Sauna use and far infrared heat can temporarily boost heart rate and local circulation, helping counter slowed metabolism and toxin buildup in fat cells to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Choosing an infrared sauna doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’ll help you understand what matters: technology differences, sizing for your space, and features that make a difference.
Traditional saunas operate at extreme temperatures (170-200°F) using heated rocks and steam to create an intense environment. Infrared saunas use advanced technology to warm your body directly with infrared wavelengths at comfortable temperatures (115-130°F). The result is deeper heat penetration, longer sessions, faster heat-up times, and lower operating costs.
When it comes to buying a sauna, there are two main choices: traditional saunas (also known as Finnish saunas) and infrared saunas. While both offer great health benefits, there are some key differences to consider:
Full spectrum infrared saunas combine near, mid, and far infrared wavelengths in a single system, delivering all three therapeutic heat ranges simultaneously. This provides comprehensive benefits: near infrared penetrates the skin to support cellular repair and skin health, mid infrared promotes circulation and relieves pain, and far infrared reaches deep into tissues to support detoxification, relaxation, and overall wellness.
Full-spectrum saunas achieve these benefits through heaters that emit all three infrared wavelengths: near (IR-A), mid (IR-B), and far (IR-C). Some saunas use separate heaters for each wavelength, while others combine them into a single panel.
It’s important to note that some saunas use low-wattage LEDs (10–40 watts) for near-infrared. While effective for targeted, topical treatments, LEDs are not ideal for full sauna sessions because near-infrared therapy works best when the light is placed directly on the skin. Sauna-mounted LEDs may not provide sufficient intensity unless you position yourself very close, which can be impractical. For true near-infrared therapy, devices like FDA-approved handheld systems (e.g., DPL Nuve) are more effective.
By delivering all three wavelengths, full-spectrum infrared heat penetrates past the epidermis and dermis into the subcutaneous layer, offering deeper and more complete therapeutic effects than single-wavelength saunas.
Far infrared saunas use longer wavelength infrared heat that penetrates deep into your body tissues, warming you from the inside out at lower temperatures (typically 120–140°F) than traditional saunas. This gentle, energy-efficient heat promotes detoxification through sweating, muscle relaxation, improved circulation, and stress relief, making sessions more comfortable while delivering maximum wellness benefits.
Not all far infrared heaters are created equal—when comparing saunas, consider the heater size, material, surface temperature, and the quality of infrared heat produced.
The two most common materials are ceramic and carbon:
Some manufacturers compensate for lower output by placing carbon heaters high in the sauna near the head. This approach is less effective, as infrared therapy works best when the heat is directed toward the body, not just the air above your head. Properly positioned heaters maximize absorption and deliver the full wellness benefits of far infrared therapy.
See the far infrared heater comparison →
Infrared saunas provide powerful health benefits, from detoxification and relaxation to improved circulation and muscle recovery. But the quality of the heat and the safety of the electrical environment are just as important. EMF (Electromagnetic Fields) and ELF (Extremely Low Frequency electric fields, also called “dirty electricity”) are naturally produced by electrical devices. Research has linked high exposure to EMF and ELF with potential health effects including memory loss, depression, fatigue, irritability, headaches, sleep disruption, weakened immune system, and even possible links to cancer.
Our True Wave™ far infrared heaters are the original carbon/ceramic based infrared heaters with virtually no EMF (Electromagnetic Fields). We pioneered this technology for use in infrared saunas. More and more research is being conducted into the harmful effects of EMF. That is why our R&D department spent over two years developing both patented and patent-pending methods to eliminate virtually all of the EMF from our heaters. Many of our competitors still have EMF levels 20 to 50 times higher than our True Wave™ infrared heaters. With an average EMF level of less than 1milligauss (mg), when tested directly on the heater, it is well below the CDC’s recommendation of a maximum of 3mg.
Dr. Duncan, the founder, and designer of Clearlight Infrared Sauna® models, has always ensured that the therapeutic results of your sauna are our number one priority. Seeing the research and information available on the harmful effects of EMF, we felt that if there was a chance that high levels of EMF can cause health issues, we needed to find a way to bring the levels down as low as possible. We were the first company to accomplish this with our True Wave II, far infrared heaters, and True Spectrum, full-spectrum heaters.
ELF (extremely low frequency) is also referred to as the electric fields or dirty electricity. There are some people that are very sensitive to ELF and have various reactions including sleep disruption and agitation and there is some link to cancer as discussed in this Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Bulletin.
All Clearlight® infrared saunas include our ELF-canceling technology. While EMF is canceled in the heater itself, we have to go to great lengths to cancel the ELF from our saunas.
Choosing the right wood for your sauna significantly impacts its durability, safety, and user experience, with North American basswood and mahogany being the top choices due to their hypoallergenic properties, resistance to warping, and lack of off-gassing at high temperatures – while woods like pine, plywood, and resinous species should be avoided as they can emit toxins, splinter, or release unpleasant odors when heated.
Mahogany is considered by many to be among the best wood to use for saunas. Other woods commonly used are spruce, basswood, cedar and redwood.
Mahogany wood is often used for the following reasons:
Not all saunas are created equal. High-quality craftsmanship ensures safe, durable construction with premium materials, while proper heater placement surrounds your body with infrared energy for maximum therapeutic benefit. Every detail matters in delivering a sauna experience that’s effective, safe, and long-lasting.
Infrared saunas are available in a variety of sizes and styles to fit nearly any home or business. Choose from one- to six-person models depending on your space and usage needs. Decide between indoor or outdoor placement based on your property, lifestyle, and privacy preferences. And pick the installation style that works best for you—pre-built saunas for a hassle-free setup, or DIY kits for customizable, hands-on projects. The right sauna ensures comfort, convenience, and maximum enjoyment for years to come.
Infrared saunas made for home or commercial uses can be built to accommodate between 1-6 people depending on your intended usage, making them ideal for almost any situation or environment. Depending on your needs, choose the size that best fits your intended use:
See all Clearlight® Infrared Sauna sizes →
Because infrared saunas come in a variety of sizes, they can fit almost anywhere inside (or outside) your property. Depending on your space, you may have the choice between an indoor sauna and an outdoor sauna, and both have great benefits:
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.
Outdoor saunas 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.
Learn more about infrared sauna placement →
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:
A base model infrared sauna 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.
Building an infrared sauna from the ground up requires lumber, tools, and blueprints or creating a new DIY sauna plan from scratch. DIY infrared sauna kits can be modeled to fit your space perfectly and are easily installed. While it is the most hands-on method, it does allow for high levels of customization and a sense of pride in the end.
Learn more about DIY sauna kits →
Infrared heat can be a benefit to almost every lifestyle, whether you are looking to relax, recover, or help find relief. The radiant heat of infrared technology helps increase the thermal energy in joints, muscles, and tissues to temporarily stimulate the cardiovascular, immune, and lymphatic systems. Regular use of an infrared sauna can help promote health benefits such as:
Because infrared saunas provide dry heat, they require very little cleaning. The interior – including the sauna bench, floor, walls, and heater – can typically be cleaned with a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth. A light cleaning after every use can help prolong the life of your infrared sauna. Aim to do a slightly more thorough cleaning with a sauna cleaning solution every two weeks or so to maintain optimal cleanliness.
Learn more about infrared sauna care →
For larger maintenance concerns outside of normal wear and tear, additional infrared sauna service and support may be available.
Quality of design and construction coupled with superior and innovative heating technology. We start with the highest quality woods. All saunas are built by hand to our strict 48 point Quality Control. No sauna leaves the factory without being fully tested and approved by two levels of quality control.
With the ETL and CE certification, we are bound to provide a high-quality product. We use non-toxic glues. Our saunas are hand-sanded, the handles and trim are handcrafted, the tongue and groove wood is color-matched to look beautiful and all Clearlight® Infrared Sauna models are designed to give you a lifetime of wellness and relaxation benefits
Almost every other infrared sauna company uses industrial heaters that have been adapted to be used in an infrared sauna. Not willing to settle with industrial infrared heaters, we manufacture our own patented-pending infrared sauna heaters in our factory. We manufacture our True Wave combination Carbon/Ceramic far infrared heaters and full spectrum (near, mid, far) infrared heaters.
Being innovators in the infrared sauna industry, we have always set the trends that have guided the industry:
Our years of manufacturing infrared saunas go into every Clearlight Sauna® model While our sauna cabins are of exceptional quality, with hand-sanded panels, high-quality close grain wood, and attention to detail, the therapeutic benefits are our main focus. Our R&D department is always researching and testing new components for your sauna so when you buy a Clearlight® Infrared Sauna, you are buying the highest quality, most therapeutic infrared sauna available.
Daily wellness should never come with concerns. That's why we have the lowest EMF levels, patented True Wave® technology that works deeper, and the confidence of a lifetime warranty.
Founded by Dr. Raleigh Duncan, Clearlight builds every sauna with deep medical understanding. That's why healthcare professionals nationwide recommend us.
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With over 25 years of experience, every patent, every breakthrough, and every innovation has been driven by our commitment to increase your healthspan and longevity.
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From UCSF depression studies to cardiovascular research, our saunas deliver measurable benefits backed by real science.
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Our patented heaters combine ceramic and carbon, something no one else does. The result is deeper penetration at the exact 9.4-micron wavelength your body absorbs best.
Learn MoreFrom how infrared therapy works to what sets Clearlight apart, here are the answers people ask most before they buy.
True full spectrum infrared heaters emit all three wavelengths simultaneously: near-infrared (IR-A), mid-infrared (IR-B), and far-infrared (IR-C). This comprehensive approach allows heat to penetrate through the epidermis and dermis layers deep into subcutaneous tissue for maximum therapeutic benefit.
Some saunas claim "full spectrum" by combining separate heaters—one for near, one for mid, one for far—but this doesn't deliver true simultaneous full spectrum therapy. Others use low-wattage LEDs (10-40 watts) for near-infrared, which can be effective for topical treatments when placed directly on skin but aren't suitable for the sauna environment. LED near-infrared therapy works best with handheld devices like the FDA-approved DPL Nuve by LED Technologies, where LEDs contact the treatment area directly.
Clearlight's True Wave® full spectrum heaters deliver more near, mid, and far infrared simultaneously than any other sauna on the market, ensuring you receive comprehensive therapeutic benefits throughout every session.
Infrared heat can be a benefit to almost every lifestyle, whether you are looking to relax, recover, or help find relief. The radiant heat of infrared technology helps increase the thermal energy in joints, muscles, and tissues to temporarily stimulate the cardiovascular, immune, and lymphatic systems. Regular use of an infrared sauna can help promote health benefits such as:
Clearlight's Limited Lifetime Warranty for residential use covers the entire sauna for as long as you own it, including:
Coverage Details:
The sauna is warranted to be free from manufacturer defects, meaning if anything goes wrong due to how we built it, we'll make it right. This comprehensive coverage reflects our confidence in our 48-point quality control process and premium materials.
For commercial installations, saunas are covered by our complete 5-year warranty.
Most competitors offer only 7-year warranties or less. After year 8, they're not obligated to provide parts. Our lifetime commitment means you're protected for decades, not just a few years.
When shopping for an infrared sauna, watch for these red flags that indicate poor construction and potentially unsafe materials:
Smell Test:
Touch Test:
Material Quality:
Safety Standards:
As overseas manufacturing expanded, many upstart companies began selling "wooden boxes with heaters"—saunas with little understanding of therapeutic infrared benefits. These manufacturers cut corners on materials, construction, and safety. Always inspect the sauna carefully, ask about certifications, and choose brands with decades of experience and medical expertise backing their designs.
Many companies using carbon-only heaters extend them high above your head—sometimes nearly to the ceiling—to compensate for carbon's inherently low infrared output. While carbon produces quality long-wave heat, it's weak in terms of emissivity. Rather than solving this fundamental problem, these manufacturers simply add more heater surface area, including in areas that waste energy.
This approach has two major problems: First, it heats the air above your head instead of your body, wasting infrared energy where you receive no therapeutic benefit. Second, we believe heating the head directly is not recommended in infrared therapy—you want heat targeted at your torso, legs, back, and sides where it can penetrate muscle and tissue.
Clearlight's True Wave® heaters solve this by combining ceramic's high output with carbon's long wavelengths, eliminating the need for ceiling-mounted heaters. Our heaters stay positioned low and surround your body at the optimal height for maximum therapeutic benefit with zero wasted energy.
Assembly typically takes 1-3 hours with two people and requires only a screwdriver for the door handle—no special tools needed. Our customers consistently report that assembly is surprisingly simple thanks to our ingenious design. As one customer from Oregon shared: "The sauna was an absolute dream to put together. It took us longer to unpack all the pieces and carry them around the house than it did to assemble." The precision engineering means panels fit together seamlessly, and our detailed instructions guide you through every step. Professional installation service is also available in some areas if you prefer a hands-off approach.
While most infrared sauna companies use adapted industrial heaters in wooden cabins, Clearlight manufactures proprietary heater technology specifically engineered for the human body:
Innovative Heating Technology:
Premium Construction:
Industry Leadership:
With Clearlight, you're not just buying a sauna—you're investing in three decades of innovation, clinical research, and manufacturing excellence.
Every Clearlight sauna undergoes our rigorous 48-point Quality Control inspection before leaving the factory. This comprehensive process ensures:
This attention to detail is why we're confident offering a Limited Lifetime Warranty—something few competitors can match.
Because infrared saunas provide dry heat, maintenance is remarkably simple. You will have what you need at home, but Clearlight sauna cleaning and care products are also available.
After Every Use:
Every Two Weeks:
As Needed:
This minimal maintenance routine will help prolong your sauna's life and maintain its beautiful appearance. For larger concerns beyond normal wear and tear, additional infrared sauna service and support may be available through our customer care team.
ELF, also called electric fields or "dirty electricity," can affect sensitive individuals, causing sleep disruption, agitation, and according to OSHA research, potential links to more serious health concerns.
While EMF is canceled within the heater itself, eliminating ELF requires comprehensive electrical engineering throughout the entire sauna. All Clearlight Premier™ and Sanctuary™ models include our proprietary ELF-canceling technology:
This multi-layered approach makes Clearlight the only infrared sauna manufacturer offering comprehensive low EMF and low ELF protection.
While research into electromagnetic fields (EMF) continues, some health effects have been linked to prolonged EMF exposure, including:
The CDC recommends maximum EMF exposure of 3 milligauss (mg). Given these potential concerns, Dr. Raleigh Duncan, Clearlight's founder, pioneered EMF-canceling technology to ensure your sauna sessions promote wellness without compromise. Our True Wave® heaters measure less than 1mg when tested directly on the heater—well below safety thresholds and 20-50 times lower than many competitors.
Yes, all Clearlight Infrared Sauna™ models can be used outside with our optional water-proof cover. Because we use high-pressure bindings and precision hand craftsmanship, our sauna cabinetry can endure outdoor humidity and dryness as long as you protect it with our water-proof cover.
Infrared saunas are designed to heat the human body, not the air. Only about 20% of the heat from our heaters goes to heat the air. Because of this, if you live in a place where the temperature gets below 40° F, we don’t recommend putting the sauna outside. It will take much longer for the cabin to warm up and it will not get as hot. Please consult one of our infrared sauna specialists for more information about putting your sauna outside.
Infrared heaters use two primary materials—ceramic and carbon—each with distinct advantages. Ceramic heaters have a high emissivity rating, meaning they produce abundant infrared heat efficiently. However, they tend to generate shorter infrared wavelengths that aren't as readily absorbed by the human body, limiting their therapeutic effectiveness.
Carbon heaters produce longer infrared wavelengths that penetrate deeper and are more easily absorbed by your body, delivering superior wellness results. The trade-off is that carbon heaters have lower emissivity—they produce high-quality heat but less of it overall.
Many companies compensate for carbon's lower output by extending heaters high above your head, nearly to the ceiling. This wastes infrared energy heating empty air instead of your body. At Clearlight, our patented True Wave® heaters solve this by combining ceramic's high output with carbon's long wavelengths, delivering both power and therapeutic quality while keeping heaters positioned low to target your body directly.
Infrared saunas are actually more affordable than traditional saunas despite their advanced technology:
Infrared Saunas: $5,000 - $9,000 Traditional Saunas: $6,000 - $11,000
The final cost depends on several factors:
Operating Costs: Infrared saunas are remarkably economical to run—approximately 20-25 cents per session. The lower operating temperature (115-130°F vs. 170-200°F for traditional) and faster heat-up time (10-15 minutes vs. 30-45 minutes) make them significantly more energy-efficient.
When you factor in the Limited Lifetime Warranty, lower operating costs, and superior therapeutic benefits, Clearlight saunas represent exceptional long-term value for your wellness investment.
Yes, preheat your Clearlight sauna for 10-15 minutes before getting in. This allows the True Wave heaters to reach their optimal operating temperature.
Once you enter, turn the thermostat up to the maximum temperature to keep the heaters running continuously throughout your session. While you may set it to 150°F, the cabin will typically reach 115-125°F—this is by design, as infrared saunas heat your body directly rather than the air.
Every Clearlight sauna comes equipped with essential features:
Standard Features:
Optional Add-ons Available:
Electrical requirements vary by model size. Smaller Clearlight saunas plug into standard household outlets, while larger models need upgraded circuits.
View Electrical Requirements for each sauna here.
With Add-ons: If you add optional upgrades like the Full Spectrum door heater or Red Light Therapy tower, your electrical requirements may increase (typically from 15-amp to 20-amp or 20-amp to 30-amp).
Important Notes:
Clearlight saunas are compact and designed to fit in most homes. Space requirements vary by model size:
1-Person Saunas:
2-Person Saunas:
3-Person Saunas:
Clearance Requirements:
Installation Notes:
The compact design makes them ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, basements, garages, or dedicated wellness rooms.
Yes, infrared saunas can help with pain and inflammation. The infrared heat penetrates deep into your muscles and joints, increasing blood circulation and delivering oxygen-rich blood to problem areas. This helps reduce muscle tension, ease joint stiffness, and decrease inflammation. Many people find relief from conditions like arthritis, sore muscles, and general aches and pains. The heat also promotes faster recovery after workouts by helping your body flush out metabolic waste. For pain management, most users find that regular sessions of 20-30 minutes, a few times per week, provide the best results. As always, consult your doctor before using sauna therapy if you have chronic pain conditions or other health concerns.
The recommended session time is 20-45 minutes, depending on your personal preference and comfort level. If you're new to infrared saunas, start with shorter sessions of 15-20 minutes and gradually increase the time as your body adapts. Some people prefer longer sessions while others find 20-30 minutes is perfect for them. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly, as there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after your session. Most regular users find that 3-5 sessions per week provides optimal health benefits.
Yes, our Clearlight saunas are safe for daily use for most people. Our infrared saunas operate at comfortable temperatures of 115-125°F, which is much lower than traditional saunas, making them gentle enough for frequent sessions. We've designed our saunas with industry-leading ultra-low EMF/ELF shielding that's independently tested and certified, ensuring safe exposure levels. We also use only non-toxic, eco-certified materials in construction. However, it's important to stay properly hydrated before and after each session. If you're new to sauna use, we recommend starting with a few sessions per week and gradually increasing frequency. Always consult with your doctor before beginning daily sauna use, especially if you're pregnant, have heart conditions, or other medical concerns.
Infrared therapy uses invisible light waves to heat your body directly rather than heating the air around you. When you sit in our Clearlight sauna, the infrared heat penetrates 1.5-2 inches deep into your skin, muscles, and tissues, raising your core body temperature from the inside out. This deep penetrating heat stimulates your cells' mitochondria, increasing energy production and triggering your body's natural healing responses. As your core temperature rises, your heart rate increases and blood vessels dilate, boosting circulation throughout your body. This increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your tissues while helping remove toxins and metabolic waste. Your body responds by producing a deep, detoxifying sweat that contains a higher percentage of toxins and heavy metals compared to exercise sweat. Unlike traditional saunas that operate at 180-220°F and only heat the surface of your skin, our infrared saunas work effectively at comfortable temperatures of 115-125°F, allowing you to stay in longer and receive deeper therapeutic benefits.
Still have questions?
Contact UsHeat opens your body's natural pathways for better absorption. Our engineered synergy means faster recovery, deeper detox, and lasting relief.
Contrast therapy is the practice of alternating between heat and cold exposure to stimulate circulation, reduce inflammation, and support faster recovery.
Transform each session into a deeply rejuvenating and meditative experience through the power of sound and vibration.
The AROMA ONE uses ultrasonic, high frequency technology to convert water and essential oil into a fine mist that is dispersed in the air—providing a fragrant, long-lasting mist that will enhance your mood and energy.
Our Salt Therapy detoxifies the lungs and stimulates the respiratory system—reducing inflammation, clearing blockages, supporting general immune wellness, and reducing overall discomfort.
Explore the science and details and see why our True Wave® far infrared heaters make a true difference in your sauna experience.
96 medical-grade LEDs in 12 colors work with your body's natural energy points to enhance mood and balance.
Clearlight® Red Light Therapy taps into the power of far and near infrared light to boost energy production in your cells, providing a wide array of benefits for your health and well-being.
Infrared therapy works at the cellular level to restore your body naturally. Clinical studies and 70,000+ customers confirm what happens when you make this your daily ritual.
Sauna use and far infrared heat can temporarily boost heart rate and local circulation, helping counter slowed metabolism and toxin buildup in fat cells to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Infrared heat may temporarily ease joint pain and stiffness. Increased thermal energy to the joints may promote a temporary increase in blood flow. Increased thermal energy may reduce stiffness and increase range of motion.
Infrared wavelengths raise your core body temperature, introducing an artificial fever. Fever is the body's natural mechanism to strengthen and accelerate the immune response.
Just a few minutes in your Clearlight sauna will allow impurities in the pores to come out as you sweat. The temporary increase in blood circulation may help reduce the risk of certain chronic skin conditions.
Infrared sauna therapy may support comfort, circulation, and cardiovascular wellness as part of a healthy lifestyle. The Department of Family Practice at the University of British Columbia
Sauna use gives you a time to get away and release any built-up tension and stress. It's like having a day spa in your home, open all the time for your convenience.
Infrared saunas may promote deeper, more restful sleep by calming the nervous system, lowering cortisol levels, easing muscle tension, and supporting melatonin production through gentle, full-body heat exposure.
Regular use of an infrared sauna can have a similar boost on the cardiovascular system to running. When your body takes in infrared heat, it tries to cool it down by producing sweat & burning calories. Journal of the American Medical Association
Daily sweating from sauna use can help detoxify your body of accumulated toxic heavy metals. At low temperature, infrared will penetrate the body's fat cells to expel what has built up over time.
Infrared heat can relieve inflammation, stiffness, and soreness by increasing blood circulation to your muscles.
Real stories from customers who made space for healing, restoration, and longevity, right at home.
Unlike traditional saunas, infrared works at comfortable temperatures to heal from within. Find your perfect model in full spectrum, far infrared, outdoor, or custom configurations.
