Infrared vs Traditional Saunas: A Comparison

When considering a sauna for relaxation and health benefits, you might find yourself comparing the infrared vs traditional sauna. Both have their unique features and benefits, but understanding the vital ways they differ is helpful if you’re on the fence about which home sauna to buy or build. 

Below you’ll find their differences in detail, covering aspects like heating methods, temperature ranges, energy efficiency, and more. Whether you're a potential buyer or just curious about saunas, this will guide your decision with valuable insights, helping you establish which type of sauna best suits your needs and preferences.

1. Heating Method

• Infrared Saunas: Utilize infrared panels to emit light that turns into heat when it contacts the body. This direct approach to heating allows for a deep, penetrating warmth without excessively heating the surrounding air.
• Traditional Saunas: Rely on heating the air inside the room using a stove, either wood-burning or electric. The heat is often intensified by placing rocks on the stove, which, when hot, radiate a consistent, enveloping warmth.

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2. Temperature Range

• Infrared Saunas: Typically function at a gentler range of 50°C to 65°C (120°F to 150°F). This lower temperature makes the sauna experience more accessible, especially for those who might find high heat uncomfortable.
• Traditional Saunas: Heat up to a more intense 65°C to 90°C (150°F to 195°F). This higher temperature range creates a robust heat environment, offering a more traditional sauna experience.

3. Heat Penetration

• Infrared Saunas: The heat penetrates deeply into the body, promoting a thorough and effective sweat at lower temperatures. This can feel more gentle on the skin and respiratory system.
• Traditional Saunas: The heat works by warming the air, which then warms the body from the outside. This method of heating provides a different kind of sweating experience, often perceived as more intense.

4. Installation and Space

• Infrared Saunas: Their compact design makes them ideal for indoor spaces, including homes. The installation process is typically straightforward, requiring minimal adjustments to existing spaces.
• Traditional Saunas: They often need a dedicated space, with considerations for ventilation and heat tolerance. This makes them more common in larger homes or commercial wellness centers.

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5. Energy Efficiency

• Infrared Saunas: Due to their lower operating temperatures and direct heating method, they are generally more energy-efficient. This can be a significant factor in long-term cost and environmental impact.
• Traditional Saunas: Tend to consume more energy as they need to heat a larger volume of air to a higher temperature. This can result in higher operational costs over time.

6. Humidity and Steam

• Infrared Saunas: Characterized by their dry heat, they do not use steam or moisture, which can be a preference for those seeking a dry heat experience.
• Traditional Saunas: Allow for the addition of humidity, especially when water is poured over heated rocks, creating a steamy environment. This can enhance the heat sensation and is often seen as a key part of the traditional sauna experience.

7. Health Benefits

• Both Sauna Types: Are believed to offer various health benefits, such as relaxation, improved circulation, and muscle recovery. The effectiveness and preference for each type can vary based on personal tolerance for heat and the specific health goals of the individual.

8. Cost

• Infrared Saunas: Generally, they are more cost-effective in terms of initial purchase and installation. Their lower operating costs can also be a significant advantage over time.
• Traditional Saunas: Can be more expensive initially, particularly if building a custom-designed or larger sauna space. The ongoing operational costs can also be higher due to greater energy use.

9. Maintenance

• Infrared Saunas: Usually require less maintenance given their simpler construction and lower operating temperatures, which can mean less wear and tear over time.
• Traditional Saunas: May require more regular upkeep, particularly in managing the effects of high heat and humidity on the sauna structure and components.

10. Personal Preference

• Choosing a Sauna: Often comes down to personal preference. Some enjoy the intense heat and steam of traditional saunas, while others prefer the direct, gentle warmth of infrared saunas. Factors like personal heat tolerance, desired health benefits, and available space can all influence this decision.

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11. Design & Space

• Infrared saunas offer a remarkable variety in terms of design and installation options. Unlike traditional saunas, which are typically built as permanent wooden cabins, infrared saunas are available in several flexible formats including portable tents, blankets, and domes, as well as therapeutic mats like infrared PEMF mats. This versatility makes infrared saunas an adaptable choice for those with space constraints or specific therapeutic needs.

12. History

• Traditional Saunas: Have a long and rich history, rooted in Finnish culture [1]. They have evolved from simple earth pits to modern commercial saunas, reflecting a heritage of health, community, and relaxation.
• Infrared Saunas: Emerged as a modern alternative, leveraging recent advancements in technology. They represent a newer approach to heat therapy, combining traditional sauna benefits with the convenience and accessibility of modern technology. Read about the history of the infrared sauna here. 

13. User Experience

• Traditional Saunas: The experience is often communal and social, involving rituals like löyly (pouring water on hot stones). It's not just about the heat; it's about the entire experience of warmth, steam, and tradition.[2]
• Infrared Saunas: Offer a more individualized experience. The direct heat allows users to focus more on relaxation and personal health benefits, often in a more private setting.

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Sam Everhart

References

1. Alexander Lembke, Sauna culture in Finland, Unesco, https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/sauna-culture-in-finland-01596

2. E Helamaa and E Aikäs, The secret of good 'löyly', PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3218892/

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