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Finns believe that the key to the best sauna experiences is an atmospheric wood-fired cabin sauna, with its fragrant, oxygen-rich, moist, and gentle steam. The steam from a cabin sauna is enjoyed unhurriedly in good company, with refreshing drinks, and occasional dips in the water.
Agreement on the heating method
Over 600 Finns responded when we asked what makes unbeatable sauna steam. The greatest consensus was found in the choice of the stove. Over half of the respondents mentioned that wood heating is the secret to good sauna steam. 22 respondents mentioned the smoke sauna. Only two respondents were in favour of electric stoves. One respondent felt that an electricity bill is sufficient as a heat source.
“The electricity bill arrived and we sweated watching it.”
Relaxing or brisk steam?
Many respondents took a stance on the temperature of the sauna. Supporters of mild and gentle sauna sessions (59 respondents) outnumbered proponents of brisk and firm ones (17 respondents). Most stated diplomatically that the sauna temperature should be appropriate.
“The sauna has nice and warm löylys ❤”
The dried ones are no good
As many as 107 respondents appreciated moist löyly, and 49 respondents gave a thumbs-up to similarly mild löyly. The oxygen content, i.e. richness in oxygen, and the pleasant aroma of the löyly and sauna were considered equally important (34 respondents each).
“Pleasantly warm, oxygen-rich, and moist sauna in the backyard 🧡🍂🍁👌”
You need to allow time for saunas.
In addition to the steam, many other things need to be just right to achieve the perfect sauna experience. A feeling of unhurriedness is important for 41 respondents. A suitable atmosphere was mentioned by 21 sauna-goers. Many like to admire the beautiful scenery visible from the sauna window (14 respondents).
“The atmosphere! It changes every time, depending on the company – the most important thing is that everyone enjoys themselves and that there's time for reflection. Sometimes it's lovely to have deep conversations in the warmth of the sauna, other times to simply enjoy the steam alone and in silence. Every time is different.”
The location of the sauna matters - the cottage sauna is number one
Finns are a cottage-dwelling people, and according to many (41 respondents), the best löyly is found in a cottage sauna. 25 respondents specifically mention a garden sauna and 18 respondents a lakeside sauna. The lake shore is particularly important for the 14 respondents who want to take a dip in the lake or an ice hole in between.
“Ideally, there should be an authentic birch whisk on the sauna benches. I enjoy long, mild sauna sessions, not turning red like a lobster. Occasionally, a cold shower or, in the summer, a dip in open water. With mineral water to sip. 🥰”
A Finn doesn't want to be alone
Good company is of great importance to 50 respondents. On the other hand, 10 respondents longed for silence and peace. 18 respondents enjoy drinking soft drinks. 15 respondents believe that a vihta, or bath whisk, definitely belongs in the sauna.
“A clean sauna, good sauna towel, sauna drink, and a good amount of water in the bucket 🇫🇮👍🏻 A proper Finn enjoys a sauna every day, summer and winter 🤩”
The responses also mentioned the cleanliness of the sauna (6), a single-heating stove (4), the right kind of sauna stones (3), and good seating (2). The survey was conducted in October 2022 on Ehtasauna's Instagram and Facebook pages.
“Moist steam that hisses for a long time, rising from deep within a stone pile; from a wood-fired or traditional stove sauna.”
Help with getting a cabin sauna?
Are you thinking of getting a cottage sauna with unbeatable steam?
We at Ehtalla build cottage saunas at our factory and deliver the whole To Finland over 1500 with sauna experience.
The log cabin sauna is available both pre-assembled and as a self-assembly material kit. Ask us more – we're happy to help!
