Sauna Accessories

Sauna accessories are the small pieces that make a traditional sauna work the way it should: dense stones that hold heat and throw steady steam, a bucket and ladle for pouring water over them, and a thermometer and hygrometer so you can read the room instead of guessing.

Related: shop sauna heaters and stoves and traditional saunas, or read the traditional sauna buying guide.

Sauna Stones

Stones store the heat your heater produces and release it as steam when you pour water over them, the Finnish tradition called löyly. Olivine gabbro is a popular choice because it is dense, holds heat well, and stands up to repeated heating and cooling. We carry it in standard and rounded forms, each sold in 35 to 38 lb lots. Match the stone size to your heater's manual, since stone size affects airflow through the stone basket. Stones break down over time; replace any that crack or crumble so air keeps moving through the heater.

Sauna Buckets and Ladles

A bucket and ladle let you control how much water hits the stones and how much steam you get. A larger bucket, like our 5-liter aluminum set with bamboo handles, means you can fill it once and pour through a whole session. Pour slowly and onto the stones, not the heater elements, and use only clean water unless your heater's manual allows additives.

Thermometers and Hygrometers

A combined thermometer and hygrometer shows temperature and humidity on one dial, so you can see the effect of each ladle of water and keep sessions consistent. Mount it at head height away from the heater for a reading that reflects where you sit; readings near the floor or right beside the stove will be off.

Accessories by Sauna Type

Stones, buckets, and ladles are made for traditional saunas with an electric heater or wood stove. Infrared saunas have no stones and should not have water poured in them, so these pieces are not used there. A thermometer is useful in both types.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sauna Accessories

How often should I replace sauna stones?

Inspect them at least once a year, or more often with heavy use. Replace any stones that have cracked or crumbled, and follow your heater manufacturer's guidance.

Can I use any rocks in a sauna heater?

No. Use stones made for sauna heaters. Random rocks can crack or split under repeated heating and may not hold heat well.

Where should I mount a sauna thermometer?

At about head height where you sit, away from the heater, so the reading reflects the air you are actually in.