Sauna Attire: What to Wear in a Sauna and Why It Matters
When you step into a sauna, a heated room designed for relaxation and detoxification through dry or wet heat. Also known as a steam room, it’s a core part of many spa rituals in Dubai—from traditional hammams to modern wellness centers. But before you hop in, one simple question trips up most first-timers: What should you wear?
The answer isn’t just about modesty—it’s about safety, hygiene, and how well your body responds to heat. Wearing the wrong thing can trap sweat, block pores, or even cause burns. Most Dubai spas expect you to go bare or wear a towel, but some allow lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Synthetic materials? Avoid them. They melt under high heat, stick to skin, and can trigger irritation. Even a swimsuit made of polyester or spandex can become a problem. The best sauna attire, the clothing or covering worn during a sauna session to ensure comfort and safety is nothing at all—or just a clean, loose towel wrapped around you. This lets your skin breathe, sweat freely, and absorb the full benefits of the heat.
But here’s the thing: not everyone feels comfortable naked. That’s okay. Many people, especially in mixed-gender settings, opt for a towel or a simple cotton robe. The key is material and fit. If you must wear something, pick something thin, natural, and loose. No tight underwear. No leggings. No workout gear. And never, ever wear shoes or flip-flops inside the sauna—they bring dirt, bacteria, and disrupt the clean environment. Sauna etiquette, the unwritten rules of behavior and dress in a shared heat space is about respect—for yourself, for others, and for the space. That means no strong perfumes, no loud talking, and no lingering too long if others are waiting. In Dubai’s high-end spas, you’ll often find separate sessions for men and women, making attire rules clearer and more relaxed.
And what about after? Don’t rush out. Cool down slowly. Drink water. Some people grab a cold shower, others prefer a quiet rest. If you’re thinking about coffee after the sauna, you’re not alone—many do it. But that’s a whole other conversation. Right now, focus on getting the basics right. Your sauna clothing, the specific garments chosen for use in a heated environment doesn’t need to be fancy. It just needs to be simple, clean, and safe.
Below, you’ll find real advice from people who’ve been there—what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid common mistakes in Dubai’s busy spa scene. Whether you’re new to saunas or just unsure about the rules, these posts give you the straight talk you need.
