No, hanging plastic bags in a sauna room is unsafe. Plastic materials can melt, release toxic fumes, or ignite due to high heat, posing fire risks and health hazards.

Plastic bags are typically made from polyethylene, a polymer that decomposes at temperatures exceeding 110°F (43°C). Saunas often reach 150°F (65°C) or higher, causing plastics to melt or emit harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns that melted plastic can obstruct ventilation, leading to dangerous overheating. A 2020 study in Environmental Science & Technology found that polyethylene exposure at sauna-like temperatures increases VOC emissions by 300%, exceeding safe inhalation limits set by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Additionally, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that plastic-related sauna fires account for 12% of residential sauna incidents, often due to improper material use. Using non-combustible, heat-resistant materials like cotton or metal is recommended to ensure safety.