Types of Saunas: A Comprehensive Guide

by Eve Gayle Garcia October 10, 2024

In the vast and intriguing world of saunas, there's a type to match every preference and need. From the traditional Finnish sauna to the modern infrared saunas, the choices are as diverse as the benefits they offer. So, whether you're a sauna purist or a newbie, let's dive into the different types of saunas and discover what makes each one unique.

Traditional Sauna

The traditional sauna, often referred to as the Finnish sauna, is a staple in the sauna world. This type of sauna includes the traditional wood-burning sauna, which is a low-humidity, dry sauna powered by a fire in a wood stove that heats stones, creating elevated temperatures appropriate for sauna use. Alternatively, an electric sauna stove can be used to heat the air within the sauna room. The air temperatures in a traditional sauna can range from 70 to 100 degrees Celsius (158 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit), providing that characteristic high heat and very low humidity environment that sauna lovers adore.

Finnish Sauna

The Finnish sauna is the epitome of a traditional sauna experience. In Finland, saunas are not just for relaxation; they are a way of life. The traditional Finnish sauna involves heating a small sauna room using a wood stove or electric sauna stove to create high temperatures. Users pour water over hot stones to create steam and release steam, which momentarily increases the humidity level but still keeps it relatively low compared to other types.

Smoke Sauna

A smoke sauna, or savu sauna in Finnish, is another traditional type with a rich history. Smoke saunas are the traditional and authentic form of Finnish sauna, characterized by their lack of a chimney and the use of stored heat from burning wood under rocks. This sauna type operates without a chimney. Instead, the wood stove is used to heat the room until it’s filled with smoke. The fire is then extinguished, and the sauna is ventilated to remove the smoke before bathing. This process leaves the room with a distinct smoky scent and atmosphere, which many sauna purists appreciate.

Wood Burning Sauna

The wood-burning sauna is a classic choice for those who prefer an authentic and rustic sauna experience. These saunas use a wood stove to create heat, resulting in a unique aroma and ambiance. Wood-burning saunas can be found in many home saunas and sauna facilities, especially in regions where wood is abundant and easily accessible.

Electric Sauna

Modern electric saunas offer a convenient alternative to their wood-burning counterparts. They use an electric sauna stove to heat the room, providing precise temperature control and ease of use. Electric saunas can be installed indoors, making them a popular choice for indoor saunas and home sauna setups. They offer the same health benefits and sauna experience as traditional saunas without the need for firewood.

Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas are a relatively new addition to the sauna family. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air, infrared saunas use infrared heat to directly warm the body's tissues. This method allows for a more comfortable sauna session at lower temperatures while still providing the health benefits associated with traditional saunas.

Far Infrared Saunas

Within the category of infrared saunas, far infrared saunas use a specific wavelength of infrared light that penetrates deeper into the skin. This can enhance muscle recovery, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. The infrared sauna's heat is also gentle on the skin, making it ideal for those sensitive to high temperatures.

Steam Saunas

A steam sauna, or steam room, offers a different kind of heat by utilizing moist heat instead of dry. Wet saunas feature high humidity levels, which can create a challenging environment for some individuals. In a steam sauna, the room is filled with steam from boiling water, creating a highly humid environment. The humidity level can reach up to 100%, providing a warm and enveloping experience. Steam saunas are known for their health benefits, including improved respiratory function and skin hydration.

Dry Sauna

A dry sauna provides high heat but low humidity, making it a contrast to the moist environment of a steam sauna. This type uses a traditional heater to create high temperatures, usually between 70 to 100 degrees Celsius. Dry saunas are excellent for detoxification and promoting overall relaxation.

Home Saunas

The convenience of having a home sauna cannot be overstated. Home saunas come in various types, including infrared saunas, traditional saunas, and steam saunas. They offer the flexibility to enjoy sauna bathing at your desired temperature and comfort. Home saunas can be professionally installed or purchased as pre-fabricated units for easier setup. They can be installed indoors to provide a private oasis within your home.

Sauna Structures and Installation

There are several options available for sauna structures, including indoor and outdoor saunas. Sauna facilities often feature sauna rooms that can accommodate multiple users, while home saunas are usually designed for personal use. Professional installation ensures that your sauna is set up correctly, providing optimal performance and safety.

Sauna Bathing and Sessions: Timing

Sauna bathing is not just about sitting in a hot room; it's a ritual that involves alternating between heat exposure and cooling down. A typical sauna session lasts about 15 to 20 minutes, followed by a cool shower or plunge into cold water. This process can be repeated several times to enhance the sauna experience. Regular sauna sessions are believed to improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and aid in detoxification.

Health Benefits of Various Sauna Types

Saunas have been used for centuries for relaxation, health, and social purposes. From traditional Finnish saunas to modern infrared saunas, various types offer unique benefits. Let's explore the different sauna types and their potential health advantages:

Traditional Finnish Sauna

The traditional Finnish sauna, often a wood-burning sauna or electric sauna, is characterized by dry heat and low humidity.

Features: High temperatures (80-100°C), very low humidity (10-20%)
Benefits: Improved cardiovascular health, stress reduction

Scientific evidence:

A study in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology (2018) found that traditional sauna bathing was associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and all-cause mortality.

Steam Sauna / Steam Room

Steam saunas or steam rooms create a wet heat environment with high humidity.

Features: Lower temperatures (40-50°C), high humidity (100%)
Benefits: Respiratory health, skin hydration

Scientific evidence:

Research in the Journal of Clinical Medicine Research (2018) showed that steam sauna therapy could improve pulmonary function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas use light to create heat, penetrating the body directly without significantly warming the air.

Features: Lower temperatures (40-60°C), very low humidity
Benefits: Pain relief, improved circulation

Scientific evidence:

A study in Clinical Rheumatology (2009) found that infrared sauna use reduced pain and stiffness
in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

Smoke Sauna (Savu Sauna)

A traditional type of Finnish sauna where wood is burned in a stove with no chimney, filling the room with smoke before being ventilated.

Features: Unique aroma, stored heat from stones
Benefits: Deep relaxation, cultural experience

Wood Burning Sauna

These traditional saunas use a wood stove to heat stones, which then radiate heat and create steam when water is poured on them.

Features: Authentic experience, ability to control humidity by adding water to stones
Benefits: Stress reduction, muscle recovery

Electric Sauna

Modern saunas often use electric sauna stoves for convenience and temperature control.

Features: Precise temperature control, easy installation for home saunas
Benefits: Cardiovascular health, detoxification

Health Benefits Across Sauna Types

Regardless of the specific sauna type, regular sauna sessions have been associated with numerous health benefits:

Regular Sauna Use May Improve Cardiovascular Health

Sauna bathing can improve heart health and lower blood pressure.

Scientific evidence:

A long-term study in JAMA Internal Medicine (2015) found that frequent sauna use was associated with a reduced risk of fatal cardiovascular events.

Regular Sauna Use May Help with Muscle Recovery and Pain Relief

The heat from saunas can aid in muscle recovery and reduce pain.

Scientific evidence:

Research in the European Journal of Applied Physiology (2020) showed that sauna use after exercise enhanced recovery and improved endurance performance.

Sauna Use May Reduce Stress and Improve Mental Health

Sauna sessions promote relaxation and may improve mental health.

Scientific evidence:

A study in Complementary Therapies in Medicine (2018) found that sauna use was associated with reduced stress markers and improved well-being.

Detoxification

Sweating induced by sauna use can help eliminate toxins from the body.

Scientific evidence:

A study in the Archives of Environmental and Contamination Toxicology (2011) found that sweating during sauna use can help eliminate toxic elements from the body.

Regular Sauna Use May Improve Skin Health

Regular sauna use may improve skin hydration and complexion.

Scientific evidence:

Research in Dermatology (2008) showed that sauna therapy could help improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Respiratory Health

Particularly in steam saunas, the moist heat can benefit respiratory function.

Scientific evidence:

A study in the European Journal of Epidemiology (2017) found that frequent sauna bathing was associated with a reduced risk of respiratory diseases.

Read more: What Does a Sauna Do for You?

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the world of saunas offers a variety of options to suit every preference and need. From the traditional wood-burning sauna to the modern infrared sauna, each type has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Whether you prefer the moist heat of a steam room or the dry heat of a traditional sauna, there's a perfect sauna experience waiting for you. So, dive into the world of saunas and discover the many ways they can enhance your well-being and relaxation. Regular use of saunas, whether in-home saunas or sauna facilities, can lead to improved health and well-being, making them a valuable addition to your lifestyle.

By understanding the different types of saunas, from wood burning to electric, and from traditional Finnish to infrared, you can choose the one that best fits your preferences and needs. Whether you're interested in the authentic experience of a wood-burning sauna or the modern convenience of an infrared sauna, there's a world of heat and relaxation waiting for you.