Why Saunas Are So Popular Again
These days, more people are turning their homes into places to relax and feel better. Instead of only using saunas at gyms or spas, many people are adding them to their bathrooms, home gyms, or backyards. A sauna is more than just a hot room—it’s a way to feel calm, sweat out stress, and take care of your body and mind.
Now, you can choose between two main types: the classic Sauna and the newer Infrared Sauna. Each one works differently and offers unique benefits. Let’s find out which might be best for you.
What is a Traditional Sauna?
A traditional sauna is heated by hot stones or by a special stove. The sauna gets very hot and the temperature often lies between 150 and 195°F (65 to 90°C). It is possible to have steam in some saunas, while others are built to be dry.
Why people like it:
- You sweat a lot, which helps clean out your body
- It can improve blood flow and heart health
- The hot air helps your muscles relax
- The whole experience feels calming, like a spa
Best for: People who enjoy hot environments and love the feeling of sweating it all out. It’s also great if you want a traditional, peaceful spa experience.
What is an Infrared Sauna?
An Infrared Sauna works in a different way. Instead of heating the air, it uses special infrared light to warm your body directly. This means the room doesn’t get as hot—usually around 120 to 140°F (49 to 60°C).
Why people like it:
- It helps muscles relax deep down
- It’s not as hot, so you can stay inside longer
- It can help your body detox at lower temperatures
- May be helpful for people recovering after workouts or with sore joints
Best for: People who don’t like extreme heat, athletes, or anyone who wants a modern, gentle way to relax and recover.
Comparing the Two: Heat, Health, and Home Use
Temperature: Traditional saunas are hotter. Infrared saunas feel warm but not overwhelming.
How they heat: Traditional saunas heat the air around you. Infrared saunas warm your body directly using light.
How long they take to heat up: Traditional saunas need about 30–45 minutes to get hot. Infrared ones are ready in just 10–20 minutes.
How long you stay inside: Because infrared saunas are cooler, you can stay in them for 25–45 minutes. Traditional ones are usually used for 10–20 minutes.
Energy use: Infrared saunas use less electricity than traditional ones.
Installation: Traditional saunas need more space and sometimes special vents. Infrared saunas are easier to set up and often smaller.
Cleaning and care: Traditional saunas may need more cleaning, especially if steam is used. Infrared saunas are simpler to maintain.
Price: Both can be pricey, depending on size and features. Traditional saunas may cost more to build and take up more space.
Health experts say both types are good for your body. They can help lower blood pressure, improve skin, and boost blood flow. Infrared saunas might be better if you have muscle pain or need faster recovery after exercise. Traditional ones may give you a stronger heart workout.
Which One Should You Choose?
It really depends on what you’re looking for. Here are some ideas:
- Need to relax muscles but can’t handle high heat? Try an infrared sauna.
- Love the classic spa feel? A traditional sauna might be your favorite.
- Live in a small apartment or home? Infrared saunas are compact and easier to fit.
- Building an outdoor wellness space? Traditional saunas look beautiful in natural settings.
How Saunas Fit Into Modern Homes
Today’s saunas aren’t just for spas. They can look beautiful in your home, too.
Traditional saunas are made of wood and feel warm and cozy. They need more room but create a strong, relaxing look—great in a backyard or special wellness room.
Infrared saunas are sleek and modern. They can be placed in a bathroom, closet, or even a bedroom. Many come with cool features like colored lights and music speakers.
You can put either type indoors or outside, but infrared models are more flexible when it comes to size and setup. That makes them a great choice for people who want wellness without big remodeling.
Final Thoughts: Two Great Ways to Relax
Saunas of both kinds improve your health and well-being. What suits your home and what you want will determine the best option.
Choose a traditional sauna if you enjoy hot steam and vintage spa ambiance. Try an infrared sauna if you are looking for something gentle, easy to use, and modern.
No matter what you pick, you’re giving yourself a space to relax, recover, and feel great every day. And that’s something truly worth having at home.
Author: Martin Luthur
Martin Luthur
