Design sauna made to measure: the NIMBUS sauna in thermal oak with three glazed sides and floating benches that are indirectly illuminated — Regularly using the sauna strengthens the immune system and prevents colds and infections.

At what age can children start to go to the sauna? What has to be considered, when kids use the sauna?

Sauna start at what age? >
sauna & kids: what to consider >
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Relaxation…? Is most beautiful in your own sauna – especially with kids!

Hotel sauna with natural stones and backlit saltstone wall at the Four Seasons Hotel in Hamburg

At what age are children or infants allowed to go to the sauna?

There are no clearly defined ages for when an infant or toddler is allowed to go to the sauna. According to the recommendations of the German Sauna Federation, it is already “possible from the 4th month” if the baby is completely healthy according to U4. The professional association of paediatricians and adolescent doctors BVKJ, on the other hand, advises against using a sauna before the first year of life. Ultimately, it is up to parents to decide whether to take their child to the sauna before their first birthday. But from then on, nothing should stand in the way of the common sauna pleasure if the child is healthy and enjoys it (which is usually the case with infants in our personal experience!).

Sauna with children: what do I have to consider?

It is important that you proceed slowly and carefully and pay attention to your child’s reactions: it is best to start with comparatively low temperatures of around 60 degrees in the Finnish sauna without infusions. Start with a short session of 3 to 5 minutes on a middle or lower bench. For the first time, you should limit the common sauna bathing by one session. To cool off, the child should take a lukewarm shower, go to the fresh air, drink enough – and then cuddle and relax together with the parents.

Depending on how your child likes it, you can increase to two sauna sessions after a while. It is important that the child is always together with you as a parent and that it is not unaccompanied in the sauna! Of course, it is best to sweat together with the offspring in your own sauna at home. If you want to take your child to a public sauna, inform yourself in advance whether and at what age it is possible or if there are special times for the “infants or children’s sauna” if necessary.

More info: SAUNA & HEALTH >