We previously shared a post about transgressive behavior within the walls of a wellness complex. As sauna operators, we are unanimous in our opinion: we do not tolerate this and work day in and day out to create and guarantee a safe environment. Good news: the adoption of this clear position by our association has meanwhile been well received by many loyal sauna visitors.
Experience teaches us that some guests, undoubtedly of good will, do not know exactly where the boundary lies. We are therefore pleased to list a number of sauna rules (in the broad sense of the meaning), because good agreements make good friends!
Do’s: What can and should you do?
- Shower before use: take a shower before entering the sauna or pool. This is hygienic and contributes to a fresh environment and better water quality.
- Use a towel in the sauna: make sure you always use a large towel to sit or lie on it with your entire body (including your feet).
- Be discreetly naked: we recommend not walking naked through a wellness complex all the time. When moving around, wear a bathrobe or put on a towel. In a lot of places (such as restaurants, a bar,…) wearing a bathrobe is even mandatory.
- Hydrate enough: drink enough water (or tea) to keep your body well hydrated; after all, you lose a lot of sweat during a sauna session.
- Respect silence: keep it quiet and peaceful in the sauna. Briefly whispering something can be done, but conversations are disruptive.
- Respect personal space: give others adequate space, both in the sauna and in relaxation areas.
- Follow wellness center rules: inform yourself about specific house rules and respect them.
- Wear appropriate clothing (if applicable): check if swimwear is allowed. Some wellness centers have a swimsuit area or a swimsuit day. Typically, the rule in these areas (or on those days) is that women can choose between a swimsuit or bikini (with “normal” bikini bottoms) and men must wear tight-fitting swim trunks. Loose shorts are prohibited.
- Take plenty of breaks: allow your body time to cool down and relax between sessions in the sauna.
- Keep yourself clean: dry yourself well after showering or swimming before entering the sauna or steam room, as well as before sitting on couches or lounge chairs.
Don’ts: What should you definitely not do?
- Make noise: avoid loud conversations, laughter or other noise. In the restaurant or bar (if available) and in outdoor areas, catch up quietly.
- Physical contact: intimate and/or prolonged physical contact is inappropriate in a public sauna. This applies to everyone, including couples … In other words, there is no place for desired physical contact in our centers either.
- Prolonged staring: looking at people for a long time (staring) is also considered transgressive behavior.
- Inappropriate conversations: do not just speak to other guests; a sauna is not a meeting place. Intrusive behavior will not be tolerated.
- Use of fragrances and oils: do not use strongly perfumed creams, oils or deodorant that can overpower the air. The use of (essential) oils on the sauna fires is strictly prohibited.
- Electronic devices: leave your phone in your locker. Devices with cameras are prohibited without exception. Do you like to read a book on your e-reader? If so, please report this to the front desk upon arrival.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: avoid excessive alcohol consumption just before or during your sauna visit. This can affect your well-being.
- Running or jumping: be careful in wet areas and respect peace and safety.
- Prolonged occupation of a place: be considerate of other guests and do not monopolize lounge chairs or saunas.
- Wet into the sauna: make sure you have dried yourself well before entering the sauna. Not only the sauna wood, but also your own body will thank you. Starting your sauna session wet clogs your pores, so to speak, and hinders sweating.
For your next visit
Finally, we ask all our visitors to exercise discretion, no intrusive behavior and no sexual harassment of any kind. Should you, despite our efforts, witness or fall victim to inappropriate or transgressive behavior, please do not hesitate to report it immediately to the staff present. They will respond appropriately. It is part of our staff’s job to ensure proper compliance with this entire sauna etiquette. If you yourself are addressed by one of them, please be cooperative. Together we can create that pleasant and safe environment!
The Board,
Sauna Association Belgium
