Designed with alderwood (Finnish stools) or hinoki cypress (Japanese), sauna stools are traditionally used as a perch while washing up in the bathhouse before entering the soaking tub. The woods are naturally bacteria- and mildew-resistant and withstand humidity well.
Designed by Aamu Song and Johan Olin for Finnish brand Nikari, the Arte Culture Sauna Stool was designed for a Helsinki public sauna called Arte Culture in 2013.
A small Hinoki Bathroom Stool is available from Everyday Needs in New Zealand; contact the store for restocking information.
A straightforward Hinoki Wood Stool by designer Yoko Ueno Lewis has a grooved surface for water drainage; $300 at Design Within Reach.
The German-made Solid Oak Stool is best for bathside products, as shown; $135.20 at La Trésorerie.
From Kiso Lifestyle Labo, the Hinoki Bath Stool is designed with an angled seat; $170 at Nalata Nalata. It’s also available for $170 CAD at Mjölk.
The Azmaya Hinoki Bath Stool has a traditional shape and design; $86.81 at Analogue Life.
The Ambai Hinoki Bath Stool by designer Makoto Koizumi is handmade of bent Kiso Hinoki; $109.65 for the small size at Analogue Life.
A traditional Hinoki Bath Stool made in Tochigi, Japan, is £65 at Native & Co.
Designed by Finnish designer Kari Virtanen for Nikari, the Periferia Sauna Stool KVJ3 in oiled alderwood is designed with a concave shape and drainage to allow water to drip through the middle; $371 at Finnish Design Shop.
A Japanese Bath Stool from Mr. Kitly in Australia is made of Hinoki cypress and comes in two sizes, the standard size for $215 AUD and the tall size for $295 AUD.