Sauna hats have become a popular accessory that you can use to protect against heat while enjoying the benefits of heat therapy. But what else can they do, and how do you use them?
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about sauna hats and whether you really need one.
What Is a Sauna Hat?
A sauna hat is a specialized headgear made from wool, felt, alpaca wool, or linen. It’s designed to provide protection and cooling for the head in the high temperatures of a sauna.
Sauna hats come in various shapes, sizes, and designs. They range from traditional wool felt hats to novelty hats featuring fun, quirky designs.
Origin of Sauna Hats
Sauna hat usage can be traced back to Central Europe, particularly in countries like Germany and Russia. While sauna hats are not traditionally associated with Finnish saunas, they have gained popularity as a practical accessory for sauna enthusiasts in other parts of the world.
Types of Sauna Hats
Sauna hats are primarily made from wool felt, which is known for its insulating properties and resistance to dirt, moisture, and odor. Alpaca and sheep wool are also common materials used for sauna hats to provide warmth and comfort.
Linen is an eco-friendly alternative that’s more gentle on the skin. Linen also has antibacterial properties that can resist dirt and moisture.
What Are Sauna Hats For?
You can wear sauna hats to serve several purposes during your sauna experience. Firstly, they protect your head from excessive heat. This is important since the head is the part of the body most exposed to the sauna heat.
By shielding your head with a sauna hat, you can stay in the sauna for longer periods and enhance your overall experience.
Benefits of Wearing Sauna Hats
The benefits of wearing sauna hats extend beyond heat protection. These hats help regulate body temperature, reducing the risk of dizziness and discomfort caused by overheating.
Sauna hats also protect the scalp, hair, and ears from excessive heat, preventing discomfort and potential damage. Anyone with color-treated hair can wear a sauna hat to maintain hair health.
How to Use a Sauna Hat
Using a sauna hat is simple. Before entering the sauna, you can soak the hat in cool water. Gently wring out any excess water then wear the hat on your head.
Make sure it covers the top of your ears. This provides a cooling effect and protects against heat exposure.
By adjusting the tightness of the hat, you can find a comfortable fit that allows for proper heat insulation.
How to Wash a Sauna Hat
Caring for a sauna hat is essential to maintain its cleanliness and longevity. Most sauna hats made from wool felt can be air-dried or hand washed using a mild detergent suitable for wool products. Always avoid machine washing.
Lukewarm water should be used for rinsing. Synthetic sauna hats made from materials like polyester felt can be hand washed or machine washed on the gentle cycle.
Conclusion: Do You Need a Sauna Hat?
The decision on what to wear in a sauna ultimately depends on personal preference. Sauna hats offer practical benefits, including heat protection, longer sauna sessions, and hair protection.
If you tend to feel discomfort or overheating in the sauna, a sauna hat may be a valuable addition to your sauna routine. Additionally, sauna hats can be an enjoyable accessory that adds a touch of style and fun to your sauna experience.
Speaking of experiences, at ELU we offer a private holistic wellness experience derived from deliberate heat and cold exposure therapy. Book your experience today.