A Guide to Choosing the Best Sauna for Your Home

Are you considering investing in a sauna for your home? If so, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know to choose the best sauna for your needs.

Benefits of Owning a Sauna

Saunas have been a staple in homes for generations, and it's easy to see why. Not only do they provide a relaxing escape from the stresses of daily life, but they also offer numerous health benefits. Some of these benefits include improved circulation, reduced stress, and relief from joint and muscle pain.

Types of Saunas

When it comes to choosing a sauna, you have several options to consider. The most common types of saunas include traditional hot rock saunas, infrared saunas, and steam saunas/showers. Each type has its own unique benefits, so it's important to consider which type will best suit your needs.

Traditional Hot Rock Saunas

Traditional Finnish saunas use heated rocks to create steam and heat. This type of sauna is known for its dry and intense heat, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more intense sauna experience. You can pour water over the heated rocks to achieve your desired humidity level. This type of sauna is best for those that want to achieve the very highest heat and like to bring on an intense sweat for detoxing.

Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas use infrared heat lamps to penetrate deep into the body, providing a more gentle and relaxing heat. This type of sauna is ideal for those who want to avoid the intense heat of traditional hot rock saunas. Most infrared sauna research is done on far infrared saunas with a consensus that there are a multitude of health benefits. Talk to your doctor about using an infrared sauna if you have any health concerns.

Steam Saunas/Showers

Steam showers or saunas use steam to create a moist and relaxing environment. This type of sauna is ideal for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a sauna without the intense heat. Here at Vital Hydrotherapy all our steam saunas are steam showers. They double as a fully functional shower typically with a rainfall shower head, a handheld shower want, and a seat. Some even come as a tub shower so you have the best of all three items in one great product. Why buy a tub, shower, and sauna when you can get it in one product!

Features to Consider When Choosing a Sauna

When choosing a sauna, there are several features to consider. These include the size of the sauna, the type of heating system, and the materials used in construction.

Size of the Sauna

When choosing a sauna, consider the size of the room where it will be installed. Make sure to measure the space before purchasing a sauna to ensure it will fit comfortably. What activities do you want to pursue in your sauna? How many people will want to sauna at one time? If you just wish to sit upright a smaller sauna will meet your needs, but make sure to invest in a larger sauna for the ability to fully recline on the bench or to allow multiple family members to sauna together. Do you want to do yoga in your sauna? Check out our 6 person or larger saunas for the maximum space for working out. Also note how much space you prefer sitting with your sauna partner. Some two person saunas would require you to be right next to each other, while a "3 person" sauna might be a better choice for your situation and give more elbow room.

Heating System

The heating system is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a sauna. What benefits are you looking for? Are EMF levels a concern? Golden Designs offers a variety of low to zero EMF saunas. Some of our saunas work with a 6kW or 8kW traditional heater while other brands come with 3kW or 4.5kW heaters. All Mesa steam showers come with 3kW units, Athena steam showers come with 4.5kW steam generators, and Platinum steam showers come standard with powerful 6kW steam generators. If you're going with an infrared, do you want far infrared only, or full spectrum?

Materials Used in Construction

The materials used in the construction of a sauna are also important to consider. Look for saunas made with high-quality materials, such as cedar or redwood, to ensure durability and longevity. Canadian Hemlock is a popular sauna material for its heat retention. Aspen is a good choice for anyone with sensitivities and allergies.

Choosing the Right Sauna for Your Home

With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which sauna is the best fit for your home. Consider your individual needs, such as the type of heat you prefer and the size of the room where the sauna will be installed, to make the best decision.

Conclusion

A sauna can provide numerous health benefits and a relaxing escape from the stresses of daily life. By considering the type of sauna, heating system, and materials used in construction, you can choose the best sauna for your home.