How to choose sauna stones and how many do you need?

Sauna stones play a much more important role in the sauna experience than many people realize. They store heat and help create the soft, pleasant steam that makes a sauna enjoyable. Choosing the right stones and using the correct amount affects both steam quality and heating efficiency.

Why are sauna stones important?

Sauna stones store heat and help distribute it evenly throughout the sauna room. When water is poured onto the hot stones, it quickly evaporates and creates steam.

With good-quality sauna stones, the steam is:

• soft;
• moist;
• even.

If there are too few stones or the stones are of poor quality, the steam may feel sharp and dry.

What are the best sauna stones?

Sauna stoves require specially selected heat-resistant stones that can withstand repeated and significant temperature changes.

One of the most commonly used types is:

Gabbro-diabase

• natural and durable;
• commonly used in wood-burning sauna stoves.

The most important thing is to use stones that are specifically intended for sauna stoves. Ordinary stones collected outdoors may crack or even break apart when exposed to high temperatures.

How many sauna stones do you need?

The amount of stones depends on the type and size of the sauna stove.

As a general guideline:

• smaller sauna stove: 20-40 kg of stones
• medium-sized sauna stove: 40-80 kg of stones
• larger sauna stove: 80-190 kg of stones

A larger stone capacity generally helps create softer and more humid steam.

How to arrange sauna stones correctly

The way the stones are arranged directly affects how the sauna stove performs.

Follow these basic principles:

• place larger stones at the bottom;
• place smaller stones on top;
• leave enough space between the stones for airflow;
• do not pack the stones too tightly.

Good airflow through the stove helps the stones heat evenly.

How often should sauna stones be replaced?

Over time, sauna stones can crack and begin to crumble due to repeated heating and cooling.

We recommend:

• checking the stones once a year;
• removing cracked or damaged stones;
• adding new stones when necessary.

Sauna stones are typically replaced completely every 2-3 years, depending on how frequently the sauna is used.

Summary

Choosing the right sauna stones and using the correct amount is an important part of creating a good sauna experience. The stones directly affect steam quality, heating performance and ease of use.

For the best results, choose high-quality stones designed specifically for sauna stoves and check their condition regularly.