Visiting a steam room or sauna is an effective way to relax. The practice dates back centuries, when people used steam and hot water as self-help tools. But are those warm, moist places where we sit after a workout or to unwind really hygienic and safe?
The Huffington Post spoke to a few experts to get the lowdown on steam rooms and saunas, from the germs you might encounter to how to protect yourself from potential germs. Here are their suggestions:
Robin Evans, a dermatologist in Stamford, Connecticut, says the steam at your favorite spa could be causing problems.
Bacteria thrive in warm, moist places, making steam rooms a breeding ground for dangerous creatures. Exposure to these bacteria can lead to a variety of health problems, such as skin problems or upset stomachs. Sitting on a towel can reduce the likelihood of coming into contact with germs. Avoid skin contact with porous, damp wooden benches, as bacteria can accumulate on them.
“These microorganisms can easily lead to skin infections, including fungal or yeast rashes, impetigo or other bacterial infections,” Evans said.
If you have a cold, the warm air can also cause a runny nose and cough, increasing the risk of spreading germs to others. If you or your spa neighbors look or sound sick, it’s best to go outside.
Kirsi Bassin is a health and wellness expert, author of the forthcoming book The Power of Mindfulness: How to Be Happier, Calmer, and More Productive at Work, and a longtime sauna user. She emphasized that traditional saunas are very healthy and hygienic when properly maintained.
“A good sauna should have a special damper or vent for air circulation,” says Bassin. “The damper should remain closed when the sauna is heated and open at other times. This prevents the growth of mold, which is very harmful to our health.”
She also recommends not eating or drinking in the sauna, everyone should use their own towel and keep the sauna clean. Bhasin noted that spa pools should be regularly wiped down and thoroughly cleaned with detergent.
Steam rooms and saunas can ease muscle soreness and promote relaxation, says Helen Ewing, a health care professional and chair of the nursing department at Carrington College in Mesa, Arizona. However, she recommends sticking to places where shoes are allowed.
“To reduce the chances of contracting infectious diseases, it is important to wear shoes to avoid fungal infections such as athlete’s foot,” she said.
“If you have open wounds, you need to be extra vigilant,” says Christopher Dietz, MD, of MedExpress. Either avoid the steam room or sauna altogether, or take precautions to prevent infection.
“If you have any open cuts or scrapes, make sure to cover them completely with a bandage before sitting down. These open wounds, if left uncovered, can easily become a source of entry for bacteria into the body,” he said.
Ewing notes that you should consider your body’s tolerance and avoid spending too much time in a humid environment.
“It’s important to limit the time you spend in hot environments so you don’t put too much stress on your body,” she said.
Ewing advises limiting workouts to 10 minutes or less at first, adding that dehydration can set in quickly. “Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids,” she said.
Ultimately, relaxing in the soothing warmth of a sauna or steam room can help you unwind after a hard week at work or an intense workout. But be sure to practice a few simple hygiene rules to stay healthy and germ-free.
By entering your email address and clicking “Sign Up”, you agree to send you personalized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You also agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.