Infrared Sauna vs. Traditional Sauna: A Comparative Guide

A post by PR Newswire citing Technavio estimates the U.S. sauna market will grow by $151.3 million between 2025 and 2029.

Saunas are gaining popularity as more people look for easy ways to relax, improve health, and reduce stress. Some are even building sauna houses in their own homes. You might be thinking about it, too.

But you may be stuck choosing between an infrared sauna vs traditional sauna. Both help you sweat and feel better, but they function differently. One heats your body directly, while the other heats the air around you.

So, which one should you choose? In this guide, we compare both to help you discover what fits your needs best.

Heat Source

Infrared saunas use light panels that give off invisible rays called infrared. These rays heat your body directly. The air stays cooler, but you still feel warm.

The heat goes deep into your skin, which helps you sweat from the inside. One of the main infrared sauna advantages is the way it warms your body without heating the whole room. People who dislike high heat often find this type easier to enjoy.

Traditional saunas use electric heaters or wood stoves to warm large rocks. The rocks then heat the air around them. You feel hot as soon as you walk in.

Pouring water on the rocks creates a burst of steam. That steam makes the room even hotter.

Many people enjoy the strong heat and steam. It creates a classic and powerful sauna experience.

Temperature

Infrared saunas heat your body at lower temperatures, usually between 120°F and 150°F. The air stays cooler, so it feels more comfortable for many people. You start sweating without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.

The warmth builds slowly and feels stable. Many users find it easier to stay inside longer because of the milder air.

People who are sensitive to high temperatures often choose infrared over other options. Breathing becomes easier, while the body warms up sufficiently to sweat.

Traditional saunas reach higher temperatures, often between 150°F and 195°F. You feel the heat wrap around your whole body almost right away. Some people enjoy that kind of strong warmth.

Muscles loosen up quickly, and sweat begins almost at once. One of the traditional sauna pros is the deep, intense heat.

Many believe it pushes out more toxins. People who like fast, heavy sweating often prefer the strong heat of a traditional sauna.

Heating Time

Infrared saunas heat up much faster than traditional ones, usually in just 10 to 15 minutes. You don’t have to wait for the full warm-up to start your session. Many people step in while it’s still heating, and the panels begin warming your body right away.

You can start sweating within a few minutes, even before it reaches full heat. The quick setup makes it easy to use, especially if you have a busy schedule. Those who value time often prefer infrared for its quick warm-up.

Traditional saunas take more time because both the rocks and the air need to get hot. Most models take around 30 to 45 minutes before they’re ready. You wait outside until the room reaches the right temperature.

Some people use this time to relax or prepare mentally for the session. The slow build-up feels rewarding, and the heat stays steady once the sauna reaches full warmth.

Sweating Mechanism

Infrared saunas warm your body using invisible light waves. The heat goes deep under your skin and builds slowly. You begin to sweat from inside your body instead of from the surface.

Many people say this type of sweating feels smooth and steady. The deep heat may help your body release more sweat over time. Some users find this gentle process easier to handle.

You can stay inside longer without feeling too hot or lightheaded. Many people enjoy the calm feeling during and after each session. You leave feeling:

• Clean
• Loose
• Refreshed

Traditional saunas heat the air around you. Your skin reacts to the hot air, and sweat begins almost at once. The heat covers your whole body quickly.

People who enjoy strong heat often pick this type. Heavy sweating starts fast and feels powerful. One of the biggest sauna relaxation benefits is the way your body unwinds after this deep, full-body heat.

Air Humidity

The air inside an infrared sauna stays dry and comfortable. No steam or extra moisture fills the room. You breathe in dry air during your session.

For many people, the dry atmosphere feels soothing and manageable. You won’t feel overwhelmed by the humidity that often comes with heat. The lack of moisture allows the air to feel fresher throughout the experience.

In traditional saunas, the air can either be dry or steamy. When you pour water on the rocks, a burst of steam fills the room. It increases the humidity, making the air moist and warm.

Some people love the wet heat because it feels more intense and purifying. The moisture in the air may add to the relaxing experience and help you sweat more.

For outdoor sauna options, consider companies like Crystal River Spas. We offer a wide range of products at affordable prices. Our reps can guide you through our inventory list and help you choose the ideal one for your home.

Power Use

Infrared saunas are more energy-efficient. They heat your body directly without needing to warm the air. These panels don’t require high temperatures, so they use less electricity.

Consequently, infrared saunas are often considered a more eco-friendly option. They also heat up quickly, reducing wait times before you can start your session. The combination of fast heating and lower energy use makes infrared saunas a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.

In contrast, traditional saunas consume more power. The heaters must work longer to heat both the air and the rocks inside. The process requires more electricity, resulting in higher energy consumption.

The longer heating time and sustained high temperatures contribute to increased power usage. Over time, the cost of electricity for traditional saunas can add up, making them a less energy-efficient option compared to infrared saunas.

Size

Infrared saunas come in many sizes, and most are made for home use. Some fit one person, while others can hold two or three. Most models stay compact and fit well in small rooms.

You can set one up in a corner, closet, or spare area. That makes them a good choice for people with limited space.

Many brands also offer easy-to-build kits. The lighter size and simple design help make setup fast and smooth.

Traditional saunas often take up more space. You need space for the heater, rocks, and benches. Most designs fit three or more people, and some hold up to six.

The size works well if you want to enjoy it with friends or family. These models fit better in larger rooms or outside in a small house or shed.

Some even build them from scratch. A large size helps give a strong heat, but it takes up more room.

Time Spent Inside

Infrared saunas allow for longer sessions due to their gentler heat. People usually stay inside for 25 to 45 minutes.

The warmth penetrates deeply, offering a calming experience without causing discomfort. Many find it easier to relax without feeling overwhelmed by the heat, making it ideal for those who want a longer, more soothing session.

In traditional saunas, the intense heat can make sessions shorter. Most people spend around 10 to 20 minutes inside. To avoid overheating, users often take breaks to cool down.

The high heat can offer quick relief and relaxation, but it requires careful attention to avoid discomfort. People who enjoy a more intense heat experience may prefer traditional saunas for their faster effects.

Setup Location

Infrared saunas work well indoors and don’t need much space to set up. You can place one in your:

• Bedroom
• Basement
• Large closet
• Home office
• Workout room

Most come in small sizes and plug into a standard outlet. You don’t need special vents or plumbing. The heat remains inside, keeping the walls and floors cool.

That makes it easy to install one without changing your home much. Many people enjoy the ease and flexibility of indoor use.

Traditional saunas are often built in a:

• Bathroom
• Backyard
• Spa room
• Garage
• Guest house

They need more space and strong walls that can handle high heat. You also need good airflow to keep the room safe. Some people hire a builder to get everything right.

One of the traditional sauna pros is the custom setup. You can design the space for groups, deep heat, and long sessions that feel like a full spa visit.

Maintenance

Infrared saunas are simple to care for and take little time to clean. After each session, you wipe the panels, bench, and floor with a cloth. The inside stays dry since there’s no steam.

Wiping down the panels helps prevent mold, mildew, or water spots from forming. Most owners clean the sauna once a week with a mild cleaner.

You don’t need special tools or strong chemicals. The simple setup makes it a good choice for a home sauna, especially if you want easy upkeep.

Traditional saunas need more care due to steam and high heat. You often deal with wet surfaces and water buildup. The rocks and heater may collect dirt or rust over time.

It’s important to check them often and keep the wood dry. Some people lay towels down to protect the benches.

The room also needs airflow to stay fresh. Cleaning often takes more effort, but many say the heat is worth the extra work.

Experience

Infrared saunas provide a calm and steady experience. The warmth gradually builds over time, allowing your body to adjust. As the heat deepens, you feel your muscles soften and relax.

The infrared heat penetrates deeply, soothing sore spots and promoting overall relaxation. Many people enjoy how gentle and gradual the warming process feels, giving them a more comfortable and relaxing session.

Traditional saunas create a more intense experience. The heat hits your skin quickly, making you feel warm almost immediately. Adding steam to the rocks increases the intensity, making the air feel even hotter and more humid.

Some people enjoy the fast, powerful sensation of the heat. The quick rush often makes the sauna relaxation benefits feel more immediate and intense. The combination of high heat and moisture helps to relax muscles, providing a quicker release of tension and a deeper sense of relief.

Noise Level

Infrared saunas stay quiet during use, which makes them great for calm and private moments. The panels heat your body in silence, with no moving parts or loud systems. You won’t hear any humming, buzzing, or fan noise.

That helps create a peaceful space where you can relax or meditate. Many people enjoy reading, listening to music, or sitting in silence.

A quiet home sauna can be the perfect way to wind down after a long day. The silence makes the whole experience feel calm and personal.

Traditional saunas may bring more sound into the room. The heater often makes a soft hum as it works. When you pour water on the hot rocks, you hear a strong hissing sound.

Some people enjoy these noises – they feel natural and part of the sauna ritual. The sound of steam can feel alive and comforting, even though it makes the room feel less quiet.

Infrared Sauna vs Traditional Sauna: Which One Suits You Best?

Infrared sauna vs traditional sauna; each has its unique advantages for your wellness. Infrared saunas offer gentle, deep heat, making for longer, more comfortable sessions.

They are energy-efficient and use less power. Traditional saunas, on the other hand, deliver intense heat for shorter sessions but provide a quick, invigorating experience.

At Crystal River Spas, we prioritize sustainability in everything we do. In 2008, we recycled 4.2 million pounds of material, and we continue to reduce our environmental impact every year.

Our staff can educate you more about infrared and traditional saunas. You can trust them to recommend the perfect option for your needs.

Check out our website today to discover more about our saunas and hot tubs.