Traditional Saunas vs. Infrared Saunas

When it comes to choosing a sauna for your home, you're likely to find the decision coming down to two main types: traditional Finnish saunas and infrared saunas. Both offer unique experiences and health benefits, but they differ in several key aspects. This guide will help you understand the differences between these two popular sauna types, enabling you to make the best decision based on what you are after.

Let's start with how both of these saunas produce their heat and what kinds of temperatures you are expecting to experience.

Traditional saunas, often referred to as Finnish saunas, heat the air in the room using a stove with hot rocks. Water can be poured over these rocks to create steam, adding humidity to the environment. The temperature inside a traditional sauna typically ranges between 70°C and 100°C (158°F to 212°F), with low humidity levels of around 10-20%.

Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly rather than warming the air around you. Infrared lamps built into the sauna walls emit light waves that penetrate the skin, raising your core body temperature. Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, usually between 49°C and 60°C (120°F to 140°F), making them more comfortable for those who find the intense heat of traditional saunas overwhelming.

Although both these saunas are technically different, they do share similar health benefits, which we'll outline below.

Infrared saunas are generally more affordable and easier to install. They are often plug-and-play units, meaning they can be plugged into a standard outlet without needing extensive installation. Prices for infrared saunas range from $2,000 to $7,999, depending on the size and features.

So just be sure you know your budget and what you are able to spend, and you can keep that excitement level at its deserved high peaks because both of these units are LEGIT.

Another very important factor you must consider when you are on the hunt for a new home sauna, the space it's going in. Don't mess it up by not checking if it would actually fit where you want it to! Measure twice (thrice, fourthce, fifthce) and leave - No Doubt. Now, whatchu waitin', watchu waitin' for?

Traditional saunas come in various sizes, from compact two-person units to large outdoor barrel saunas that can accommodate up to eight people. They require significant space and proper ventilation. And remember, because these units do require special installation by an electrician, the spot you choose will be it's home - unless you are willing to pay for more install costs to move it elsewhere.

Infrared saunas are more compact and can be installed in various home settings, such as bathrooms, home gyms, or spare rooms. They are ideal for smaller spaces and can fit into medium to large-sized rooms without extensive modifications. These saunas can be classified as portable saunas, just be careful if / when you choose to move it to a new space.

If you are still unsure about your own space or just want to delve a bit deeper, and get real specific sizes and measurements, check out our Home Sauna Size Guide where we've broken down sizes specific to most sauna types!

Both of these home saunas are generally pretty energy efficient. Running costs can vary depending on your individual cost per KW/hr, the KW rating for the sauna heater itself and how often you plan on using the sauna.

Traditional saunas consume more energy due to the higher temperatures required to heat the air. This can lead to higher operating costs over time.

Infrared saunas are more energy-efficient as they operate at lower temperatures and heat the body directly. This results in lower energy consumption and reduced operating costs.

To give you an example of very general running costs, a typical session lasts between 30 and 45 minutes and can cost between $0.50 and $3 per hour to run. So if you have 3 sessions per week, you are looking at anywhere from $4.50 up to $27 a month.

This is why we've all thought about buying a home sauna isn't it? This is why we all want one. For that ultimate spa and sauna experience, in the comfort of your own home. Both of these sauna types offer very distinct experiences and relatively different levels of comfort. Depending on the type of experience you are looking for, will ultimately decide on what sauna is right for you and your home.

The high heat and low humidity of traditional saunas provide a unique and intense experience. Pouring water over the hot rocks creates a sizzling sound and a burst of steam, enhancing the overall sauna ambiance (you know you love that sizzle sound - tssss). This environment is ideal for those who enjoy a more vigorous, classic sauna experience.

Infrared saunas offer a gentler heat, making them more comfortable for longer sessions. The direct heat penetration provides a soothing and relaxing experience, perfect for those who prefer a milder, more sustained warmth.