A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR SWIMMING POOL SAUNAS

Swimming pool saunas offer a luxurious way to unwind, combining the soothing warmth of a sauna with the refreshing option of a poolside dip. 

This guide provides everything you need to know about swimming pool saunas, including what they are, why alder wood is the ideal choice for their construction and how to maintain them to ensure longevity and a quality experience.

What is a Swimming Pool Sauna?

A swimming pool sauna is a sauna structure installed close to a swimming pool, providing the perfect combination of heat and cold therapy. This setup lets users alternate between the dry, intense heat of the sauna and the cooling effect of a refreshing swim, which can enhance relaxation, circulation and muscle recovery.

Key Benefits of Swimming Pool Saunas

1. Enhanced Relaxation: Saunas help relieve stress and tension and being able to jump straight into a cool pool afterward amplifies the relaxation effect.

2. Muscle Recovery: The combination of heat from the sauna and cold from the pool helps reduce inflammation and muscle soreness, making it ideal for athletes or anyone with a physically active lifestyle.

3. Improved Circulation: Alternating between hot and cold temperatures boosts circulation, which can improve cardiovascular health over time.

4. Social and Spa-Like Experience: Poolside saunas provide a spa-like experience, perfect for gatherings, relaxation and unwinding in a social or family setting.

Types of Swimming Pool Saunas

1. Traditional Finnish Sauna: Uses heated rocks to create a dry heat environment, with a wood-burning or electric heater. Temperatures can reach 180°F (82°C) or more.

2. Infrared Sauna: Uses infrared light to heat the body directly rather than the air. Infrared saunas typically reach lower temperatures (120-150°F or 49-65°C) but still offer a relaxing experience.

3. Steam Sauna (Steam Room): Provides moist heat rather than dry, created by a steam generator, which is also great for soothing the skin and respiratory system.

How to Properly Maintain an Alder Wood Sauna Near Your Swimming Pool

Alder wood saunas near a swimming pool require proper care to maintain their appearance, durability and functionality. 

Here’s a detailed guide to help you preserve your sauna’s quality over time:

1. Regular Cleaning Routine

• Sweeping and Vacuuming: Dust and dirt from poolside foot traffic can accumulate on the sauna floors. Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt from embedding into the wood.

• Wipe Down Surfaces: Use a damp cloth with a mild cleaning solution (like water and vinegar) to wipe down benches, walls and floors after each use. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the wood and release toxic fumes.

• Avoid Excessive Moisture: Alder wood is moisture-resistant, but excessive moisture can still degrade its structure over time. Always dry the sauna out after use, especially if there is residual water from poolside activities.

2. Annual Deep Cleaning

To keep the alder wood in your sauna looking its best:

• Sand Lightly: Use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand any areas that have developed stains or rough patches over time. This process will remove minor imperfections and renew the wood’s appearance.

• Oiling the Wood: Apply a natural, food-grade oil like linseed or tung oil annually to the alder wood to help it resist water absorption and maintain its luster.

3. Proper Ventilation

Since your sauna is near a pool, ensure it has adequate ventilation to reduce moisture buildup. Proper air circulation helps avoid mold growth and wood damage.

• Open the Door Periodically: After each sauna session, open the door or window (if available) to release trapped moisture and allow fresh air to circulate.

• Install an Exhaust Fan: If possible, install an exhaust fan specifically for your sauna to prevent excessive humidity, especially after multiple back-to-back sessions.

4. Temperature Monitoring and Control

Excessive heat can cause even high-quality wood like alder to deteriorate over time. Regularly monitor the temperature and avoid going above recommended levels, especially if using an infrared or electric sauna heater.

5. Preventing Mold and Mildew

Since swimming pool saunas are constantly exposed to both heat and moisture, mold and mildew can be a risk.

• Use Antibacterial Cleaners Sparingly: Opt for mild, natural antibacterial solutions like vinegar to clean any mold or mildew that forms, especially in corners or crevices.

• Check for Leaks: Ensure that pool water doesn’t leak or splash into the sauna excessively, which could lead to mold issues.

• Proper Drying: After each session, keep the sauna door open until it dries completely.

6. Routine Inspections

Inspect your alder wood sauna periodically to ensure all components are in good condition. Check for:

• Loose Fastenings: Tighten screws, bolts or other fastenings as needed to maintain a stable structure.

• Splinters or Cracks: Sand down any splinters or cracks immediately to prevent them from growing larger, which could weaken the wood structure.

Medley Pool: The Best Brand for Swimming Pool Saunas

When it comes to quality and innovation in poolside sauna setups, Medley Pool is widely recognized as one of the best brands on the market. Medley Pool specializes in high-quality swimming pool saunas that are durable, energy-efficient and designed for user comfort, ensuring an unparalleled sauna experience.

Why Choose Medley Pool for Swimming Pool Saunas?

1. Exceptional Craftsmanship: Medley Pool uses top-tier materials, including alder wood and other high-quality woods, to craft saunas that are both aesthetically pleasing and built to last.

2. Energy Efficiency: Medley Pool saunas are designed with advanced heating systems that retain heat effectively, making them energy-efficient and cost-effective over time.

3. User-Friendly Features: Their saunas are equipped with user-friendly controls, customizable temperature settings and safety features to create a convenient and secure sauna experience.

4. Tailored Options: Medley Pool offers a variety of sauna designs and sizes, including traditional, infrared and steam saunas, allowing customers to choose a setup that perfectly fits their pool area and personal preferences.

5. Durability in Poolside Environments: Built to withstand moisture and varying temperatures, Medley Pool saunas are ideal for outdoor or indoor poolside installations, ensuring they can endure the unique conditions of pool environments.

Whether you’re seeking a traditional Finnish sauna or a more modern infrared option, Medley Pool has a wide range of options tailored to meet your needs. Their reputation for high quality and customer satisfaction makes them a top choice for anyone looking to enhance their pool area with a luxurious, long-lasting sauna.

A swimming pool sauna can elevate your relaxation and wellness routine, combining the benefits of heat therapy with the refreshment of pool dips. Alder wood stands out as the best material choice for such saunas, providing a perfect blend of durability, beauty and functionality. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning, ventilation and wood treatment, will ensure your alder wood sauna remains a welcoming, long-lasting retreat near your pool.

Adding a sauna to your pool area not only enhances your property’s aesthetic but also boosts your personal health and relaxation options. With the right materials and care, you can create a luxurious, spa-like environment for years of enjoyment.