Saunas have been a powerful tool for relaxation, detoxification, and overall wellness for centuries. Today, with advancements in technology, there are now two primary types of sauna experiences: traditional saunas and infrared saunas.
When considering a sauna for your home or business, understanding the differences between these options is key to selecting the best fit for your needs. Let’s break down the essentials.
The primary distinction between traditional and infrared saunas lies in how they generate heat and how that heat interacts with the body.
Heat Source: Uses either a wood-burning stove or an electric heater with sauna stones to heat the air inside the cabin.
Temperature Range: Typically 80°C – 100°C.
Heating Process: Heat is transferred indirectly—warming the air first, which then heats your body.
Steam: Users often pour water over the stones to create steam, enhancing the experience.
Heat Source: Uses infrared light to directly heat the body, without excessively heating the surrounding air.
Temperature Range: Lower temperatures, typically 50°C – 70°C, but the heat penetrates deeper into the skin.
Infrared Waves: Far-infrared waves penetrate up to 5mm beneath the skin, efficiently heating tissues and muscles.
No Steam: Infrared heat works from the inside out, without the need for steam or high ambient heat.
Both sauna types offer substantial health benefits, but they do so in slightly different ways:
Heat Intensity & Comfort
Traditional Sauna: Feels hotter due to the high ambient temperature, ideal for those who enjoy an intense sweating experience.
Infrared Sauna: Feels gentler but penetrates deeper into the skin, making it more comfortable for those sensitive to extreme heat.
Detoxification & Sweat Activation
Traditional Sauna: Stimulates sweat through external heat exposure, promoting cardiovascular activity and toxin elimination.
Infrared Sauna: Produces a more profuse sweat at a lower temperature, leading to deeper detoxification at the cellular level.
Cardiovascular & Longevity Benefits
Traditional Sauna: Studies suggest frequent sauna use can reduce cardiovascular disease risk by up to 40%.
Infrared Sauna: Mimics the benefits of moderate exercise, increasing heart rate and blood circulation.
Recovery & Muscle Relaxation
Traditional Sauna: The high heat and steam relax muscles and relieve tension, making it ideal for post-workout recovery.
Infrared Sauna: Infrared waves penetrate deeper into muscle tissues, enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation.
Convenience & Installation
Traditional Sauna: Requires higher power consumption, ventilation, and proper drainage for steam, making it better suited for larger homes or commercial spaces.
Infrared Sauna: More energy-efficient, requires no ventilation, and is easier to install in smaller spaces like apartments.
Regular Upkeep: Traditional saunas require more frequent cleaning due to the high humidity and steam. The wooden surfaces should be wiped down regularly to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to mold or mildew.
Stone Care: If you use sauna stones, these should be cleaned periodically to maintain proper heat distribution.
Ventilation: Ensuring proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture from causing long-term damage to the cabin.
Re-coating & Wood Treatment: Periodic treatment of the wood with appropriate sealants or oils is necessary to maintain its appearance and longevity.
Lower Maintenance: Infrared saunas require less upkeep. Without the steam, there’s less chance of mold or mildew buildup.
Cleaning: Simply wipe down the interior and wood surfaces after each use to keep the sauna in top condition.
System Checks: For Found—Space infrared saunas, occasional checks on the infrared panels and app integration can ensure the system is functioning optimally.
While the health benefits of both saunas are substantial, traditional saunas offer a cultural experience that has been passed down through generations. The ritual of pouring water over hot stones to create steam is both therapeutic and symbolic. This practice represents cleansing and renewal, and many enjoy the social aspect of sharing the sauna with family or friends. For those seeking not just a heat therapy session but a deep cultural experience, a traditional sauna may offer more than just physical benefits.
On the other hand, infrared saunas are designed to meet the demands of modern wellness. They offer deep, penetrating heat without the intensity of a traditional sauna’s high temperature. This makes them ideal for individuals seeking a more comfortable, therapeutic experience. Infrared saunas excel in promoting detoxification, muscle recovery, and overall wellness—without the discomfort of extreme heat.
Your choice between a traditional sauna and an infrared sauna depends on your personal preferences, wellness goals, and space requirements.
| Feature | Traditional Sauna | Infrared Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Source | Hot stones, steam | Infrared light |
| Temperature | 80°C – 100°C | 50°C – 70°C |
| Heating Mechanism | Heats air, then body | Directly heats the body |
| Sweating & Detox | External sweating | Deep tissue sweating |
| Installation | Requires ventilation | Plug-and-play convenience |
| Best For | High-heat lovers, social experience | Deep tissue recovery, comfortable sweating |
Both traditional and infrared saunas offer powerful health benefits, but the choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle, heat preference, and wellness goals.
Traditional Sauna: If you enjoy the ritual of steam, high temperatures, and a traditional sauna experience, this may be your best fit.
Infrared Sauna: If you prefer deep-penetrating heat, lower temperatures, and a more efficient sweat session, an infrared sauna offers a modern, high-performance solution.
If you’re looking for a traditional sauna experience with modern comfort, pause.—our second label—now offers a traditional outdoor sauna that combines classic elements with modern design, perfect for those seeking both heritage and luxury in their wellness routine. Click here to explore pause.
At Found—Space, we specialize in premium infrared saunas designed for maximum performance, efficiency, and luxury. Explore our collection and find the perfect sauna to fit your needs.
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