Take a look at our articles, where we discuss the following topics, among others:
What are menthol crystals?
How menthol as a 100% natural raw material brings a cooling and refreshing effect to the sauna. There are many names, for some it is sauna scent, sauna ice or menthol crystal.
The benefits of menthol in the sauna:
Read how menthol opens the airways and brings relief from the flu during a sauna.
The versatile use of menthol crystals:
Menthol is not limited to the sauna - read more about the use of menthol crystals in e.g. foot baths and steam breathing.
Sauna and well-being:
How saunas and Sauna Menthol products support comprehensive well-being and relaxation.
Whether you are a sauna lover, looking for relief from the flu or interested in well-being, our blog offers you plenty of useful information. Stay up to date with the latest tips and be inspired to bring more relaxation into your life!
Blog posts
10 things you might not know about sauna bathing
For Finns, a sauna is much more than just a place to wash, relax or escape from everyday life. It is a part of our culture, history and everyday life, surrounded by countless stories, traditions and surprisingly special details. Although sauna bathing is a given for many of us, there is a lot about it that few people really know. Here are ten interesting and sometimes surprising facts about the sauna, its history and customs, which can deepen your own sauna experience. Check them out. 1. There are more saunas than cars in Finland It is estimated that there are over 3.3 million saunas in Finland. That means almost one sauna for every inhabitant. Many homes have their own sauna, but saunas can also be found in cottages, swimming pools, workplaces and even in the common areas of apartment buildings. Saunas can also be found on ships, hotels and public buildings. For comparison, there are around 2.8 million cars in Finland. This says a lot about how central a sauna is to the Finnish lifestyle. 2. The use of menthol in saunas is a relatively new phenomenon Although the Finnish sauna itself is an ancient tradition, the use of menthol saunas only began to become more common in the late 20th century. Originally, menthol was mainly used for medicinal purposes, for example in conjunction with steam inhalation to relieve congestion. Since then, the refreshing and cooling effect of menthol began to be associated with saunas, and menthol products became popular, especially in winter, when they open the airways and bring its characteristic refreshing note to the sauna. This is exactly what Sauna Menthol sauna ice, for example, offers. 3. The first saunas were smoke saunas without a chimney A smoke sauna is the most historically original form of sauna. In it, the stove is heated with wood without a chimney, and smoke fills the entire sauna. After heating, the fire is turned off and the smoke is vented out, after which sauna bathing begins. The soft and even heat of a smoke sauna, as well as the smell of smoke, create a unique atmosphere that a modern electric stove cannot fully imitate. The construction and use of a smoke sauna require special expertise, and in many places this tradition is still strong. The number of stones in a smoke sauna stove is also many times higher than in a traditional sauna, so heating alone takes several hours. 4. The sauna is not just a Finnish invention – but Finns made it a culture Although the sauna is strongly associated with Finland, other cultures also have long traditions of steam and baths. The Russians have banya, the Turks have hamam, and the Japanese have sento and onsen baths. What makes the Finnish sauna special is its place in everyday life and culture. In Finland, the sauna is not a luxury, but an essential part of everyday life and community. It has been a place for purification, births, deaths, and important discussions throughout history. 5. The word "Löyly" does not translate directly into any other language “Steam bath” means both hot steam and the spirit of the sauna. It is a word that has both concrete and symbolic meaning. Many languages do not have an exact equivalent for steam bath, and therefore the word is often used as such internationally. There is a lot of tacit knowledge involved in the quality of a steam bath: how much water is poured into the heater, and at what rhythm. A good steam bath is soft, moist and pleasant, and not burning hot. 6. A menthol sauna can ease flu symptoms The effect of menthol is based on its ability to stimulate cold receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, which gives a cool and refreshing feeling without an actual drop in temperature. When menthol, such as Sauna Menthol , is added to the sauna water, it evaporates with the hot steam and spreads evenly throughout the sauna. This can relieve respiratory congestion and throat irritation, and many people use menthol, especially in the winter during flu season. A menthol sauna is not a medicine, but it can bring relief and increase the relaxing effect of sauna bathing. 7. Sauna use burns calories and activates blood circulation Although sauna bathing is not a substitute for exercise, its effects on the body are real. The heat raises the body temperature and speeds up the heart rate. This increases blood circulation and can burn up to 300 calories per hour, depending on the temperature and the duration of the sauna. At the same time, the body sweats profusely, which helps eliminate fluid and can bring a feeling of lightness. Regular sauna bathing, combined with a healthy lifestyle, has been shown to support overall well-being. 8. The first public saunas served as birthing centers Before hospitals became common, the sauna was often the cleanest and warmest place in the village. That's why births took place there. The hot steam killed bacteria and kept the air clean, and the heated sauna provided a peaceful and safe environment for childbirth. The sauna was also a place where the sick were treated and the deceased were prepared for burial. Thus, the sauna was strongly associated with the cycle of life from beginning to end. 9. Sauna temperatures weren't always as high as they are today In smoke saunas, the temperature was often 50–70 degrees, and the soft steam was created by continuously throwing water on hot stones, which are exceptionally abundant in smoke saunas. After electric heaters became more common in the mid-20th century, sauna temperatures rose to 80–100 degrees in many places. This is not necessarily a better or worse way, but a different one. Many people find the softer heat of a traditional smoke sauna more pleasant than the dry heat of an electric sauna. 10. The world's largest sauna is found in Finland The world's largest sauna is located in Teuva and is officially in the Guinness Book of Records. The sauna can accommodate over 250 people at a time. This shows how strongly the sauna experience is communal in Finland. Large event saunas and communal sauna use are part of the culture, and they bring people together in the same way as small home saunas in the family circle. Summary A sauna is much more than just a "warm room" where you sweat. It is part of Finnish identity, tradition and well-being. The history and diversity of sauna bathing make it a phenomenon that is both everyday and exceptionally rich. The menthol sauna brings a modern twist to this tradition, combining the old sauna ritual with a fresh and invigorating effect. Whether you are a fan of a traditional smoke sauna or a user of a modern electric sauna, there is always something new and fascinating to learn about saunas.
Learn more
Where is menthol used and what is its history?
Menthol (also called menthol) is familiar to many Finns, especially from the fresh scent of the sauna, which opens the airways and creates a refreshing experience during the steam bath. But the use of menthol is not limited to the sauna — this natural raw material is very versatile and is widely used in cosmetics, food, the pharmaceutical industry and wellness products. In this article, we will take a look at the history of menthol and tell you where it is used today. The history of menthol: at the source of freshness Menthol has been used for centuries for its cooling, refreshing and invigorating effects. Menthol was first isolated from Japanese peppermint oil in the 18th century, and in the 19th century it began to be produced and used industrially on a larger scale in Europe. Originally, menthol was used primarily for medicinal purposes: to relieve respiratory symptoms, relieve pain and freshen breath. With the industrial revolution and the development of chemistry, menthol became an important ingredient in many different fields, and today it is produced both from natural sources and synthetically. Use of menthol in cosmetics and hygiene products One of the biggest uses of menthol is in cosmetics and personal care. Its cooling effect and fresh scent make it a popular ingredient in products such as: In shampoos and conditioners – menthol stimulates the scalp and provides a fresh feeling during washing. In skin care products – for example, gels and creams – menthol is used to cool and soothe the skin. In toothpastes and mouthwashes – menthol brings a feeling of cleanliness and coolness to the mouth, which is why it is used in almost all refreshing oral hygiene products. In deodorants and aftershaves – menthol's refreshing and cooling properties make it an effective and pleasant addition to products where a refreshing effect is needed. In cosmetics, menthol also surprisingly acts as a deodorizer and mild antiseptic, which increases its versatility. Menthol in foods and beverages Menthol is also widely used in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the production of peppermint and menthol flavors. Its fresh taste and cooling effect make it popular in, for example: In sweets and chewing gums In lozenges and throat lozenges In dental candy and refreshing drinks In ice creams and desserts where menthol is combined with chocolate, for example Menthol is safe in food use, and is used in very small concentrations to bring freshness and a recognizable taste. For example, the menthol crystals contained in Sauna Menthol are 100% natural menthol crystals, which can in principle be eaten. However, this is not recommended, but they are a completely natural product. The importance of menthol in pharmaceutical and wellness products The effects of menthol are not just about smell and taste — it also has physiological properties that are utilized in many medicines and wellness products: Products that open the airways, such as nasal sprays, cough lozenges, and steam inhalation products, utilize the cooling and refreshing effect of menthol. Pain gels and liniments applied to the skin often contain menthol, which causes a cooling sensation and can relieve muscle and joint pain. In massage and relaxation products, menthol has a refreshing and at the same time calming effect. Menthol's effect is based on the fact that it stimulates cold receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, which gives the brain a cool sensation — even though there is no actual drop in temperature. Menthol in the sauna – the perfect addition to steam baths In Finland, menthol is particularly familiar to us from sauna products. When menthol is added to the sauna water and the heater, it creates a fresh and respiratory-opening feeling that makes the sauna session even more invigorating. Menthol products, such as Sauna Menthol's sauna ice, are perfect for bringing a spa-style atmosphere to the sauna and effectively relieving, for example, congestion or flu symptoms. In the sauna, menthol evaporates with the steam water and spreads evenly throughout the sauna. Many people find a menthol sauna to be a particularly relaxing and cleansing experience – it refreshes the body and mind. Use of menthol in industry and other products Menthol's uses don't stop with consumer products. It's also used in: In tobacco and nicotine products (e.g. menthol cigarettes, snuff, nicotine pouches) to provide a cool taste — although menthol cigarettes are banned in the EU, menthol is still used in substitute products in some markets. In perfumery, because menthol's fresh scent often acts as a base or top note in perfumes. In the chemical industry and laboratory use in many flavoring and pharmaceutical components. Summary Menthol is much more than just a “fresh scent in the sauna”. It is a versatile and valued natural substance that is widely used in everything from cosmetics and food to medicines and sauna products. Its long history and versatile properties make it a highly sought-after raw material — and in Finnish saunas, its use is considered by many to be an essential part of a perfect sauna experience. We strongly recommend trying Sauna Menthol’s high-quality menthol crystals. This product, called sauna ice, will make your sauna a perfect sauna experience.
Learn more
How do heaters from different manufacturers differ from each other?
There are several sauna heater manufacturers on the market, and their products differ in terms of structure, technology, design, and sauna experience. Choosing the right sauna heater directly affects the kind of sauna experience you get and how pleasant your sauna experience will be. In this article, we will go over how the products of different heater manufacturers typically differ from each other and what you should consider when making a choice. Electric stove vs. wood stove – basic considerations Before looking at the different manufacturers, it's good to understand the two main types: Electric heater Easy to use, quick to heat up. Particularly suitable for city and house saunas. Often more compact and allows for modern features such as timing or WiFi control. Wood stove Offers more traditional, “soft” saunas. Especially suitable for cottages and saunas where an authentic atmosphere is desired. Requires more maintenance and a chimney. Most heater manufacturers offer both options, but the emphasis and specialization vary between manufacturers. There are also huge differences in the selections by country. Harvia – a Finnish classic Harvia is one of the best-known and internationally respected sauna heater manufacturers. The company was founded in the 1950s and its selection is very wide today. Typical features: High-quality and durable construction, designed for long-term use. The collection includes basic models, designer heaters, and smart WiFi-controlled electric heaters. Good amount of stones in many models → soft and even saunas. Spare parts and maintenance are readily available in Finland thanks to a comprehensive network. Who is suitable for: Harvia is suitable for almost everyone – whether for a home sauna, a cottage or public use. If you value reliable quality and domestic production, Harvia is always a safe choice. Narvi – a combination of tradition and design Narvi is another strong domestic manufacturer, known especially for its wood-burning stoves and energy efficiency. Typical features: Invest in ecology and clean combustion – lower emissions and efficient heat utilization. The appearance is often restrained and traditional, but more modern models are also available. The saunas are soft and long-lasting, especially in wood-burning stoves. Who is suitable for: Narvi is especially suitable for those who value the traditional sauna experience and want a wood-burning stove that is both efficient and environmentally friendly. Helo – modern technology and design Helo is one of the world's oldest heater manufacturers and known for its innovations. Helo focuses particularly on electric heaters and smart solutions. Typical features: Modern design and compact solutions for apartment buildings, for example. Good control panels and the ability to integrate the heater into home automation systems. Excellent heating speed. Who is suitable for: Helo is particularly suitable for city saunas and modern homes where comfort and a stylish appearance are valued. Iki – design and massive saunas Iki heaters are known for their distinctive mesh-like structure, which allows for an exceptionally large number of stones in the heater. Typical features: A very impressive appearance that makes the heater the focal point of the sauna. Massive amount of stones → long and soft saunas. Also suitable for larger saunas and public spaces. Both wood and electric models available. Who is suitable for: Iki is suitable for those who want an impressive design and high-quality saunas – for example, for a modern home sauna or representative spaces. Other manufacturers and specialties There are also smaller or more specialized manufacturers on the market, such as Tulikivi, which combines a heater and a rock mass into a heat-saving whole. Kastor is known for its traditional and durable wood-burning heaters. There are also specialized manufacturers, such as Saunatuli, which focus on smoke saunas or custom-made solutions, for example. How to choose the right heater? Different manufacturers emphasize different things in their heaters. When making your own choice, it is worth considering: Sauna size and purpose – Choose the power class and heater depending on how large the space is to be heated. The nature of saunas – Do you want soft, long-lasting saunas or quick heating? Appearance and design – A sauna heater can become the eye-catcher in the sauna. Maintenance and spare parts – Spare parts and maintenance are easily available for products from well-known manufacturers. Technical features – Smart control, scheduling, and automation can be a big advantage in everyday life. What price range do different heater manufacturers fall into? Harvia offers the most options in all price ranges. Mid-range 500-1000€ Narvi is most often placed in the middle class and slightly above it, especially in wood-burning stoves. Mid-range 700-1200€ Helo is close to Harvia's price level, but emphasizes technology and modern design. Mid-range 600-1200€ Iki and Tulikivi clearly represent the premium segment, where appearance and sauna quality are the focus. Mid-range 1200-2000€ The right heater can usually be found based on your budget, intended use, and desired experience. Summary The differences between sauna heater manufacturers are particularly visible in the design, number of stones, heating method, technical solutions and, of course, price. Domestic brands such as Harvia, Narvi and Helo offer reliable basic solutions for different needs, while Iki and specialist manufacturers offer options for impressive design and unique saunas. Choosing the right sauna heater makes sauna bathing an experience – and when you combine a high-quality sauna heater with, for example, good sauna scents, you get an even more invigorating and fresh experience from your sauna.
Learn more
Sauna bathing and athlete recovery – how sauna and menthol crystals support muscle maintenance
Sauna bathing is an excellent recovery method for active people and athletes. Heat, sweating and relaxation support the body's natural processes and help you recover from exertion faster. When sauna products, such as menthol crystals or sauna ice , are combined with traditional sauna bathing, recovery can be supported even further. In this article, we explain why the sauna is an athlete's friend and how sauna ice can take the recovery experience to a new level. The effect of the sauna on an athlete's body After a hard workout, your muscles need time and support to recover from the hard work. The heat of the sauna increases blood circulation, which speeds up the removal of waste products from the muscles. At the same time, your body temperature rises, which relaxes your muscles and eases tension. Sweating, in turn, helps to remove excess fluid and sodium, which can significantly reduce swelling. Regular sauna use has also been linked to improved endurance and heart health. As the body adapts to heat stress, oxygen uptake and blood circulation can also improve, supporting an athlete's long-term performance. The psychological benefits of sauna for athletes Recovery is not just a physical process, but also calming the mind. In a sauna, the body relaxes and stress hormone levels decrease, which promotes deeper sleep and mental recovery. Athletes especially benefit from this, as sleep is one of the most important factors in recovery. Menthol crystals and sauna ice to support recovery In addition to the traditional sauna, athletes can use sauna products that bring new dimensions to recovery. Menthol crystals are known for their refreshing, cooling effect. When added to the sauna water, they open the airways, refresh the mind and create a pleasant cool feeling on the skin in the middle of a hot sauna. This alternation of heat and coolness is somewhat reminiscent of cold-hot therapy, which is a familiar method for many athletes to relieve muscle pain. Sauna ice, on the other hand, releases menthol in a more controlled and longer time, making the sauna experience evenly cool and refreshing. With these products, sauna bathing becomes a more versatile and even more restorative experience. Practical tips for athletes taking a sauna Do not use the sauna after exercise until 30–60 minutes have passed at the earliest, so that the body has time to begin its natural recovery process. Avoid sauna sessions that are too long; 10–15 minute sessions are sufficient for most athletes. Drink enough water before and after the sauna, as sweating increases your need for fluids. Try using menthol crystals or sauna ice in the sauna water, especially after hard training days. Alternate hot and cool moments, for example with a cooling shower, which enhances muscle recovery. Summary Sauna is an excellent recovery aid for athletes and active people. The heat relaxes the muscles, improves blood circulation and helps the body recover from physical exertion. When combined with menthol crystals, or sauna ice , as a sauna scent, a refreshing and cooling element is added, making recovery even more effective and pleasant. Sauna bathing is not only a traditional Finnish practice, but also a modern and natural way of recovery that fits perfectly into an athlete's everyday life. Also include Sauna Menthol in your sauna routine
Learn more
How to choose the right sauna heater - ensure the perfect sauna experience
A Finnish sauna is much more than just a space – it is a place for well-being, relaxation and togetherness. Whether it is your own home sauna, an outdoor sauna at a cottage or a rented sauna space, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right sauna heater. The sauna heater determines the atmosphere of the sauna, the quality of the steam and even the entire enjoyment of sauna bathing. In this blog post, we will go through what you should consider when choosing a sauna heater for your home or cottage, and finally we will also tell you how sauna scents can complement the experience. When choosing the right sauna heater, it is also worth consulting a professional from your local hardware store. After all, they sell them for their job. Why is the heater the heart of the sauna? A sauna heater is not just a source of heat – it creates the steam that makes up the entire sauna experience. Sauna bathing is at its best when the temperature and humidity are in balance, and the size, power and structure of the sauna heater have a decisive influence on this. A well-chosen sauna heater ensures that your sauna evening is relaxed and that the sauna experience does not become stuffy or too dry. 1. Sauna size and volume The first thing to pay attention to is the size of the sauna room. The power of the heater should be in proportion to the volume of the sauna: Small sauna (2–6 m³) : a 3–6 kW electric heater or a light wood-burning heater is usually sufficient. Medium-sized sauna (6–12 m³) : a more powerful 6–9 kW electric heater or a larger wood-burning heater is needed. Large sauna or outdoor sauna (12–20 m³) : requires a 9–15 kW electric heater or a sturdy wood-burning heater. Remember to also consider the sauna's insulation and the amount of glass surfaces. For example, glass doors and large windows increase the need for heating, as they also allow cooler air to easily enter the sauna from above and below. 2. Electric stove or wood stove? Choosing between an electric or wood-burning stove is one of the biggest decisions. An electric heater is easy and quick, especially suitable for city homes and apartment building saunas. Its advantage is that it can be scheduled and provides even heat. A wood-burning stove brings the atmosphere of a traditional sauna and is often the choice for a cottage or outdoor sauna. It provides soft and natural steam, but requires a little more maintenance and heating time. 3. Number of stones and quality of saunas The number of stones in a sauna directly affects the sensation of the sauna. The more stones, the softer and more humid the sauna. A small sauna heats up quickly, but its sauna can feel harsh. A large number of stones, on the other hand, stores heat and provides a longer, more pleasant sauna experience – perfect for long sauna sessions. 4. Intended use: home, cottage or sauna room Home sauna: practicality and ease of maintenance are emphasized. An electric heater is often the best solution. The cottage's outdoor sauna: a wood-burning stove creates an authentic atmosphere, combining the smell of smoke and the closeness of nature. Sauna space for rent: a large and efficient heater ensures that even a larger group can enjoy the sauna at the same time and for a long time. 5. Energy efficiency and safety Nowadays, the emphasis in sauna heaters is also on energy efficiency and safety. A properly sized sauna heater saves electricity and wood, and has a longer service life. Also, make sure that the sauna heater is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions and fire safety regulations. Annual maintenance of the sauna heater also keeps its efficiency at the best possible level, and with a view to fire safety, it is important to keep the sauna heater clean. 6. Remember to maintain your heater If you think with common sense that a heater heats up and experiences extreme stress at best several times a week, it is clear that the heater also needs maintenance. In electric heaters, it is important to change the stones at least every two years and ensure that the heating elements do not touch each other. The arrangement of the stones is also important in both electric and wood-burning heaters, because it allows air to circulate well and the steam to evaporate properly. In wood-burning heaters, the firebox becomes caked and for this reason, it should be inspected annually and the chimney swept frequently enough. By properly maintaining the heater, you ensure the best possible steam. Sauna scents complete the experience Once you have chosen the right heater, it is a good idea to finish off your sauna evening with atmospheric sauna scents . Menthol crystals, birch leaf scents and various herbal aromas make sauna bathing even more relaxing and refreshing. Sauna scents can also make breathing easier, freshen the air and bring back memories of a summer outdoor sauna in the middle of winter. Sauna Menthol sauna scent is an excellent choice for your sauna routine because of its properties, but also because it leaves no residue in your sauna heater when used. Menthol is 100% pure mint oil, which vaporizes effectively in the sauna heater and also evaporates. Some sauna scents may contain synthetically produced aromas or oils that can leave residue in the sauna heater. So choose a sauna scent that is completely natural and pure. Summary: Choosing the right sauna heater is one of the most important decisions when it comes to having the perfect sauna experience. Remember to consider the size of your sauna room, the heater's power, the number of stones, and the intended use. Once you have the foundation in place, finish off your sauna evening with your chosen scents that will make sauna bathing an unforgettable experience.
Learn more
Growing trends in sauna bathing – this is how sauna bathing is being renewed
For Finns, sauna bathing is more than just a way to relax – it is part of culture, well-being and everyday balance. However, in recent years, sauna bathing trends have developed strongly, and alongside the traditional sitting on benches, new ways have emerged to make sauna bathing an even more diverse and enjoyable experience. In this article, we present the most important growing trends in sauna bathing , which can be seen in both home saunas and cottage saunas. 1. Experiential sauna experience More and more people are seeking holistic well-being from sauna bathing. The atmosphere is created, for example, with lighting, relaxing music and natural sauna scents . Menthol crystals (sauna ice) and fresh sauna products have brought a new kind of refreshment to sauna bathing and make sauna bathing a unique experience. 2. Sauna bathing as part of well-being Sauna is increasingly seen as part of a healthy everyday lifestyle. Regular sauna use supports recovery, improves sleep quality and reduces stress. Many people also combine cold and hot treatments with sauna, which increases its effects on both body and mind. For example, in Finland, open water swimming is a steadily growing hobby for many people and is usually combined with sauna use. In top sports, cold and hot treatments are increasingly used, which also partly stems from sauna culture. 3. Natural and organic products Consumers are increasingly appreciating ecological and safe alternatives. This is also reflected in the sauna: natural sauna scents and various sauna accessories are of interest to people who want to make a sustainable choice. 4. Internationalizing sauna culture Sauna use is no longer just a privilege for Finns. Saunas have grown in popularity, for example, in North America and Central Europe, where sauna trends are spreading rapidly. Finnish sauna products are also gaining interest around the world, and the sauna scent of Sauna Menthol, for example, has found its way into homes around the world. Summary Sauna bathing is experiencing a strong upswing, combining tradition and modern wellness trends. Experientialism, natural products and holistic well-being are making the sauna an even more meaningful part of everyday life. If you want to take your sauna to the next level, try refreshing menthol crystals or other high-quality sauna fragrances – and make the sauna a real experience.
Learn more
How are sauna stones made and what is good to know about them?
Sauna stones are the heart of the Finnish sauna and the recipe for a great sauna experience. They store the heat of the heater and release it as gentle or intense steam when water is poured over it. Although sauna stones may seem simple, their manufacture, properties and maintenance have a significant impact on the entire sauna experience. Historical background – stones before electric heaters The use of sauna stones dates back to the time before electricity. In traditional smoke saunas, the stones were heated directly with wood. Choosing the right stones was a meticulous task: they had to withstand intense heat and sudden temperature changes without cracking. Often, dense and heavy stones collected from nature were used, such as peridotite or olivine diabase. When electric heaters became more common after the mid-20th century, the role of sauna stones did not change – but the size, shape and quality of the stones became standardized with industrial production, becoming a very precise part of the sauna. So how are sauna stones made? Today's sauna stones are most often made from natural stone, which is quarried from rock and crushed to a suitable size. Sauna stones are therefore not searched for or collected, but are quarried from predetermined rock materials. The most common materials are: Peridotite – a very dense rock, excellent for storing heat Olivine diabase – highly resistant to temperature fluctuations Gabbro and diabase – dark, hard and long-lasting material Manufacturing process: Quarrying – stone is removed from rock in a mine. Crushing – the stone is broken into the desired size, typically into pieces of 5–15 cm. Screening – we screen out pieces that are too small and too large. Washing – removes dust and stone residue so that the stones do not smell when burned. Packaging – stones are usually packed in 20 kg bags or boxes. Why is changing stones important? During use, sauna stones deteriorate. They may crack, crumble or collect dust and limescale. Stones in poor condition: Reduces the quality of the sauna Slows down the heating of the heater Loads the heater's resistors or firebox Stone replacement interval For home use : approximately every 1–2 years In heavy use (e.g. a housing company sauna) : up to 1–2 times a year Sometimes it is enough to rearrange the stones – lift them out, remove the crumbled ones, and place the intact ones back in an airy manner. This improves air circulation in the heater. The correct way to stack stones Arrange the stones in an airy manner so that air can circulate around the heating elements or firebox. Use larger stones on the bottom, smaller ones on top. Avoid stacking the stones too tightly – it slows down the heater and can damage the heating elements. Special sauna stones and trends In recent years, special stones, such as soapstone and ceramic stones, have also been introduced to the market. These can be used to influence the softness and appearance of the sauna. For example, soapstone stores heat exceptionally well and releases it for a long time, which is especially suitable for long, peaceful saunas. Sauna stones and sauna scents Good sauna stones make the sauna experience even and pleasant – and this is also important when using sauna fragrances. When the heat of the stones is even, for example, Sauna Menthol sauna fragrance evaporates perfectly, releasing a fresh menthol aroma without any bitter aftertastes. Using liquid sauna fragrances does not leave any residue on the sauna stones, as long as they are made completely naturally. For example, Sauna Menthol sauna ice does not contain anything added and is a completely natural sauna fragrance.
Learn more
What and how is menthol crystal made?
Menthol crystals (sauna ice) have become very popular as a sauna scent, but few people know where these refreshingly fresh crystals actually come from and how they are practically made. In this article, we will delve into the origin of menthol, the manufacturing process and why natural menthol is a popular choice for sauna use. What is menthol? Menthol is a natural compound found especially in mint plants, such as peppermint and Japanese mint (Mentha arvensis). Menthol is responsible for the cooling sensation and fresh scent of mint. It belongs to the terpene alcohols and is known for its ability to activate the body's cold receptors - this creates the characteristic cool and refreshing sensation of menthol, even though there is no actual drop in temperature. Making menthol crystals – step by step Although menthol can also be produced synthetically, high-quality menthol crystals like Sauna Menthol are made naturally from mint oil without any artificial ingredients. Here are the main steps in the process: 1. Cultivation and harvesting of mint plants Menthol is mainly produced from the Mentha arvensis variety, which is cultivated mainly in Asia. The plants are grown in organic conditions and harvested when ripe – usually twice a year. 2. Essential oil distillation After harvesting, the mint leaves are dried and steam distilled to produce mint oil (peppermint oil or Japanese mint oil). This oil is rich in menthol and other aromatic compounds, such as menthol and isomenthol. 3. Crystallization of menthol Menthol is separated from distilled mint oil by cooling the oil under controlled and very precise conditions. During cooling, the menthol naturally crystallizes , allowing it to be separated from the other components of the oil. The end result is white, strongly scented menthol crystals with a menthol content of up to 99%. 4. Cleaning and packaging Menthol crystals are carefully cleaned and inspected to ensure quality. High-quality products are free of impurities and are safe for use in saunas, for example. The crystals are packaged in airtight packaging, where they remain effective and fresh for a long time. As a rule of thumb, the larger the crystals, the purer the concentration. It is difficult to control the size of the crystals because they are produced using natural methods. For this reason, larger crystals may occasionally appear in the Sauna Menthol package. The crystal can be easily broken through the bag by lightly squeezing or clicking it to make it smaller. Is menthol crystal a natural product? Yes. When menthol is naturally produced from mint oil by distillation and crystallization, it is a completely natural product , without any synthetic additives. Such menthol crystals are well suited for use in saunas, steam inhalations or even foot baths. Sauna Menthol menthol crystals are 100% natural in origin and contain no artificial fragrances or fillers. You can use them safely and worry-free in your sauna water, enjoying the clean and fresh feeling of breathing air as part of your sauna routine. Summary – why is menthol crystal an excellent choice for a sauna scent? Made naturally from peppermint oil Menthol content up to 99% ensures a strong, refreshing effect Contains no artificial chemicals or additives Perfect for sauna use, opens airways and refreshes The journey of menthol crystals from mint leaves to sauna water is an example of combining nature and tradition with modern well-being. The next time you add Sauna Menthol sauna fragrance to your sauna water, you can be sure that you are using a product that is based on centuries of cultivation expertise and a carefully refined manufacturing process. This sauna fragrance is guaranteed to leave you cold.
Learn more
Liquid or solid sauna fragrance – What's the difference?
Sauna scents make a sauna experience an experience. They add atmosphere to the sauna, freshen your breath and even offer therapeutic effects. But with scents available in different forms – especially liquid and solid – many sauna users wonder which option is better for their own use. In this blog post, we compare liquid and solid sauna scents. Both options work great, but their differences may affect which one is right for your sauna moment. 1. Composition and method of use Liquid sauna fragrances are typically fragrances mixed with essential oils or a water base. They are added to the sauna water a few drops at a time. Solid sauna fragrances , such as menthol crystals , are substances in crystallized form that are added either directly to the sauna heater or to the sauna water. Practical difference: Liquid fragrance usually requires careful mixing with water. Solid sauna ice crystals may dissolve more slowly, but are very effective even in small quantities. 2. Power and scent intensity Menthol crystals are very pure and powerful, often only 1-3 crystals are enough for the entire sauna session. The scent spreads quickly and remains consistent for a longer time. Many people experience the refreshing effect of menthol from the first breath during sauna bathing. Liquid sauna scents can be milder or evaporate quickly, and they often need to be added several times during the sauna session. Many people find liquid sauna scents to be too mild in places and give feedback that they have to be used constantly and a lot, which becomes expensive in the long run. Which one is better? If you want a strong, fresh, and long-lasting scent , menthol crystals are a more effective option. If you're looking for a softer, more subtle vibe , a liquid fragrance may be better. 3. Ease of use and storage Solid fragrances (like Sauna menthol crystals) are long-lasting, easy to store, and very effective. They don't require large amounts of use, and they retain their effectiveness for a long time when stored in a closed container or airtight bag. Liquid fragrances can evaporate over time, and bottles can leak if not stored carefully in an upright position. The pros and cons: Menthol crystals : long shelf life, no leakage, precise dosing Liquid fragrances : require mixing, more sensitive to light and heat 4. Applications and atmosphere Menthol crystals are especially popular in saunas where you want to: makes breathing easier have a cooling effect on the skin create a fresh, cleansing atmosphere Liquid fragrances may be suitable for saunas that want to: floral, citrus or woody scents subtle world of smells mix several scents together There are many different types of sauna scents and everyone is sure to find the right version for their sauna. By trying and testing, you usually find out which sauna scent is best for you. Sauna ice, or menthol crystals, differ from traditional sauna scents not only because of their effectiveness, but also because of their long-lasting effect.
Learn more
Sauna Menthol®
Sauna Menthol®
Sauna Menthol® enhances your sauna experience and creates a unique spa-like ambiance that soothes and refreshes both body and mind. Menthol makes sauna bathing more enjoyable, longer-lasting, and adds a revitalizing effect to the moments even after your sauna session.
Experience the perfect combination of sauna and menthol with Sauna Menthol sauna ice and steam fragrances. The menthol crystals are made from 100% natural essential mint oil, bringing a fresh, invigorating, and even icy coolness to your sauna. This refreshing contrast to the sauna's heat effectively opens your airways.
Try it out and enjoy the coolest moment of your sauna experience – a perfect gift for any sauna lover!
Delivery costs calculated at checkout.
- Delivery from Seinäjoki, Finland
- 100% natural product
- Sauna Menthol products are currently available for delivery within Europe only. If you're interested in reselling or international shipping, feel free to contact us.
