Sauna Bathing With Children Guide

Saunas are a part of family life in Finland and we have many happy memories of splashing around in a tub as our parents enjoyed their weekly sauna.

At niku-naku, we want to share this experience with you and enable you to create these wonderful sauna memories with your family. If you plan on bringing children with you to the sauna, please read this document carefully and adhere to the guidance. It is written with the safety of young children in mind and the rules below are in place to ensure that everyone can enjoy the sauna safely.

  • All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult
  • Children should never be left unaccompanied
  • The responsible adult must observe how a child is responding to the high temperatures; please leave the sauna if your child shows any signs of discomfort such as dizziness, headaches or overheating. We recommend cooling down often, pouring water on your childs head to cool them in the sauna, and sitting on the lower bench until they are accustomed to the heat.
  • The stove is extremely hot and can cause severe burns! Do not allow your child near the stove and make sure they are aware of the dangers.

Are saunas safe for children?

  • Yes, when properly supervised, saunas are a safe and enjoyable experience for the whole family. However, please be aware that children do not tolerate the high temperatures as well as adults. This can cause increased heart rate, dizziness and other symptoms. Always monitor your child for any signs of discomfort and be mindful that young children may not be able to tell you how they are feeling.
  • Our staff will ask you to sign a waiver on arrival and ask you to confirm that you have read and understood this guidance.

We reserve the right to end a session early if we believe the health and safety of a child or anyone attending the sauna is at risk. No refund will be offered in this instance.

Booking Rules  

  • Children can attend private sessions only. 
  • 1:1 adult to child ratio for all children under 16 years of age 
  • Only 1 child aged 7 or under is allowed per booking. 
  • When children are present, the maximum group size is restricted to 6

Sauna Use Rules

  • Children must be accompanied at all times, inside and outside of the sauna
  • Children under 16 are not allowed to add water to the sauna stove due to the high risk of burns. Do not allow your child near the stove for any reason!
  • Do not allow your child to run or jump in the sauna. There is high risk of burns and falling due to the wet floor. Always hold on to young children as they move in the sauna.
  • Do not take your child to the sauna if they have any illness, fever or infection. This can cause dangerous overheating.

Our Recommendations

  • Encourage your child to cool down often and limit their time in the sauna.
  • Ensure your child drinks plenty of water.
  • Use the cold water provided to cool their head while in the sauna by pouring water over them.
  • Encourage your child to sit on the lower bench to limit exposure to high temperatures.
  • Monitor your child constantly and check for signs of distress.
  • Enjoy the experience!
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