How do the heating methods differ between traditional and infrared saunas, and how does this affect the overall sauna experience?

In a traditional sauna, heating elements like electric heaters or wood-burning stoves warm the air, which in turn heats your body. This creates that classic sauna feeling with intense heat and the option to add steam by pouring water over hot stones. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use infrared heaters to emit radiant heat that warms your body directly, rather than heating the air around you.

Which type of sauna is better for respiratory health: traditional steam saunas or infrared saunas?

Traditional saunas can be excellent for respiratory health, especially when steam is involved. The moist air can help open airways, clear sinuses, and may relieve congestion. This makes traditional steam saunas a popular choice for those who benefit from added humidity.

What maintenance is required for traditional saunas compared to infrared saunas, and how often should it be performed?

Maintenance varies between the two types. Traditional saunas typically need regular cleaning and care, especially if you’re using steam, as moisture can build up and encourage mould if not properly ventilated. You’ll also want to wipe down surfaces, clean the stones, and check the heating elements periodically.

Are there health conditions that benefit more from one type of sauna over the other?

Yes, certain health conditions may benefit more from either a traditional or infrared sauna. For instance, those seeking relief from joint pain or muscle soreness often prefer infrared saunas because the infrared heat penetrates deeper into the skin, which can aid in recovery and pain management. To be fair though, you still get a similar effect in a traditional sauna, in infrared it's slightly more pronounced. People looking for overall cardiovascular benefits and immune support generally favour a traditional sauna, as it increases heart rate and induces a more intense sweat.

Can sauna therapy improve cardiovascular health?

Yes, regular sauna use can enhance your heart rate and improve the function of blood vessels, benefiting cardiovascular health. Not only that regular sauna use (4+ times a week) helps lower all-cause mortality by up to 40%

Which sauna Is better for weight loss?

Traditional saunas run at higher heat causing more perspiration resulting in more water weight lost. Furthermore, traditional saunas in Finnish studies have seen metabolism ramp up by up to 33%. ysis >

Do saunas help with muscle recovery?

Absolutely. The heat increases blood circulation, aiding in muscle recovery and reducing joint pain.

How much does a home sauna cost?

Costs vary depending on the type and features. Infrared saunas are typically less expensive to install and operate than traditional dry saunas. We offer competitive pricing on all our SAWO Finland products and are happy to provide a quote tailored to your needs. Contact us for more info

Infrared vs Traditional Sauna

Alana Farina | 💌 info@thesaunacompany.com

Infrared vs Traditional Sauna: Which Is Right For You?

Saunas have been a cornerstone of wellness and relaxation for centuries, offering a sanctuary to unwind and rejuvenate.

With modern advancements, there's now a variety of sauna types available, each providing unique benefits. As the Victorian distributor of the internationally recognised SAWO Finland brand, The Sauna Company not only promotes these high-quality saunas but also champions the health, wellness, and relaxation benefits associated with sauna and steam room bathing.

In this comprehensive overview, we'll explore the differences between infrared saunas and traditional saunas to help you make an informed decision based on your personal preference and health goals.

Types of Saunas

Traditional Steam Sauna

Regular dry saunas are what most people envision when they think of a sauna. They heat the air around you using electric heaters, gas heaters, or wood-burning stoves.

These saunas often feature heated stones or hot rocks onto which water can be poured to create steam, increasing the level of humidity. The environment inside is characterised by high temperatures and can offer either a dry heat or a steamy atmosphere, depending on your preference.

At The Sauna Company, we offer a range of traditional sauna rooms and sauna accessories from SAWO Finland, ensuring you experience the authentic sauna bathing that has been cherished for generations.

Infrared Saunas

In contrast, infrared saunas use infrared heaters to emit infrared light, which is absorbed directly by the human body. This type of sauna operates at lower temperatures but penetrates deeper into the skin, offering intense heat without the oppressive atmosphere of a traditional sauna. Far-infrared saunas are a popular subtype, known for their deep-reaching warmth.

Key Differences

Understanding the main differences between these saunas can help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

Heat Source and Temperature

Traditional saunas heat the air in different ways around you, creating an environment with higher temperatures ranging from 50°C to 90°C. In contrast, infrared saunas use infrared radiation to heat your body directly, operating at lower temperatures between 20°C to 50°C.

Humidity Levels

Traditional saunas can have variable levels of humidity based on the amount of water poured over the heated stones, while infrared saunas typically provide a dry experience with minimal humidity.

Heating Methods

Traditional saunas rely on hot air and heated rocks as their heat source, whereas infrared saunas use infrared heat emitted from infrared heaters.

Heat-up times are extremely different! Traditional saunas heat up a lot quicker than infrared.

At The Sauna Company, Sarah can guide you through the different heating methods to find the perfect match for your needs.

Discuss sauna heating options with Sarah
📞 0429 303 271

Sauna Health Benefits: Do They Differ?

Both types of saunas offer a range of health benefits, but there are some distinctions.

Shared Benefits

Infrared Sauna Benefits

Health benefits of infrared saunas are particularly noticeable for pain relief, helping with muscle recovery, joint pain, and alleviating chronic pain conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Infrared rays also promote sweating at lower temperatures, which may aid in weight loss and detoxification, though more systematic reviews are needed for confirmation.

Benefits Of Traditional Sauna

Traditional saunas strengthen the immune system, and the steam from steam saunas can alleviate respiratory issues, providing relief for those with respiratory conditions.

Additional benefits include:

If There Was A Magic Pill, It Would Be Called Sauna Therapy

Longitudinal sauna studies from Finland show that the risk of mortality from all causes was reduced by 40% in frequent sauna users compared to infrequent users!

Download our sauna for a longevity guide ←

Considerations for Use

When choosing between an infrared and a traditional sauna, consider your personal preference, health conditions, and how you plan to use the sauna.

Personal Preference

If you enjoy the intense heat and higher humidity of a traditional sauna experience, then a traditional Finnish sauna might be the best sauna for you. However, if you prefer a milder warmth and the benefits of deep skin penetration, an infrared sauna session might be more suitable.

No matter your preference, The Sauna Company offers a range of options to suit your needs. No job is considered too big or too small, and we're here to help you realise your sauna dreams.

Health Conditions

Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have conditions like heart disease, low blood pressure, or are sensitive to electromagnetic fields. This ensures that your sauna use aligns with your health needs.

Feel free to contact Sarah for a no-obligation discussion about any concerns or questions you might have.

📞 0429 303 271

Session Duration

Infrared saunas allow for longer sessions due to the comfortable air temperature, while traditional saunas often require shorter sessions because of the intense heat.

Traditional saunas heat up faster so if you're not a fan of waiting, traditional is the better option.

Types of Sauna Installations

Indoor vs Outdoor Saunas

Indoor saunas are convenient and can be installed in a home sauna setup, making them easily accessible for regular use. Outdoor saunas provide a rustic charm and can be a beautiful addition to your garden or backyard.

As the Victorian distributor of SAWO Finland, The Sauna Company can provide bespoke solutions for both indoor and outdoor sauna installations, tailored to your specific requirements.

Sauna Accessories

Enhancing your sauna experience with the right accessories can make a significant difference. We offer a wide range of sauna accessories from SAWO Finland, including sauna heaters, thermometers, humidity gauges, and more.

Cost and Maintenance

Installation Costs

Traditional saunas are generally more expensive to install due to their complex heating systems and the need for proper ventilation. Infrared saunas are often more affordable and easier to set up, making them a popular choice for home installations.

📑 Read detailed install-info ←

Install for a traditional Finnish 2-person home 'Prefab Sauna Kit' starts from $10,950

Speak to Sarah today to discuss install costs + requirements for your property

📞 0429 303 271

Running Costs

When it comes to running costs, infrared saunas are slightly more energy-efficient due to their heating methods, resulting in lower electricity bills. Traditional saunas consume more energy to maintain the high temperatures required.

Maintenance

Both sauna types require regular upkeep. Traditional saunas may require more especially if using gas heaters or wood-burning stoves, which can leave residues. Infrared saunas are easier to maintain with fewer mechanical parts and no need to manage humidity levels.

🔧 We provide ongoing maintenance and support to help you keep your sauna in optimal condition

👋 Need help with sauna install options?

Hey, I'm Sarah the sauna expert. Feel free to reach out if you want to discuss the best sauna options for your home.
I'm here to help 😇

📞 0429 303271
✉️ info@thesaunacompany.com

Additions To Sauna Therapy

Combining Heat and Cold

Incorporating cold water therapy with your sauna routine can enhance the health benefits. Using a cold plunge or ice baths after a sauna session boosts circulation and can aid in muscle recovery and reducing inflammation.

Alternative Options

If you're exploring other forms of heat therapy, consider hot tubs for relaxation with hydrotherapy benefits or steam rooms, which provide moist heat beneficial for skin and respiratory health.

The Sauna Company also specialises in steam room and steam shower equipment, broadening your options for wellness.

Safety and Side Effects

Potential Risks

While saunas are generally safe, there are potential risks like overheating, dehydration, or exposure to electromagnetic fields in infrared saunas. It's essential to be aware of these and take precautions.

Sauna Best Practise Guidelines

Stay Hydrated: Drink water before and after sessions to prevent dehydration.
Limit Time: Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase as you become more comfortable.
Listen to Your Body: If you feel dizzy or unwell, exit the sauna immediately.

Hot tips!

Here are a few expert tips from our sauna professionals:

Add a pinch of Celtic sea salt to your water, the trace minerals will help hydrate you more
Enhance relaxation by using essential oils like eucalyptus or lavender. Add a few drops to water and pour it over the hot stones to create a soothing aroma.
Purchase a sauna cap. These 100% wool hats keep the head cool, allowing you to push the time span in the sauna and protect the safety of your hair follicles.

Side Effects

Be mindful of low blood pressure and increased heart rate during sauna use. Those with heart conditions or other health concerns should consult a doctor before incorporating saunas into their routine.

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing between an infrared and a traditional sauna depends on various factors:

Health Goals: Identify what you aim to achieve—be it relaxation, detoxification, or pain relief.
Comfort Level: Consider your tolerance for heat and humidity.
Practicality: Think about installation space, costs, and maintenance.

At The Sauna Company, we're well placed to meet your needs, backed by a national distributor and the support of a premium global brand with over 25 years of experience.

No question is considered unimportant, so feel free to contact us for a no-obligation discussion about your sauna wishes.

FAQ

Infrared vs Traditional Sauna Frequently Asked Questions

How do the heating methods differ between traditional and infrared saunas, and how does this affect the overall sauna experience?

In a traditional sauna, heating elements like electric heaters or wood-burning stoves warm the air, which in turn heats your body. This creates that classic sauna feeling with intense heat and the option to add steam by pouring water over hot stones. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use infrared heaters to emit radiant heat that warms your body directly, rather than heating the air around you.
Which type of sauna is better for respiratory health: traditional steam saunas or infrared saunas?

Traditional saunas can be excellent for respiratory health, especially when steam is involved. The moist air can help open airways, clear sinuses, and may relieve congestion. This makes traditional steam saunas a popular choice for those who benefit from added humidity.
What maintenance is required for traditional saunas compared to infrared saunas, and how often should it be performed?

Maintenance varies between the two types. Traditional saunas typically need regular cleaning and care, especially if you’re using steam, as moisture can build up and encourage mould if not properly ventilated.

You’ll also want to wipe down surfaces, clean the stones, and check the heating elements periodically.
Are there health conditions that benefit more from one type of sauna over the other?

Yes, certain health conditions may benefit more from either a traditional or infrared sauna.

For instance, those seeking relief from joint pain or muscle soreness often prefer infrared saunas because the infrared heat penetrates deeper into the skin, which can aid in recovery and pain management.

To be fair though, you still get a similar effect in a traditional sauna, in infrared it's slightly more pronounced.

People looking for overall cardiovascular benefits and immune support generally favour a traditional sauna, as it increases heart rate and induces a more intense sweat.
Can sauna therapy improve cardiovascular health?

Yes, regular sauna use can enhance your heart rate and improve the function of blood vessels, benefiting cardiovascular health.

Not only that regular sauna use (4+ times a week) helps lower all-cause mortality by up to 40%
Which sauna Is better for weight loss?

Traditional saunas run at higher heat causing more perspiration resulting in more water weight lost. Furthermore, traditional saunas in Finnish studies have seen metabolism ramp up by up to 33%.ysis >
Do saunas help with muscle recovery?

Absolutely. The heat increases blood circulation, aiding in muscle recovery and reducing joint pain.
How much does a home sauna cost?

Costs vary depending on the type and features. Infrared saunas are typically less expensive to install and operate than traditional dry saunas.

We offer competitive pricing on all our SAWO Finland products and are happy to provide a quote tailored to your needs.

Contact us for more info

📚 References

For more detailed information, consider reviewing the systematic reviews below on sauna benefits and delve deep into reputable sources to further explore how sauna therapy can enhance your overall health.

📑 Cardiovascular and metabolic effects of repeated sauna bathing

📑 Longitudinal associations of sauna bathing with inflammation and oxidative stress: the KIHD prospective cohort study

📑 The Cardiometabolic Health Benefits of Sauna Exposure in Individuals with High-Stress Occupations. A Mechanistic Review

📑 Does the Combination of Finnish Sauna Bathing and Other Lifestyle Factors Confer Additional Health Benefits? A Review of the Evidence

The Sauna Company: Victoria's Leading Sauna Provider

Looking for a trusted source to purchase your home sauna? Look no further than The Sauna Company, a leading provider of high-quality saunas in Victoria.

At The Sauna Company, we're passionate about promoting the health, wellness, and relaxation benefits of sauna and steam room bathing. With over 25 years of experience and the backing of a premium global brand, we're committed to helping you achieve your wellness goals. No job is too big or too small, and we're here to assist you every step of the way. Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation discussion about your wellness dream.

Exclusive Partnership with SAWO

The Sauna Company has an exclusive partnership with SAWO, a Finnish brand known for its premium saunas and accessories. This ensures you’re getting top quality when you purchase from them.

Victoria's Trusted Sauna & Steam Room Specialists

The Sauna Company provides end-to-end SAWO sauna/steam room services Victoria-wide:

💬 Comprehensive consultations pre-purchase

🚚 Delivery statewide

✅ All of our sauna rooms are constructed from premium grade materials including circa 70mm thick double insulated wall panels which are lined on both sides with 14mm kiln dried western red cedar boards

🔨 Certified carpenters build our custom saunas

🏠 We utilise colour bond skillion roofs to our outdoor saunas

🔌 Certified electricians handle install wiring

🗑️ All waste + rubbish is cleaned on-site at your convenience

🤝 Ongoing post-purchase maintenance and customer service support

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