If you’re on the hunt for a sauna, you’ve probably come across two main types: infrared and traditional dry saunas. Each type has different benefits, features, and experiences to offer, so the right choice depends on what you want, your budget, and your goals.

In this guide, we’ll help you understand both infrared and traditional saunas, how they are different, and what you need to think about when choosing one. We’ll also take a look at hybrid saunas, which combine both types for the best of both worlds.

There is a lot of incorrect information out there about saunas, especially about infrared saunas. We’re here to clear up the confusion and give you accurate, science-based information to help you make the right choice.

What is an Infrared Sauna?

An infrared sauna uses infrared light to heat your body directly, rather than warming the air around you. Because of this, the heat feels gentler and more comfortable compared to traditional saunas. Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, usually between 100°F and 150°F, with sessions lasting between 15 and 45 minutes.

These saunas are also energy-efficient, using less power than traditional ones. People often choose infrared saunas because they provide a more targeted, milder type of heat therapy.

Types of Infrared Heating

Infrared saunas come in three types, based on how deep the heat goes:

• Near Infrared (NIR): This type goes deeper into the body and can offer better therapeutic effects. NIR saunas are often used to help with skin health and wound healing.
• Mid Infrared (MIR): MIR saunas provide a balanced heat that helps improve blood flow and reduce muscle pain.
• Far Infrared (FIR): FIR saunas mostly heat the surface of the skin. They are great for relaxation, detoxing, and giving a mild boost to your heart health.

Benefits of an Infrared Sauna

• Detoxification: Infrared saunas make you sweat, which can help remove toxins like heavy metals and chemicals from your body.
• Pain Relief: The heat from infrared saunas can soothe sore muscles and joints. It’s especially helpful for people with chronic pain conditions like arthritis.
• Improved Circulation: The heat makes your blood vessels expand, which improves blood flow and helps with muscle recovery and heart health.
• Skin Health: Sweating in an infrared sauna can make your skin look better by unclogging pores and improving circulation. It can also boost collagen, making skin look younger.
• Weight Loss: Some studies suggest that infrared saunas can help burn calories. The increased heart rate and metabolism during a session can help you with weight management.
• Energy Efficiency: Infrared saunas are more cost-effective because they use less energy than traditional saunas.

What is a Traditional Dry Sauna?

A traditional sauna is usually a wooden room that uses heated stones to create a hot and humid atmosphere. These saunas run at higher temperatures, usually between 150°F and 195°F, with sessions lasting between 10 and 20 minutes.

Traditional saunas can use more power, especially when you add steam by pouring water on the hot rocks. Traditional saunas give a classic, intense heat experience that many people find relaxing.

Types of Heating

• Wood-burning Stove: This provides a rustic, old-fashioned sauna experience. The crackling wood and natural heat give a traditional and cozy atmosphere.
• Electric Heater: Electric heaters are easy to use and common in modern saunas. They let you control the temperature easily.
• Steam Option: You can add steam by pouring water on the heated rocks, which makes the experience more intense and can help you sweat more.

Benefits of a Traditional Dry Sauna

• Deep Relaxation: The high heat helps your body relax deeply, which can reduce stress and tension. Many people find the ritual of using a traditional sauna calming.
• Cardiovascular Boost: The high heat increases your heart rate, similar to light exercise, which is good for heart health.
• Improved Flexibility and Recovery: The heat helps loosen muscles and joints, which is why many athletes use saunas to recover after workouts.
• Enhanced Detoxification: Sweating in a traditional sauna can help flush out toxins from your body.
• Authentic Experience: The experience of pouring water on hot rocks and enjoying the steam is a big part of what makes traditional saunas special.
• Full-Body Heat: Traditional saunas heat the entire room, giving you a full-body heat experience that many people enjoy.

Significant Differences Between Infrared and Traditional Saunas

To help you understand which sauna might be best for you, let’s break down some of the key differences between infrared and traditional saunas.

• Heat Source: Traditional saunas use a stove or heater to warm the air, which then heats your body. Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly, without warming the air much.
• Temperature: Traditional saunas run at higher temperatures, usually between 150°F and 195°F. Infrared saunas are cooler, usually between 120°F and 150°F, but still make you sweat.
• How the Heat Feels: Traditional saunas create a dry heat that you feel right away when you enter. Infrared saunas produce a gentler heat that goes deeper into your body, often feeling less intense.
• Detoxification: Both types help with detoxing by making you sweat. Some people think infrared saunas are better for detoxing because the heat goes deeper into the body.
• Energy Efficiency: Infrared saunas use less energy, making them cheaper to run.
• Installation and Maintenance: Traditional saunas need more work to install and maintain, like building the sauna room and taking care of the heater and rocks. Infrared saunas are easier to install, often coming pre-assembled or as a kit, and they don’t need as much maintenance.

Infrared and Traditional Sauna Comparison Table

Which One Should You Get?

To help you decide which sauna type is right for you, consider these factors:

• Budget: Infrared saunas generally cost less to install and operate, making them a more budget-friendly option for those looking to experience sauna therapy without breaking the bank.
• Heat Tolerance: Those sensitive to heat may prefer the milder temperatures of an infrared sauna. The lower overall temperature of an infrared sauna can be more comfortable for individuals who find traditional saunas overwhelming or difficult to tolerate.
• Desired Sauna Experience: Traditional saunas offer a more immersive experience, while infrared saunas provide a gentle heat that penetrates deeply into the body. If you are seeking the traditional ritual of sauna bathing with steam and intense heat, a traditional sauna might be the better choice.
• Health Goals: Both sauna types offer health benefits, though traditional saunas may be better for cardiovascular exercise, while infrared saunas focus on deep tissue relief. If detoxification and relaxation are your primary goals, an infrared sauna may be the best fit, whereas a traditional sauna may be more suitable for overall cardiovascular conditioning.
• Space and Installation: Infrared saunas are typically easier to install, especially in a home setting, as they require less space and do not need specialized ventilation. Traditional saunas, on the other hand, require more room and proper ventilation, which may be a factor depending on your available space.

Ultimately, the best sauna for you is the one that aligns with your budget, comfort level, space requirements, and wellness goals.

Get the Best of Both Worlds: Hybrid Saunas

For those who can’t decide, hybrid saunas combine both infrared and traditional heating elements, offering the versatility of both experiences. Hybrid saunas allow users to switch between the gentle heat of infrared and the intense warmth of traditional saunas depending on their preferences at the time.

What is a Hybrid Sauna?

A hybrid sauna incorporates both infrared panels and a traditional heater, allowing you to switch between infrared or traditional sessions or combine both in a single session. This combination provides the benefits of both types of heat, making it a versatile choice for families or individuals who want variety.

Pros of Hybrid Saunas

• Flexibility to Choose Heat Type: The ability to switch between infrared and traditional heat makes hybrid saunas ideal for those who want the best of both worlds. You can adjust your experience based on your mood or health goals for the day.
• Household Preferences: Ideal for households with different preferences. For instance, one person may prefer the gentler heat of infrared, while another may enjoy the intense, all-encompassing heat of a traditional sauna.
• Versatility: Hybrid saunas offer a higher level of versatility, as you can use them for relaxation, detoxification, or more intense cardiovascular benefits depending on the heat source used.

Cons of Hybrid Saunas

• Higher Installation Cost: Generally more expensive to install due to the combination of two heating systems. The upfront investment is higher compared to a standalone traditional or infrared sauna.
• Larger Space Requirements: Hybrid saunas require more space due to dual heating components, making them less suitable for small areas.
• Higher Operational Costs: Due to the more complex systems, hybrid saunas have higher operational costs. However, the added flexibility may be worth it for those who value having multiple options.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a type of sauna, it all comes down to personal preference. Infrared saunas are more affordable to run and offer a gentler experience, while traditional saunas provide the intense heat and authentic atmosphere that sauna purists love. Hybrid saunas are an excellent option for those who want both experiences in one package.

Whichever type you choose, incorporating regular sauna use into your wellness routine can bring a host of physical and mental health benefits. Ready to start your sauna journey? Explore our range of infrared, traditional, and hybrid saunas to find the perfect fit for your wellness needs.