When to Replace Sauna Stones

Why Sauna Stones Matter

Sauna stones are the heart of your sauna. They store heat from your heater and release it slowly into the air. When you pour water on them, they create that perfect steam that makes saunas feel amazing.

But here’s the thing - sauna stones don’t last forever.

How Often Should You Replace Sauna Stones?

Most people should replace their sauna stones once a year. If you use your sauna daily or multiple times a week, check them every 6 months.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Regular use (up to 3-4 times per week): Replace yearly (or at least review)
• Heavy use (daily): Check every 6 months

You don’t always need to replace all the stones. Sometimes only the ones closest to the heating elements need changing.

Pro tip: Not sure how often you use your sauna? The Sauna Assistant iOS app makes it easy to track your sessions automatically. When you know your exact usage, you’ll know exactly when to check your stones.

What Happens to Sauna Stones Over Time?

Sauna stones go through a lot. They heat up to extreme temperatures, then cool down. Water hits them and turns to steam instantly. This constant stress makes them:

• Crack and crumble
• Become lighter and more porous
• Lose their ability to hold heat
• Create dust that clogs your heater

Damaged stones don’t just work poorly - they can damage your heater and create an unpleasant sauna experience.

How to Inspect Your Sauna Stones

Checking your stones is easy. Here’s what to do:

1. Let your sauna cool completely (wait at least 24 hours after use)

2. Remove all stones carefully

3. Look for these warning signs:

   • Visible cracks or splits
   • Crumbling edges
   • Unusual lightness when lifted
   • White or gray powder on the surface

4. Test them: Gently tap two stones together. Good stones make a solid sound. Bad stones sound hollow or break easily.

5. Clean the good ones: Rinse keeper stones with water to remove dust

Can You Use River Rocks as Sauna Stones?

No, don’t use river rocks in your sauna. Here’s why:

River rocks often contain moisture trapped inside. When heated, this water expands and can make the rock explode. This is dangerous and can damage your sauna.

Always use proper sauna stones like:

• Olivine diabase
• Vulcanite
• Peridotite
• Granite (specifically tested for saunas)

These stones are tested to handle extreme heat safely.

Proper Sauna Stone Placement Tips

How you stack your stones matters:

1. Put larger stones on the bottom - they support the pile and handle direct heat better
2. Place medium stones in the middle - they distribute heat evenly
3. Keep smaller stones on top - they heat up quickly for instant steam
4. Don’t pack too tightly - air needs to flow between stones
5. Cover heating elements completely - but don’t force stones into tight spaces

Good placement helps your sauna heat evenly and protects your heater.

Signs You Need New Stones Right Away

Broken/Cracked Sauna stones - raspberry quartzite

Replace your stones immediately if you notice:

• Strong chemical smells when heated
• Lots of stone dust under the stove
• Your sauna takes much longer to heat up
• Uneven heating in your sauna
• Visible metal heating elements through gaps

The Bottom Line

Taking care of your sauna stones keeps your sauna running well and saves money on repairs. Check them regularly, replace them when needed, and always use the right type of stones. Your sauna (and your relaxation time) will thank you.