How to Properly Light a Sauna Oven

Watch this short video about how to light a sauna oven. 

Read more to find out how to light a sauna oven properly – and keep it hot!

  • Saunas ovens have long, skinny chimneys for effective smoke filtration, so they need the power and force created by a hot fire to effectively push the smoke up and out. 
  • Rushed fire-starting or improper steps may cause smoke to return into the sauna room. It is very important not to rush and to use only small pieces of wood in the warming up stage. 
  • Patience is crucial for a smoke-free and hot sauna experience.

Please watch this short video showing how to light a sauna oven

Fire starting tips:

    • Make sure the ashtray is empty.
    • Start fire with small bits of wood and fire starters (10 small pieces max).
    • Light it up, and close oven door. 
    • Make sure ashtray under the fire door is pulled out at least 3cm, while oven door is still closed.
    • Wait 10 – 15 minutes.
    • Add 3-4 slightly larger bits of wood to the fire.
    • Close oven door and wait 10-15 minutes for proper heating.
    • Do not forget to add more wood to maintain and increase heat (but never so full that the oven cannot breathe). 
    • Make sure the wood is not pressed up against the oven door. The fire needs to be in the middle and back part of the oven area.
    • Whatever you do, DO NOT ADD WATER WHILE THE SAUNA IS HEATING UP. This will cool the oven and it will take even longer for the sauna to heat up.

Common mistakes:

    • Filling oven too fast with big pieces of wood.
    • Adding water too early, cooling down the oven (never put salt water on the oven).
    • Not pulling ashtray out 2 – 3cm (this is the air vent for the fire; without oxygen the fire will die!).
    • Not closing oven door properly.
    • Leaving the sauna too often and allowing cold air to enter.

Other helpful info:

  • Stay in the sauna for at least 20 minutes per sitting to avoid cold air entering the sauna. 
  • Always sit on a towel when in the sauna and wear swimwear.
  • Be nice to one another, stay hydrated, and do not drink more than two alcoholic beverages.

Hope to see you at Oslo Fjord Sauna for a hot sauna, good conversation, and a refreshing swim in the wonderful Oslofjord!