In this article, we will discuss the differences between the two to help you arrive at a better decision on which one to buy, although we would like to say that there are no differences in the benefits of sauna that they offer.
Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas have high heat and low humidity, with temperatures ranging from between 80-90°C (185-195°F). Water is splashed over heater rocks to create a blast of hyper-steam to intensify the heat. While there are people who love traditional saunas, some people can’t stand the steam that goes with the experience.
Traditional saunas are sold as do-it yourself kits, and can take a few days to install, although there are also pre-fabricated traditional saunas that are built the same way as infrareds- with panels that are simply screwed together. They can be assembled in a couple of hours.
A traditional sauna in the proper size will in 20-35 minutes and cost 40-50 cents every 6 kilowatts. They also require a dedicated breaker.
Check out saunas here.
Infrared saunas
Infrared saunas are much more mild than traditional saunas. Infrared rays heat the body directly and the surrounding air secondarily. For those who enjoy the "heat bath" experience, but cannot take or do not enjoy the extreme heat of traditional saunas, infrared sauna is an excellent alternative.
Infrared saunas have temperatures between 48.9-65.5°C (120°F to 150°F) and heat up in about 10-20 minutes.
However, an infrared sauna only provides for that "toasty" feeling. To perspire, you must be exposed to the infrared rays. It generally takes 12-20 minutes of exposure to begin sweating.
While some smaller infrared saunas can plug into any outlet, many mid size to larger infrared saunas require a dedicated 15 or 20 amp plug - which must also be installed by an electrician. A 1.6 kW infrared sauna will cost 5-10 cents per use.
Infrared saunas come primarily as pre-fabricated panels that snap or screw together. While they are relatively simple to assemble, it can take about one to two hours to do so.
According to research, far-infrared sauna is more effective at detox cleansing than traditional saunas. The deep penetration of the infrared energy allows the cells to eliminate waste better.
Aside from the detox effect, it is important to keep in mind that the experience between a traditional sauna and an infrared sauna is not the same.
While infrared saunas are enjoyable, you might find then too mild for your taste if you enjoy traditional saunas.
Check out saunas here.
