The Nordic sauna tradition, deeply rooted in the cultures of Finland, Sweden, and Norway, is more than just a way to relax—it’s a ritual. Among its many customs, the use of towels holds particular significance. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned sauna-goer, understanding the proper etiquette surrounding towel usage is essential for respecting the tradition and ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone.

In Nordic countries, saunas are considered sacred spaces where cleanliness and respect are paramount. The towel serves as both a practical and symbolic tool. Unlike in some other cultures where sitting directly on wooden benches might be acceptable, in Nordic saunas, placing a towel beneath you is non-negotiable. This practice isn’t just about hygiene; it’s a sign of consideration for others who will use the space after you. Sweat drips onto the towel rather than the wood, keeping the sauna clean and pleasant for the next person.

The choice of towel matters more than one might think. Lightweight, absorbent cotton towels are the gold standard. They dry quickly, are easy to carry, and provide enough coverage for modesty—another important aspect of Nordic sauna culture. While some may opt for smaller hand towels, a larger bath towel is often recommended, especially in public saunas where extra coverage is appreciated. The color of the towel is also worth noting; white or light-colored towels are preferred as they symbolize purity and are less likely to bleed dye onto the sauna benches.

Another key aspect of towel etiquette is how you use it during the sauna session. It’s customary to sit or lie on the towel, ensuring no bare skin touches the wood. If you’re in a mixed-gender sauna, wrapping the towel around your body is a common practice, though attitudes toward nudity can vary by country and setting. In Finland, for example, nudity is widely accepted in single-gender saunas, while in more conservative or public settings, keeping the towel draped around you is the norm. Always observe what others are doing and follow suit.

One often overlooked detail is the folding of the towel. Before entering the sauna, many regulars fold their towels neatly to create a comfortable seating area. This isn’t just about aesthetics; a well-folded towel stays in place better and provides a more even layer of protection. Some seasoned sauna enthusiasts even bring two towels—one to sit on and another to wipe away sweat during the session. This small act of preparation can elevate the experience from functional to deeply soothing.

When the session is over, the towel’s role isn’t finished. In shared saunas, it’s considered good manners to wipe down the bench where you were sitting, removing any excess moisture or sweat. This simple gesture maintains the sauna’s cleanliness and shows respect for the next user. If you’re using a public sauna, taking your towel with you—rather than leaving it behind—is another unspoken rule. The only exception might be in some spas where towels are provided and collected by staff, but even then, placing it in a designated bin is the polite thing to do.

The cultural significance of the towel in Nordic saunas can’t be overstated. It’s a barrier between the individual and the communal space, a tool for hygiene, and a marker of respect. For travelers unfamiliar with these customs, adhering to them can feel daunting, but locals appreciate the effort. After all, the sauna is a place of equality and relaxation, where everyone follows the same unwritten rules to create a harmonious environment.

Beyond the practicalities, there’s an almost spiritual dimension to the way towels are used in Nordic saunas. The act of laying down a towel is a moment of preparation, a way to mentally transition into the sauna’s heat. The towel becomes a personal space within a shared one, a small but meaningful way to honor both individuality and community. Whether you’re in a rustic lakeside sauna in Finland or a modern urban spa in Stockholm, the humble towel remains a silent yet powerful part of the experience.