Key Takeaways
- Hygiene: Cotton hats are machine washable; wool requires hand washing.
- Tradition: Modeled after Japanese Onsen and Korean Jjimjilbang culture.
- Function: Can be soaked in water for cooling during intense heat.
- Comfort: Soft Cotton prevents the "itchiness" of wool.
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Protection: Double-layered fabric provides excellent heat insulation.
| Feature | Wool & Felt Hats | Cotton Sauna Hats |
| Washing | Hand wash only | Machine washable |
| Comfort | Can be scratchy | Soft & gentle |
| Usage | Dry use only | Wet (Cooling) or Dry |
1. Commonly Used in Korean Spas & Japanese Onsens
The concept of protecting the head during spas in the East has been a long-standing tradition in the Jjimjilbangs (Korean spas) and Japanese Onsens to wear cotton towels over the head to prevent dizziness and overheating.
Today, this tradition has modernized. Cotton sauna hats are now a common staple in these facilities, serving as a purpose-built upgrade to the traditional folded towel.
2. Machine-Washable
Saunas are places of healing, but they are also environments filled with sweat, humidity, and bacteria. This makes the cleanliness of your gear paramount.
- Wool and Felt: Generally require careful hand washing to avoid shrinking, felting, or losing shape.
- Cotton: Is highly durable and can be machine washed and dried in dryer
3. Wet or Dry
A cotton hat can be wetted or dry during your sauna sessions to keep you cooler longer.
- Cooling: You can soak a cotton hat in cold water before entering the hot room. This keeps your head cool and helps lower your heart rate, allowing for a longer, safer session.
- Wipe off your Sweat: Unlike rigid felt, soft cotton acts as an absorbent towel, allowing you to wipe sweat from your brow comfortably.
4. Comfort with Cotton
Texture matters, especially when your pores are open. Wool and cheap felt can often feel scratchy, heavy, or itchy against the skin. For those with sensitive skin, the natural softness of cotton is an upgrade over coarse felt