Learn How to Get the Most Out of a Sauna at Home

Sure, you know how to sit in a sauna, but do you know how to do it like a pro? There are plenty of opportunities to take your home sauna to the next level and truly create a sanctuary at home. From using enhancements like aromatherapy and halotherapy to general sauna safety tips, read on to learn how to get the most of a sauna at home by making it a truly incredible sauna experience.

Sauna Color Light Therapy in Action

How to Get the Most Out a Sauna with Enhancements

Chromotherapy

Chromotherapy, also called color light therapy, is the process of restoring balance to the body by applying color. Color light therapy relies on the premise that each color is associated with a different bodily response. For example, red is typically associated with stimulation, while blue is considered a mentally relaxing color.

Color light therapy has been reported to temporarily reduce swelling, relieve pain, decrease inflammation, accelerate open wound healing and greatly reduce overall recovery after medical and surgical procedures. When paired with a healthy lifestyle, chromotherapy patients have demonstrated increased range of motion, decreased muscle tension and spasm, and improved circulation. Your home sauna from Clearlight has chromotherapy lights built in to help you reap all the benefits of color therapy.

 

Halotherapy

The practice of salt therapy, or halotherapy, uses microsalt to promote a range of health benefits once inhaled. Many believe that when people inhale this salty air, it can help stimulate their respiratory system, reduce inflammation, fight infection, clear blockages and reduce discomfort.

The treatment is intended to recreate the atmosphere of salt caves with a high concentration of micronized salt in the air. One of the best solutions on the market is the Microsalt Halotherapy Generator that can be incorporated into your sauna and used to crush salt into microparticles that are easily inhaled. Creating your own salt sauna experience allows you to combine the powerful detoxifying properties of infrared therapy with the healing benefits of halotherapy.

Aromatherapy

Spending time in an infrared sauna is relaxing on its own, but you can enhance the experience even further by incorporating essential oils. It is important to note that essential oils are very strong and should be diluted or used with a carrier oil to avoid too much exposure. Ten of the best essential oils for sauna aromatherapy include birch, cinnamon, citrus, eucalyptus, frankincense, lavender, peppermint, pine, sandalwood, and tea tree oils.

Depending on your desired results, try mixing different essential oil combinations. Some simple combination ideas include citrus + peppermint for an energizing experience, pine + birch to go woodsy, and lavender + sandalwood for mental clarity and relaxation. Simply place a few drops of your favorite oil in a small container and place it in your home sauna to be heated and enjoy.

 

Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, LED light therapy, and low level light therapy, works by using red low-level wavelengths of light to produce a biochemical effect in cells by penetrating approximately 5 millimeters below the skin’s surface. This effect helps strengthen the mitochondria and increase cell energy to improve performance of cells. Red light is considered “low level” because it works at an energy density that’s low compared to other forms of laser therapies.

The light from near infrared LEDs has been shown to bring energy to cells, reduce pain, increase collagen and elastin production in skin cells, speed up the wound healing process, reduce inflammation and provide numerous anti-aging benefits. To use red light therapy with your sauna at home, you can attach a Clearlight® Light Therapy tower to the door of your sauna.

 

Vibration Resonance Therapy

This additional therapy combines the healing effects of sound and vibration to soothe all systems of the body to bring you to a deeper state of relaxation. In your sauna, the vibration resonance therapy (VRT) modules attach to the bottom of the sauna bench and use an amplified audio signal to resonate sound waves to the surface of the sauna.

Listen to some soothing music while using VRT to really let the sounds and vibrations resonate throughout the body and stimulate the body’s natural relaxation response. Including vibration resonance therapy in your home sauna sessions enhances the rejuvenating properties of infrared therapy. Think of it as a light touch massage for your body and mind during your sauna session.

How to Get the Most Out a Sauna with Activities

 

Hot Yoga

As the name implies, hot yoga is the practice of yoga in a heated setting. Hot yoga sessions are typically more vigorous and intense than the average yoga practice. Many use hot yoga as a way to connect with their body physically, mentally, or spiritually. Both infrared saunas and hot yoga offer the health benefits of detoxification, weight loss, flexibility, and reduced stress. Doing hot yoga in a sauna is the perfect scenario!

 

Meditation

A home sauna creates the perfect environment for you to disconnect from everyday life and connect with yourself instead. Taking just 10 minutes of your day to meditate in your sauna can help significantly reduce your stress. On top of meditation, breathing exercises can help bring you to a state of mindfulness and concentration, which can help you push through the heat sauna session and get comfortable.

 

How to Use a Home Sauna: Tips & Safety

 

Home Sauna Tips

  • Place your sauna near a shower or pool for easy access.
  • Bring a towel to sit on for comfort and cleanliness.
  • Take a shower before and after your sauna session.
  • Block off uninterrupted sauna time so you can fully relax.

 

Home Sauna Safety

  • Limit your sessions to approximately 20 minutes.
  • Don’t use a sauna before working out.
  • Keep water nearby to stay hydrated.
  • Don’t use a sauna if pregnant.
  • End your sauna session if you begin to feel lightheaded.

 

If you have a sauna at home, you are already on the right path toward wellness! But now that you’ve learned how to get the most out of a sauna, you are about to experience a whole new approach to your sauna sessions with increased health benefits. If you are considering buying a sauna, take these tips into consideration so you can design your ultimate sauna experience.

Getting a Home Sauna: Where to Put a Sauna in the House

Getting a sauna for your home is an exciting addition to your home health regimen. But before you can use it, you need to figure out the best place for it to go! Indoors or outdoors, large or small, DIY or prebuilt – there are a lot of considerations to think of when it comes to preparing for your home sauna! These tips below will help you determine the best spot in your home to enjoy your new sauna.

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Why to Put a Sauna in the House

 

While many spas and gyms offer access to saunas, that access is unfortunately not always guaranteed. From saunas being too full with other users or spas and gyms simply being closed, there are a few things that might hold you back from using a public sauna. With a home sauna, however, you have total freedom in sweating whenever and however you want. Having a sauna in the house gives you the opportunity to have your very own health and wellness tool tailored to your needs.

Some home infrared sauna health benefits you can enjoy at any time include:

  • Weight Loss & Increased Metabolism
  • Temporary Muscle Pain Relief
  • Better Sleep
  • Detoxification
  • Decreased Appearance of Cellulite
  • Eased Joint Pain & Stiffness
  • Reduces Stress & Fatigue
  • Improved Skin Conditions

Along with the health benefits above, infrared sauna use has also been shown to help enhance workout performance, create an environment for mindfulness, and provide a sanctuary at home. Whether you’re considering a sauna in the house for on-demand spa days or for reaping the long-term benefits of daily use, a home sauna is sure to help you meet your health and wellness goals.

Outdoor Sauna from Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas

Choosing the Right Home Sauna for You

 

Outdoor vs Indoor

 

Outdoor Sauna: Outdoor saunas of course require an outdoor space. Choosing an outdoor sauna is perfect for those with backyards – especially if a pool is nearby for a quick dip after a sauna session. Things to take into consideration with an outdoor sauna include space, proximity to a power source, privacy, and potentially a structure to help protect the sauna exterior from natural elements.

Indoor Sauna: Indoor infrared saunas are becoming increasingly popular as they provide luxury and health benefits right in the comfort of your own home. No matter where you live, you can likely make an indoor sauna fit in your space. From placing one in the corner of a small apartment to having an entire room dedicated to sauna use, choosing an indoor sauna allows for a range of options for everyone (and every space) to enjoy.

 

Large vs Small

 

Large Sauna: Large saunas are the epitome of luxury, but they do require extra space in your home. If you plan on having more than three users at a time or want extra space for activities like hot yoga, dedicate the extra space to have a home sauna of your dreams. Outdoor spaces typically lend themselves to more space for a large sauna, but you can also place one in your home if you have a large, open area.

Small Sauna: Small saunas are great for single-person use or areas tighter on space. The size of small saunas make them incredibly versatile, fitting in bedrooms, bathrooms, small yards, or anywhere else you desire. If you have a 4’ by 4’ space in your home, you can likely fit at least a one-person sauna. While smaller saunas don’t allow for group sessions or hot yoga, they still offer all the same health benefits as a large sauna.

 

Prebuilt vs Build-Your-Own

 

Prebuilt Sauna: A prebuilt sauna is a great option for people who want a simple installation. You still get all the bells and whistles of an infrared sauna, but without the planning! These saunas come in many sizes and can be placed anywhere inside or outside where there is a stable, flat surface and room for ventilation. Prebuilt saunas only require light assembly and are ready to go once you have them connected to a power source.

Build-Your-Own Sauna: Building your own DIY sauna is always exciting, as you can customize it to be exactly what fits your needs. These saunas take a higher level of planning, as they require careful calculations and measurements so they can fit seamlessly into your home. Building your own sauna is great for creating an at-home spa experience that perfectly fits your home decor. DIY saunas are more popularly done indoors and in bathrooms or pool houses.

Woman Using Infrared Sauna to Boost Immune System Naturally

Placement Considerations for a Home Sauna

 

Use the Right Flooring Materials

If building your own sauna, the most suitable floors are made of plastic, ceramic, exposed concrete, or stone. The floor should be sound and heat insulated. If, however, you decide to use a premade home sauna, the flooring is already designed with premium cedar or North American basswood that hold up to regular infrared sauna use. Premade saunas can be placed on nearly any surface as long as it is level and sturdy.

 

Try to Place Near a Shower or Pool

Traditionally, people jumped from the hot sauna to frozen waters. For you, jumping into a pool right after a home sauna session can replicate that refreshing feeling. If your layout allows for it, make the transition between sauna and pool an easy one and have them close. If you do not have a pool at home, a refreshing shower achieves the same effect! Install your sauna in a bathroom for quick and easy access to a shower that will help you feel fresh after.

 

Have Access to Adequate Power

For infrared sauna use, you will need access to a 240-volt connection. While plugging in a prebuilt home sauna should be simple, especially for indoor use, be sure to double check your connections and contact an electrician if any concerns or issues arise. When building a DIY sauna, involving a licensed electrician in the process will help ensure safety for prolonged use. Ensure the wiring for your sauna is clear of any water or any other hazardous conditions.

 

Be Wary of Moisture Levels

Make sure there is adequate drainage around the base of your home sauna so water cannot pool around the base of the sauna. It is also important to consider the humidity levels of the area of your choice, as an environment that is too damp may affect materials over time. Additionally, while our outdoor saunas are constructed with engineered wood on the exterior, too much exposure to natural elements over a prolonged period may impact the exterior of your sauna.

 

Having a sauna in the house is sure to make every day feel a little more luxurious and a lot healthier. Whether you’re looking to improve your health or simply create an at-home spa experience, take the above tips into consideration to ensure your home sauna is exactly what you need!

What is Red Light Therapy? Benefits, Uses & More

What is red light therapy, and how is it beneficial to your health? Learn more about why you should include the practices of red light therapy and infrared light therapy into your regimen. From benefits and risks to the best way to use it, we have all your red light therapy tips and information here!

Person Using Clearlight® Red Light Therapy Tower

What is Red Light Therapy?

Beginning in the early 1990s as a tool to help grow plants in space, red light therapy, or RLT, is a technique used to help promote healthy cell growth and regeneration. Today’s practice of red light therapy extends to humans and can be used in the treatment of a wide range of issues such as skin conditions and wound healing. There are many ways to utilize this therapy by simply placing red light technology near your body, from light towers and saunas to handheld devices and face masks. Red light therapy can also be used to activate photosensitizing medications for photodynamic therapy.

Red light therapy works by using red low-level wavelengths of light to produce a biochemical effect in cells by penetrating approximately 5 millimeters below the skin’s surface. This effect helps strengthen the mitochondria and increase cell energy to improve performance of cells. Stronger cells increases productivity and effectiveness for proper rejuvenation and damage repair. Overall, the body uses these boosted cells to increase healing time and improve the condition of ailments caused by degenerative cells.

Risks of Red Light Therapy

No severe side effects are associated with RLT, and it is considered a safe and pain-free treatment. In the case of minor red light therapy side effects, some have reported headaches, irritability, and eye strain. The main cause of these red light therapy risks is the intense color or brightness of the light, which can be avoided by protecting your eyes during your RLT session and avoiding staring directly into the light.

If you suffer from bipolar disorder, consult with your doctor before pursuing red light therapy, as there have been a few, rare cases of RLT causing mania in bipolar patients.

Clearlight Red Light Therapy Tower

Red Light Therapy Benefits

Research on red light therapy benefits is still in the early phases, but current studies and anecdotal evidence show promise for the effectiveness of the treatment. Red light therapy can be used to help treat many conditions and improve overall health. Some of the main benefits of red light therapy include:

athletic performance eyesight mood
autoimmune diseases hair growth pain
brain disorders healing relaxation
cancer therapy side effects heating skin conditions
cellulite hormone production sleep
cognitive function inflammation tissue regeneration
detoxification libido weight loss

The use of red light therapy is especially popular amongst athletes seeking help for joint pain and inflammation, physical performance, and skin health. While many people begin RLT to target one symptom, they often find many other red light therapy benefits that make it worthwhile to add to their regular routine.

CL-WEB - Light Therapy Hero2

Combining the Powers of Red Light and Infrared Therapies

Full spectrum infrared therapy involves using infrared waves to penetrate into the body. These waves promote healthy function of the body’s cells and in turn improve healing, circulation, and detoxification. Infrared heat therapy penetrates nearly 5 centimeters into the skin, making it a perfect therapy to use in conjunction with red light therapy that penetrates 5 millimeters. By combining the therapies, you allow multiple levels of your body to heal and rejuvenate.

Red light therapy and infrared therapy can easily be done together by including a red light device into an infrared sauna session for a comprehensive light therapy treatment. Simply turn on your red light therapy device as you enjoy a 15-20 minute infrared sauna session.

How to Use Red Light Therapy

For cosmetic applications, you can likely find RLT treatments at local gyms, spas, and tanning salons. For more targeted and thorough applications of red light therapy, it is recommended to visit a dermatologist. To treat serious medical conditions such as cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your options.

You can also find FDA-approved devices for red light therapy at home, such as light wands, infrared saunas, masks, light therapy towers, and helmets. When doing red light therapy at home, make sure you follow your devices instructions carefully for optimal results and safe use. Whether you are trying RLT at home or with a professional, expect it to take a few sessions before seeing results.

Using red light therapy can be an incredible benefit in your life, and is an easy way to find relief for many ailments. With virtually no risk and high reward, using the powers of red light therapy and infrared therapy might be the right therapeutic path for you. If you have any concerns or more severe health issues, be sure to consult with your doctor for the right approach and treatment plan.

Sauna History 101: From Finnish to Infrared Saunas

Sauna use goes way back, and they have a strong presence in many cultures. While today’s modern steam and infrared saunas may have chromotherapy, red light therapy, and halotherapy, the original saunas came from humble roots. Read on to learn about the history of saunas and how they have played an integral part in health, wellness, and even social practices throughout history.

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The Beginnings: Types of Saunas & Similar Experiences

As humans developed the ability to make fire at will, the first ‘Saunas’ were built. Fire not only allowed our ancestors to cook their food, but it also brought with it the means to intentionally heat the body. The first Saunas built in Africa were developed to rid the body of infectious disease. While rudimentary in their structures, the methodology was effective.

Far from the upscale saunas found in spas of developed countries today, the design of the first heat therapy developed in East Africa had the same intention. Clearly, human beings have used the specific technology at their disposal to create heat structures with the motivation of inducing profuse sweating, to cure disease, and optimize health.

Finnish Saunas

To explore the history of saunas, a good start is learning about the great Finnish tradition of sauna use thought to date back as far as 7000 BC. For residents of Finland, a sauna is not a luxury, but rather a necessity. There is on average one sauna per household (3 million saunas in Finland serving a population of 5 million), and sauna therapy is the cornerstone of Finnish culture. The country’s reverence for its health benefits, tradition and community support have made it among the world leaders in sauna therapy. Most dry heat saunas found in developed countries today are based on the modern construction of the Finish archetype.

The earliest known sauna structures date back 2000 years and were dug into the earth and lined with stone. The structure of saunas in Finland has evolved substantially over thousands of years. Traditionally, stones are heated up in the fire and water are poured over them to create steam and heat.

Today, saunas are heated with hot stones, wood stoves, hot embers, and electricity. Typically the structures are made of wood, as trees are in great abundance in the Baltic States. The Savusauna, or smoke sauna, takes place inside an unventilated space. A fire is stoked and once the flames burn out, smoke is released from the room and individuals can step inside to enjoy the emanating heat. Finnish sauna connoisseurs consider this version of the sauna to be the most effective.

Roman-Bathhouse-with-Steamy-Pool

Roman and Greek Bathhouses

Roman and Greek Bathhouses paved the way for modern spas today. Heat therapy was integral to these communities in the form of a hot spring bath and steam rooms. The Roman and Greek bathhouse was a cornerstone of society and shaped one of the most powerful civilizations ever known. The investigation sauna history would not be complete without honoring the Roman and Greek tradition.

The bathhouse provided an opportunity to purify the body through intense sweating thus opening up the pores to detoxify the body of pollutants and promoting heightened states of health. Purification of the body was the original intent, but bathhouses evolved into a social meeting place, where political decisions, business deals, and social gatherings occurred.

Sweat Lodges

A sweat lodge is a dark dome made with clay, rocks, and grass that fits 10-15 people. Hot rocks are placed in the center of the dome lodge, then water spilled over the rocks to create steam to heat up the well-insulated unit. The darkness, heat, prayer, and music create an environment to unveil the curtain between the physical and spiritual. The expectation is that through physical purification, profound mystical experience transpires.

The sweat lodge recognizes the inextricable connection between spirit and body, while the heat fosters the health of the body through purification and opens the spirit to communion with the divine. This profoundly ceremonious, spiritual tradition has been steeped in the culture of Native Americans, including South, Central, and North America for thousands of years, along with the Maori of New Zealand and aboriginal people of Australia.

Turkish Hammams

A Turkish Hammam was a bathhouse created inside ornate buildings and became a safe haven for spiritual and social communion. Their popularity grew during the Ottoman Empire to include the entire Islamic world. Participants of the Turkish Hammam began in hot air rooms to initiate deep states of relaxation. The tradition of spiritual and physical purification of the Turkish Hammam spread into Europe and became a staple during the Victorian Era.

Following the hot air room sessions, participants would move into a room of hotter, drier temperatures, and finally, purify the body with cool water. Similar to modern day spas, massage was available as was specified hair removal and other treatments to purify, relax and beautify the body.

Modern-Infrared-Sauna-in-Luxury-Setting

The History of Infrared Saunas

The advent of electricity in the late nineteenth century gave birth to the first infrared sauna. John Harvey Kellogg dedicated his life to holistic healing modalities including a well-balanced diet, colonics, regular exercise, and sauna therapy. Mr. Kellogg recognized the profound healing effects of purification through intense sweating and wanted to improve upon the traditional sauna therapy being used.

He turned to the first electrical light bulb and created his ‘Incandescent Light Baths’. Patients entered cabinet-like structures heated with exposed light bulbs that generated profuse sweating. In addition to the prolific sweating, Kellogg noticed the profound impact of exposure to light. The incandescent light bulbs were found to primarily emit infrared light that penetrated deeply into the skin membrane. This penetrative lighting was so effective in its ability to produce excessive sweating, and therefore detoxification, that it became the forefather of the infrared sauna we know today.

Below is a timeline of infrared sauna history:

  • 1893: Kellogg’s Incandescent Bath Lights are shown at the World’s Fair in Chicago and skyrocket in popularity and across the world.
  • 1960s: NASA takes an interest in the variety of wavelengths created through the infrared. The discovery of the near, mid and far infrared wavelengths catapulted the sauna to its next evolutionary state.
  • 1965: A Japanese doctor received the first patent to create a ceramic infrared sauna using far-infrared wavelengths. Until the late 1970s, Japanese doctors were the only known medical practitioners to use far infrared sauna treatment for their patients.
  • 1979: The first full spectrum infrared saunas became available to the public in the United States. In the last twenty years, heating systems have been honed to create optimal infrared wavelengths that promote comfort, safety, and ultimately profuse perspiration.

Today, infrared sauna use is one of the most effective holistic health practices. Additional features for the modern sauna now include extra health tools such as chromotherapy, halotherapy,  While modern-day saunas offer a luxurious experience and sleek designs, they do not stray too far from the initial design and intent of the original Finnish sauna. Saunas have evolved over the years but have held true to their main goal to create a healthy life both physically and mentally.

SAUNA ETIQUETTE IN THE GYM, SPA & HOME

Sharing a sauna with others, whether with strangers at the gym or with your family at home, means you have to be mindful of the space. We cover all the main etiquette tips to keep you and others comfortable. Tips will include what to wear, how to keep your area clean, and which behaviors to avoid.

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Gym Sauna Etiquette

If you have a sauna at your gym, we hope you are using it! Using a sauna at the gym is a wonderful way to boost your workout and remedy things such as muscle soreness, recovery time, fatigue, and performance. Infrared saunas are the perfect companion for your health journey as they help you sweat, burn calories, and heal. Just be sure you use the sauna after your workout and not before to avoid injury.

Your fellow gym buddies are also soaking in the sauna health benefits, so it’s important to know the proper gym sauna etiquette to make it a pleasant experience for everyone.

Gym Sauna Dos

  1. Shower before entering. Since you will be using the sauna after your workout, you’ll probably be sweaty after the gym. Rinse off any sweat or dirt so you enter the sauna fresh, everyone in there with you will appreciate it.
  2. Stay aware of your space. Public saunas can get crowded, so be courteous and be wary of how much space you’re taking up. If someone new joins the sauna, make room for them so everyone can sit comfortably.
  3. Be quick. We don’t recommend sauna sessions lasting much longer than 20 minutes in general, but make your gym sauna time quick so more people can use it. Don’t forget to be quick with the door too to keep heat in.

Gym Sauna Don’ts

  1. Don’t go in the nude. This is a public space, so please respect your sauna neighbors. Wear a towel or robe to avoid sitting directly on the bench, and definitely don’t wear your dirty gym clothes or shoes.
  2. Don’t bring electronics. You don’t want to potentially damage your phone with the heat, and you also don’t want to annoy other sauna users with the light from your screen or music from your headphones.
  3. Don’t exercise in the sauna. You just finished your workout in the gym, so use this time to relax! Others will be trying to wind down from their workouts, and interrupting their time with an exercise session would be rude.

Learn more about how to use an infrared sauna at the gym here.

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Spa Sauna Etiquette

Because it is a public setting, using a sauna in a spa is a very similar experience to using a gym sauna. One of the biggest differences between a spa and the gym is the clientele. Instead of looking to repair and restore, spa visitors are looking to relax and rejuvenate, so things move at a slower pace. Saunas in spas are offered as a service before, after, or between spa services, so visitors are more likely to take their time to fully unwind.

A more relaxed environment typically means a quieter one, so your spa sauna etiquette should take that into account.

Spa Sauna Dos

  1. Shower before entering. If you’re using the sauna before your appointment, take a shower to rinse off any dirt from before entering the spa. If using after a service, rinse off any oils or lotions that may have been used.
  2. Learn the clothing policies. Some spas require towels or robes while others allow full nudity. Knowing the clothing policies beforehand can save you and other visitors from a surprise or unpleasant experience.
  3. Take your time. Taking your time is more of a sauna etiquette for yourself. Don’t stress and rush yourself through a relaxing sauna session, but instead be aware of your time before heading in and planning accordingly.

Spa Sauna Don’ts

  1. Don’t be loud. A spa is all about being quiet and in the moment, so be wary of the people around you. People are unlikely to want to strike up conversation, and they especially don’t want to listen to your conversations.
  2. Don’t bring electronics. Just like the gym, bringing your electronics in to the sauna is frowned upon. Watching someone send a work email or play a game on their phone can be stressful to onlookers just trying to relax.
  3. Don’t forget about your appointments. Spa saunas are more leisurely, but be aware of your time and your appointments. If using the sauna before or between services, don’t have the spa chasing you down for your spot.
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Home Sauna Etiquette

Just because you’re home doesn’t mean there aren’t any rules. Of course, your own personal sauna will have more relaxed rules than public ones, but home sauna etiquette is aimed toward keeping your household happy and ensuring your sauna functions properly for years to come.

Home Sauna Dos

  1. Shower before entering. See a theme here? Rinsing off before using your sauna is imperative, regardless if you are in public or at home. Without tracking in dirt, your sauna will thank you for keeping it clean and pristine.
  2. Clean up after yourself. Just like showering before your home sauna session, cleaning up after yourself is a key piece of sauna etiquette. Clean your space so the rest of the household can enjoy the sauna once you’re done.
  3. Schedule time. If you live with multiple people, be sure everyone has their fair share of sauna time! If you are practicing something like hot yoga, make sure you have a timer set so you don’t lose track of time.

Home Sauna Don’ts

  1. Don’t stay in too long. This is more of a sauna etiquette for you and your home. Staying in longer than 20 minutes is not recommended for your health, and longer sessions can add up to higher electric bills.
  2. Don’t forget a towel. If you’re at home, you have control over the clothing rules. But even if you decide to go nude, never forget to bring a towel to sit on to avoid staining the bench with sweat or other debris.
  3. Don’t skip regular maintenance. Sauna care is fairly simple, but letting little things build up over time will lead to a shorter sauna life span and a more unpleasant experience for your household. It just takes a few minutes!

Read more about sauna care tips here.

Regardless of where you are using a sauna and who you are using it with, being sure to keep the area clean and comfortable is key. Knowing what to wear in a sauna, how much time to spend, and what you can do to be mindful of other people’s experiences are all necessary for sauna etiquette. By practicing proper sauna etiquette, you ensure an enjoyable sauna experience for everyone!

How to Build a Sauna: DIY Infrared Sauna Tips

From commercial use to home saunas, Clearlight offers all the components you need to build your own custom sauna for to fit your needs. This blog will cover tips to make the building process as easy as possible, along with things to consider prior to building your own from an infrared sauna kit.

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Is a Business or Home Sauna DIY Right for Me?

Before starting your DIY journey, it is important to be realistic with yourself first. Adding an infrared sauna to your home or business is an exciting decision, but make sure the installation process isn’t biting off more than you can chew with a new project. Installing an infrared sauna is typically done in one of three ways:

  1. Ground-Up: User builds a new infrared sauna out of lumber and tools by following blueprints or creating a new DIY sauna plan from scratch. This method can be extremely time-consuming and requires meticulous attention to detail. While it is the most hands-on method, it does allow for high levels of customization and a sense of pride in the end.
  2. Custom Infrared Sauna Kits: Designing your own sauna with custom infrared sauna kits is the happy medium between the ground-up and base model options. These kits can be modeled to fit your space perfectly and are easily installed. By using DIY infrared sauna kits like these, you get to design many aspects and still put your building skills to work, but with less pressure.
  3. Base Model: User purchases a base model sauna that is easy to install, but with lower customization opportunities. For those wanting a more hands-off approach to adding a sauna to their home or business, this route is ideal for high-quality results with less effort.

Sauna DIY Kit Considerations

If you’ve read the above and have decided that a DIY infrared sauna is right for you, great! After the first step of deciding which sauna installation is right for you, there are a few more steps in building the sauna of your dreams. When building your own sauna, you must consider these four components: type of sauna, size, wood type, and accessories.

Type of Sauna

There are two main types of sauna, traditional and infrared. Traditional saunas use high heat and steam to create the hot environment. Using this system requires more maintenance in the long run, as the wet-dry system has more opportunity for wear and bacteria collection if not cleaned properly.

Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use radiant heaters to warm the interior. These infrared systems require less energy to heat and penetrate the body, which makes the experience more comfortable and lowers your electric bill. There are plenty of infrared sauna benefits that are more pronounced than when using a traditional sauna.

People pursuing healthy lifestyles relaxing in sauna

Sauna Size

Once you’ve decided on which type of sauna to build, it’s time to decide which size is best for your needs. Consider the number of people who will be using the sauna at a time, how big of an area your space allows, and if the sauna will be used for any activities such as hot yoga.

For personal use, 1-2 person saunas may be ideal to save space and energy. Larger families and businesses will benefit from the space of a 4-5 person sauna models. Custom saunas typically range between 25 and 80 square feet, but can be designed to fit a much larger capacity. We recommend a sauna ceiling no higher than 7 feet to keep heat close to the occupants.

Wood Type

Now that you’ve decided how big to build your sauna, the next necessary step is choosing the type of wood to use in construction. The type of wood you choose makes a considerable impact on the construction of your custom sauna. Avoid woods that get too hot to the touch, contain high levels of sap, and are easily damaged by heat or water.

Instead, choose woods that are soft, resilient, and are visually appealing. Basswood, birch, and spruce are the three most popular woods for building a DIY infrared sauna for your home or business.

Accessories & Amenities

Finally, the last decision to make when building a custom sauna is the fun part: choosing your accessories and amenities! While this step doesn’t require building, it is an exciting part of customization. The sauna health benefits in its base form are wonderful, but why not kick it up a notch with some upgrades for the ultimate personal sanctuary?

Building a sauna from scratch may make it more difficult to add in extra amenities. However, DIY infrared sauna kits allow you to include a range of accessories already built in. Some of these upgrades include halotherapy generatorschromotherapy lights, digital keypads with smartphone control, and audio sound systems.

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How to Build a Sauna

You’ve made all your decisions for your perfect custom sauna, and now it’s time to build it! Depending on if you decide to build from scratch or build from a DIY infrared sauna kit, your process will be slightly different.

Building from Scratch

When building from scratch, your building process will start with collecting the measurements of your space and gathering materials such as lumber, tools, and hardware. Cutting your lumber to the precise measurements of your space is imperative, as an improper fit will result in a poorly-functioning sauna that may not retain heat.

There are plenty of online tutorials and blueprints to help you plan the design and construction process. If you are feeling unsure, cross referencing a few plans can give you more clarity on which techniques work best.

Building from Infrared Sauna Kits

Using an infrared sauna DIY kit, the building process is much easier. The initial steps include simply filling out a form with your specifications and ordering a kit. The prefabricated kits come with all the materials necessary to assemble your sauna, and simply mount to the wall and most plug in to a standard 110V/220V outlet.

No matter how you decide to add an infrared sauna to your home or business, it is a wise decision to make! Building from scratch, building from a kit, or ordering a base model will all give you a product that is sure to create a sanctuary that will keep you happy and healthy for years to come.

INFRARED SAUNA CLEANING 101: SAUNA MAINTENANCE & CARE TIPS

Investing in an infrared sauna is the ultimate step toward investing in your health. Just like you need to take care of your body to keep it running smoothly, you need to take care of your infrared sauna. Making sure you take proper care of your infrared sauna ensures you’ll be able to enjoy its benefits for years to come. Read below to find tips that cover maintenance, cleaning, and care tips to keep your infrared sauna performing optimally!

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Infrared Sauna Cleaning Tips

Because Clearlight® infrared saunas provide dry heat, they require very little cleaning. The interior can typically be cleaned with a simple wipe down with a damp cloth. Do a light cleaning after every use, and aim to do a slightly more thorough cleaning every two weeks or so to maintain optimal cleanliness.

When more than water is needed for a more thorough cleaning, you may use a sauna cleaning solution or make your own. To make your own sauna cleaner, diffuse a few drops of high-quality essential oil in water and lightly wipe down the interior of your infrared sauna for a mild clean and refresh. You can also make a solution of 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a gallon of water to lightly scrub the wood and rinse for a deeper clean.

Using pure water will help reduce future maintenance as it avoids any minerals that may cause buildup in your infrared sauna. While unfiltered water is fine for cleaning, you can save yourself some additional work down the road by using filtered or distilled water.

How to Clean a Sauna Bench

Your sauna bench is the area that gets the most use during your sauna sessions. Because of this, you will need to take extra care to keep them clean. After each use, wipe the area down with a damp cloth. Perspiration stains are common to form from your body, and are nothing to worry about. If stains appear, remove them easily removed by lightly sanding the area.

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How to Clean a Sauna Floor

Aside from the bench, the sauna floor is the most trafficked area of your sauna and can easily trap debris and bacteria. Use a vacuum hand attachment once per month to clean dust or dirt from your sauna that may have collected over the course of use. It is beneficial to mop your sauna floor from time to time with a sauna cleaning solution for a more thorough cleaning.

How to Clean Sauna Walls

The interior walls of your infrared sauna can be cleaned with the sauna cleaners mentioned above. For exterior walls, treat the wood like you would any piece of fine furniture. If using a polish (NOT paint or varnish) on the exterior wood, reapply when needed to maintain shine. Outdoor infrared saunas will require more exterior maintenance, and a periodic pressure washing will help keep the outside looking pristine.

How to Clean a Sauna Heater

Our Clearlight® infrared saunas naturally produce negative ions that help purify the air through the ceramic compound in True Wave heaters. Even so, your sauna heater may need an occasional wipe down. Simply use a damp sponge to wipe off any debris, fingerprints, or other buildup that may have collected over time. Just be sure the heater has cooled down prior to cleaning to prevent burns.

Infrared Sauna Maintenance Tips

Clean Yourself

Your body is the only way moisture, dirt, and dust can enter your infrared sauna. Because of this, you can minimize the chances of dirtying up your sauna by taking a quick rinse and dry before heading into your sauna session. If you cannot rinse off before entering, take extra care to clean away any debris you may have tracked in.

Use a Towel

When using your infrared sauna, use a towel on the bench and under your feet. On top of it adding another layer of comfort, this prevents stains forming in the wood from sweat, body oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. While the stains don’t affect performance, they can affect appearance.

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Go All-Natural

Never varnish or paint your sauna. While you may want to match the wood to your decor, paints and stains prevent the natural wood from breathing. Breathing allows the wood to stay clean and feel “soft” with the heat.  You may, however, use furniture polish on the exterior.

Stay Dry

If you notice excess moisture after a session, wipe off any excess perspiration with a hand towel. You can also crack the door or roof vent and keep the sauna running for a few minutes once your session is over to evaporate any remaining moisture. This helps air out the sauna to keep it fresh.

Don’t Overdo It

Infrared sauna maintenance is quick and easy, so don’t worry about spending large amounts of time to clean. Taking the little steps after each use will minimize your work even more, so make the above sauna cleaning tips a habit.

With the proper care and attention, your Clearlight® infrared sauna will give you stellar performance for years to come. Make your sauna cleaning easier by taking the small steps along the way to prevent any issues from forming. Learning how to clean a sauna takes no time at all, and has long-lasting results.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BUYING AN INFRARED SAUNA

If you’re in the market for an infrared sauna, there are several key considerations to make to ensure you select the perfect sauna for your home

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Numerous health gurus, fitness experts and medical doctors all agree – saunas, specifically infrared saunas, can deliver a whole host of important health and wellness benefits for people of all ages. From chronic illness to minimizing stress, improving the effectiveness of a workout to cleansing and purifying the skin, modern saunas combine today’s leading technological innovations with centuries-old wellness principles to deliver real, tangible health benefits for the sauna enthusiast. If you’re considering buying an infrared sauna for your home, make sure you ask the following questions:

  • What type of heating system is best?
    Traditionalists will always seek a way to tout the benefits of a “hot-rock-and-steam” sauna, but the majority of new saunas produced today are outfitted with infrared heating elements – not the old-school heaters that create extraordinary amounts of steam within the sauna. Near-infrared and far-infrared only heating elements are available, but saunas that use Full Spectrum Infrared (near, mid and far infrared) are generally considered the best. This heating system promotes sweat and deep-body infrared wave penetration to eliminate toxins as efficiently as possible. One of the biggest benefits of an infrared sauna versus the traditional sauna is the lower operating temperatures afforded by the infrared heating element.
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  • What size sauna should I be looking for?
    This obviously depends on your intended use.  If you will mostly be using the sauna by yourself, a compact sauna model might seem like the logical choice.  Many health-minded individuals use their sauna as a contained exercise room. You can add a different dimension to your yoga routine by doing it in a sauna, or add a twist to other exercises in your repertoire. Bottom line? Select a sauna that fits your home and your lifestyle, but make sure to account for future needs when narrowing down the overall dimensions.
  • What are the real-world health benefits of an IR sauna?
    Your new infrared sauna will provide a host of tangible health and wellness benefits, with the eight most important sauna health benefits being:
  • Muscle pain relief
  • Immune system boost
  • Weight loss and increased metabolism
  • Detoxification
  • Joint pain and stiffness relief
  • Improved appearance of cellulite
  • Reduction in fatigue and stress
  • Improved skin tone and clarity
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  • What kind of warranty does my sauna include?
    Though a warranty is only one part of the equation, you’ll want to investigate the company and the warranty offered with each sauna. The warranty should cover the heater, electrical system, controls and other peripherals. Better companies will even cover accessories like audio and chromotherapy systems.Also, determine if the warranty will cover the sauna if the unit is used in a commercial location. If you’re looking for a new sauna for your office or commercial building, this is an important consideration. Most warranties are designed for home use and provide coverage in normal operating modes. Spend some time online, and research any consumer’s feedback of the company, including warranty-related issues.

When researching buying an infrared sauna for your home or office, there are various models available for your consideration that will perform admirably and last for years to come. Clearlight Infrared Saunas are wildly popular today and combine several unique benefits for the discerning shopper. Clearlight Saunas combine Full Spectrum Infrared heaters with kiln and air-dried wood structures for superior durability and performance. Clearlight Saunas can also be enhanced with a number of options, such as chromotherapy lights, custom interiors, sophisticated electronics packages, and more. And it’s all covered by the Clearlight incomparable Limited Lifetime Warranty for residential use. Even commercial-level users enjoy a robust 5-year warranty.

For more information on Clearlight Saunas full line of infrared saunas, contact us today to see why no one builds saunas like Clearlight Infrared.

WHY QUALITY CONSTRUCTION MATTERS FOR YOUR SAUNA

An infrared sauna can provide you with a transformational experience that can become an integral part of your wellness routine. As awareness of the numerous physical and psychological benefits of sauna use grows, so does the popularity of investing in a sauna. When shopping for the best sauna, make sure to research the sauna materials and its structural qualities to ensure your investment is safe and long-lasting.

While some sauna construction is completed using cheap materials in order to keep production costs down, the benefits of sauna use may be offset by other health issues that stem from those unsafe materials. Look for saunas crafted with toxin-free, sustainably sourced materials. The following are factors you should take into consideration when browsing the sauna market.

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Wood Quality

Infrared saunas are typically constructed with spruce, redwood, hemlock, poplar, basswood or cedar. The most quality, benefit-rich types of wood are North American Basswood and Western Red Canadian Cedar (WRCC). Both of these woods have distinctive features that result in varying styles and benefits.

Basswood is a white wood and features a fine, even texture. It is hypoallergenic, making it the best option for those with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS). With its rich, warm tones and tight, straight grain, Western Red Canadian Cedar (WRCC)  is also a great option for use in a sauna. WRCC runs from a lighter honey color to a richer red color and is also naturally anti-bacterial and anti-fungal.  The oils in the cedar wood will help keep your sauna clean for many years.  WRCC is considered non-aromatic cedar and this mild cedar aroma will enhance sauna experience. Both types of wood are resistant to splitting and will provide you with a long-lasting investment piece for your home.

Low Electromagnetic Fields

The average person is exposed to small amounts of EMF every day, which is not considered to be a health risk. However, once these levels reach a certain range, they are considered dangerous and can cause health issues. When perusing the market, take this into consideration and look for a low EMF https://infraredsauna.com/true-wave-low-emf infrared sauna. Clearlight Infrared Saunas use True Wave™ infrared heaters which have eliminated this concern by developing patented technologies that cancel out EMF and reduces the Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) to safe levels.  In addition, these saunas are constructed with electrical wiring shielded in grounded metal conduit to eliminate any residual harmful wavelengths. This allows you to confidently enjoy your sauna, knowing it is completely safe.

Sauna-Features

Infrared Heaters

The infrared heaters in your saunas are the most critical aspects when making your sauna purchase choice. Typically, sauna heaters belong to one of two categories: ceramic and carbon. Both types of heaters have their strengths and weaknesses.

Ceramic heaters are better at producing larger amounts of heat, but they produce a shorter, less beneficial wavelength.  They also tend to distribute the heat unevenly. On the other hand, carbon heaters tend to produce less infrared heat but produce a longer infrared wavelength for more benefit.  The heat is also distributed more evenly. Look for a sauna that utilizes a combination of both types of heaters to take advantage of both strengths. A state-of-the-art TrueWave™ infrared heater is comprised of micro-thin carbon fibers combined with a patented ceramic compound. The result is an increase in the emissivity of the infrared wavelength, meaning your body is heated evenly throughout. A TrueWave™ infrared heater will provide you with the most effective heat therapy benefits.

Combining both of these technologies into one heater gives you the best of both worlds. Our Clearlight True Wave infrared heaters are the only combination carbon/ceramic infrared heat and are comprised of micro-thin carbon fibers combined with a patented ceramic compound. The result is you will receive the long wave of a carbon heater with the high output of a ceramic heater combined into one heater.  You will receive more benefit faster.

Structural Design

The first step in finding a quality sauna to invest in is to research the sauna materials used. Once you confirm quality materials, the next factor to consider is how those materials are crafted to create the sauna.  Clearlight® Saunas set an example of refined craftsmanship. Furniture quality construction, smart modern construction techniques, and rigorous sauna safety testing are some of the factors that characterize a sauna that is built to last.

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Choosing a Quality Sauna

An investment in an infrared sauna is an investment in your health and well-being. When searching for the right sauna for your home, make sure to take into consideration the quality of the materials and level of craftsmanship used to construct it. Longevity, safety, and sauna experience are all dependent upon what the sauna is made of and how it is built. Take advantage of the relaxing, therapeutic benefits of an infrared sauna by investing in one that is created with your well-being in mind.

CLEARLIGHT INFRARED AND JACUZZI INC. FORM A LICENSING PARTNERSHIP FOR JACUZZI® INFRARED SAUNAS

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Clearlight Infrared and Jacuzzi Inc. today announced an exclusive licensing partnership for infrared saunas. Clearlight Infrared will manufacture and market a premium line of infrared saunas under the Jacuzzi ® brand. This will include the Clearlight Sanctuary™ Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna models and the Clearlight Premier™ Far Infrared Sauna models.

“We are pleased to be working with such a great company,” said Dr. Raleigh Duncan, founder of Clearlight Infrared. “Infrared therapy is a natural fit to help people live more vibrant, productive and balanced lives.”

“The partnership fits well with our company’s focus on well-being, and commitment to improving the lives of our customers,” states Jacuzzi Group Worldwide CEO Bob Rowan.

Throughout its 60 year history, the Jacuzzi® brand has maintained its status as an icon and innovator. The Jacuzzi® brand products are legendary for performance, reliability, and ease of use. Jacuzzi® infrared saunas are exceptionally engineered with the best materials to ensure a superior product. With continuous quality checks and outstanding inspection standards, Jacuzzi® infrared saunas continue this reputation for dependability and effectiveness.

The Importance of Greater Health and Wellness

Infrared saunas are effective at improving one’s overall health and wellness by helping to boost the immune system, aiding with detoxification, improving sleep, reducing stress, increasing metabolism, and improving heart health among other health and wellness benefits.

Design, Quality, and Effectiveness. From trend-setting design, exceptional furniture grade sauna cabins and state-of-the-art infrared heater technology, Jacuzzi® saunas deliver the ultimate infrared therapy experience.