove sweat, oils, and dirt from the wood surfaces. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, (especially chlorinated cleaners!) that might leave residues & chemical films or damage the wood.
Sauna Seal Sauna Cleaner, which is designed specifically for saunas using plant based, biodegradable cleaning agents that are non-toxic is the perfect choice for maintaining a safe and health sauna.
Check out How to Clean a Sauna for more detailed instructions.
Lightly Sand the Wood (as needed)
Inspect the wood for rough spots, deep stains, splinters or imperfections. Lightly sand these areas with fine-grit sandpaper or a scouring pad, always working with the grain to avoid cross grain scratches.
Dry the Wood Completely
Moisture is the enemy of a good finish, after all, that is what we are trying to keep out. So, make sure the wood is completely dry before applying any Sauna Seal wax or oil products.
Prepare the Space
If you’re working in a traditional sauna near the stove, cover the stove and rocks to protect them from drips or spills. For infrared sauna, it is best to mask off the panels.
Application of Sauna Wood Oil & Waxes
Tips for Success
- Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure you’re happy with the finish.
- In traditional saunas, avoid applying oil to ceilings or walls near the stove, where surface temperatures may exceed 200F.
- Make sure the wood is completely dry
Applying Sauna Wood Oil & Wax
Whether you are applying sauna wood oil or Sauna Wood Wax, once the proper preparation has been done, the application process is essentially the same. Apply, absorb, heat and buff.
Using an applicator pad, sponge, or lint-free cloth, apply the sauna oil or liquid wax in a light, even coat. Let the oil absorb into the wood for about an hour or until the sheen goes away.
Pay special attention to knots in the wood, as they tend to resist absorption and may need extra wiping to prevent drips.
Once the oil or wax has been absorbed on the surface, heat the sauna to promote further absorption into the wood pours. After about an hour, the oil or wax should be fully absorbed depending on the type of sauna you have and the temperature that it operates. If any oil or wax remains on the surface, buff with a clean cloth.
For added protection to benches read below on how to apply Sauna Seal Bench Wax.
Applying Sauna Bench Wax
For high-contact and water prone areas like benches and backrests that need additional water protection, apply Sauna Seal Bench Wax after applying Sauna Wood Oil or Sauna Wood Wax. This added layer helps repel moisture and reduces water stains, keeping your benches in top condition.
This firm paste requires a bit more effort to apply. Scoop a small amount with an applicator pad or cloth and work it into the bench surface, working it with the wood grain. Try to maintain an even coat. Allow the wax to absorb into the wood for about one hour, then buff off excess.
Again, heating the sauna will promote absorption, just as with the oil. Multiple coats can be applied for added protection if desired.
Ongoing Maintenance
Saunas should be cleaned regularly which may slowly pull the oil from the wood. Reapply oil or wax as needed to maintain protection.