Whether you’re here for your first sauna ever or just want to brush up on the unspoken (and spoken) rules, this page has you covered. We’ll walk you through what to bring, what to expect, and how we keep the vibe calm, respectful, and welcoming for everyone. 

Our spaces are warm - in more ways than one. You’ll find people of all backgrounds and bodies here. Come as you are. Most folks are friendly, and some prefer quiet. Both are welcome. Respect is the baseline. And finally, always listen to your body, it’s your best guide.

What to Bring

  • Swimwear

  • Two towels (one to sit on, one to dry off)

  • Flip-flops/sliders

  • Water bottle

  • A bag for wet clothes

  • Warm clothes for afterwards

Flow of a Session

You'll move between hot sauna sessions and cold plunges - as many rounds as you like. Most people do 2-3 cycles. Some stay quiet, some chat. You can sit in silence or join the buzz - up to you. Rest between rounds, hydrate, and take it at your own pace.

  • “Do I have to plunge?” (Nope.)

  • “Can I leave and re-enter?” (Usually, yes.)

  • “Do I have to talk to people?” (Only if you want to.)

What It Feels Like

The heat might feel intense at first, that’s normal. Stay for a few minutes, breathe deeply, and step out whenever you need. The cold plunge is shocking but invigorating. You might feel amazing. You might feel weird. Either way, you did it.

Arrival & Check-In

Arrive 10-15 minutes early so you can check in, get changed, and settle in without stress. Staff will greet you and help you get oriented. You don’t need to do anything special - just be respectful and you’ll have a great time.

Health & Safety

If you’re pregnant, have a heart condition, or a medical concern, check with your GP before using the sauna or plunge.

Facilities FAQs

  • Are there lockers? (Yes, but bring your own lock.)

  • Are showers hot? (Some sites are only cold.)

  • Are changing rooms gendered or shared? (Some private, some shared and some gendered depending on the location.)

  • Is there drinking water available? (Yes, but feel free to bring your bottle.)

  • Can I bring my own essential oils? (No, sorry!)

Sauna Etiquette

To keep the space calm and respectful for everyone:

  • Sit on a towel inside the sauna

Please bring two towels with you. One to sit on and one to dry yourself with.

  • One ladle at a time

Ask others before adding water to the stones & pause between ladles. It takes time for the heat to have an effect & too much water kills the fire.

  • Be mindful of others' experiences 

This is a community space. Please be mindful of your noise level within the sauna.

  • Shower before you plunge

Please rinse off your sweat! It helps keep the plunges fresh for everyone.

  • Toplessness is optional for all genders at Hackney Wick

Please be covered from the waist down. Anyone, however, is welcome to be topless.

  • We are a neutral body space

Please do not comment on people’s bodies or tattoos, even if you have positive intentions.

  • Essential oils guidance 

Only put our aromatherapy ices on the rocks. Putting the wrong essential oils can affect the customers’ safety. Please ask our team for more info.

  • This is a sober space

The closest we’ve got to alcohol here is the whisky barrel plunges

  • This is a phone-free zone

Please do not bring your phone inside the sauna. You are welcome to take pictures outside, but please ask for consent in advance. 


Want more details? Check out our FAQs or email us at support@community-sauna.co.uk