The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Sauna: Traditional vs. Infrared vs. Infrasauna

Saunas have been cherished for centuries for their health benefits and relaxation qualities. Today, you can choose from various types of saunas, each offering unique features and benefits. This guide will help you understand the differences between traditional saunas, infrared saunas, and infrasaunas, so you can choose the best one for your needs.

Traditional Saunas

Overview: Traditional saunas, also known as Finnish saunas, use a heat source (electric, wood-burning, or gas) to heat a room, which in turn heats the body. The heat is typically dry, with humidity levels adjustable by pouring water over heated stones.

Benefits:

• Deep Muscle Relaxation: The high temperatures (between 150-195°F) help relax muscles and relieve tension.
• Enhanced Circulation: The heat induces sweating, which helps improve circulation and detoxify the body.
• Versatility: Adjustable humidity allows for a personalized sauna experience.

Unique Features:

• Heat Source Flexibility: Available in electric, wood-burning, or gas options.
• High Temperatures: Can reach higher temperatures compared to other sauna types.
• Humidity Control: The ability to pour water over stones allows for customizable humidity levels.

Infrared Saunas

Overview: Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to emit infrared light, which is absorbed directly by the body, heating it from within rather than heating the air around it. This results in a lower ambient temperature but a deep, penetrating heat.

Benefits:

• Gentle Heat: Operates at lower temperatures (between 120-150°F), making it more comfortable for longer sessions.
• Efficient Detoxification: The deep penetrating heat promotes intense sweating and effective detoxification.
• Energy Efficient: Uses less energy compared to traditional saunas.

Unique Features:

• Quick Heating: Heats up faster than traditional saunas.
• Lower Temperature: Comfortable for those who might find traditional saunas too hot.
• Portable Options: Available in portable and smaller unit sizes, perfect for home use.

Infrasaunas

Overview: Infrasaunas combine the features of traditional and infrared saunas, offering the best of both worlds. They provide the option to switch between infrared heating and traditional heating methods.

Benefits:

• Dual Functionality: Users can choose between a traditional sauna experience or an infrared session.
• Customizable Experience: Flexibility to switch modes based on personal preference or specific health goals.
• Versatile Usage: Ideal for families or households with varying sauna preferences.

Unique Features:

• Hybrid Technology: Combines the benefits of both traditional and infrared saunas.
• Adjustable Settings: Allows for a highly customizable sauna experience.
• Comprehensive Health Benefits: Provides the combined health benefits of both sauna types.

Decision-Making Guide

Choosing the right sauna depends on your personal preferences, health goals, and available space. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

1. Consider Your Health Goals:
   • For Deep Muscle Relaxation and Enhanced Circulation: Choose a traditional sauna.
   • For Gentle Heat and Efficient Detoxification: Opt for an infrared sauna.
   • For Versatility and Customization: Go for an infrasauna.
2. Think About Comfort and Temperature Preferences:
   • High Heat Tolerance: Traditional saunas offer the highest temperatures.
   • Moderate Heat Tolerance: Infrared saunas provide a more comfortable heat level.
   • Flexible Temperature Preferences: Infrasaunas allow you to switch between high and moderate temperatures.
3. Evaluate Your Space and Installation Needs:
   • Ample Space and Permanent Installation: Traditional saunas are ideal for larger spaces.
   • Limited Space and Easy Installation: Infrared saunas are perfect for smaller areas and easy to install.
   • Mixed Preferences and Flexible Usage: Infrasaunas provide a versatile option for various space requirements.
4. Consider Energy Efficiency and Usage:
   • Energy-Efficient Option: Infrared saunas are more energy-efficient.
   • Frequent, Long Sessions: Traditional saunas are suited for those who enjoy longer sauna sessions.
   • Varied Usage Patterns: Infrasaunas offer the flexibility to switch between different heating methods based on usage patterns.

Choosing the right sauna can enhance your wellness routine and provide a relaxing escape right in your home. Whether you prefer the intense heat of a traditional sauna, the gentle warmth of an infrared sauna, or the versatility of an infrasauna, Ohio Pools & Spas has the perfect solution to meet your needs. Explore our range of Finnleo, Leisurecraft, and Northstar saunas to find your ideal sauna experience today!