TLDR

 

 

• Infrared saunas use radiant heat to warm your body directly, while steam saunas use moist heat from steam.

 

• Steam saunas offer higher humidity and intense heat, ideal for relaxation and respiratory benefits; infrared saunas provide gentler heat, deeper tissue penetration, and greater energy efficiency.

 

• Choose based on your health goals: deep sweat and muscle recovery (infrared), or traditional sauna experience with steam and humidity (steam). Explore Centuraheat's sauna range for your perfect fit.

 

 

Infrared vs Traditional Steam Sauna: Which Is Better for Your Home Wellness Routine?

Saunas are no longer just a luxury spa feature. More homeowners are now investing in home saunas to support recovery, relaxation, and long-term wellbeing. But one big question always comes up first: infrared sauna vs traditional sauna - which is better?

Both options deliver powerful sauna health benefits, but they work in completely different ways. One uses radiant light to warm the body directly. The other fills a cabin with hot, humid air for a classic spa experience. The right choice depends on your goals, space, and the kind of heat your body responds to best.

At CenturaHeat, we specialise in both infrared light saunas and traditional steam saunas, so here’s a clear, side-by-side breakdown to help you decide.

How the Heat Works: Infrared vs Steam

The core difference comes down to how your body gets hot.

A traditional steam sauna heats the air using a stove or electric heater. Water is poured over hot stones to create steam, raising humidity and surrounding you in thick, hot air. Temperatures are usually higher than people expect, but because of the moisture, the heat feels heavy and immersive. This is the classic sauna experience people associate with spas and Nordic traditions.

An infrared sauna works differently. Instead of heating the air, infrared panels emit light waves that heat your body directly. The air temperature stays lower, but you still sweat deeply because the warmth penetrates beneath the skin. Many users describe this as a more comfortable, breathable heat.

This difference is why infrared sessions often feel gentler while still producing an intense sweat. It’s also why people who struggle with very hot, humid environments often prefer infrared.

If you want to explore modern infrared options, you can browse our range of infrared light saunas here:
https://centuraheat.co.uk/collections/saunas?sort_by=best-selling&filter.p.m.custom.sauna_type=Infrared+Light+Sauna&filter.v.price.gte=&filter.v.price.lte=

For those drawn to the authentic spa feel, our traditional steam sauna collection is here:
https://centuraheat.co.uk/collections/saunas?sort_by=best-selling&filter.p.m.custom.sauna_type=Traditional+Steam+Sauna&filter.v.price.gte=&filter.v.price.lte=

Health Benefits: Similar Goals, Different Strengths

Both sauna types support circulation, relaxation, and detox through sweating, but the experience and emphasis differ.

Infrared saunas are often chosen for:

• Muscle recovery after workouts

• Joint and back pain relief

• Supporting circulation and cardiovascular health

• Longer, more comfortable sessions at lower temperatures

Because infrared heat penetrates deeper into tissue, it can feel especially effective for tight muscles and post-exercise recovery. That’s why infrared is popular with athletes and gym users.

Traditional steam saunas shine when it comes to:

• Respiratory comfort from warm, moist air

• A deeply calming, spa-like environment

• Skin cleansing through heavy sweating

• A more traditional wellness ritual

Humidity plays a big role here. The moist air can help open airways and create a soothing effect that dry heat simply does not replicate.

Wellness publications have explored these differences in detail. For example, GQ breaks down how each type affects the body and recovery.

Similarly, The Beauty Chef compares infrared and steam benefits from a skin and wellness perspective.

Humidity and Comfort Levels

One of the biggest deciding factors is how you tolerate heat.

A steam sauna is high humidity, often close to 100 percent. The air feels thick and intense, which many people love because it creates that authentic spa sensation. However, some users find it overwhelming, especially during longer sessions.

An infrared sauna is a dry heat sauna. There is little to no humidity, so breathing feels easier and the environment is less claustrophobic for some. Even though the air is cooler, your body still sweats heavily due to the direct radiant heat.

If you enjoy the feeling of steam on your skin and that enveloping warmth, traditional may be your style. If you prefer a more breathable environment where you can sit comfortably for longer, infrared often wins.

Energy Efficiency and Running Costs

From a practical standpoint, infrared saunas are typically more energy efficient.

They heat up faster and run at lower air temperatures, which usually means lower electricity usage per session. For many homeowners, this makes infrared a more convenient option for regular use, especially in busy households where quick heat-up times matter.

Traditional steam saunas require more power to heat the air and maintain humidity. They also tend to take longer to reach full temperature. While the experience is luxurious, the running cost is usually higher compared to infrared.

So if your priority is low running costs and quick sessions, infrared has an edge. If your priority is the classic spa atmosphere, the extra energy use may feel worth it.

Installation and Space Considerations

Installation is another area where these two differ.

Infrared saunas are generally easier to install. Many models are plug-and-play, require no plumbing, and can be placed in spare rooms, home gyms, or large bedrooms. This makes them popular for indoor residential use.

Traditional steam saunas often require more planning. You may need proper ventilation, waterproof materials, and in some cases professional installation for heaters and electrics. They are still very achievable in homes, but they demand a bit more setup.

If you want a simpler path to adding a home wellness space, infrared is often the easier starting point. If you are building a dedicated spa area and want that hotel-style feel, traditional steam is a strong choice.

Cost and Long-Term Value

When comparing infrared sauna vs traditional sauna cost, infrared models often start at a lower price point, especially for compact 1–2 person cabins. Lower running costs also make them appealing over time.

Traditional saunas can have higher upfront costs due to heaters, materials, and installation. Over the long term, they may also require more maintenance because moisture affects wood and components.

That said, many people see a traditional sauna as a lifestyle investment that adds luxury and even potential property appeal. Infrared is often seen as a practical wellness tool focused on frequent use and recovery.

So, Which Sauna Is Better?

Here’s the honest answer: neither is universally better - they are better for different people.

Choose an infrared sauna if you want:

• Deep muscle warmth at lower air temperatures

• A dry, breathable environment

• Faster heat-up times and lower running costs

• A compact, easy-to-install home sauna

Choose a traditional steam sauna if you want:

• A humid, spa-style experience

• Steam and heat that feel immersive and intense

• Respiratory comfort from warm, moist air

• A classic, heritage sauna atmosphere

Both options deliver powerful relaxation, stress relief, and circulation benefits when used consistently.

Explore Your Options with CenturaHeat

Whether you’re leaning towards infrared light therapy or the timeless appeal of a traditional steam sauna, the most important thing is choosing a model that fits your space and how you actually want to use it.

You can explore CenturaHeat’s full range of premium home saunas here:

Infrared Light Saunas

Traditional Steam Saunas

If you’re still unsure, contact us and one of our specialists can help match your wellness goals, room size, and budget to the right sauna. The right choice is the one you’ll actually use regularly - because consistency is where the real benefits begin.

 

FAQs

 

Is infrared sauna heat safe for sensitive skin?

 

Yes, infrared saunas produce a gentler, dry heat that is generally well tolerated by sensitive skin and reduces irritation compared to the moist heat of steam saunas.

 

Can I use a steam sauna if I have asthma?

 

Many people with asthma find steam saunas helpful for opening airways, but consult your doctor first to ensure it suits your health condition.

 

How long should I stay in an infrared sauna compared to a steam sauna?

 

Infrared sessions typically last 20-40 minutes due to lower operating temperatures; steam sauna sessions are often shorter, around 10-20 minutes, due to intense heat and humidity.

 

Do steam saunas require more maintenance than infrared saunas?

 

Yes, steam saunas need regular cleaning and inspection to avoid mould and corrosion from moisture, whereas infrared saunas require less maintenance.

 

Which sauna type is more energy efficient?

 

Infrared saunas are generally more energy-efficient, heating directly and at lower temperatures, resulting in lower electricity bills.