Saunas have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, recovery, and overall well-being. Today, homeowners have more options than ever, with traditional saunas and infrared saunas being the two most popular choices. While both expose your body to heat and encourage sweating, they achieve this in very different ways.
If you're considering adding a sauna to your home, understanding how each type works—and which one best fits your lifestyle—can help you make a more informed investment.
How a Traditional Sauna Works
A traditional sauna heats the air inside an enclosed room using an electric heater or wood-burning stove. The heated air then warms your body through convection, creating the familiar hot, humid environment many people associate with sauna bathing.
Traditional saunas typically operate between 150°F and 195°F (65°C–90°C). Some models also allow users to pour water over heated stones, creating steam and temporarily increasing humidity.
This style of sauna has been used for generations, particularly in Nordic countries, where sauna culture remains an important part of daily life.
How an Infrared Sauna Works
Unlike a traditional sauna, an infrared sauna doesn't rely primarily on heating the surrounding air. Instead, specialized infrared heaters emit radiant infrared energy that warms your body more directly.
Because the air isn't heated to the same extent, infrared saunas generally operate at lower temperatures—typically between 120°F and 150°F (49°C–65°C)—while still producing a comfortable, sweat-inducing experience.
Many people appreciate the gentler environment, especially if they find the intense heat of a traditional sauna overwhelming.
Heat Experience
The biggest difference between the two comes down to how the heat feels.
A traditional sauna surrounds you with very hot air. The environment is often intense, particularly when steam is added, creating a deeply warming sensation throughout the room.
An infrared sauna, on the other hand, provides a more gradual and comfortable heat. The air remains cooler, but the radiant heat warms your body directly. Many users find they can enjoy longer sessions because the surrounding environment feels less oppressive.
Neither experience is inherently better—it simply depends on personal preference.
Potential Benefits
Both traditional and infrared saunas are commonly used for:
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Relaxation
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Stress reduction
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Supporting muscle recovery
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Promoting circulation during heat exposure
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Encouraging sweating
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Creating dedicated time for self-care
Research on sauna bathing—particularly traditional sauna use—has linked regular use with several positive health outcomes. Infrared saunas have also shown promising results in areas such as comfort, relaxation, and recovery, although research specific to infrared technology is still growing.
It's important to remember that while sauna bathing can support a healthy lifestyle, it should not be viewed as a replacement for proper exercise, nutrition, sleep, or medical treatment.
Which Sauna Gets Hotter?
Traditional saunas generally reach much higher air temperatures than infrared saunas.
However, hotter doesn't necessarily mean more effective.
Many people are surprised by how much they sweat in an infrared sauna despite the lower temperature. Because the body is being warmed more directly, users often experience significant perspiration without the extreme ambient heat.
Comfort ultimately plays a major role in how consistently someone uses a sauna, and consistency is often more important than maximum temperature.
Energy Efficiency
Infrared saunas are generally more energy efficient because they heat more quickly and operate at lower temperatures.
Traditional saunas often require additional time to heat the entire room before use, whereas infrared saunas can usually reach operating temperature more quickly.
For homeowners planning frequent sauna sessions, this difference may contribute to lower operating costs over time.
Maintenance
Both sauna types are relatively low maintenance.
Traditional saunas may require occasional care for heating stones and, in wood-burning models, stove maintenance. Infrared saunas eliminate the need for sauna stones and typically involve routine cleaning and periodic inspection of the heating elements.
Regardless of the type, keeping the sauna clean and well-ventilated helps preserve both performance and longevity.
Which Sauna Is Right for You?
A traditional sauna may be the better choice if you:
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Enjoy very high temperatures
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Prefer the classic sauna experience
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Like adding steam for humidity
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Appreciate traditional Finnish-style sauna bathing
An infrared sauna may be a better fit if you:
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Prefer a gentler heat
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Want quicker warm-up times
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Plan to use your sauna frequently
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Find extremely hot environments uncomfortable
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Want an energy-efficient option for home wellness
Final Thoughts
Both infrared and traditional saunas offer enjoyable ways to incorporate heat therapy into your wellness routine. The best choice isn't necessarily the one that gets the hottest—it's the one you'll use consistently.
If you're looking for a modern, comfortable, and convenient option for regular home use, an infrared sauna is an excellent choice for many households. If you love the classic high-heat experience and the ritual of traditional sauna bathing, a traditional sauna may be the perfect fit.
No matter which option you choose, the greatest benefits come from making sauna sessions part of a balanced lifestyle that includes movement, quality sleep, proper hydration, and regular recovery. Investing in a sauna is ultimately an investment in creating a dedicated space to relax, recharge, and prioritize your long-term well-being.
