Infrared vs Traditional Sauna: Which Is Right for You?

If you’re considering a sauna for your home, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face early on is:

Should you choose an infrared sauna or a traditional sauna?

It’s a common question - and an important one.

Both options offer real benefits, but they deliver very different experiences. The right choice depends on what you’re looking for, how you plan to use your sauna, and what will work best in your space.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences so you can make a confident, informed decision.

The Key Difference (In Simple Terms)

At the most basic level, the difference comes down to how the heat is delivered:

• Infrared saunas use infrared panels to heat your body directly
• Traditional saunas heat the air around you using a heater and (optionally) steam

This difference affects everything else - from temperature and comfort to running costs and overall experience.

Heat and Experience

Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, typically between 40-60°C.

Instead of heating the air intensely, they warm your body more directly.

What this means in practice:

• Gentler heat
• Easier to stay in for longer sessions
• Often preferred by people new to saunas
• Quicker to warm up

Traditional Sauna

Traditional saunas run much hotter, usually between 70-100°C.

They heat the air using a stove or heater, and you can often add water to create steam.

What this means:

• More intense heat
• Classic “sauna” experience
• Steam option adds humidity
• Stronger overall sensory experience

Health and Usage

Both sauna types are used for relaxation and general wellbeing, but people often gravitate toward one or the other depending on preference.

Infrared

Often chosen for:

• Lower heat tolerance
• Short, frequent sessions
• Convenience at home

Traditional

Often chosen for:

• A more immersive, high-heat experience
• A social or shared environment
• A more authentic sauna feel

Installation and Setup

Infrared Sauna

• Usually easier to install
• Often plug-and-play
• Suitable for smaller indoor spaces

This makes infrared a popular option for:

• Spare rooms
• Home gyms
• Compact areas

Traditional Sauna

• Requires a heater (often higher power)
• May need professional electrical installation
• Requires ventilation planning

Outdoor traditional saunas may also need:

• A base
• Weatherproofing
• Additional preparation

Running Costs

Running costs are typically lower than many expect for both types.

• Infrared: Lower energy use, faster heat-up, typically lower cost per session
• Traditional: Higher energy use, longer heat-up time, slightly higher cost per session

However, the difference is usually modest in real-world use, especially when the sauna is properly sized and insulated.

Cost Comparison

• Infrared sauna: Typically £3,000 - £6,000
• Traditional sauna: Typically £5,000 - £15,000+

Outdoor and bespoke traditional saunas can exceed this depending on size and specification.

Space and Practical Considerations

Infrared

• Works well in smaller spaces
• Easier to integrate indoors
• Lower installation complexity

Traditional

• Requires more planning
• More space flexibility (especially outdoors)
• Greater impact as a feature in the home or garden

Which One Is Better?

The honest answer is:

Neither is “better” - they’re just different.

It comes down to what you value most.

Infrared may be right for you if:

• You prefer a gentler heat
• You want something simple and convenient
• You’re working with a smaller indoor space
• You want a lower upfront cost

Traditional may be right for you if:

• You want a classic sauna experience
• You enjoy higher temperatures
• You want the option of steam
• You’re creating a feature in your home or garden

Where Most People Get Stuck

Many buyers understand the differences on paper, but still feel unsure.

The experience is hard to judge without trying it.

What feels “too hot” for one person may feel perfect for another. The same goes for infrared - some love the gentler heat, others prefer something more intense.

Why Seeing Both Matters

At some point, most people reach the same conclusion:

You can only go so far with research.

The real difference becomes clear when you:

• Sit inside each type
• Feel the heat for yourself
• Compare the space, materials, and layout
• Understand what suits you personally

See the Difference for Yourself

If you’re deciding between infrared and traditional, the most useful next step is to experience both in person.

A showroom visit allows you to:

• Compare both types side by side
• Understand the real difference in heat and feel
• See what size and layout works best
• Get advice based on your space and budget

For most people, this removes the uncertainty and makes the decision much easier.

Book a Showroom Visit

If you’re at the stage where you’re comparing options, you’re in the perfect position to visit.

You can book a time here

Or simply get in touch and we’ll arrange a time that works for you.

Not Sure Yet?

If you’re still deciding, that’s completely fine.

• Ask us a question about your space
• Get help narrowing down your options
• Request guidance based on your budget

And when you’re ready, you’re welcome to visit and try both for yourself.