Can Kids Go in the Sauna? Yes - Here’s How to Sauna Safely with Children

Can kids go in the sauna? This is one of the most common questions we hear - and the answer is:
Yes, your children can sauna safely with you! 

At Kamu Sauna, we love supporting families who want to experience the benefits of sauna together. Whether you're renting one of our mobile saunas, joining a private backyard session, or relaxing in one of our custom-built wood-fired saunas - families of all ages are welcome.

In fact, kids have enjoyed sauna for generations in Finland, where the sauna is not just a wellness tool, it’s a way of life.

Sauna is a Family Tradition - Even for Children
In Finnish culture, sauna is often introduced to children in early childhood, sometimes even as infants. It’s common for three generations to share the löyly (steam + sauna experience) in one session. (We recently shared an experience wherein Becky shared our 9-month old neice's first sauna alongside her Mom, her Grandmom, and her Great Grandmother - 4 generations and 2 nations!)

And here’s the key: with the right temperature, supervision, and length of time, sauna bathing is safe and healthy for kids.

According to the Finnish Sauna Society and supported by research in the American Journal of Medicine, sauna use is considered safe for children as long as they are properly supervised, hydrated, and sessions are kept short and warm rather than hot (Hannuksela & Ellahham, 2001).

Is Sauna Safe for Kids in Canada?
In Canada, where sauna culture is still growing, many parents are curious (and cautious) about whether it's safe to bring their kids into a hot sauna. The short answer is yes - with awareness and moderation.

We've hosted families with children as young as 5 in our private sauna rentals. And we’ve built custom saunas specifically for families who sauna together regularly. (That said, our Community Sessions are generally for ages 18+, but we’re always happy to accommodate families with mature youth - just reach out to ask.

Sauna Tips for Families: How to Sauna with Children Safely
Here are our top expert-backed tips* for safe sauna bathing with kids:

1. Know Your Child’s Needs

• Every child is different. Start slowly and pay attention to how your child feels.
• ​If they’re new to heat or sensitive to warm environments, shorter and cooler sessions are key.

2. Start Low and Slow

• Keep temperatures between 60–70°C (140–160°F)
• Sit together on the lower bench where the heat is less intense
• Start with sessions no longer than 5–10 minutes

3. Always Supervise

• Children should never sauna alone
• Supervision is critical to monitor how they’re reacting to the heat

4. Hydration is Key

• Sauna bathers of all ages should hydrate before and after
• Encourage kids to drink water regularly, just like adults

 5. Check With a Medical Professional

• If your child has health conditions, ask your family doctor before introducing them to sauna
• Children under 6 may have more difficulty regulating body temperature 

6. Make it a Learning Experience

• Sauna time is a great chance to teach your child about body awareness, listening to their limits, and the value of rest and ritual

Frequently Asked Questions About Kids in Sauna
Q: What age is safe for kids to start using a sauna?
A: Finnish children often begin sauna bathing as toddlers. We recommend starting around age 5, or whenever you are comfortable as parents, with shorter sessions, lower heat, and close supervision.

Q: How long should kids stay in the sauna?
A: Start slow! For young children or first-timers, we recommend short sessions of 5–10 minutes at lower temperatures (60–70°C / 140–160°F). Let them step out to cool down when they feel ready. Sauna is not a competition - it’s about tuning in. Over time, with experience and supervision, children can gradually increase their time, just like adults.
​
Q: Can I bring my child to a community sauna session?
A: Kamu Sauna Community sessions are 18+, but we occasionally make exceptions. And - you are more than welcome to have your children in a private sauna session or a private mobile sauna rental. Just send us a message - inclusivity is at the heart of what we do.

🧡 Sauna is Family Connection
​Sauna is about more than just sweating. It’s about connection - with yourself, your loved ones, and the natural rhythms of nature and your body. When shared with care, sauna bathing can be one of the most grounding, joyful family rituals there is.

If you’ve got questions about family sauna safety, or want to book a private sauna experience with your kids, just reach out. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

References:

• Hannuksela, Minna & Ellahham, Samer. (2001). Benefits and risks of sauna bathing. The American journal of medicine. 110. 118-26. 
  
  

Want to try sauna with your family in BC?
Explore our private sauna rentals available across the East Kootenays or custom family sauna builds available across Canada and beyond.

📍 Serving Cranbrook, Kimberley, Fernie and beyond. Private, custom and backyard sauna builds available across Canada and beyond.
📧 Questions? Contact us anytime - we’re here to help you sauna safely.