A home sauna is a great way to relax after a long day or a tough workout. Simply step in, sit or lie down, and bask in the warmth. Sauna usage may bring numerous health benefits, such as a reduction in blood pressure and a stronger immune system.
To gain those benefits, you’ll need to make some choices and see updated details at cleverleverage.com. Here, we’ll list the pros and cons of, as well as the differences between, traditional and infrared saunas.
Traditional Sauna Pros and Cons
A traditional sauna, which is sometimes called a steam sauna, has Finnish origins. These saunas use convection heat from a wood or electric stove to raise the enclosure’s temperature to 160-200 degrees Fahrenheit, heating the body and creating feelings of relaxation.
The benefits of traditional saunas are:
- If you want the classic sauna experience, choose a traditional model.
- Traditional saunas can be installed outdoors or indoors.
Now, the drawbacks:
- It may cost upwards of $10,000 to install a traditional sauna, and in many cases, the cost may be three times that of an equivalent infrared model.
- Time constraints. It may take a half-hour to 45 minutes for a traditional sauna to preheat.
- Short sessions. A traditional sauna, as we’ve mentioned, can get very hot, which means you won’t be able to spend as much time inside.
- Humidity. Steam saunas generate substantial humidity, which can lead to mildew and mold growth.
- Installation difficulty. These saunas must be installed by professionals, and in some instances, permits are required.
The Pros and Cons of Infrared Saunas
Modern infrared saunas use radiant heat to warm the body directly. The method is much more efficient than that of a steam sauna, which means these models can provide better results at a lower temperature. Infrared saunas provide advantages such as:
- Easy installation. Most infrared saunas are portable and prefabricated, making them easy to set up with no plumbing or permits
- Longer sweat sessions. Because they work at lower temperatures, infrared saunas can be used for up to an hour.
- Low cost. Infrared saunas are less expensive, with some starting at just $2000.
- Fast heating. It takes approximately 15 minutes to preheat an infrared sauna.
- No extra humidity. These units don’t generate moisture, which means there’s no additional risk of mold and mildew growth.
The cons of infrared saunas include:
- A step away from tradition. An infrared sauna doesn’t offer a true sauna experience with high heat and billowing steam.
- Infrared saunas may not be suitable for use in harsh climates.
Which Sauna Type is Right for Your Body and Home?
As we’ve shown here, both types of saunas have their pros and cons. Choosing the right option depends on your budget, location, and preferences, among other factors. If you’re looking for warmth, comfort, and soothing relaxation at an incredible value, an infrared sauna will likely provide the most bang for the buck. Visit Clever Leverage for more sauna selection and lifestyle tips.
