Saunamarkki

Saunamarkki is a term used in Finland to refer to a specific type of small, often handheld, towel or cloth used in conjunction with a sauna. These cloths are typically made of absorbent materials like cotton or linen. Their primary function is to be placed on the sauna bench to sit on, providing a clean and hygienic surface. They can also be used for wiping away sweat during a sauna session or for drying oneself afterward.

The size and shape of a saunamarkki can vary, but they are generally rectangular and not as large as a bath towel. Their portability makes them a practical accessory for any sauna user. In many Finnish households and public saunas, it is considered customary to bring your own saunamarkki. The term itself is a compound word, with "sauna" referring to the Finnish steam bath and "markki" being a colloquial term for a piece of cloth or rag. While the term is most commonly heard in Finland, similar practices of using personal cloths in saunas exist in other cultures that utilize steam bathing.