Traditional Saunas vs. Infrared Saunas
Which Is Right for You?
Saunas have been used for centuries as a way to relax, detoxify, and improve overall well-being. While traditional wood-burning and electric saunas have long been the gold standard, modern infrared saunas have introduced a new way to experience the same benefits — often with added convenience and lower operating costs.
At Theradia Wellness, we offer both styles so you can create the perfect wellness sanctuary at home. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed choice.
Traditional Saunas
How They Work:
Traditional saunas (also known as Finnish or dry saunas) heat the air around you using a wood-burning or electric stove. Temperatures typically range between 160°F and 200°F, creating a deeply warming and invigorating environment.
Experience:
The high heat warms the skin surface quickly, inducing a heavy, cleansing sweat. You can also pour water over sauna stones to generate steam and increase humidity — creating the classic löyly (sauna steam) experience.
Best For:
People who love the ritual of a hot, steamy sauna and the feeling of intense, immediate heat.
Infrared Saunas
How They Work:
Infrared saunas use advanced infrared light technology to heat your body directly, rather than warming the air. The temperature inside stays lower — typically between 110°F and 140°F — but you’ll still achieve deep tissue heating and detoxification.
Experience:
Infrared heat penetrates 1–2 inches beneath the skin, promoting circulation and helping muscles recover faster. The lower temperature makes it easier to stay inside longer, providing a gentler yet highly effective sweat.
Best For:
Those seeking muscle recovery, pain relief, and a more comfortable, low-heat experience.
Comparison Chart: Traditional vs. Infrared Sauna
| Feature | Traditional Sauna | Infrared Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Source | Electric or wood-burning stove heats air | Infrared panels emit radiant heat |
| Temperature Range | 160°F–200°F | 110°F–140°F |
| Heating Method | Heats the air, which warms your body | Heats the body directly through infrared light |
| Warm-Up Time | 30–45 minutes | 10–15 minutes |
| Humidity | Adjustable (add water to stones) | Dry heat (no steam) |
| Sweat Intensity | Quick, profuse sweating | Deep, detoxifying sweat |
| Energy Use | Higher | Lower |
| Maintenance | Requires venting & occasional stone replacement | Simple maintenance, no venting required |
| Experience | Classic, hot, invigorating | Modern, gentle, deeply penetrating |
| Ideal For | Sauna purists, traditionalists, communal use | Wellness enthusiasts, recovery, home users |
Choosing the Right Sauna for You
Both types deliver outstanding wellness benefits — from improved circulation and stress relief to better sleep and detoxification. The right choice comes down to your lifestyle and preferences:
- Choose a Traditional Sauna if you crave the authentic sauna experience — with intense heat, steam, and the relaxing crackle of wood or electric warmth.
- Choose an Infrared Sauna if you prefer a modern, energy-efficient option that’s easier to install, faster to heat, and gentler on the body.
At Theradia Wellness, we carry both traditional and infrared saunas from trusted brands like Mande, LeisureCraft, and SaunaLife — all designed for performance, durability, and timeless wellness.
Still Not Sure?
Our sauna specialists can help you choose the perfect model for your home or business.
Email us at support@theradiawellness.com for personalized recommendations.