Are you looking to buy an infrared sauna for sale? Picking a good one can be daunting, especially with the many options on the market. In addition, you’ll want to consider factors like size, features, type, and others. 

In this article, we’ll discuss how an infrared sauna actually works, how to pick the right sauna size, and how to get the best sauna model for your needs.

How Does an Infrared Sauna Work?

A common misconception about infrared saunas is that they also use drops of water and hot rocks like traditional saunas do. However, unlike the latter, infrared saunas heat your body directly and make you sweat at lower temperatures. This is also why they’re preferred among those who can’t bear higher temperature points and want to have longer sessions.

An infrared sauna works by using infrared heaters to emit infrared radiation, which is a type of energy that is invisible to the human eye. These rays are then absorbed by your body, which causes the temperature of the body to rise. 

It’s worth mentioning that infrared saunas don’t heat up your surroundings, which is what a traditional one does. The heat penetrates deep into the body, heating it from the inside out, rather than just heating the air around the body. This deep heating can have a number of health benefits.

As you use an infrared sauna, the light waves increase your blood flow throughout your body, reflecting a faster heart rate and circulation. Such conditions can help improve your overall physical health. Other infrared sauna benefits include detoxification, improved blood pressure, weight loss, good skin health, and better sleep.

Where Do I Put an Infrared Sauna?

An infrared sauna can be placed in a variety of locations, depending on your personal preferences and the space you have available. Some popular options include:

• In the home: Infrared saunas can be placed in a variety of rooms in the home, such as a basement, spare room, or even a bathroom. They take up less space than traditional saunas and can be easily assembled and disassembled.

• In a gym or fitness center: Many gyms and fitness centers have started to offer infrared saunas as an added amenity for their members. They can be placed in a designated sauna room or in a private area for personal use.

• In a spa or wellness center: Many spas and wellness centers now offer infrared sauna sessions as part of their services. They can be placed in a designated sauna room or in a private area for personal use.

• Outdoors: Some infrared saunas are designed for outdoor use and can be placed in a backyard or on a deck, as long as they are covered with an awning or other structure.

When selecting a location for an infrared sauna, it's important to consider the electrical requirements for the unit, as well as the ventilation and privacy needs. It's also important to make sure that the location is dry, well-ventilated, and protected from moisture.

On top of that, it's also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for the sauna installation and maintenance, and if you're unsure, it's best to consult a professional.

We highly recommend that you place your infrared sauna indoors, especially since it uses electricity to emit the rays you need for your relaxation sessions. However, it would be helpful to consider your selected sauna size and configuration when choosing where to put it inside your home.

Clearly, you would need a huge space if you purchased a big four-person infrared sauna. So placing it in the garage or basement would be excellent. On the other hand, a smaller one like the TheraSauna Classic 1-Person Far-Infrared Sauna would have no problems sitting inside a bathroom or attic.

Or you can also opt for a portable infrared sauna (the Health Mate Essential Comfort Infrared Sauna is pictured above) that you can move around at home, or take with you on trips.

Unlike traditional saunas that require specific floor types, infrared models can be placed on almost any leveled surface. But you do want to ensure that the area doesn’t have damp surroundings. If you have a second floor, you can also put your sauna there as long as the floor is sturdy enough to withstand its weight.

What Sauna Size Should I Get?

One of the first things to consider when choosing an infrared sauna is the size and design of the unit. You will want to choose a sauna that is just enough for you and your needs.

Picking an infrared sauna that is too big will end up in unnecessary electric consumption. This would also push up your utility bills, not to mention that bigger saunas usually cost more to purchase. On the other hand, can you even call your sauna session “relaxing” if you’re uncomfortable due to the cramped space? 

When choosing a sauna size, it’s best to consider the following factors.

• Number of people who will be using it at the same time

• How large is the available space you have

• Budget for upfront purchase and utility bills

Single-person sauna

These saunas are designed for one person and are typically smaller in size. They are perfect for those with limited space, such as small apartments or home gyms.

Two-person sauna

These saunas are designed for two people and are slightly larger than single-person saunas. They are perfect for couples or small families.

Three-person sauna

These saunas are designed for three people and are slightly larger than two-person saunas. They are perfect for small families or groups of friends.

Four-person sauna

These saunas are designed for four people and are larger than three-person saunas. They are perfect for larger families or groups of friends.

Custom saunas

If you have a specific size or design in mind, many manufacturers offer custom-made saunas.

Overall, if you’re using it solo or with your partner, a 2-person sauna would be sufficient. Meanwhile, a bigger model like the Golden Designs 4-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna with Himalayan Salt may be a better fit if you have a larger family or want to entertain guests. 

Measure the area you have in mind and make sure the sauna you choose will fit comfortably in there. Do remember that you'll need enough space around the sauna for easy access and proper ventilation.

Near-Infrared, Far-Infrared, or Full-Spectrum: Which Should You Choose?

There are three common types of infrared saunas, though their differences are often ignored by many. These are the near, far, and full-spectrum infrared saunas. While they only differ in terms of the type of light waves they emit, there are indeed some unique benefits based on which of the three you select. 

Near-Infrared Sauna

Near-infrared saunas produce rays that can penetrate beneath your skin up to 5mm deep, which can offer several potential benefits. Some of them include rejuvenating your skin with improved collagen production and circulation, reducing pain and inflammation, as well as many other advantages.

Far-Infrared Sauna

Unlike those of near-infrared saunas, the rays utilized by a far-infrared model can only go as deep as 0.1mm. As your body absorbs far-infrared light waves, your blood flow and core temperature increase. They are preferred when thinking of potential health benefits like improved circulation, relaxation, detoxification, and muscle pain relief.

Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna

If you’re looking for the benefits of both the two common types above, a full-spectrum infrared sauna should be your choice. This type incorporates both near and far infrared light waves, offering more comprehensive advantages.

Keep in mind that while these three types of infrared saunas are great for various health benefits, consulting a healthcare professional should still be your first step.

Other Features to Look for in an Infrared Sauna