Protect Your Cedar: What Not to Apply or Clean With

 

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Cedar is one of the most popular woods for saunas because it’s durable, aromatic, and naturally resistant to rot. However, using the wrong products can easily ruin its beauty and performance. Harsh chemicals can cause discoloration, cracking, or strip away natural oils. Here’s what to avoid—and what to use instead.

Bleach or strong chlorine cleaners

While bleach may seem like a powerful disinfectant, it can erode cedar fibers, fade color, and leave strong odors that intensify when the sauna heats up. Avoid bleach altogether and use a mild, cedar-safe sauna cleaner instead.

Ammonia or alkaline compounds

Cleaners containing ammonia or high-pH ingredients can dry out the wood, leading to cracks and splitting. These products remove essential natural oils. Avoid anything labeled “alkaline” or “all-purpose” unless it specifically mentions cedar safety.

Oil-based or wax cleaners

Oil or wax-based cleaners clog cedar’s pores, preventing the wood from breathing and releasing moisture. In a sauna, this can trap heat, cause peeling, and create a sticky surface. Skip furniture polishes or oil-based fillers.

High-VOC solvents or paint thinners

Products like paint thinner, mineral spirits, or strong solvents can degrade cedar’s surface and leave behind harmful chemical residues. When heated, these residues can release unpleasant or unsafe fumes. Never use them on sauna wood.

Abrasive scrubs or powdered cleaners

Abrasive materials such as steel wool, sandpaper, or gritty powders scratch and dull cedar’s smooth finish. Even mild scrub pads can leave tiny marks. Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth with a gentle cleaner instead.

Scented household cleaners

Cleaners with heavy fragrances or dyes can stain the wood and leave residues that react under heat, causing discoloration. Always choose fragrance-free, dye-free products designed for cedar.

Waxed sealants or old varnish

Using conventional varnish or wax sealants on cedar can lead to peeling and flaking, especially when heat is applied. Stick with water-based sealants made specifically for sauna wood.

How to Spot Early Damage

• Gray or white discoloration patches

• Soft or spongy texture

• Peeling or bubbling surface

• Chemical odor when heating

If you notice these signs, stop using harsh products right away to prevent further damage.

What to Use Instead

• Cedar-safe sauna cleaners from trusted brands

• Water-based sealants made for saunas
  

• Mild, pH-neutral soap (diluted)

• Soft brushes and microfiber cloths
  

• Regular rinsing and proper ventilation
  

A Note on Safe Products

Northern Lights Cedar Barrel Saunas offers cedar-safe cleaners, water-based sealants, and sauna paraffin oil—formulated to protect cedar without blocking its natural breathability or releasing harmful residues.

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