What to expect when visiting a Dutch sauna

Many internationals are shocked to hear that almost all saunas in the Netherlands are nude. Don’t fret, you can still have a relaxing time! Here’s everything you need to know if you’re thinking of visiting a Dutch sauna, and the proper etiquette involved.

Nudity in the Netherlands

If you’ve spent any length of time in the Netherlands, you will most likely have noticed that the country has a liberal attitude towards nudity. Whether it’s at beaches, saunas or on their own balconies, the Dutch aren’t shy about being naked.

Naturism, where one is naked in the natural environment to connect with nature, is quite popular in the Netherlands. There are several naturist places in the country, including pools and even campsites where nudist camping (naturistencamping) is a popular summer holiday activity.

This relaxed attitude towards nudity carries over into sauna culture in the Netherlands. 

Saunas in the Netherlands

Before your first visit to a Dutch sauna, it’s probably a good idea to find out what to expect to prevent an uncomfortable situation and make sure you have the best time possible. Here’s what you need to know.

Being naked in Dutch saunas

With how open the Dutch are to nudity, it should come as no surprise that a visit to a sauna will likely require you to be naked. Almost all saunas in the Netherlands are nude and mixed gender, with many of the Dutch growing up going to the sauna with their families and friends.

Many sauna locations will also have women-only and swimsuit days (badkledingdagen) for those who are uncomfortable with stripping off entirely. Saunas are often found at public swimming pools and spas across the country, but there are also many standalone saunas. 

Visiting a naked Dutch sauna is not only relaxing, but can also be very freeing. Without clothing, you’ll also be more comfortable and better able to enjoy the benefits of a sauna. 

Dutch sauna etiquette

If you’re heading to a Dutch sauna, here are the rules and etiquette you should follow to make sure that you and everyone else have a relaxing time.

Textile-free is the way to go

While nobody can force you to be naked, being nude is part of Dutch sauna etiquette. Indeed, some saunas and spas may explicitly say that they are textile-free. Even if the sauna isn’t explicitly textile-free, you can expect to be the only one in swimwear if you choose to wear it. Most likely, you'll be the one getting the funny looks.

Bring a towel and bathrobe

While most saunas will have towels and bathrobes available to rent, you may want to bring your own. For hygiene purposes, it is recommended that you sit or lie on a towel in a sauna, rather than directly on the wooden slats. Ideally, even your hands and feet should be on a towel. 

The bathrobe, and perhaps even slippers, could also be handy to cover yourself when moving between the changing rooms and the sauna. At some saunas in the Netherlands, you might even need to walk between locations outside, making the bathrobe a necessity. 

It can also be helpful to bring a swimming costume even if you’re not using it inside the sauna. If there is an adjoining pool, you may have to wear swimwear while in the pool.

Respect the space and privacy of others

The most important rule of the sauna. Since everyone is naked in a Dutch sauna, you should make a special effort to respect people’s space and privacy. This means sitting at an appropriate distance from people, and not looking at or touching other people’s bodies.

If you feel like someone in the sauna is not respecting space and privacy, you can inform a member of staff working at the sauna, spa or pool.

Keep the noise level to a minimum

Because everyone is at the sauna to relax in a peaceful environment, it is best to be as quiet as possible. If you’re at the sauna with your friend, keep the chat to the poolside or the changing room. If you have to say something or need to talk to another visitor in the sauna, it is considered polite to whisper.

Best saunas in the Netherlands

If you’re looking for the perfect place to sauna, you’ll be glad to hear that there are many places in the Netherlands to sit back and relax. Some of the best saunas can be found at spas or wellness centres, such as Thermen Bussloo or Fort Resort Beemster, where you can go all out for a wellness holiday. Spa Zuiver is another great option that is conveniently located in Amsterdam. 

For more great spa recommendations, check out our article on the best spas in the Netherlands.

Enjoy a good sauna!

Now that you know what to expect and are prepared with the proper spa etiquette, you can sit back, relax and enjoy a good sauna session!