Best Saunas

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12 Best Far Infrared Saunas

A bath can be refreshing. Soaking in hot water is even better as it helps you relax. But topping them all is a good sauna bath. The word ‘sauna’ has Finnish roots and refers to a small room where hot air or steam bath is used for cleansing and rejuvenating the body. The deep sweating that results from an increase in temperature of the skin to about 105°C is believed to impart several benefits in addition to relaxing the muscles.

Among the several types of saunas available, the far infrared (FIRS) variety is becoming popular as it works by heating the body directly while a steam sauna heats the air around the body. Also called infrared heat therapy rooms, these saunas expose the body to the light reflected by heating, ensuring that 80% of the heat enters your body and has a far deeper impact. At 40 to 60°C, the far infrared saunas are more tolerable. The long wavelength of this type of light can penetrate even the fat cells of the body, remove toxins and stimulate metabolism.

From the Bathhouses to the FIRS

Historical Journey

Saunas have been an integral part of life in Finland for centuries. Initially, they were dug into an embankment in the ground and covered with animal skins. But with time, they started being built on wooden logs with no chimney and only an air vent in the back wall. Wood fire-heated rocks in a stone stove and it would take nearly half a day before smoke filled the room. Once the room reached the required temperature and the smoke cleared, bathers would be allowed in.

Subsequently, metal wood stove heaters with a chimney were used and then, electric ones from the 1950s.

The Finnish saunas are believed to have a history dating back to after the Ice Age, though the earliest written record is that of the year 1112. Apart from relaxation and cleansing the body, sauna also seems to have had religious significance and was part of social life. Women delivered their children there, underwent a purification ritual before marriage and old people sought it when it was time to give up the body.

We find variations of sauna as part of different cultures across the globe. In Mexico and Central America, it was called a temazcal and was made of clay or stone instead of wood.

The discovery of ruins of sauna-like structures with bathing platforms and scorched stones suggest that Greenland and Newfoundland too seem to have had a sauna ritual.

Chinese bathhouses had two rooms, with a pool of hot water in the inner room and beds for resting in the outer room.

In Japan, they were called onsen and people soaked in thermal baths that were hot springs for healing, spirituality and rejuvenation.

Roman and Greek bathhouses are well known and have evolved into modern spas and offer hot spring bath and steam rooms. They were meant for cleansing the body and also as a meeting place for political, business and social needs.

Turkish hamam or bathhouse is also very well known and was a place of spiritual and social communion. These ornate buildings would have hot air rooms from where the bathers would shift to a hotter and drier room. Finally, they would take a dip in cool water and indulge in some massage.

Burning Rocks to Beaming Infrared

Over the centuries, different methods were followed to create the right temperature in the saunas.

  • Wood: Firewood was lit to heat up the room, but this would suck up all moisture from the air.
  • Steam: This is used to generate moist heat.
  • Electric: An electrical heater on the floor heats the room, raising the room temperature and lowering humidity.
  • Infrared rooms: Special far-infrared lamps heat the person’s body temperature but not the room.

Evolution of Infrared Sauna

John Harvey Kellogg, a physician, nutritionist and inventor, was a great advocate of intense sweating for purification. His efforts at improving traditional sauna methods led him to experiment with other mediums. This led him to invent incandescent light baths using the electric bulb in 1893. Not only did it make the users sweat, but Kellogg noticed a deep change because of exposure to light, which primarily emitted infrared light.

In the 1960s, NASA discovered that infrared rays were of three types—near, mid and far. From 1965, far infrared saunas were being used by Japanese doctors to treat patients for certain conditions. By 1979, it came to the US and since then, has evolved into the form as we know it today.

The Benefits of FIRS

In a study on the impact of the deep penetration of infrared heat (approximately 3–4 cm into fat tissue and neuromuscular system) under mild temperature (35–50°C) and light humidity (25–35%) conditions, FIRS was found to be beneficial for the recovery of the neuromuscular system after maximal endurance performance. This suggests that athletes and others who work out regularly can benefit from FIRS.

Another study has found FIRS regularizes blood pressure, benefits cardiac conditions and has a therapeutic effect on chronic pain and chronic fatigue.

Yet another study also indicates the benefits of FIRS on people suffering from rheumatic diseases such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Those suffering from chronic fatigue and pain syndromes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and allergic rhinitis also found relief after being exposed to infrared sauna.

However, it is also good to understand the capabilities and limitations of infrared saunas:

  • Weight Loss: This is only for those with health conditions that prevent them from exercising. But otherwise, nothing can replace physical activity. Also, what people lose is water and not fat. It also stimulates metabolism, which can have some impact on weight in combination with a healthy diet.
  • Detoxing: The sweat that pours out does have a detoxifying effect but the jury is out on how much.
  • Pain Relief: Studies confirm this, especially in athletes.
  • Blood Pressure: Studies have confirmed the beneficial effects of sauna on blood pressure though most studies so far have been conducted on small sample sizes.
  • Stress Relief: This is proven by experience. People feel their moods elevated, reduced anxiety and depression and relief from fatigue.
  • Cardiac Health: Studies show that frequent use of sauna decreases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and strokes.
  • Skin: All the sweating is good for skin, making it look younger and smoother.

Let’s also quickly list the risks and side effects of far infrared sauna.

  • Overheating
  • Dehydration
  • Giddiness

Precautions

Do not use the sauna if you are taking medication that causes drowsiness, when drinking alcohol or under the influence of drugs.

Pregnant women or those planning to start a family would do well to consult their doctors.

Factors to Consider before Buying a Sauna

Emitters

Saunas are typically a sectioned off area or a small room where a water heater powered by electricity, wood, gas or heated rocks is used to heat up the air. In the case of far infrared saunas, emitters generate heat. A third variety where incandescent infrared heat lamps are used to generate the heat is also available. The effectiveness of the sauna depends on the size of the heater and the intensity of the heat it generates.

The emitters are of two types:

  • Carbon: A carbon-emitter sauna is considered better as it has a large surface area, spreads heat more evenly in the room and allows the heat to penetrate the body also evenly. Uniform heating reduces cold and hot spots in the sauna.
  • Ceramic: This is of two types, solid and Incoloy. In the solid type, a convex ceramic heater is used while the latter is only coated with ceramic and is not of high quality. Ceramic emitters are good for home use and small saunas, as they are small in size and can impact only localized temperature. For a larger one, you will need many emitters.

Material Used

The wood used in the sauna enclosure is very important as softwood warps due to the exposure to heat. When exposed to extreme temperatures, untreated softwood releases toxic gases, a phenomenon called ‘outgassing’. Treated wood is safer and can withstand high temperatures better.

Space Available

Before deciding to purchase a sauna for your home, you need to consider the space available. Infrared saunas need a plug socket, and as you don’t need to place it in the bathroom, it does expand your options. However, whether you go for a portable, one-, two-, three- or four-person FIRS will depend on how much space you have available in whichever room you intend placing it.

Heating Panels

Heating panels are the life-blood of a sauna. Depending on the dimensions, you should check to see how many panels are provided and whether they are placed in a manner that benefits the user. The heat should spread evenly inside the sauna.

A good sauna should come with six to eight infrared panels, and a higher number will make it even more effective. When a sauna is meant for more than one person, it should have more panels, and these should be placed on the back, the sides and even under the seat so that the calf muscles get the heat too. Some saunas come with heating pads for the feet, providing the benefits of reflexology.

Control Panel

A control panel usually accompanies the sauna, providing you with the option to select the temperature and timing based on your needs and comfort. Digital control panels are sometimes integrated into the exterior and/or interior walls of the sauna. There are some that take luxury to the next level by providing remote control to let you set the parameters from the comfort of your seat.

Comfort

Saunas should come with a provision to allow you to be seated to maximize the pleasure. It could be in the form of a folding seat, a fixed seat or a bench, especially when it is meant for more than one person.

Additional Features

But this is not all. These days, infrared saunas are designed to pamper you. A host of additional features make sweating even more pleasurable. Depending on the price, you can expect:

  • Chromotherapy Lights: As the name suggests, these are colored lights, sometimes with lights changing color and have a therapeutic effect. It may be integrated into the design of the infrared saunas or there may be a provision for you to fit a chromotherapy light system of your choice.
  • Additional Lighting: Some infrared saunas are dimly lit, and so, if you would like it to be bright and cheerful, look for something with extra light. You could also keep the lights dim when you are experiencing the joys of the sauna exposure, but use the extra lighting to get in and out of the system.
  • Speakers: What can be more meditative than listening to music? You can turn on your favorite music and soak in it while your body soaks in the infrared light. Integrated speakers of high quality are available in many models of infrared saunas.
  • FM Radio: Some models also come with an FM radio, which can ensure your entertainment when you are doing nothing but healing yourself with light.
  • CD or MP3 Player: You could also hook up your MP3 player and listen to your favorite playlist if your model offers an AUX input jack or a CD Player.

Warranty Claims

To save on maintenance and service, look for far infrared saunas with a lifetime warranty. Opt for new saunas for the same reason, instead of buying a used one where the warranty may have expired.

Reviews

If you are interested in buying a far infrared sauna for your home, you may find choosing the right one difficult. There are many kinds of far infrared saunas available, and it can be confusing knowing which one to opt for. We have reviewed a few of the FIRS below, listing their features, advantages and limitations, to help you make an informed decision.

JNH Lifestyles Joyous 2 Person Canadian Hemlock Wood Far Infrared Sauna

JNH Lifestyles Joyous 2 Person FIRS is made from FSC-certified, chemical-free, untreated and unstained Canadian hemlock wood. It is durable because of its double layer construction aimed to conserve heat. The dual walls keep the sauna safe from exterior hazards while providing superior insulation. It also ensures that the exterior walls do not get as hot, making it last.

Seven carbon fiber heater panels are placed strategically such that the sauna is heated uniformly, the use of the complete surface area of each heater eliminating any potential hot spots. Further, tempered glass that can withstand high temperatures provides additional durability. This also provides transparency and a view that can prevent a feeling of claustrophobia.

Comfortable for use by one and accommodating two people, its patented tongue-and-groove design makes it easy to assemble and dismantle the sauna without tools and fit it into even tight spaces. Two premium speakers, a volume rocker and built-in 3.5 mm AUX control with a portable radio allow you to listen to music as your body heats up. Durable interior LED lighting also makes the sauna well lit while a digital control panel lets you control the temperature and the duration of use.

Its two years warranty and lifetime tech support are a blessing. There is a five-year part warranty for the 110 ~ 120V/15 amps electrical equipment and the other components.

This is one of most popular models but the electromagnetic field is reported to be higher than permitted levels, making this a health hazard. The infrared heating panels along the back are exposed and someone leaning on to it can have their skins burned. You may want to have a back rest to protect the skin on the back.

Radiant Saunas 2 Person Hemlock Infrared Sauna

One of the more popular models, this 2-person hemlock infrared sauna from Radiant Saunas has a beautiful design made with Canadian hemlock wood, with soothing features and chromotherapy lighting that enhance the therapeutic effect. It includes an oxygen ionizer to remove impurities from the air inside the sauna in addition to even heating and greater effectiveness.

A high-quality sound system with AUX inputs lets you soak in music or listen to an audiobook as you relax in the heated sauna. You can also adjust the heat, sound and light using the EZ-Touch control to suit your mood.

Made of a solid, Canadian hemlock construction, it is durable and transparent because of a bronze-tinted, 8 mm safety glass door and a full-length safety glass window on one side. A towel hook, magazine rack and backrest complete the sauna section to provide you with everything you will need to feel comfortable in there.

Six carbon heaters provide a comfortable temperature of 141°F within 20 minutes, which can be adjusted using the controls, and are located such that they provide a uniform stream of warm and comforting heat.

A buckle system makes assembly and dismantling of the unit easy even for one person. With two people, it is really simple and easy.

A limited seven-year warranty, five-year warranty for heating and electronics and a one-year radio warranty make this a great buy.

High EMF levels towards the heaters can be a cause for worry, though, toward the center, it is quite low. Customer service also left much to be desired and could have been better.

SereneLife Portable Home Spa Infrared Sauna

This portable far infrared sauna is an affordable option. Being lightweight and small, it can be placed anywhere indoors, and used anytime. When not in use, it can be folded and stored away easily.

The portable unit has a wired adjustable controller allowing you to try out five different programs, or set your own temperature and duration based on your comfort level. It is also thermostat controlled, ensuring that once the maximum of 140° Fahrenheit, it automatically shuts off. This way, there is no fear of the unit overheating.

You can place this portable FIRS in front of a TV and use the remote control, or read a book because of the provision of armholes. It also includes a foldable sauna chair, a footpad heating mat and one-year warranty. You can use this sauna for up to 60 minutes. It may take time to heat up, but for the price, it offers great benefits.

JNH Lifestyles MG417HB Joyous 4 Person Far Infrared Sauna

Recreate the ambiance of Greek and Roman bathhouses by inviting friends over to enjoy some relaxing time in this 4-person FIRS from JNH. A spacious bench allows you and your family and friends to chill as the sauna heats up and detoxifies you all. The glass door and appropriately placed LED bulbs ensure good visibility.

The sauna has double layered walls made with Canadian hemlock timber that help in maintaining high temperatures, conserving energy and resources as well as providing high insulation.

The nine carbon fiber far infrared heaters placed strategically ensure even heating of this large unit. Connect your device to the built-in sound system and AUX connection, set the temperature and the timer settings using the control panel, and you are ready to party. The sauna is also easy to set up and dismantle.

On the flip side, there have been issues about the quality of the fittings.

BetterLife BL6109 1-2 Person Carbon Infrared Sauna

Built with natural hemlock wood finish, this FIRS comes with eight energy-efficient carbon heating panels. It can comfortably seat two people, and its chromotherapy lighting adds to aesthetic interiors. It is very easy to set up and needs just a standard plug socket to work. So you can place it comfortably anywhere there is a socket.

This too offers the luxury of listening to music whilst enjoying the sauna as it comes with built-in AUX, premium speakers for high-quality output and a radio integrated into the FIRS.

A seven-year limited warranty for the heating elements and electrical parts, a three-year limited warranty for the wooden enclosure and a one-year warranty on the inbuilt radio make this a good buy. It heats up to 145°F in 35 minutes.

Depending on where you live, you may not get doorstep delivery, so check that out. It may also be a tight fit for two if even one is above the average size.

LifeSmart Dynamic “Alicante” 1-2-Person Bio Ceramic Far Infrared Sauna

A ceramic variety, this model is equipped with four dynamic bio-ceramic heaters, with three at the back and one under the bench, thus ensuring that you are surrounded by heat. The temperature can rise up to 140°F, making you comfortable and relaxed.

Luxurious for one and spacious enough for two, it is made of natural reforested Canadian hemlock wood, is durable and aesthetically designed. The exterior and interior wood planks are 6mm while the inner frame is 1.13 inches thick, pretty much assuring you that regular use is not going to wear it down soon. A transparent tempered glass door gives you sufficient light and view. It also has a window to a side, increasing the sense of space within.

It can be assembled quickly and can be located anywhere that has a 15-amp, 110-volt outlet with no special wiring needed. The dual (interior and exterior) soft touch control panel and LED display lets you adjust the temperature and the duration. MP3 auxiliary connection with speakers allows you to listen to your favorite playlist as you enjoy the time in the sauna.

4-Person Outdoor Ceramic Infrared Sauna Hemlock Wood

This is an outdoor sauna, ideal if you have a garden. While this means you do not have to clutter your house with the sauna, the fully-shingled and waterproof wood paneling made from 100% waterproof hemlock wood also ensures it can weather many storms. The glass doors and windows will let you enjoy the surroundings as you take a refreshing sauna therapy.

A digital control panel inside the sauna will let you adjust the temperature settings of this sauna that can touch 140°Fahrenheit in 30 minutes. Six ceramic far infrared heaters and two under the bench ensure that the sauna is heated evenly. You can also listen to your favorite music with the MP3/aux input that comes with two speakers. Or you can just enjoy reading with the four LED reading lights on.

Some of the other features include an ionizer with an ozone generator. The tongue and groove walls with latches make it easy to assemble.

2-3 Person, Corner Fitting Far Infrared Sauna

A snug fit in any corner of the room, this sauna from Santa Fe is ideal for homes with space constraints. Despite that, it allows three people to enjoy the sauna experience at the same time. It is equipped with seven carbon heaters that ensure uniform heating of the sauna and can reach 141°Fahrenheit quickly while saving on energy costs.

It has dual interior and exterior controls that help in regulating the temperature and adjust the lighting to suit the mood. A CD/MP3 plug-in lets you listen to music as you relax. Backrests, a magazine rack and towel hooks complete the luxury experience this sauna provides. Color therapy light and an oxygen ionizer enhance the experience. An added bonus is that it is easy to assemble.

Dynamic Saunas “Venice” 2-Person Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna

This model has six low EMF far infrared carbon heating heaters spread across, with two on the back, one on the sidewalls, one on the floorboard and one under the bench. This ensures even heating across the sauna, which can comfortably seat two adults. Made with Canadian hemlock wood, it is durable and sturdy and includes a clear tempered glass door. Side windows enhance the feeling of space.

The double-paneled construction ensures good insulation and energy conservation. It is also low on EMF, making it safe. The dual (interior and exterior) soft touch control panel with LED display allows temperature and time function control. Built-in MP3 aux connection with speakers lets you enjoy the music of your choice.

Any dedicated 15-amp 110-volt outlet with regular wiring is enough to plug in this sauna, which can be installed on carpet and at any indoor location, be it the basement, garage, master bath or walk-in closet.

JNH Lifestyles Joyous 3 Person Canadian Hemlock Wood 8 Carbon Fiber Heaters 5 Year Warranty

It is one of the few saunas to come with a five-year warranty, assuring headache-free service in case of any defects.

This ETL-approved sauna is equipped with strategically placed eight carbon fiber FIR heaters and assure even heating throughout the sauna. Made with double-layer Canadian hemlock timber, it is durable and well insulated.

It has two premium speakers and built-in AUX control for you to chill with music as your body absorbs heat. You can control just how much heat you want using the digital control, where you can determine the temperature and the duration.

Dynamic Saunas Maxxus 3-Person Corner Infrared Sauna

Made with reforested Canadian Hemlock wood, this sauna offers chromotherapy lighting, double-paneled walls, thickest interior and exterior wood planks that offer better insulation, can heat up fast and conserve energy. Nine infrared carbon energy-efficient heating panels ensure uniform heating. The placement of a heater on the floor and under the bench each provides heating for the feet and the calf muscles.

A soft-touch control panel and LED display help with temperature control and adjustment of the time functions. Built-in FM radio, CD and MP3 auxiliary connection with speakers give you the luxury of listening to the music of your choice. It is fast to set up, and a snug fit in any corner of the room. Bronze-tinted tempered glass door and side windows enhance the feeling of space in this already spacious unit, while also providing transparency.

The sauna needs a dedicated 20-amp, 120-volt outlet. So you will need a certified electrician to help you with replacing the existing 15-amp dedicated socket with the required receptacle and amp breaker. The FIRS can be installed anywhere indoors.

Radiant Saunas BSA2406 2-Person Deluxe Ceramic Infrared Sauna 1-2

Meant for two, the Radiant Saunas BSA2406 2-Person Deluxe Ceramic Infrared Sauna is spacious and comfortable. Enhancing the feeling of luxury is the built-in audio system for listening to music as you relax. Backed by quality certifications of CE, CETL, RoHS and ISO 9001, Radiant offers this model with five ceramic, infrared heaters placed well to ensure uniform heating up to a comfortable 141°F. Chromotherapy lighting system enhances the therapeutic capabilities of the sauna.

Aux inputs, radio and CD player enhance the audio experience as the sauna takes you to a meditative state. The adjustable roof vents help in circulating air and improving the atmosphere inside the sauna. Oxygen ionizer is a bonus to keep the sauna fresh and rejuvenating.

An LED control panel helps with temperature and duration controls. The bronze-tinted tempered glass door makes sure you don’t feel claustrophobic.

It requires 120v and 15-amp power, so make sure you have the right socket. Consult an electrician if you are not sure.

There is a seven-year limited warranty on the wood structure, while heating and electronic items carry a five-year and the radio, a one-year warranty.

Made of Canadian hemlock wood that is hypoallergenic and scar resistant makes this a durable option. It also insulates the sauna, thus making sure that the heat is retained.

A comfortable backrest, magazine rack and towel hooks complete the thoughtful design of this FIRS.

Infrared Sauna Installation

Having selected the far infrared sauna of your choice and made the purchase, you will receive the package in one or multiple parts, with the components arranged in a compact manner for easy shipment. Make sure you check them for any damage the moment you unpack, and also that you have received all the parts.

Check the plug to make sure it matches the sockets available in your home, especially in the location where you plan to place the sauna. Check if the cord is long enough to reach the point. The electricity requirements of the sauna should match the supply in your home. If you do not have it, you may have to install a suitable power outlet. Consult an electrician if you are in doubt.

The packaging should contain instructions for the specific model you have purchased. Follow it carefully to assemble the unit. If you feel unsure, get help.

Once it has been put together, clean it with a damp cloth starting from inside the sauna. Test each component such as the control panel, lights, heating panels, timer, and any entertainment system, separately to make sure they are functioning properly.

A new sauna is likely to have a chemical smell that will go away with some airing. Leave the door open for a few days before using it.

Pricing

The size, brand, construction quality, energy rating and material used are some of the many factors that determine the price of a far infrared sauna. However, our research shows the following to be a good guideline of the pricing range:

  • 2-Person Sauna: $1,500-$2,500
  • 4-Person Sauna: $2,000-$4,000
  • 6-Person Sauna: $6,000-$15,000

Saunas come with extras that would add to the cost:

  • Sound System: $200-$1,000
  • Air Purifier: $150-$250
  • Air Ionizer: $150-$250
  • Color Light Panels: $160-$300 per panel
  • Custom Door: $100-$300
  • Custom Interior: $500-$2,000
  • Aromatherapy Dispenser and Warmer: $200-$300

Infrared Sauna Maintenance Tips

Since the temperature inside the infrared sauna goes up very high and it is dry heat, cleaning is not difficult. But there is a lot of sweating that happens, so there could be some smell left over, and dampness when you are done.

FIRS is not too hard to maintain. Here are some tips that will make sure your sauna remains a healthy get away always:

  • Sauna Bench: Use damp cloth to wipe the bench once you are done and also scrub gently with a hand brush. If you see mold formation, a chemical sauna cleaner or a bleach solution can be used.
  • Sauna Floor: Clean the floor twice weekly with a vacuum cleaner. Mopping with a solution once a month is also a good idea.
  • Sauna Walls: The outer wall may need more attention than inside. For inside, a sauna cleaner works well. Since it is made of wood, clean it like you would clean any furniture.
  • Sauna Heater: Since the heater produces negative ions, it really does not need to be cleaned. However, for your satisfaction, you could wipe them.

The Last Word

Infrared saunas require some steep investment from your end. Therefore, it is good to think it through—not just the model you should opt for, but even whether you want a one-person sauna or something that accommodates more people. It is not something that you will invest in more than once in your lifetime unless you have compelling reasons to. So do thorough research before you add it to your shopping cart and make the payment.

There are indoor and outdoor varieties, portable ones and fixed ones. You also have to consider the safety aspects, making sure that the components that have gone into the making of the sauna are as per standards. The reputation of the brand will become important in such a case, and though it will attract a premium pricing, it is a safer option than choosing a cheaper model of dubious quality. A company with quality certifications is a wiser choice, in such a case.

You must also consider your health when investing in a sauna. While the benefits are many and much of it has been proven through scientific research, most of it has been studied on small samples. Therefore, consult your healthcare professional if you have any special health conditions to make sure you do not risk your health and life. After all, the purpose of a far infrared sauna is relaxation and improvement in your health.

Hopefully, this buyer’s guide with the reviews of the different far infrared models will point you in the right direction. Understand your needs, the promises the brand makes, the pricing, the support provided and the materials used. Once you buy a sauna, make sure you test it for safety and proper functioning before slipping in. Do not forget to check with your electrician about the electrical requirements of the sauna, especially before purchasing and definitely when installing it.

But once you are sure, let nothing stop you from enjoying the benefits of the deep penetration of the far infrared rays into your body and a good sweating session that has you feeling refreshed and energetic. And all this, from the comfort of your home.