What is the best type of sauna for home use?
If you’re thinking about adding a sauna to your home, you’re probably wondering which type is the best fit.
Traditional Saunas vs. Infrared Saunas
When it comes to best home saunas, there are two main types: traditional saunas and infrared saunas. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so the best one for you really depends on your personal preferences, budget, and space.
Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas are the classic option. They heat the air around you using electric heaters or even wood-burning stoves. The temperature can get pretty high—between 150°F to 195°F (65°C to 90°C). This intense heat creates a lot of steam when you splash water on the rocks, giving you that traditional sauna experience.
Pros:
Great for intense detoxification and cardiovascular benefits.
Offers a more immersive and traditional sauna experience.
Can be used for both dry and wet sauna sessions.
Cons:
Requires more space and proper ventilation.
Installation can be more complicated and expensive.
The high heat might not be comfortable for everyone.
Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas are a more modern option. Instead of heating the air, they use infrared light to heat your body directly. This means the air stays cooler (around 120°F to 140°F or 49°C to 60°C), making it more comfortable for longer sessions.
Pros:
More energy-efficient and easier to install.
Suitable for smaller spaces and tighter budgets.
Gentler heat is more comfortable for those sensitive to high temperatures.
Offers benefits like detoxification, pain relief, and improved circulation.
Cons:
Some people might miss the traditional steam experience.
May not provide the same cardiovascular benefits as traditional saunas.
Factors to Consider
Budget: Infrared saunas are generally cheaper to install and operate, making them a great option if you’re on a budget.
Space: Infrared saunas require less space and no special ventilation, so they’re perfect for smaller homes.
Comfort: If you don’t like intense heat, an infrared sauna might be more comfortable for you.
Health Goals: Both types offer health benefits, but traditional saunas are better for cardiovascular conditioning, while infrared saunas excel at deep tissue relief and relaxation.
Recommendations
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and space-efficient option, go for an infrared sauna. The Hemlock Wood Real Relax Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna is a great choice with solid-wood construction and easy-to-use controls.
If you prefer the traditional sauna experience and have the space and budget for it, consider a traditional sauna like the Plunge “The Sauna”.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to which sauna is best. It really depends on what you value most—whether it’s the traditional experience, cost, space, or comfort. Both types offer amazing benefits, so whichever you choose, you’ll be adding a fantastic wellness feature to your home. Happy sauna shopping!
