Finnish public pools in Pirkanmaa permit swimsuits in saunas

The regional council of Pirkanmaa, covering cities such as Tampere, Nokia, Ylöjärvi, Lempäälä and Valkeakoski, approved a rule allowing visitors to wear swimwear while using the sauna facilities in public swimming halls. The change is presented as a measure to improve accessibility for all users. Sauna specialist Janne Orava said the decision is unlikely to harm Finnish sauna culture, noting that modern water‑treatment methods (ozonation and UV light) reduce any hygiene concerns associated with swimwear. Orava added, “Aika heikko suoritus meiltä suomalaisina,” if the tradition were threatened, but emphasized that “Uusi päätös ei vaadi kaikkia pitämään saunassa uimapukua.” Public reaction has been mixed, with some commentators warning that the move could affect traditional sauna practices, while others view it as a harmless adaptation.