Steam room etiquette refers to a set of behavioral norms and hygiene protocols that individuals are expected to follow in public steam rooms. These rules are designed to preserve sanitary conditions, protect user safety, minimize disruption, and ensure a respectful, communal environment.
Steam rooms are enclosed, humid spaces typically heated between 110°F to 120°F (43°C to 49°C), commonly found in gyms, wellness centers, and spas. Inside these environments, elevated heat and moisture levels affect thermoregulation, cardiovascular function, and skin barrier integrity. Without adherence to etiquette standards, shared steam rooms may pose hygiene risks, user discomfort, and operational inefficiencies.
Global fitness institutions, including the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), emphasize that proper steam room behavior—including pre-entry hygiene, silence, limited use time, and respecting personal space—is essential for maintaining a safe and inclusive wellness facility.
As steam bathing continues to be associated with muscle recovery, stress reduction, improved circulation, and skin hydration, questions arise regarding correct steam room behavior, including what to wear, how long to stay, how to interact with others, and what practices are considered unacceptable in public settings.
This article outlines the 12 most recognized etiquette rules that ensure a clean, respectful, and beneficial steam room experience for all users.
1. Do Shower Before Entry
Shower before entering a public stream room. Bring clean towels and washcloths don’t wear a swimsuit. For now, refrain from using deodorants and oils on your skin, as they can irritate or cause allergic reactions for other users. Additionally, avoid lotions, oils, or deodorants that may leave residues in the steam.
2. Do Hydrate Properly
Staying hydrated is not only one of the most crucial sauna and steam room regulations, but it should also be a mandatory health practice. Drink water before, during, and after using the steam room to avoid fluid loss. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
3. Entering and Exiting Quietly
Using the steam room and seeing other people in there before you do is like sharing a seat with someone inside a fast-food restaurant. Therefore, you must enter and exit quickly yet quietly, mindfully, and respectfully. No, you don't need to say goodbye to others blatantly, but you must be aware of their presence.
4. Don’t Adjust the Temperature
The temperature inside most steam rooms is set by the staff, and only they have the authority to change the settings. However, if you need the temperature and heat level changed, perhaps because of your specific health condition, ask others if you can, and it is best to seek assistance from the staff.
Different temperatures can affect the body in different ways - from promoting circulation to easing congestion - so knowing what range is appropriate for your goals is helpful.
Learn more: What is the Best Temperature for a Steam Shower
5. Minimize Noise and Distractions
Meanwhile, others love to bring their bubbly side into the steam room. There is nothing wrong with this. But, if you wish to start a conversation with others, avoid loud talking or shouting. You should also refrain from using electronic devices as they may malfunction due to the steam room's hot and humid environment.
6. Respect Others’ Personal Space
Then, respect others' personal spaces. You can lie on the bench if you are alone in the steam room. But if others get in, sit up and make room for them.
Also, avoid coughing and sneezing directly on others. Cover your mouth with your arms. Avoid nudity as much as possible, and cover yourself with a towel.
7. Focus on Your Experience
Inside the steam room, your biggest competition is yourself, not others. Focus on yourself and not on others. Avoid eye contact with others because they will always be strangers inside the steam room. You can start a small talk quietly, but a steam room is never a bar.
8. Don’t Hold the Door Open
It is odd to hold the door open for the person behind who is entering. Don't worry; it won't be a minus point for gentlemanliness simply because it is not your obligation in this scenario. Let them mind their own business. Also, don't open the door because you think it's too hot inside.
9. Don’t Compete or Body Shame
Likewise, a steam room session is not a yoga class, so there should be no competition. Be sure not to body shame others with your shape or figure. Everyone is welcome inside the steam room.
10. Don't Perfumes or Scents
Also, don't spray perfume before using the steam room to impress others. The steam room isn't the best place to show off your latest cologne or perfume.
11. Cool Down Gradually
Cooling down gradually after a steam room session is crucial to avoid shock to your body. Start with slower movements, drink water, and allow your body temperature to stabilize. Sudden exposure to cold can cause dizziness or other discomforts.
12. Hydration and Aftercare
After a steam room session, replenish fluids immediately to prevent dehydration. Drink water or electrolyte drinks. Follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate your skin, as steam can cause dryness. This helps restore moisture and maintain healthy, smooth skin.
Steam Room Attire and Safety Guidelines
What Do You Wear in a Steam Room?
Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing in a steam room, such as a towel, swimwear, or gym shorts. Avoid heavy fabrics, jewelry, or shoes. Likewise, always maintain hygiene by sitting on a towel and checking with the facility for specific rules.
Can You Wear Workout Clothes in a Steam Room?
Avoid wearing typical workout clothing made from thick cotton or synthetic blends. These fabrics retain heat and moisture, increasing discomfort.
Are You Supposed to Wear Clothes in a Steam Room?
Yes, sitting on a towel in a steam room ensures hygiene and protects against hot surfaces.
Do You Need to Cover Your Hair in the Steam Room?
It's optional. However, wearing a towel or cap can protect your hair from steam damage.
How Long Should You Stay in a Steam Room?
To prevent dehydration, avoid staying in a steam room for longer than 10 minutes at a time. Hydrate well before entering. For extended sessions, follow a cycle-based approach: stay inside for 15 to 20 minutes, take a 5-minute break outside, then re-enter. This can be safely repeated for 3 to 4 cycles, depending on individual tolerance.
Are Steam Rooms Safe for People with Heart Conditions or Asthma?
Steam rooms are not recommended for individuals with uncontrolled heart disease, asthma, or other respiratory disorders without prior medical clearance. High humidity and heat may cause shortness of breath or affect cardiovascular function. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
What is the difference between sauna and steam room etiquette?
Both sauna and steam room etiquette emphasize hygiene, silence, and respect for others. However, steam rooms require more stringent towel use and fragrance avoidance due to high humidity levels. In contrast, dry saunas may allow for minimal conversation and tolerate natural wood seating without towels in some cultures.
Looking for a High-Quality Steam Room in Home?
Whether you use the steam room in your gym or your at-home steam room, good etiquette must be followed, from pre-session hygiene to aftercare. Steam rooms can be installed at home for use with your loved ones. See the catalog of group steam rooms from GeyserSteam, a worldwide pioneer in remarkable steam rooms. Choose GeyserSteam, and choose wellness.
If a full steam room setup isn't in your plans, you can still create a spa-like experience by turning your shower into a simple steam zone. And if you're weighing other wellness upgrades, here's a quick comparison between hot tubs and steam rooms to help you find the right fit for your space and lifestyle.
