Infrared vs. Traditional Saunas: What’s the Difference?
Bringing a sauna into your home can create a relaxing space to unwind, but one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to choose an infrared sauna or a traditional sauna.
Both can provide a warm, relaxing sauna experience, but they create that experience in different ways. Understanding those differences can help you decide which style better fits your home, available space, and personal preferences.
How Does an Infrared Sauna Work?
Infrared saunas use infrared heaters that emit radiant heat. Rather than primarily heating the air around you, infrared energy warms your body and other surfaces inside the sauna.
Because of this, infrared saunas generally operate at lower air temperatures than traditional saunas while still providing a distinctly warm experience.
For people who prefer a gentler-feeling environment, an infrared sauna can be an appealing option.
How Does a Traditional Sauna Work?
Traditional saunas use a heater—often with sauna stones—to heat the air inside the room.
These saunas typically operate at higher temperatures than infrared models and create the classic sauna experience many people picture when they think of a sauna.
Depending on the sauna and heater, water may also be poured over heated stones to create a temporary burst of steam and humidity.
Infrared vs. Traditional Sauna Temperature
One of the biggest differences between the two is operating temperature.
Infrared saunas commonly operate at approximately 110°F to 140°F, although temperatures vary by model.
Traditional saunas often operate around 150°F to 195°F, depending on the heater, sauna design, and personal preference.
That difference can significantly affect how each sauna feels.
Which Sauna Is Better for a Home?
There isn't one answer that's right for everyone.
An infrared sauna may be a good fit if you prefer lower air temperatures, want a relatively simple home sauna experience, or are considering a compact sauna for an indoor space.
A traditional sauna may be a good fit if you love the hotter classic sauna environment, enjoy the experience of heated sauna stones, or want a more traditional Nordic-style sauna.
What About Installation?
Installation requirements vary considerably between sauna models.
Some compact infrared saunas may have relatively straightforward electrical requirements, while larger infrared units can require dedicated electrical service.
Traditional electric sauna heaters commonly require dedicated higher-voltage circuits and professional installation. Outdoor saunas may also require site preparation and additional electrical work.
Always follow the manufacturer's installation requirements and consult a qualified electrician when appropriate.
Consider Your Available Space
Before choosing a sauna, think about where you want it to go.
Indoor saunas can work beautifully in home gyms, finished basements, bathrooms, wellness rooms, or other suitable spaces.
Outdoor saunas can transform a backyard, patio, or garden area into a private retreat.
Measure carefully and remember to consider ventilation, electrical requirements, clearances, flooring, and access—not just the exterior dimensions of the sauna itself.
So, Which Should You Choose?
If you want a gentler environment with lower air temperatures, infrared may be the better match.
If you want the hotter, classic sauna experience with heated stones, traditional may be the better choice.
Ultimately, the best home sauna is the one that fits your space, preferences, budget, and the experience you want to create.
At Nature’s Solution, we’re building a thoughtfully selected collection of infrared, traditional, and outdoor saunas to help you create your own relaxing wellness space at home.