Traditional Saunas vs Infrared Saunas: Which Is Better for Your Wellness?

Infrared vs Traditional Saunas: What Sets Them Apart?

Traditional Saunas

• How They Work: Use electric or wood-burning heaters to heat the air inside the room. Pouring water on heated stones creates steam, increasing humidity and intensifying the heat.
• Temperature Range: 150–190°F (65–88°C)
• Experience: Delivers that classic, steamy sauna sensation many associate with spas and wellness retreats.

Infrared Saunas

• How They Work: Use infrared heaters that emit light, which directly warms your body rather than the air around you.
• Temperature Range: 120–170°F (49–76°C)
• Experience: Provides a gentle, soothing warmth without the heavy humidity—ideal for longer, more comfortable sessions.

Cost & Installation: Which Sauna Fits Your Budget and Space?

Traditional Saunas

• Higher Upfront Costs: Typically require professional installation, dedicated space, and robust ventilation.
• Ongoing Expenses: Consume more energy to heat the entire room; maintenance involves caring for heaters and ventilation systems.
• Best For: Those seeking an authentic sauna experience and have room for a dedicated wellness space.

Infrared Saunas

• Affordable & Flexible: Lower purchase and installation costs; many models are plug-and-play.
• Energy Efficient: Use less electricity and heat up quickly, reducing operating costs.
• Best For: Homeowners with limited space or budget, or those wanting a convenient wellness upgrade.

Accessibility: Who Can Use Each Sauna?

• Traditional Saunas: Require more space and a commitment to installation. Common in gyms, spas, and luxury homes. See our Cube Series for home-friendly traditional saunas.
• Infrared Saunas: Compact models can fit in bathrooms, bedrooms, or even apartments. Health Benefits: Which Sauna Supports Your Goals?

Traditional Saunas

• Intense Heat Therapy: Promotes deep sweating for detoxification and relaxation.
• Cardio Boost: Increases heart rate and circulation, supporting cardiovascular health.
• Muscle Relief: High heat and steam help with muscle relaxation and post-workout recovery.

Infrared Saunas

• Deep Tissue Penetration: Infrared light can reach deeper layers of skin, potentially enhancing detoxification.
• Gentle, Prolonged Sessions: Lower temperatures allow for longer, more comfortable use—great for those sensitive to heat.
• Pain & Inflammation Relief: May help with chronic pain, muscle recovery, and reducing inflammation.

Durability: Which Sauna Lasts Longer?

• Traditional Saunas: Built with durable woods like cedar, aspen, spruce, thermo-aspen, thermo-spruce or hemlock to withstand high heat and humidity. Require regular maintenance, but often last decades.
• Infrared Saunas: Long lifespan with minimal upkeep; occasional replacement of bulbs or panels may be needed. Less affected by humidity, making them easy to care for.

Sauna Realm’s Take: Which Sauna Is Best for You?

• Choose a traditional sauna if you love the classic, steamy experience and want the most intense heat therapy.
• Go with an infrared sauna if you prefer a gentle, accessible option perfect for pain relief, relaxation, and easy installation.