Steam Room Etiquette: 12 Rules of Using a Steam Room in Public

When you invest in a fitness club or gym membership that includes access to steam rooms, it's essential to adhere to proper steam room etiquette. Respecting others is a fundamental aspect of this experience. Below are the 12 most important rules of steam room etiquette that every gym-goer should follow. Read on to learn more!

What is Steam Room Etiquette?

Steam room or sauna etiquette pertains to maintaining a polite and respectful environment while having an enjoyable and memorable experience. 

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone, it's important to wear appropriate attire, such as swimwear, and to bring a towel. Additionally, please respect the preferences of others regarding nudity, silence, and personal space. Being mindful of others' comfort is essential. Always use respectful language, and refrain from using profanity inside the steam room.

It is also essential to know that every steam room has its own rules and regulations, so you should familiarize yourself with them before using steam in your gym, for instance.

Steam Room Dress Code: What Do You Wear in a Steam Room?

Before discussing the dos and don’ts, you must also know what to wear in the gym's steam room. There are rules regarding the proper steam room clothing. 

Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing in a steam room, such as a towel, swimwear, or gym shorts. Avoid heavy fabrics, jewelry, or shoes. Likewise, always maintain hygiene by sitting on a towel and checking with the facility for specific rules.

Steam Room Etiquette: 12 Rules of Using Steam Room In Public

Respect for others is essential for great manners, especially in steam rooms. Let's explore the key steam room rules to ensure everyone enjoys a relaxing and pleasant experience!

1. Hygiene is Key

Shower before entering a public stream room. Bring clean towels and washcloths and wear the right swimwear. For now, avoid deodorant and oil on your skin, as they can cause irritation and allergies for other users.

2. Hydration and Health Considerations

Staying hydrated is not only one of the most crucial sauna and steam room regulations, but it should also be a mandatory health practice. Drink water before, during, and after using the steam room to avoid fluid loss. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

3. Entering and Exiting Gracefully 

Using the steam room and seeing other people in there before you do is like sharing a seat with someone inside a fast-food restaurant. Therefore, you must enter and exit quickly yet quietly, mindfully, and respectfully. No, you don’t need to say goodbye to others blatantly, but you must be aware of their presence. 

4. Maintaining a Comfortable Temperature

The temperature inside most steam rooms is set by the staff, and only they have the authority to change the settings. However, if you need the temperature and heat level changed, perhaps because of your specific health condition, ask others if you can, and it is best to seek assistance from the staff. 

5. Minimizing Disruptions

Meanwhile, others love to bring their bubbly side into the steam room. There is nothing wrong with this. But, if you wish to start a conversation with others, avoid loud talking or shouting. You should also refrain from using electronic devices as they may malfunction due to the steam room’s hot and humid environment. 

6. Personal Space and Hygiene

Then, respect others’ personal spaces. You can lie on the bench if you are alone in the steam room. But if others get in, sit up and make room for them. 

Also, avoid coughing and sneezing directly on others. Cover your mouth with your arms. Avoid nudity as much as possible, and cover yourself with a towel. 

7. Relax and Don’t Be Nervous

Inside the steam room, your biggest competition is yourself, not others. Focus on yourself and not on others. Avoid eye contact with others because they will always be strangers inside the steam room. You can start a small talk quietly, but a steam room is never a bar.

8. Rules on Steam Room Doors 

It is odd to hold the door open for the person behind who is entering. Don’t worry; it won’t be a minus point for gentlemanliness simply because it is not your obligation in this scenario. Let them mind their own business. Also, don’t open the door because you think it’s too hot inside.

9. Don’t Be Competitive 

Likewise, a steam room session is not a yoga class, so there should be no competition. Be sure not to body shame others with your shape or figure. Everyone is welcome inside the steam room. 

10. No Perfumes or Scents

Also, don’t spray perfume before using the steam room to impress others. The steam room isn’t the best place to show off your latest cologne or perfume. 

11. Cooling Down Gradually 

Cooling down gradually after a steam room session is crucial to avoid shock to your body. Start with slower movements, drink water, and allow your body temperature to stabilize. Sudden exposure to cold can cause dizziness or other discomforts.

12. Hydration and Aftercare

After a steam room session, replenish fluids immediately to prevent dehydration. Drink water or electrolyte drinks. Follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate your skin, as steam can cause dryness. This helps restore moisture and maintain healthy, smooth skin.

Looking for a High-Quality Steam Room?

Whether you use the steam room in your gym or your at-home steam room, good etiquette must be followed, from pre-session hygiene to aftercare. Steam rooms can be installed at home for use with your loved ones. See the catalog of group steam rooms from GeyserSteam, a worldwide pioneer in remarkable steam rooms. Choose GeyserSteam, and choose wellness. 

Do You Need to Cover Your Hair in the Steam Room?

It's optional. However, wearing a towel or cap can protect your hair from steam damage

Are You Supposed to Wear Clothes in a Steam Room?

Wear minimal clothing, like a towel or swimwear, as per the facility’s guidelines.

Are you supposed to sit on a towel in a steam room?

Yes, sitting on a towel in a steam room ensures hygiene and protects against hot surfaces.