Why is it important to take a towel with you to the sauna?
A towel is an indispensable utensil for every sauna visitor. Most sauna operators make a point of having their guests bring a towel to place on the bench or wood they are sitting or lying on. But why is this actually so important? One of the most important reasons why a towel is indispensable in the sauna is hygiene. The human body sweats profusely in the sauna, and the resulting moisture can lead to unpleasant odors and bacterial growth.
By placing a towel on the bench or wood, you prevent sweat from penetrating the material and bacteria from forming. In this way, the risk of infections that can occur when using public saunas is minimized. In addition to hygiene, comfort also plays an important role. A towel can help you feel more comfortable in the sauna. Sitting or lying on a towel is more comfortable and softer than sitting on the wood or bench.
And after the sauna? Then a shower is a must! This is the only way to make sure you don’t take germs and bacteria home with you. So, always remember: without a towel in the sauna? An absolute no-go!
What are the consequences of not using a towel in the sauna?
Using a towel in the sauna is not only a matter of politeness, but also of hygiene. If someone sits down in the sauna without a towel, it can have serious consequences. Here are some of the possible risks of not having a towel in the sauna:
- Spread of bacteria and diseases: Without a towel on the bench, bacteria and pathogens can easily be transferred from one person to another. When someone sits on the bench without a towel, they leave sweat and body fluids on the bench, which can then be picked up by others. This can easily transmit diseases such as fungal infections and skin rashes.
- Skin irritations and burns: If someone sits on the bench without a towel, their skin can overheat, causing skin irritation and even burns. The towel protects the skin from direct contact with the hot bench, absorbing sweat and cooling the skin.
- Odor: If there is no towel on the sauna bench, sweat and body fluids can remain on the bench and cause unpleasant odors. A towel helps soak up the sweat and prevents unpleasant odors from developing.
- Unpleasant experience for other sauna visitors: the absence of a towel in the sauna can also be unpleasant for other sauna visitors. If someone is sitting on the bench without a towel, it can be perceived as rude and unsanitary, which can detract from the overall sauna experience for everyone.
What are the alternatives for sauna-goers without a towel?
Entering a sauna without a towel is unsanitary and is not allowed by most sauna operators. But what if you forget your towel? There are some alternatives for sauna visitors who do not have a towel with them.
- Sauna textiles: Some saunas also offer special sauna textiles such as sauna kilts or sauna towels that can be borrowed by visitors. These textiles are made of a special material that dries quickly and is absorbent, making for a comfortable sauna experience.
- Seat cushions: Another alternative is seat cushions, which are also offered by some saunas. These seat cushions are made of a material that absorbs sweat well, allowing for hygienic sitting on the sauna bench.
- Bring your own: If you don’t want to rent a sauna towel, you can also bring your own, shower towel from home. However, make sure the towel is made of a material suitable for the sauna and is large enough to cover both the sauna bench and your body.
Conclusion: why you should definitely take a towel with you
You may think that a towel in the sauna is just a nice accessory, but it is much more than that. A towel is an absolute must when you go to the sauna. And why? Because it is not only more hygienic, but also safer. If you don’t have a towel, you will have to sit on the bare wooden benches where many other people have sweated. This is not only unhygienic, but also dangerous. A towel will protect you from bacteria and prevent you from slipping on the slippery benches. Besides, it is much more comfortable to sit on a soft towel than on a hard wooden board. So remember: when you go to the sauna, be sure to take a towel with you!
