Drying oak brooms for the sauna is an important process that helps to preserve their quality and extend their life. Here are a few steps to help you dry oak brooms properly:
- Gather and prepare the brooms: Gather fresh oak twigs, preferably in the spring or fall when the oak tree is resting from sap-making. Make sure the brooms are free of damage or disease. Cut the stems of the brooms so that they are a comfortable length and shape for use in the bath.
- Hot water treatment: Immerse the brooms in hot water for 10-15 minutes. This will help remove dust, dirt and germs from the surface of the broom.
- Squeezing and desalting: After hot water treatment, gently squeeze out the excess water. Then desalt the brooms by immersing them briefly in brine (made from water and salt). This step will help extend the life of the brooms by preventing decomposition.
- Drying on a ventilated surface: Spread the brooms on a ventilated surface, such as a tray or net, to air-dry at room temperature. Try not to place them in direct sunlight or close to a heat source to avoid drying out.
- Drying in the shade: Oak brooms should be dried in the shade or in a cool place so that they do not lose their valuable properties.
- Checking for readiness: The brooms should be completely dry, not stiff and free of any signs of mold or rot. Ready brooms will be flexible and fragrant.
- Storage: After drying, make sure the brooms cool completely before packing. Store them in a cool, dry place, preferably in a cloth bag or bag made of breathable material.
Following these steps will help preserve the quality of the brooms and you will be able to enjoy a pleasant, aromatic bath for a long time.
