A Guide to Sauna Clothes and Comfort

When it comes to sauna, how you arrive matters. At Takka, we believe in slowing down, paying attention, and preparing with care—even in the small things, like what you choose to wear.

The right clothing supports your body, your comfort, and your ability to fully settle into the moment. Whether you’re stepping into the heat for the first time or finding your rhythm again, this guide offers helpful guidance on what to wear, what to avoid, and how to feel good in your skin while you’re there.

And—we’ll let you in on a little secret. There’s a small Finnish-American brand from Minneapolis we love called Saunamekko. Their garments feel like they were made for this exact moment.

So, What Do You Wear in the Sauna?

It’s one of the first questions people ask—and a good one. The answer can shape how you feel the moment you step into the heat.

In traditional Finnish saunas, nudity is common—especially among close friends or family at home. But here in the Midwest, in a shared space, that just isn’t practical. Let’s be real—we’re already pushing the cultural boundary by simply inviting people to slow down and sweat together. 😉

At Takka, sauna is about presence, ease, and connection. That includes how you dress. This guide shares helpful information about clothing for sauna, with answers to common questions, tips on what to avoid, and thoughtful options that support comfort and care.

Can You Wear Clothes in a Sauna? (And What’s Takka’s Policy?)

Yes, you can. And at Takka, you must. We require clothing in our sauna spaces—not just for hygiene and safety, but to help everyone feel at ease.

A classic swimsuit is the most common choice. It’s simple and familiar. Still, not everyone is comfortable wearing a swimsuit in public—and that’s completely valid. Sauna is never about being on display. When your clothing feels right, your body can soften, and your mind can rest.

We keep it modest at Takka. Swimsuits are required, but you have options beyond that.

However: regular street clothes, heavy workout gear, or anything not intended for heat are not allowed. These fabrics can trap heat and moisture, making it harder for your body to stay safe and regulated.

You don’t need special gear—but your clothing choice should support your body’s natural ability to sweat and cool down safely.

*Photo Credit: Megan Gervais Photography*

What Fabrics Work Best in the Sauna?

The heat and humidity of the sauna can turn the wrong fabric into a source of discomfort. The right materials, though, can help you feel lighter, safer, and more supported.

Best Materials for Sauna Clothing:

Cotton – breathable, soft, and absorbent
Linen – cool against the skin and quick to dry
Merino wool – naturally odor-resistant and thermoregulating
Bamboo – smooth, lightweight, and gentle
Natural blends – like cotton-linen or bamboo-cotton for a bit more structure

What to Avoid:

Synthetic activewear – fabrics like polyester and nylon tend to trap heat and odor
Metal hardware – it heats up fast and can cause burns

The goal is always the same: less restriction, more ease.

Why Swimsuits Might Not Actually Be The Best Sauna Clothing Option

At Takka, we recommend swimsuits because they’re simple, modest, and easy to wear in shared sauna spaces.

That said, it’s worth noting that most swimsuits are made from synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, or spandex—materials that we just told you aren’t ideal for high heat.

While occasional sauna sessions won’t necessarily ruin your swimsuit, repeated exposure to high temperatures can break down the fibers over time. You might notice fading, stretching, or loss of shape if the suit is made with delicate blends or elastic-heavy seams.

Here’s how to get the most out of your swimsuit in the sauna:

Choose unlined, minimalist styles without thick padding or metal hardware
Skip your favorite suit—have one specifically for sauna use if you go regularly
Rinse it with cool water after your session and hang it to dry away from heat
Consider natural-fiber alternatives like a cotton wrap, linen robe, or merino layers if you’re looking for a more sauna-specific solution

For those who visit the sauna often—or want a more breathable experience—natural-fiber garments like cotton wraps, linen robes, or soft merino pieces can offer more comfort with less fuss.

What to Look for in Sauna Clothing Brands

Many clothing brands are beginning to design pieces specifically for sauna, and some do it with deep thought and intention. Labels matter less than how something feels—how it sits on your body, how it breathes in the heat, and how it makes you feel afterward.

Look for garments made with:

Natural fibers
Good airflow
Low odor retention
Softness, even when damp
An easy shape that doesn’t cling or chafe

At Takka, we carry garments from Saunamekko, a Finnish-American brand that grew from a simple question: what do you wear in the sauna that truly feels right? Designed by a small team with deep roots in both fashion and Finnish heritage, Saunamekko brings together breathable merino wool, timeless silhouettes, and a commitment to comfort that goes far beyond the heat.

Their mission is grounded in ritual, sustainability, and ease—creating garments you’ll wear in the sauna, and keep on long after. Each piece is made from responsibly sourced merino wool that’s naturally thermoregulating and odor-resistant, offering both softness and performance.

“It’s one of those rare things that actually improves the experience—comfortable, breathable, and just…right.”

— Saunamekko customer

These are pieces designed not just for the sauna, but for a slower way of moving through the day.

Styles of Sauna Clothing to Consider

There’s no single way to dress for the sauna, and the best sauna clothes are the ones that support how you like to move and unwind. Some prefer minimal coverage; others want a bit more warmth or softness after the heat. Here are a few options to consider:

Wraps and Towels – Simple and adjustable, these offer traditional coverage and are easy to slip off and on between cycles.
Sauna Dresses, Camis, and Kaftans – Flowing silhouettes like those made by Saunamekko provide ease of movement, breathability, and gentle coverage during the entire sauna ritual.
Robes and Pocket Shawls – Lightweight, cozy layers that are perfect post-sauna while resting or moving into cooler air.
Tanks, Tees, and Shorties – Merino basics like sauna tanks, tees, or lounge shorts offer a minimal, fitted option that won’t cling uncomfortably when warm.
Lounge Layers – Long-sleeved tops, pants, and leg warmers provide added warmth during the cool-down phase or after a cold plunge.
Accessories – Sauna hats, beanies, kerchiefs, and fingerless gloves in natural fibers help regulate body temperature while staying soft against the skin.

At Takka, we carry a curated selection from Saunamekko pieces available for purchase on-site! We also offer robes for rent at our Portage location.

Can You Wear the Same Sauna Clothes Again?

After a session, it’s tempting to hang your sauna clothes to dry and use them again next time—and with the right materials, that’s often okay. Natural fibers like merino wool or linen dry quickly and resist odor, which means they can stay fresh with light use.

That said, we always recommend airing out your garments between sessions and washing when needed based on how much you sweat. Avoid tossing damp clothes in a bag, and let them breathe—just like you did in the sauna.

Sauna Clothing for the Cool Down

The sauna doesn’t end when you step out of the heat. Afterward, during the rinse and rest, your body is still adjusting—cooling, calming, and recovering. Having something soft and breathable to slip into, like a robe or wrap, helps ease that transition.

Look for pieces that feel good against clean skin and offer warmth without weight. Many guests keep a second layer on hand just for this moment: a dry linen robe, a fleece wrap, or a relaxed cotton set for post-sauna lounging by the fire or under the stars.

*You can add a robe rental to* *any Takka Portage booking!*

Choose What Supports Your Comfort

There’s no one way to dress for the sauna. The only rule at Takka is that you wear something. Beyond that, it’s about choosing clothing that helps you feel good.

The best sauna clothes won’t distract you. They’ll help you relax, stay safe, and settle into the rhythm of your own breath.

At Takka, we’re here to support you in that. Come as you are, wear what feels right, and let the warmth do the rest.

Ready to Dress for the Heat? 🔥

You don’t need much—just something soft, breathable, and made for the rhythm of sweat, rinse, and rest. Explore our favorite sauna clothing in the Takka Shop at your next booking!

BOOK A SAUNA SESSION

What Do You Wear In The Sauna?