Sauna stones for wood-fired and electric stoves
Everyone, not just sauna enthusiasts, knows that sauna stones are one of the most important elements—without them, it’s hard to imagine a real, traditional sauna. Although there are countless types of stones in nature, not all of them are suitable for use in a sauna. However, sauna stones can be selected based on individual needs and the type of stove. For example, in ancient times, our ancestors would gather stones from nature. If you’d like to do the same, it’s important to know that such stones are not recommended for use in electric stoves. Stones that have been submerged in a fast-flowing river for a long time are best suited for a wood-fired stove. However, the safest and most reliable solution is to choose stones specifically designed for saunas. We do not recommend using stones collected from fields or rivers, as they may explode due to heat and pressure. Therefore, it is better to purchase specially selected sauna stones, which will help ensure safer and more comfortable sauna use.
The type of stone determines the steam properties of the sauna and the lifespan of the stones, while the quantity determines the intensity of the steam. In any case, a larger quantity of stones is usually a better choice than too few. If there are too few stones, pouring water on them can significantly cool down the sauna room, so you’ll have to stoke the fire again and reheat the sauna. When selecting stones for an electric stove, it is advisable to choose smaller ones, approximately 5–7 cm in size, while larger stones—about 10–15 cm—are more suitable for a wood-fired stove. Properly selected sauna stones allow for a more pleasant steam and more effective heat retention.
Stones play a very important role in a steam sauna stove—they “produce” steam from the water poured over them, and their temperature typically ranges from 280 to 600 degrees. Sauna stones are usually heated in two ways: directly, when they are heated directly by the fire’s flames and smoke, and indirectly, when the stones are heated by a metal stove or electric heating elements. This is precisely why it is very important to choose the right type of stones based on the type of stove and sauna usage habits.
Stones used in stoves should be thoroughly washed and arranged properly. Stones placed too densely may not reach the desired temperature, so it is best to arrange them more loosely, but not too sparsely. Properly arranged stones ensure good air circulation in the sauna and help heat the room more quickly. The main requirement for sauna stones is that they must effectively store heat, release it evenly, and, of course, not crack due to water or heat.
Sauna enthusiasts often wonder how often they should replace the stones. Experts recommend replacing the stones at least once a year. How often depends on how frequently the sauna is used. When maintaining the stones, it’s not necessary to replace them all; you can simply inspect them. Wash the intact ones, discard the crumbling ones, and only replenish the missing quantity. If you find stones that are just starting to crumble, it’s also better to replace them with new ones.
Sauna experts recommend several types of stones: soapstone, raspberry quartz, jadeite, white quartz, olivine diabase, ceramic stones, and one of the most popular stones—volcanite. Once you’ve chosen the right stones for your sauna, you’ll be able to enjoy not only high-quality steam and even heat, but also better health.
Soapstone is characterized by good thermal conductivity and heat resistance, creating a light, fine, and gentle steam. Zadeite has a positive effect on health and well-being. It creates a light, gentle steam in the sauna. The properties of raspberry quartz and white quartzite include low thermal conductivity and high density, so the steam from these stones will be gentle. Raspberry quartz is known for its durability. Gabbro diabase does not release substances when heated, heats up well, and quickly releases heat; it is also known for not cracking easily. Ceramic stones absorb water well and release it abundantly, and are known for their durability. Ceramic stones are made from clay and are designed primarily for electric saunas. If you decide to mix several types of stones, keep in mind that there will certainly be no significantly better effect, so it is not worth doing.
The selection of stones available in this online store is designed for various types of stoves. Here you will find gabbro diabase, olivine diabase, talc chlorite, quartzite, raspberry quartzite, ceramic, decorative stones, jadeite, and other varieties. Depending on the packaging and manufacturer, sauna stones are available in 10, 15, or 20 kg packages. The most popular are usually the 20 kg packages. Our selection offers a variety of price options, so everyone can choose according to their needs and budget.
We offer not only sauna stones but also stone products—such as various cups, bowls for steaming scents, stone fountains, and even a stone bowl that allows you to grill sausages or other food on the heated sauna stones.
If you haven’t found the right stone for you, feel free to email us or give us a call, and we’ll be happy to help.
