How to Use & Care for a Birch Sauna Broom (Venik)
Sauna guide
How to Use & Care for a Birch Sauna Broom (Venik)
Birch sauna brooms (also called venik) turn an ordinary steam into a ritual: gentle massage, even heat and a fresh forest aroma. Follow this quick prep & care guide — and shop the essentials below.
What a venik does
- Distributes heat with soft wafting so the steam feels deep but friendly.
- Stimulates circulation via light pats and short compresses.
- Adds aroma — warmed leaves release essential oils.
First use & preparation
- Unwrap and let the broom breathe 10–15 min at room temperature.
- Gently fan it to loosen the branches — don’t twist the bundle.
Two safe prep methods
A) Quick warm soak — warm (not boiling) water, submerge only leaves for 10–15 min, keep the handle dry.
B) Steam-pot method — hold the leaf part above steam about 10 min. Use a small splash of the fragrant water on the stones (don’t flood the stove).
Need a fresh broom? Start with beginner-friendly Birch. Buy Birch (Set of 3)
In the steam room: three techniques
1) Wafting — fan hot air from above down the body for 30–60 s to warm the skin gently.
2) Patting — soft rhythmic taps along back, shoulders and legs (1–2 min).
3) Compress — warm the broom over steam 5–10 s, then lay it briefly on the back so leaves hug the skin.
Aftercare
- Rinse quickly in warm water.
- Shake off moisture; don’t wring.
- Dry with airflow in shade at room temperature (hang leaf-down).
- Store cool & dry; avoid plastic bags and direct sun.
How many uses? With good care, birch venik lasts 2–4 sessions.
Birch vs Oak vs Eucalyptus — which to choose?
- Birch — soft & classic. Shop Birch →
- Oak — firmer, great heat resistance. Shop Oak →
- Eucalyptus — aromatherapy boost. Shop Eucalyptus →
Quick picks
- All Sauna Brooms (overview) →
- 3-Piece ECO Mix (Oak+Birch+Eucalyptus) →
- Birch Set of 5 (bulk offer) →
Ready for your next steam? Get a fresh venik and try the compress technique today. Open the Shop