Infrared vs Traditional Sauna: Which One Is Best for Your Home?

If you're dreaming of a home spa setup, one question will likely come up early: Should I get a traditional sauna or an infrared sauna? Both offer powerful wellness benefits, but they work in very different ways. The right choice depends on your space, lifestyle, and wellness goals.

While we’ll be covering the most common differences between these two sauna types, it’s worth noting that there are always exceptions. Technology is evolving, and some models blur the lines between categories. Think of this guide as a first-glance comparison—if you’re curious about less typical setups or crossover models, check out our article: The Exceptions to the Norms in Sauna.

Let’s break down the differences so you can make the best decision for your home sanctuary.

Heat Source & Temperature

• Traditional Sauna: Uses a stove (electric or wood-burning) to heat the air inside the room, typically reaching 150°F–190°F.
  

• Infrared Sauna: Uses infrared panels to directly warm your body at lower temperatures—around 110°F–140°F.

Winner for Intensity: Traditional

Winner for Comfort: Infrared

Experience & Comfort

• Traditional: Produces a steamy, immersive heat that feels like a full-body sweat lodge.

• Infrared: Offers a gentler, dry heat—great if you want longer sessions without feeling overwhelmed.

Great for First-Timers or Sensitive Users: Infrared

Great for Sauna Enthusiasts Seeking Intensity: Traditional

Setup & Installation

• Traditional Saunas: Often larger and require ventilation, especially wood-burning models.

• Infrared Saunas: Plug-and-play in many cases; compact options for indoor use.

Best for Smaller Spaces or Easy Setup: Infrared

Best for Larger Outdoor Builds or Classic Feel: Traditional

Energy Use & Cost

• Infrared: Uses electricity efficiently, operating at lower temperatures and shorter warm-up times. This makes it one of the most energy-friendly options for daily home use.

 ✅ Most energy-efficient and convenient for modern homes.

• Traditional (Electric): Requires more electricity to heat the entire space, leading to higher energy costs—especially with frequent use.

⚠️ Higher operating costs, especially in high-rate areas. 

• Traditional (Wood-Burning): Powered by firewood, not electricity. Cost depends on local wood prices and usage frequency. Great off-grid option, but less convenient for modern setups.

🔄 Best for off-grid or rural users with wood access. 

What Are Your Wellness Goals?

Final Thoughts: Which Sauna Is Right for You?

 Still deciding? Here’s a quick way to frame it:

• Choose Infrared if you want modern tech, lower heat, easy setup, and daily use.

• Choose Traditional if you love intense heat, steam, and a more ritualistic experience.

Either way, you're investing in wellness that starts at home.

Explore top-rated infrared and traditional saunas at Home Spa Direct — where your wellness upgrade begins.

Have questions? Reach out to us at support@homespadirect.com or call 888-784-1669.