Category: Sauna Information

Choosing the right wood for your sauna isn’t just a design decision, it’s a functional one. The type of wood used directly affects the sauna’s durability, performance, safety, and even the experience you get during each session. Whether you’re considering an indoor infrared sauna or an outdoor traditional model, understanding sauna wood types can help you make a smarter, longer-lasting investment.

Let’s explore why sauna wood matters, what to look for, what to avoid, and why premium materials like North American basswood and mahogany consistently come out on top.

 

Why Sauna Wood Matters More Than You Think

 

When exposed to consistent high heat, humidity, and body oils, not all wood holds up the same. Good sauna wood needs to:

• Withstand fluctuating temperatures
• Resist cracking or warping
• Remain cool enough to touch safely
• Be low in allergens and off-gassing
• Avoid strong odors that can become overwhelming

Beyond comfort, health and safety are important too. Poor-quality wood can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), grow mold over time, or harbor allergens like natural resins. This is especially important for anyone using a sauna for wellness or recovery, where clean air and a soothing environment are priorities.

Well-constructed saunas also rely on secure fitting, like tongue-and-groove paneling, to ensure proper heat retention and structural integrity. Saunas built with high-quality hardwoods and expert construction not only look better, but also last longer and perform more consistently over time.

 

Top Sauna Woods (And How They Compare)

 

Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly used sauna woods and how they measure up in terms of quality, safety, and longevity.

 

Wood Type	Durability	Odor	Allergy-Friendly	Best For
Basswood	Excellent	Neutral	Yes	Infrared saunas, sensitive users
Mahogany	Excellent	Slightly Earthy	Yes	Infrared saunas, premium builds
Cedar	High	Subtle Aromatic	No	Traditional and infrared saunas
Hemlock	Medium	Mild	Sometimes	Budget indoor saunas
Spruce	Medium	Slight	Not Always	Temporary or low-use units

 

Basswood

North American basswood is hypoallergenic, odor-free, and an ideal choice for anyone with chemical sensitivities or respiratory concerns. It resists cracking and doesn’t off-gas at high temperatures. These qualities make it especially suitable for infrared saunas, where close proximity to the wood matters more.

 

Mahogany

Mahogany is a dense, durable hardwood with a rich color and long lifespan. It handles high heat and moisture beautifully, which makes it ideal for infrared saunas and more traditional steam-based setups. While it has a very mild scent, it’s generally well-tolerated even by sensitive users. Its natural resistance to mold and insects is another bonus.

 

What to Avoid: Woods That Don’t Belong in a Sauna

 

Not every wood species can tolerate the harsh environment of a sauna. Some emit too many oils or toxins, while others simply don’t hold up. Avoid:

• Soft Pine or Plywood: Prone to splintering, warping, and off-gassing.
• Resinous Woods, Like Types of Pine or Fir: These can ooze sap when heated.
• Treated or Composite Wood: These can release harmful chemicals when heated if used on the interior of a sauna, though could be appropriate for an exterior.

While cheaper saunas might use these materials to cut costs, you’ll often find they wear out faster, smell unpleasant, or even pose health risks over time.

 

Indoor vs. Outdoor: Does the Location Change the Wood Choice?

 

Absolutely. Where you install your sauna affects what materials are best.

 

Indoor Saunas

For indoor infrared saunas, North American basswood and mahogany are top choices. They stay cool to the touch, emit no strong odors, and maintain a neutral aesthetic that blends with most home interiors.

 

Outdoor Saunas

Outdoor saunas face more environmental stress, including rain, UV rays, and temperature swings. In these cases, mahogany is a superior interior choice, while engineered or treated woods are often used on the exterior for added durability and longevity.

For example, a high-end outdoor sauna might feature engineered outer panels for moisture protection and mahogany inside for heat performance and user comfort.

 

Why Premium Materials Are Worth It

 

Cheaper saunas might look fine at first, but they often use subpar wood and shoddy construction techniques that lead to:

• Faster degradation
• Unpleasant smells
• Air quality concerns
• Difficult maintenance
• Uncomfortable feeling
• Limited lifespan

Investing in a sauna made with sustainably sourced hardwood and expert craftsmanship gives you more value in the long run – not just in how the sauna looks, but how it feels, performs, and holds up over time. Well-built saunas also retain heat better, reducing energy use and enhancing the therapeutic effects of each session.

 

Sustainability Matters, Too

 

Environmental responsibility is another important consideration when choosing a sauna.

For example, some manufacturers are taking extra steps to offset their environmental footprint. For example, at Clearlight for every sauna purchased, we donate to plant two trees through the National Forest Foundation. This ensures that each unit not only supports your wellness but contributes positively to global reforestation efforts.

Additionally, At Clearlight Infrared®, this focus on quality extends to every detail. Both the Clearlight Premier™ and Clearlight Sanctuary™ models are crafted from eco-certified, grade “A” clear mahogany or North American basswood, two of the most reliable and safe sauna woods available. These materials aren’t just selected for performance, they’re part of a broader commitment to sustainability.

The belief is simple: A healthier planet supports healthier people. That’s why Clearlight sources responsibly harvested wood and chooses materials that minimize environmental impact. By reducing toxins in the environment, we help reduce the toxins your body is exposed to – creating a wellness space that’s better for you and the world around you.

When you choose a sauna built from responsibly harvested mahogany or basswood, you’re making a more sustainable choice that aligns with long-term wellness, both personal and planetary.

 

 

FAQs About Sauna Wood

 

What’s the safest wood for people with allergies or sensitivities?

North American basswood is widely considered the safest, thanks to its hypoallergenic and odorless properties.

 

Can I use cedar if I’m sensitive to scents?

Cedar has a subtle, aromatic scent that can be overwhelming for people with multiple chemical sensitivities. It also contains natural resins that may trigger allergies. It’s not recommended for those with sensitivities.

 

Is the wood in a sauna difficult to maintain?

Not with the right construction. Premium hardwoods like basswood and mahogany resist warping, cracking, and mold. Maintenance usually involves gentle cleaning with a non-toxic cloth and periodic inspections for wear.

 

Why does tongue and groove construction matter?

This design ensures panels fit tightly, keeping heat in and moisture out. It’s a sign of better craftsmanship and longer-lasting performance.

 

What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor sauna materials?

Indoor saunas prioritize comfort and hypoallergenic woods like basswood. Outdoor units need durable exteriors (engineered wood) and robust interiors like mahogany to withstand environmental exposure.

 

Choosing the Right Wood for Your Sauna

 

When it comes to buying a sauna, the type of wood used is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It affects everything from how the sauna performs to how long it lasts to how it impacts your health. Choosing high-quality, sustainable wood like North American basswood for indoor infrared saunas or mahogany interiors for outdoor models ensures that your investment is not only beautiful but safe, durable, and responsible.

If you’re looking for a long-term addition to your wellness routine, prioritize craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and wood types that are proven to perform.

Enhancing your hotel spa with an infrared sauna isn’t just a luxury trend – it’s a strategic business decision. Adding an infrared sauna to your hotel spa boosts guest satisfaction, supports wellness tourism, and opens new revenue streams. It’s a cost-effective, low-maintenance upgrade that differentiates your property from competitors while offering guests science-backed health benefits.

When guests feel better, they enjoy their stay more and recommend it to their friends. Read on to see why it’s worth the investment.

 

Hotel Sauna FAQs

 

Before getting started, here are answers to a few common questions that hotel owners often ask when considering this upgrade:

 

What makes infrared saunas different from traditional saunas?

Infrared saunas use radiant heat at lower temperatures, penetrating deeper into the skin without making the room unbearably hot. This makes them more comfortable and accessible to a broader range of guests.

 

Can a hotel charge non-guests for sauna use?

Yes. Many hotels generate additional income by offering day passes or spa memberships that include access to wellness amenities like the sauna. This opens up revenue streams beyond overnight stays.

 

Is it hard to maintain an infrared sauna in a hotel?

No. Infrared saunas require minimal upkeep compared to many spa services. Their simple design and durable materials make them easy to clean and operate with little additional staffing.

 

 

Benefits of Hotel Spas with Infrared Saunas

 

Deliver an Elevated Guest Experience

Today’s hotel guests are seeking more than just a place to sleep – they want experiences that promote wellness, relaxation, and rejuvenation. An infrared sauna fits seamlessly into this demand by offering a soothing, health-forward service that helps guests unwind after travel, reduce stress, and feel recharged during their stay.

Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas use radiant heat to penetrate the skin more deeply at a lower ambient temperature. This makes the experience more comfortable and accessible for a wider range of guests. Health benefits such as improved circulation, muscle recovery, and skin rejuvenation appeal to a health-conscious audience. Guests may try it once out of curiosity, but they often return because of how good they feel afterward.

 

Create a Distinctive Amenity That Sets You Apart

Differentiation is key in a crowded hospitality market. Offering an infrared sauna gives your property a unique edge, especially if competing hotels don’t offer the same wellness features. While many hotels provide basic spas or fitness rooms, fewer take the next step to integrate specialized wellness technologies.

Adding an infrared sauna signals that your hotel prioritizes guest health and luxury and understands what it means to be on the cutting edge of wellness tech. For boutique hotels or upscale properties, it can become a signature amenity highlighted in your marketing, photos, and guest reviews. Travelers increasingly seek hotels with wellness features, especially those booking through health and wellness-focused platforms. Adding an infrared sauna – especially a Clearlight infrared sauna, used and trusted by doctors, athletes and celebrities – gives you a strong selling point in those spaces.

 

Increase Revenue With New Service Streams

Infrared saunas can create new income opportunities for your spa beyond your existing offerings. You can integrate them into premium wellness packages, offer hourly sessions to non-guests, or bundle them with massages, fitness training recovery, or skincare services. Depending on your pricing structure, one sauna session can generate significant revenue while requiring minimal overhead.

Many hotels also offer day passes or allow local residents to access their spa facilities. An infrared sauna provides a strong incentive for locals to visit your property, spend time in your spa, and potentially book other treatments or meals. This taps into an entirely new revenue stream beyond your overnight guests.

With minimal staffing and maintenance, infrared saunas are relatively low-effort to operate compared to high-touch spa services. That efficiency makes them a smart addition for hotels looking to grow wellness revenue.

 

 

Boost Guest Satisfaction and Loyalty

A hotel stay becomes memorable when guests feel genuinely cared for. Wellness offerings like infrared sauna sessions increase that sense of personalized attention. Guests who take advantage of these amenities often leave better reviews, report higher satisfaction scores, and are more likely to return for another stay.

Many guests may discover infrared saunas for the first time during their hotel stay. When they associate that positive experience with your brand, you become part of their wellness journey. If they see your hotel as a place that helps them relax, heal, and recharge, your property gains emotional value that builds guest loyalty.

Additionally, enhanced amenities contribute to higher room rates. Guests are often willing to pay a premium for a hotel that offers unique health and wellness perks.

 

Position Your Hotel as a Luxury Wellness Destination

Today’s travelers, especially millennials and Gen Z, are placing increasing importance on health-conscious travel. Wellness tourism is booming, and properties that cater to this trend are seeing higher occupancy rates and stronger reputations.

Adding an infrared sauna is a tangible way to level up your hotel’s wellness offerings. Pair it with other wellness solutions – such as halotherapy (salt therapy) devices, red light therapy panels, vibrational resonance therapy, aromatherapy diffusers, or PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic field) mats – and you can build a full-spectrum wellness space. These features are not just trends; they align with long-term guest desires for holistic experiences.

By investing in wellness infrastructure, your hotel can attract retreat groups, wellness influencers, and travel publications focused on health-forward stays. It also allows you to market to business travelers seeking recovery tools after long flights or meetings.

 

 

Choosing the Right Infrared Sauna for Your Hotel

 

When selecting an infrared sauna for your property, it’s important to think beyond aesthetics. Consider the following factors:

• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Indoor saunas are ideal for spa integration or in-suite luxury, while outdoor saunas create an experience-rich amenity that complements pools or private garden spaces.
• Standard vs. Custom: A standard unit can fit neatly into existing spaces, while custom-built saunas may better reflect your property’s branding and accommodate specific size requirements.
• Capacity: Two-person saunas are perfect for couples, while four-to-six person units work well in common spa areas. Consider using a portable sauna dome for offering in-room treatments. 

Think about how the sauna will fit into your broader guest flow. Will it be part of the spa journey, an add-on service, or an exclusive suite amenity? Choose models that match your property’s size, design, and guest expectations.

Maintenance is minimal, but you’ll want to ensure proper ventilation and easy-to-clean interiors. Look for durable wood and intuitive control panels for both staff and guest convenience.

 

Hotels With Infrared Saunas Make Smart Business Sense

 

Adding an infrared sauna isn’t just about creating a luxurious experience – it’s about building long-term value into your hotel. From increasing guest satisfaction and loyalty to opening up new revenue streams and setting your property apart in a competitive market, this wellness upgrade is a strategic move.

By positioning your hotel as a wellness-forward destination, you not only improve the guest experience but also grow your brand reputation, attract a new type of traveler, and strengthen your business resilience. Ready to upgrade your spa offerings? An infrared sauna could be the centerpiece of a wellness experience your guests will rave about – and return for. Reach out to our commercial Wellness Innovations team at Clearlight to start heating up your business!

Adding an outdoor infrared sauna to your home or business is a powerful way to elevate wellness, support recovery, and create a relaxing retreat right in your backyard. But to make the most of your investment, it’s essential to choose the right unit for your environment and your needs. From sauna size and wood type to weather durability and placement, here are the most important factors to consider before purchasing an outdoor infrared sauna.

 

Sauna Size and Capacity: Who Will Be Using It?

 

The first thing to think about is who will be using your sauna and how often. Are you looking for a private wellness escape for one or two people, or do you need something larger to accommodate family or clients?

Outdoor infrared saunas are typically available in smaller sizes meant for 1-2 people, or larger sizes meant for 4-5 people. If you want a more spacious interior for stretching or hot yoga, a 5-person sauna is a great size for being able to be active. For businesses, larger models are often better suited to meet the needs of multiple users throughout the day.

Make sure to account for door clearance and any additional space needed for accessories, ventilation, or external covers. The unit should be easy to access, and the doors should open fully without obstruction.

Pro Tip: Measure your available outdoor space before choosing a size. You’ll want enough clearance on all sides to accommodate maintenance and ensure proper airflow.

 

Materials and Construction: What is It Made Of?

 

Outdoor saunas need to withstand year-round exposure to the elements, so the materials used in construction matter more than they would for an indoor model.

High-quality infrared saunas often use a combination of engineered exterior wood and dense interior hardwoods like mahogany. Engineered wood provides a weather-resistant outer shell that holds up against UV rays, rain, and snow, while hardwood interiors are naturally resistant to mold and moisture damage.

Well-designed saunas also use double-pane glass and thick, insulated double wall panels with a tongue-and-groove construction. This not only improves energy efficiency, but also helps retain heat for longer, even in colder climates. Avoid saunas made with untreated or soft woods, which may warp or rot over time. If you live in a particularly humid or snowy area, material durability should be a top priority.

 

Placement and Location: Where Should You Put It?

 

Placing your sauna in the right outdoor spot will make a big difference in how easy it is to use and maintain. Look for a location that is flat, level, and easily accessible from the home or main building.

Many people install outdoor saunas near a pool, hot tub, cold plunge, or outdoor shower to enhance the experience and make transitions more convenient. If you’re in a cold climate, consider a location close to an entryway to reduce time spent in freezing temps. In hot climates, you may want to position the sauna in partial shade to minimize exterior heat exposure and sun damage.

It’s also important to think about overhead coverage. Even if the sauna is built with weather-resistant materials, providing additional shelter such as a canopy or overhang can extend its lifespan and reduce wear.

Pro Tip: Make sure there’s enough space around the unit for any required electrical connections and proper air circulation. A dedicated base of pavers or a concrete slab is often recommended for stability.

 

 

Weather Protection: How Will It Hold Up Outside?

 

Unlike indoor units, outdoor infrared saunas are subject to harsh environmental conditions, so weatherproofing features are essential. If you don’t have a covered area in your outdoor space, look for saunas that include or offer optional outdoor covers. These help shield the unit from rain, snow, wind, and UV rays, reducing the risk of long-term damage. A good cover should fit well and be made from waterproof, UV-resistant materials.

Additionally, insulation plays a big role in heat retention and energy efficiency. High-quality saunas use thick wall insulation and tightly sealed doors to keep heat in and cold air out. Double-paned glass on the windows further enhances insulation and provides safety benefits.

If you live in a coastal or high-humidity area, check for mold-resistant materials and rust-proof hardware. Regular maintenance and a well-fitted cover will go a long way in protecting your investment.

 

Technology and Features: What Enhances the Experience?

 

Infrared saunas come with a variety of wellness-enhancing features that can make your sessions more enjoyable and effective. These include:

• Full-spectrum infrared heaters that provide near-, mid-, and far-infrared wavelengths for deeper tissue penetration.
• Chromotherapy lighting (color therapy) to support mood regulation and relaxation.
• Bluetooth audio systems so users can enjoy music, podcasts, or meditations.
• Digital control panels to easily adjust temperature and session duration.

Some models even include ergonomic backrests, ceiling vents, or medical-grade red light therapy. While these features aren’t required, they can make the difference between a good experience and a great one, especially if you use your sauna frequently. You can also add complementary features such as red light therapy, aromatherapy, or halotherapy to create an outdoor oasis.

 

Electrical Requirements: Are You Ready to Power It?

 

Outdoor infrared saunas are typically powered by a 240-volt outlet, which is different from the standard 120-volt household plug. Before installation, make sure your space has the correct electrical infrastructure in place or that you are prepared to hire an electrician.

A dedicated circuit is often required to avoid tripping breakers or overloading your electrical panel. Electrical access should also be weather-safe, meaning outlets and cords must be protected from rain or snow.

Be sure to check your local building codes and HOA guidelines (if applicable) to ensure compliance. Permits may be required in some regions for new 240v installations. Planning ahead with a licensed contractor or electrician can help avoid costly delays or unsafe installations.

 

 

FAQ: Outdoor Infrared Sauna Considerations

 

Can I use my infrared sauna year-round?

Yes, as long as your sauna is properly weatherproofed with insulated walls and a quality cover, it can be used in all seasons.

What surface should my sauna sit on?

The best surfaces are flat, stable, and weather-resistant, such as concrete, stone pavers, or a treated wood deck. Avoid placing directly on grass or soil.

Does my sauna need to be covered?

A weatherproof cover is highly recommended to protect your sauna from the elements and extend its lifespan.

How long does it take an outdoor infrared sauna to heat up?

Most infrared saunas take 10–20 minutes to reach optimal temperature, depending on the ambient weather conditions and unit size. But remember that infrared is different in that as long as the heaters are running, your body is absorbing its benefits, even at lower temperatures. 

Do I need a permit to install an outdoor sauna?

That depends on local building codes. Check with your city or HOA to determine if any permits or inspections are required for electrical work or outdoor structures.

 

Creating Your Outdoor Oasis with a Sauna

 

Choosing the right outdoor infrared sauna is about more than aesthetics. From selecting the right size and materials to understanding placement and power needs, each factor plays a role in the safety, comfort, and durability of your sauna. By considering your climate, usage, and preferences, you can create a wellness space that brings lasting value to your home or business.

Adding an infrared sauna to your indoor and/or outdoor space can enhance both your personal well-being and your property’s market value. Investing in an infrared sauna improves your property’s market value, while offering significant financial and, of course, wellness benefits. With its ability to attract buyers, enhance aesthetics, and provide low maintenance and operating costs, a Clearlight infrared sauna is a valuable addition that can increase your property’s value. 

We also know that having a sauna right at home is the real dream – just ask the folks at goop, including Founder Gwyneth Paltrow, who have incorporated Clearlight Saunas into their living spaces. An infrared sauna is both a positive investment in your health and property.

And, it’s no surprise that Vogue editors predicted as early as 2022 that wellness (including Infrared Saunas like those from Clearlight) is among the top interior design trends. They shared: “Homeowners are increasingly searching for designs and products that will promote good health and an overall sense of well-being.”

With all the being said, it might be time to start considering adding an infrared sauna to your home! Read on for some insights from home design and real estate experts.

 

What the Design and Real Estate Experts Have to Say

 

We recently had a chance to speak to design and real estate experts Amy Krause and Claudia Scott, to get their insight on why this type of investment has proven to be a smart, appealing and financially sound choice for homeowners – buyers and sellers.

Amy Krause is the owner of and principal designer at Amy Krause Design (AKD), an award-winning design studio. Amy is a member of the American Society of Interior designers (ASID) and the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and is also a certified kitchen and bath designer holding her AKBD for the NKBA. A busy mom living in Overland Park, Kansas, Amy is passionate about designing homes with cohesion and sophistication where her clients can live their best lives.

Claudia Scott of The Grubb & Co is a realtor dedicated to helping and guiding her clients, whether it’s negotiating the best offer or finding their dream home, Claudia’s number one priority is to be an advocate for her clients. Claudia has a widespread knowledge of the different neighborhoods of Oakland, CA and Piedmont, CA and what they each have to offer.  She has a strong pulse of the local market with the experience, skill and resources to back it up.

 

 

Increases the Buyer Pool

According to the National Association of Realtors, 42% of homebuyers view a sauna as a highly desirable feature. By installing one, you can make your property more attractive to potential buyers, potentially increasing your home’s resale value by 50-80% as RentRedi suggests.

“Sellers can enhance the comfort and value of their homes with a Clearlight infrared sauna – from the Sanctuary 2 for newlyweds and first-time home buyers to the Sanctuary 5, which is really well-suited for families. Not only is an infrared sauna a fantastic addition to your home and lifestyle, but it is also beneficial to your health and wellness,” said Claudia Scott, realtor, The Grubb & Co.  Having worked in the stock market industry for 10 years, Claudia Scott’s extensive background in finance allows her to help her clients navigate successfully through the intensive process of buying and selling.

 

Increases Your Property’s Aesthetic and Usability

Incorporating a sauna into your indoor bathing areas or backyard (including outdoor deck) can enrich the overall look of your property. Saunas have a contemporary design that adds a stylish, relaxing feature to your space. For example, Chicago designer Lucas Goldbach’s client work was featured in the Wall Street Journal, “How a Pair of Empty-Nesters Created Their Dream Home.” The couple wanted a soothing retreat and he understood the assignment, transforming a cedar closet that had served as wardrobe storage into a spa.

“Saunas are a beautiful thing, covered in wood. They exude relaxation,” Goldbach said in the article. The couple’s Clearlight Infrared Sanctuary Sauna sits steps from an adjacent fitness room. “They’ve traveled a lot and experienced lovely accommodations and spas around the world,” Goldbach said of the couple. “It’s just a little bit of that for them to have at home.

Recently named a 2024 DesignKC Award Winner in the Kitchen + Bath category for the “Spa-Like Guest Bath” which incorporated Clearlight’s Sanctuary 3 Full Spectrum 3 Person Infrared Sauna, Amy Krause of Amy Krause Designs shared: “Long-time clients of mine remodeled a lower level bathroom so they could include a sauna to enrich their wellness routine.

Their home is very unique, French country in style, and absolutely beautiful with luxurious appointments throughout. The bathroom was designed in keeping with the rest of the home. Classic marble tile, a sleek bidet along with digital shower controls were incorporated into the design. The Clearlight Sanctuary 3 is the icing on the cake. The finish is the perfect compliment to their wood accents throughout, so while the sauna is on the more contemporary side, it is cohesive with the rest of the home.”

 

Credit:Amy Krause, Amy Krause Design and Lori Kilgore Photography

 

Adds a Self-Care Sanctuary to your Space

A sauna also adds a level of luxury. By integrating an infrared sauna into your indoor and/or outdoor space, you’re incorporating an element that enhances your property’s appeal and sets it apart from other properties in the competitive market space.

“My clients have been enjoying their Sanctuary 3 Infrared Sauna for about a year now.  They wanted to integrate the health benefits of an infrared sauna into their wellness routine. They have a gym in their lower level and love to step in their sauna to relax after workouts followed by a cold plunge.  A few features they appreciate are the ability to adjust the lighting depending on their mood and control their music via bluetooth.  In addition, they love that they can bring their iPads and iPhones into the unit and these are protected from overheating in the audio station. Lastly, it’s beautiful…a  great investment!” said Krause.

 

Low Operating Costs

Clearlight infrared saunas are designed to be energy-efficient, meaning they won’t significantly impact your utility bills. Unlike older wood-burning models/traditional Finnish saunas, Clearlight’s contemporary saunas use minimal electricity, addressing any concerns about high operating costs and making your property even more appealing to potential buyers.

“My clients really like that they can adjust the time, say 20 minutes, and see the countdown as well as a maximum time limit with an auto shut-off so that it can’t be left on all day,” noted Krause.

 

Minimal Maintenance

Infrared saunas are easy to maintain, requiring only basic care to keep them in excellent condition. They are built to be durable and require minimal upkeep, ensuring that your investment doesn’t lead to additional costs or complications.  And, a true rarity in the industry, Clearlight offers a lifetime guarantee for residential buyers.

“The addition of an infrared sauna is a worthwhile investment. It is a unique and high-end feature that will be appealing to potential buyers when selling your home in the future,” added Scott.

 

Increasing Your Home’s ROI with a Sauna

 

Incorporating an infrared sauna into your home is more than just a trend – it’s a thoughtful investment in both personal wellness and increased property value. As seen through the insights of industry experts and satisfied homeowners, the benefits extend far beyond aesthetics, offering tangible health advantages, increased market appeal, and minimal maintenance.

Whether installed indoors or outdoors, a Clearlight infrared sauna adds sophistication, relaxation, and functionality to your living space. With the growing demand for wellness-focused homes, now is the perfect time to embrace this upgrade. Elevate your lifestyle and property value with an infrared sauna – because luxury, health, and smart investments should go hand in hand.

The health and wellness community seem to agree that spending time in a sauna delivers real, tangible health benefits. Saunas have been used for hundreds of years by communities all over the globe to detoxify and cleanse the body, as well as provide a sense of calm, relaxation, and boosted vitality. From the ancient Finnish tradition of sauna bathing to modern wellness trends, the allure of these heated spaces remains strong. And the science backs it up, too. Researchers from the University of Eastern Finland tracked the weekly sauna usage of 2,300 middle-aged men for an average of 20 years, and found:

• 2-3 times per week = 24% lower all cause mortality
• 4 times per week = 40% lower all cause mortality
• 4-7 times per week = 63% less likely to experience sudden cardiac death

Today, sauna enthusiasts face a choice between two main types: the traditional Finnish sauna and the more modern infrared sauna. While both offer unique benefits, they differ significantly in terms of heat delivery, experience, and potential health benefits. As wellness trends evolve, infrared saunas have gained popularity for their purported benefits and unique characteristics. Let’s explore both options and understand why many health-conscious individuals are gravitating toward infrared saunas over their traditional counterparts.

 

Traditional Finnish Steam Saunas vs. Infrared Saunas

 

Temperature Tolerance

If you’ve ever used a Finnish sauna, you’re well aware of the intense heat. Most experts recommend a temperature setting between 180 degrees and 190 degrees Fahrenheit. Throw in a serious dose of humidity and this environment can be quite unmanageable for many of us.

A dry infrared sauna operates differently, producing a therapeutic effect via the infrared waves generated from the heating element, all without the heat and humidity of a Finnish unit. Infrared sauna temperatures usually range from 110 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, much lower than a traditional Finnish unit. You’ll still produce plenty of cleansing perspiration, but without the discomfort of the oppressive heat of the Finnish design.

 

Heating Action

Traditional Finnish saunas, like those that have been in use for hundreds of years, incorporate a basic heating design that is simple, yet not as efficient as infrared sauna design. A Finnish design will often draw about 6 kw to maintain its high temperatures, while an infrared sauna draws roughly 1-2 kw of power.

When you consider how long you must preheat the Finnish sauna, which also draws about three times as much energy, it’s obvious the infrared design has won the war on efficiency. The most compelling difference between the two heater designs is the temperature at which they operate. Infrared saunas, as stated earlier, don’t subject the individual to as much heat as the Finnish sauna, therefore enhancing the overall experience.

 

 

Space Considerations

If you’ve spent much time looking at the size variances between Finnish saunas and infrared saunas, you’ll probably notice that most infrared saunas can vary in size from small to quite large. Some can be small enough for two people, or may be large enough to practice hot yoga in, but infrared units tend to have a smaller footprint than a traditional sauna – especially if you opt for an even more storable personal sauna dome. The reason being, Finnish saunas tend to devote a lot of space to the actual heating element. This can make them quite ungainly for home use, whereas infrared saunas can fit into many home settings.

 

Maintenance

Infrared saunas (and their heaters) require almost no maintenance or cleaning upkeep versus the traditional heating elements in a Finnish sauna. Unlike Finnish saunas, infrared saunas don’t employ excessive amounts of heat and steam to create the sweat-inducing environment inside the space.

Finnish saunas generally consume about three times as much energy to operate as an infrared sauna, as they require 45 – 60 minutes to just reach their optimum temperature. Infrared saunas only require a warm up time to allow the infrared heaters to come up to their optimal temperature (usually about 15 minutes). Infrared saunas use about ⅓ of the electrical as compared to a Finnish sauna.

Finnish saunas utilize great quantities of steam and heat to create the sauna effect. This proves to be the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, germs, and mold, all of which pose a greater risk of infection and illness. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, are dry saunas and have been shown to reduce the level of surface contaminants on the sauna bather’s skin, while clearing up blemishes and improving overall complexion.

 

 

Sauna Health Benefits

The excessive heat and humidity of a Finnish sauna triggers profound perspiration, which further triggers detoxification and weight loss (though often temporary). An infrared sauna works in a similar fashion, but instead, incorporates IR waves that penetrate the body to raise the core temperature from within. These waves are totally safe, and measure from 6 to 12 microns in wavelength, ideal for absorption by the body. Additionally, infrared units are more efficient at warming the muscles and joints of the body.

 

Additional Technologies

One of the standout features of infrared saunas is the dry heat environment they provide, which opens up opportunities for integrating additional wellness technologies. Unlike traditional Finnish saunas, where the humidity can limit options, infrared saunas allow for a variety of enhancements that can elevate your sauna session, such as red light therapy towers and salt therapy generators.

These additional technologies can enhance the detoxifying and rejuvenating effects of your sauna experience, making infrared saunas a versatile choice for those looking to optimize their health and wellness routines. Whether you’re seeking muscle relaxation, skin improvement, or respiratory benefits, the integration of red light therapy and salt therapy in your infrared sauna can offer a comprehensive approach to well-being.

 

Convenience Factor

Undoubtedly, many are fans of the more social aspect of Finnish saunas, as they can sometimes accommodate as many as 10 – 15 people. But there is no denying the convenience of an infrared sauna. You simply turn on the heater and step inside, and there is no need to preheat the sauna. Infrared saunas warm the body from within, therefore, splashing water on heated rocks or managing steam levels is a thing of the past. From a maintenance standpoint, Finnish saunas require preventative measures and vigilant cleaning to keep mold and bacteria at bay. This is not required with an infrared unit.

 

Adding a Sauna to Your Health Routine

 

Regardless of whether you choose a traditional or infrared sauna, the health benefits are undeniable, including detoxification, relaxation, and improved cardiovascular health. So when shopping for a sauna, for home or commercial use, definitely consider all the practical applications of a sauna, and know you’ll be setting yourself up for a healthier future. While the iconic Finnish sauna has greater social potential due to its larger sizes, the infrared sauna outranks all other models when it comes to efficiency, affordability, performance, and comfort.