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Different Types of Saunas and Their Benefits

by | Nov 3, 2022 | Issue 159, Issues | 0 comments

People find relaxation in many different things, such as hiking, practicing yoga or just going on a long, well-deserved vacation. But some people do not have the time or resources...

People find relaxation in many different things, such as hiking, practicing yoga or just going on a long, well-deserved vacation. But some people do not have the time or resources to participate in these hobbies. That is why they’re looking for activities less time-consuming and still as relaxing, such as indulging in sauna time. 

Saunas are one of the best ways to relax and let your problems melt away, even for a short time. And the best thing about them is that you can build one inside your own house so that you can relax at any time of the day!

 

Types of Saunas

Not many people know it, but there are many types of saunas you can install in your house, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. Of course, the price depends on several factors, such as the type of sauna you want, the size and the installation fees. You can also opt for a portable, collapsible sauna, which is way cheaper, somewhere around $100. But if you’re thinking about a giant sauna, let’s have a look at some of your choices!

 

Wood-burning Sauna

When thinking about this type of sauna, the word that comes into mind is ‘traditional.’ That is because wood-burning saunas date back centuries ago and have spread across various cultures. 

The defining details about wood-burning saunas are their very low humidity and fire heating. They are built outside due to the smoke the wood-burning releases. Maintaining the perfect temperature will require you to prepare and stoke the fire from time to time. You will also need to have water prepared if you wish to raise the humidity in the sauna.

 

Pros of Wood-burning Saunas

  • They do not require electricity to function;
  • They can accommodate large groups of people;
  • They are a lower-cost option compared to the other choices.

 

Cons of Wood-burning Saunas

  • They cannot be built inside because the released smoke is hazardous;
  • It can take longer to heat up as they use wood;
  • They require more time than other saunas to maintain and upkeep.

 

Infrared Saunas

Because they are traditional, wood-burning saunas may not be the best choice for someone aiming for a modern alternative. Here is where the infrared sauna comes into play. If you look at it this way, wood-burning and infrared saunas are opposites. However, what they do have in common is that the temperature in the saunas is relatively low. Infrared saunas use infrared light waves, directly heating the bodies of the people inside. 

So, if you are not searching for the usual sauna and just seek a way to relax, this sauna will do the trick. Also, there are types of infrared saunas from which you can choose. Some models use far-infrared lights, while others use near-infrared ones. 

 

Pros of Infrared Saunas

  • Since they are smaller in size, infrared saunas are cheaper;
  • They heat up quite quickly, so you won’t have to wait hours to use them;
  • They can be more comfortable for some people. 

 

Cons of Infrared Saunas

  • The reparation and upkeep costs may be more expensive;
  • Some sauna enthusiasts do not approve of them;
  • The more extensive and high-end infrared saunas are, the more expensive they get.

 

Electric Saunas

Some people may not be comfortable with the smell of burning wood or coal. That is why they opt for electric saunas! 

Electric saunas are found to be more comfortable compared to traditional ones. However, there are some similarities between the two. Electric saunas still use stoves and stones to heat the sauna, which keeps the humidity level low. This type of sauna can be built indoors or outdoors, to your liking. Also, you can build the sauna in any size you wish!

 

Pros of Electric Saunas

  • Depending on the type and size you want the sauna to be built, there are many price options from which you can choose;
  • The temperature inside the sauna can be easily raised and controlled;
  • They can be installed wherever you wish, including inside and outside.

 

Cons of Electric Saunas

  • They depend on electricity, so no sauna time during blackouts; 
  • Not the best choice for larger groups. 

 

Steam Sauna

Unlike the other types of saunas, primarily made from wood that absorbs the humidity, steam saunas are mainly made to keep the humidity in the air. Therefore, we can say that, in a steam sauna, you can experience nearly 100% humidity! 

How this type of sauna works is quite simple. By using the electricity to boil water, steam is released into the sauna, which is kept in by the tiles surrounding the walls.

Usually, the temperature in steam saunas is lower compared to traditional ones, but because of the high humidity levels, you can still experience the heat.!

 

Pros of Steam Saunas

  • They can relieve respiratory issues;
  • They do not require high temperatures for the users to feel the heat or to release the steam into the room;
  • Some people prefer ‘wet heat’ rather than normal heat. 

 

Cons of Steam Saunas  

  • They can become prone to mold problems because of the high levels of humidity;
  • Professional installation is required for the installation of these saunas;
  • ‘Wet heat’ can become quite uncomfortable after long periods of use.

 

A Parting Reminder

Saunas are considered to be the best way in which you can relax and have some “you time,” so buckle down and start building your dream sauna!

Mălina O. R.

Mălina O. R.

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