What Are The Different Types of Saunas?

There’s nothing like relaxing in your sauna after a long day at work. It’s a great way to unwind, and heat therapy is beneficial in more ways than helping tight muscles relax.

It can aid the healing of injuries, provide mental relaxation, and improve your body’s circulation.

If you’re considering buying a new sauna or upgrading your current one to enjoy some extra features, it’s wise to explore all the available options.

You’ll find various types of saunas in various sizes and shapes with some amazing features.

This guide introduces different sauna types, some of which you might not have known existed.

Infrared sauna

Many people choose infrared saunas over traditional ones because they directly heat the body, unlike heating the entire room.

These saunas use infrared waves, similar to those emitted by the human body, with temperatures ranging from 100 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, lower than in traditional saunas.

Infrared saunas offer benefits like detoxification, weight loss, and improved blood circulation.

However, excessive heat exposure can cause skin irritation, dehydration, or allergies. Infrared saunas are efficient and quick to heat, with a lower energy footprint than traditional saunas.

Before investing in an infrared sauna, consider its relatively small size, which may be uncomfortable for taller or larger individuals.

Additionally, the direct heating method may feel intense and unsuitable for some.

Unlike conventional saunas, infrared saunas do not use steam but instead use infrared radiation to penetrate deep into body tissues, providing relief for sore muscles. This allows for longer sessions without overheating.

Traditional saunas

Traditional saunas get really hot, up to 195 degrees Fahrenheit, which might be too much for some people who don’t like heat. They use a lot of electricity, about 6 kilowatts, while infrared saunas use only about 1.6 kilowatts.

These saunas warm up the air using a stove, which makes your body heat up and sweat. But because they need a lot of power to run, not as many people are into them anymore.

Traditional saunas have been around for a long time and come in different types like Finnish, wood-burning smoke, and dry saunas. Some need careful attention to keep the stove going, while others don’t have chimneys.

But be careful not to spend too much time in them because you can get dehydrated from sweating too much. So, even though they’re good for you, it’s important to not overdo it.

Steam Sauna

Steam saunas are different from regular saunas because they have a lot of moisture in the air, almost 100%.

They’re usually made of materials like tile to prevent mold, and it’s best to have them installed by professionals to avoid mold problems.

Even though steam saunas are cooler than traditional saunas, the high humidity still makes them feel warm. They’re great for people with breathing problems and are often found in gyms and spas.

These saunas work by boiling water with a special machine called a steam generator, which releases steam into the room.

They have roots in ancient Roman steam baths and offer relief for things like arthritis, pain, and headaches.

With temperatures around 110 degrees Fahrenheit and lots of moisture, steam saunas create a cozy atmosphere.

They’re easier to clean than other saunas and are liked for their relaxing effects in places like gyms and spas.

Combination saunas

Combination saunas, also called hybrid saunas, blend features of different types into one. They offer both dry heat and steam, letting users switch between them.

Combination saunas are popular in homes and businesses, they provide a tailored sauna experience.

Finnish sauna

The Finnish sauna, the oldest type, features a dry and hot climate. Infusions on sauna stones increase humidity to around 30%, providing a strong heat stimulus.

It has the most intense effect on the immune system. With temperatures of 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity at 70%, it’s slightly cooler than other dry saunas.

Finnish saunas have a rich history, with people traditionally building them before their homes. Outdoor saunas, like barrel saunas, are popular for enjoying the Finnish sauna experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of saunas offers a diverse array of options, each with its unique benefits and characteristics.

From the innovative technology of infrared saunas to the classic heat of traditional saunas and the soothing humidity of steam saunas, there’s a sauna type to suit every preference and need.

Combination saunas provide the best of both worlds, while Finnish saunas honor a rich tradition dating back centuries.

Whether you seek relaxation, detoxification, improved circulation, or relief from various ailments, the sauna experience awaits.

So, whether you’re considering an upgrade or embarking on your first sauna journey, explore the possibilities and discover the rejuvenating power of heat therapy.