Buying Guides
Best Sauna Accessories for Beginners (2025)
Updated January 2025 · 8 min read
Your sauna kit arrives and you're ready to go but you're missing a few things that make the difference between a good session and a great one. Here's the starter kit every sauna owner should have, in priority order.
The Beginner Starter Kit (~$120 total)
- 1. Cedar bucket + ladle (~$35)
- 2. Thermometer + hygrometer (~$25)
- 3. Sand timer (~$18)
- 4. Cedar headrests (~$29)
- 5. Eucalyptus scent concentrate (~$22)
These five items cover everything you need for day one. Add more over time.
Essential
Sauna Bucket & Ladle Set (Cedar)
You need a bucket and ladle to pour water on the rocks for steam. Cedar doesn't absorb odors and looks great. Don't skip this.
Sauna Thermometer & Hygrometer
Know your heat and humidity. Essential for getting the temperature right and safe for guests who aren't used to high heat.
Sauna Sand Timer (15-min)
The traditional way to time your rounds. 15 minutes is the standard. Simple, elegant, no electronics to sweat on.
Comfort
Cedar Sauna Headrest (2-pack)
Lie back properly without craning your neck. Cedar headrests stay cool, resist moisture, and smell amazing.
Sauna Back Rest (Cedar)
Keeps your back off the hot wall. Makes longer sessions much more comfortable.
Sauna Bench Cushion Set
Premium cotton sauna cushions for the bench and backrest. Washable, mold-resistant, and dramatically more comfortable for long sessions.
Health & Wellness
Eucalyptus Sauna Scent Concentrate
A few drops in your sauna bucket transforms the experience. Eucalyptus opens airways and adds a spa-like atmosphere.
Birch Sauna Whisk (Vihta)
Traditional Finnish vihta (birch whisk) for beating improves circulation and exfoliates skin. Soak in hot water before use.
Safety & Maintenance
Sauna Wood Cleaner & Protector
Cleans and protects cedar benches without harsh chemicals. Extend the life of your interior wood significantly.
Sauna Light (LED, waterproof)
Waterproof LED sauna light that handles high heat and humidity. Replaces dim incandescent bulbs and sets a much better mood.
What You Don't Need (Yet)
Save money on your first year by skipping these until you know you'll use them:
- Expensive sauna hat a cheap wool hat from a thrift store works fine
- Sauna infusion oils regular eucalyptus concentrate does the same thing for less
- Smart controls schedule via a simple timer outlet if your heater doesn't have one
- Cold plunge tub start with a cold shower; get the tub once you're hooked
Still Shopping for a Sauna?
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