Infrared Sauna VS. Steam Sauna

Have you been thinking about adding a sauna to your home? Saunas have so many amazing benefits that buying one is a great investment for anyone! The first step to shopping for a sauna is deciding which type is right for you. In this post, we dig into the differences between infrared and steam saunas so you can decide which is the best fit for your home.

 Since saunas have been in use for thousands of years, there are endless variations with every feature imaginable. The enclosed heat of saunas is intended to produce sweating, which can improve health and mental clarity. Relaxing in a sauna regularly can help with sleep issues and even prevent other health concerns in the long term. Sitting in a sauna after a tough workout is also incredible for muscle recovery.

Infrared and steam saunas are both widely available, but the key differences between them are what makes one a better choice for you. Let’s explore these differences to determine which sauna type suits your needs better.

Infrared Sauna

• Infrared saunas use different colors of lamps, including infrared light, which heat up your body directly, penetrating the skin for a pleasant warmth and glow.
• Infrared sauna use raises the core body temperature and stimulates sweat glands for a detoxifying sweat session.
• Infrared saunas stay at a lower temperature of 120° to 140° F, which is a generally more tolerable temperature.
• It only takes about 10 minutes for an infrared sauna to heat up to the ideal temperature.
• Most home-use infrared saunas are as inexpensive to run as other large appliances. Depending on how often you use your sauna, it will cost less than $10 a month to run your infrared sauna!
• Infrared saunas are low-maintenance and require minimal cleaning
• Proven benefits of using an infrared sauna include stress relief, lowered blood pressure, muscle and joint pain relief, and cardiovascular health benefits.
• Since infrared saunas are dry, you can bring your phone or other electronic devices inside the sauna but please use it with caution.
• Infrared saunas can be installed indoors without any special equipment.

Steam Sauna

• Steam saunas use an electric heater that heats the air and the user at the same time, with hot water providing the steam.
• Steam saunas stay extremely hot and humid, at around 160° to 200°F.
• Steam saunas may provide relief to certain skin conditions.
• It can take up to 40 minutes to heat up a traditional steam sauna.
• The warm, wet environment of steam saunas are prone to mold and mildew. This requires extra cleaning and maintenance to keep your sauna hygienic.
• Steam saunas are more costly to run than infrared saunas.
• Almost all steam saunas require some extra installation, which may require plumbing and/or electricity work. Professional installation is an added cost with most steam saunas.

Ultimately, your preferences and budget will determine what kind of home sauna is right for you. Both infrared and steam saunas are available in a wide range of styles and price points. Whether you prefer the warm, dry heat of an infrared sauna or the comforting misty heat of a steam sauna we’ll help you pick the perfect sauna to bring into your home. Create your home spa today by browsing our selection of stunning saunas. We offer low prices year-round, with free shipping on most orders!