Collection: Infrared Saunas

Infrared is a form of light you can feel but cannot see because it exists just beyond the red end of the visible spectrum. When infrared panels are directed at the body, that energy is absorbed as warmth, similar to how sunlight warms your skin on a cold day. The key difference is that the surrounding air remains comparatively mild, since the heat is directed into the body rather than into the room itself.

Traditional saunas work in the opposite way. Instead of heating the body directly, they heat the surrounding air to very high temperatures, which then transfers heat to the body.

Traditional sauna

• Traditional sauna temperatures commonly exceed 170°F.
• Experienced sauna users may tolerate temperatures above 210°F, usually for short sessions only.
• Water poured over heated stones creates steam, known in Finnish culture as löyly, producing the intense, enveloping heat associated with the classic sauna ritual.

Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas skip the steam process entirely and operate at lower ambient temperatures.

• Cabin temperatures generally stay between 120°F and 150°F.
• The gentler environment is often easier to breathe in and more comfortable for longer sessions.
• Even with the lower air temperature, infrared saunas still produce a deep sweat because the heat penetrates the body directly.

The first decision in any sauna installation process is, fundamentally, where the sauna goes. Everything else follows from that.

Indoor infrared saunas are freestanding cabins that assemble on any flat, stable surface, e.g., hardwood, carpet, tile, or concrete. Smaller models (1-2 person) plug directly into a standard 120V outlet, meaning no electrician and no permit in most jurisdictions. No special ventilation is required, either. Indoor saunas are the most popular home infrared format because the barrier to setup is low and the year-round access is easy.

Outdoor infrared saunas are built to live outside in all seasons. Most use a barrel configuration, with thick wood staves, sealed tempered glass, stainless steel hardware, and weatherproof roofing designed for temperature extremes in both directions. They require a level foundation (a concrete pad or compacted gravel base works well) and a dedicated 240V circuit. The payoff is that they free up interior space entirely and tend to make a strong visual impression in a backyard or pool area.

Infrared sauna use has been studied across a range of health and wellness applications. Regular users commonly report experiencing some or all of the outcomes below:

• Muscle recovery and pain relief. Infrared heat increases blood flow to muscles and joints, which delivers more oxygen to damaged tissue and helps clear metabolic waste faster. This is the mechanism behind infrared therapy's established use in sports medicine and physical therapy settings.
• Circulation and cardiovascular response. During a session, heart rate rises and blood vessels dilate in a response similar to moderate aerobic exercise. Repeated infrared sauna use has been studied for effects on resting blood pressure and vascular function, with promising results, particularly for people who face barriers to conventional exercise.
• Stress reduction and sleep. Heat exposure triggers endorphin release and can help lower circulating cortisol. Many regular users report reduced tension and improved sleep quality, particularly when sessions are scheduled in the early evening.

Next to determining where your sauna will go, the second biggest question is: Who (and how many) will use it? Sauna size determines footprint, electrical requirement, and price.

• 1-person infrared saunas. The most compact option, typically under 40 inches wide, and the best fit for solo use, apartments, home offices, or anywhere square footage is tight. Most 1-person models run on a standard 120V outlet with no electrician required. Quality builds start around $4,000.
• 2-person infrared saunas. The most popular size in the category. In a 2-person sauna, there is enough room for two people side by side, or for a single user who wants space to stretch out or lie down. Most 2-person saunas still run on 120V and fit comfortably in bedrooms, basements, and garages without dominating the space. This is the entry point for most couples and a practical upgrade for solo buyers who simply want more room.

The infrared sauna price range is wide, and the gap between a low-end unit and a premium unit is not arbitrary. Here is what actually separates a quality infrared sauna from a cheap one.

• Heater type and certification. Carbon panel heaters produce a wide, even heat and are a solid baseline. Saunas that combine carbon panels with ceramic or Incoloy® heaters reach higher peak temperatures and deliver deeper tissue penetration. Regardless of type, look for heaters that are UL or ETL listed, since these certifications indicate independent testing for electrical safety. A heater without a recognized listing is a red flag.
• EMF testing. All electrical devices produce electromagnetic fields, and in an infrared sauna, the heater panels sit close to your body for 20 to 45 minutes at a stretch. Look for models tested by a third-party laboratory with published, specific results, rather than a marketing label that says "low EMF" without supporting data anywhere to be found.
  
  

Infrared saunas are among the lowest-maintenance wellness investments you can make. There is no water system, no stones to replace, and no humidity-driven mold risk. Most of what you need to do takes about five minutes after each session.

How to Clean an Infrared Sauna 

• Since infrared saunas generate dry heat rather than steam, they usually require much less cleaning and maintenance than traditional steam saunas
• After each use, wipe down the benches, backrests, and interior walls with a clean, lightly damp cloth while the wood is still warm to remove sweat residue before it absorbs into the grain
• Leave the door slightly open for 15 to 20 minutes after each session to air out the interior
• A deeper cleaning every few weeks helps keep the sauna fresh and well-maintained. To remove dirt and residue without harming the wood, gently scrub the benches and flooring with a soft brush and a gentle homemade cleaning mixture. After cleaning, wipe away any remaining moisture and allow the surfaces to dry fully with proper airflow.

Infrared Sauna Heater Maintenance

• Infrared heater panels require almost no maintenance during normal use
• Once the unit is completely cool, periodically dust the panel surfaces with a soft cloth or lint roller
• For heaters with protective guards or casings, a short burst of compressed air clears accumulated dust without touching the panel surface directly

Infrared Sauna Lifespan and Longevity

• A well-maintained infrared sauna cabin, including the wood structure, glass, and hardware, can last 10 to 20 years, depending on construction quality and whether it is installed indoors or outdoors
• Infrared heater panels typically last 10 to 15 years before output begins to degrade measurably
• Heater panels are generally field-replaceable, meaning the cabin can outlast multiple sets of heaters

For towels, brushes, and cleaning supplies, browse the Sauna Accessories collection