Steam Sauna vs Traditional Sauna - Explained 

Which type of sauna is better for you, dry or wet? Review these two popular options and how each can enhance your wellness routine.

Dry saunas, often found in traditional Finnish settings, offer an intense, dry heat, typically between 160 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. 

These saunas use a stove filled with hot rocks. Occasionally, a splash of water is added to create a brief burst of steam, but the environment stays primarily dry. If you enjoy the feeling of intense heat and heavy sweating, a dry sauna might be your perfect match. It promotes deep detoxification and a profound sense of relaxation.

On the other hand, wet saunas, or steam rooms, provide a different experience. They might seem milder with temperatures between 110 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit, but the high humidity level—often near 100%—makes the heat intense. 

Steam rooms use steam generators to fill the space with moist air. This type of sauna is excellent for those who prefer a gentler heat that hydrates the skin and helps with respiratory health.

So, which one should you choose? It depends on what you’re looking for. Do you prefer the searing, dry heat that makes you sweat buckets or the soothing, humid warmth that opens up your pores and helps you breathe easier? 

Wet Saunas: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Have you ever heard of wet saunas, also known as steam rooms?

They create a warm and humid environment. Unlike dry saunas, which offer dry heat, wet saunas keep things moist. Imagine entering a room where the air feels thick with steam like a cozy mist enveloping you.

Wet saunas use steam generators or the classic method of pouring water over heated rocks to achieve this. The result? A humidity level that can soar up to 100%, creating a sauna experience that's both soothing and relaxing.

The temperature inside a wet sauna is generally lower than in dry saunas, usually between 90 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the lower temperature, the high humidity makes the air feel warm and cozy, offering a comfortable, relaxing environment.

And the benefits? Wet saunas can improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation. The steamy atmosphere can also help clear congestion and improve respiratory health, making it a favorite among those seeking a wholesome wellness experience.

Dry Saunas: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Using electric, wood, or gas-powered heaters, dry saunas elevate the temperature inside the sauna room to a comfortable yet intense level, typically 160 to 195 degrees Fahrenheit. Unlike wet saunas, where humidity levels can be high, dry saunas maintain a low humidity level, usually between 10% and 20%.

But don't be surprised if you encounter a burst of steam in a dry sauna. In Finnish and Korean sauna traditions, users often pour water over hot sauna rocks to create a brief surge of steam—a practice known as löyly.

So, what are the benefits of dry saunas?

Research suggests high temperatures can improve circulation, promote muscle recovery, and enhance skin health. Dry saunas are also valued for their ability to relieve stress, boost metabolism, and aid in detoxification, offering a comprehensive wellness experience for both body and mind.

Comparing Dry and Wet Saunas

Dry saunas and wet saunas are both popular choices for relaxation, but they offer different experiences. Let's explore their differences based on temperature, humidity, heating method, and materials used.

Temperature:

Dry saunas are hotter than wet saunas. In a dry sauna, temperatures range from 160°F to 200°F, while wet saunas usually stay between 110°F and 120°F. The higher temperature in dry saunas leads to more intense sweating and detoxification.

Humidity:

Wet saunas are more humid than dry saunas. They use steam to add moisture to the air, creating a moist environment. This can be helpful for people with respiratory issues or dry skin. However, the high humidity might make breathing difficult for some people.

Heating Method:

Dry saunas heat the air using a heating element, while wet saunas use a steam generator to produce steam. The method of heating can influence the overall sauna experience.

Material:

The materials used in saunas can also affect the experience. Dry saunas are typically wood, while wet saunas can be constructed with tile or other non-porous materials. The choice of material can impact the temperature and humidity levels inside the sauna.

In conclusion, both dry and wet saunas have their benefits. The decision between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and individual needs.

Dry Sauna vs. Wet Sauna: Which One Suits You Best?

Choosing between these two depends on what you prefer. Consider each type's unique benefits and how they align with your sauna goals.

A dry sauna might be your best bet if you enjoy a hotter, drier environment and like the sensation of sweating out toxins. Conversely, a wet sauna could be more suitable if you prefer a more humid atmosphere and appreciate the moisture on your skin.

No matter which sauna you choose, always remember to keep yourself hydrated and pay attention to your body's signals. If you feel uncomfortable or dizzy, take a break and cool off. Your time in the sauna should be relaxing and refreshing, so discover what suits you best.

Tips for Choosing the right Sauna for You

Choosing the proper sauna can enhance your relaxation and wellness experience. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

1. Determine Your Preferences:

Think about what you value in a sauna experience. Do you prefer high heat and dry air or a more humid environment with steam? Consider factors like temperature, humidity, and overall ambiance.

2. Consider Available Space:

Take measurements of the area where you plan to install the sauna. Consider the size and layout of the space to determine whether a traditional sauna, infrared sauna, or portable sauna would be the best fit.

3. Research Different Types of Saunas:

Explore the various saunas available, such as traditional Finnish saunas, infrared saunas, steam rooms, and portable saunas. Each type has unique benefits and features, so it's essential to understand the differences before deciding.

4. Set a Budget:

Determine how much you're willing to spend on a sauna. Prices can vary depending on the sauna's type, size, and features. Setting a budget will limit options and ensure you find a sauna that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

5. Assess Installation Requirements:

Consider the installation requirements for the sauna you're interested in. Traditional saunas may require electrical wiring and ventilation, while portable saunas are typically easier to set up. Ensure you're prepared to meet any installation needs before purchasing.

6. Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations:

Before purchasing your final product, read reviews from other sauna owners and seek recommendations from friends, family, or wellness professionals. Hearing about others' feedback and experiences can offer valuable insights and help you buy the proper sauna.

7. Test it Out:

Visit a showroom or spa that offers saunas. Testing out different types of saunas firsthand can give you a better idea of what you enjoy and help you make a more informed decision.

8. Consider Additional Features:

Think about any additional features or accessories you may want, such as built-in speakers, chromotherapy lighting, or aromatherapy options. These extras can enhance your sauna experience and make it even more enjoyable.

What is a wet sauna?

A wet sauna generates steam to create a warm and humid environment. Unlike dry saunas, which rely on heating elements to raise the air temperature, wet saunas use a steam generator.

This steam adds moisture to the air, creating a humid atmosphere that can benefit respiratory health and skin hydration.

In a wet sauna, the humidity level can reach 100%, creating an enveloping warmth and moisture sensation.

This can make the sauna experience feel more intense compared to dry saunas, where the air is typically dry and the temperature is higher. Wet saunas are often constructed with materials that can withstand high humidity levels, such as tile or glass, and may feature seating areas where users can relax and enjoy the steam.

How long is too long in a wet sauna?

Spending too much time in a wet sauna can cause overheating and dehydration, so you must be mindful of how long you stay inside. The ideal duration of a sauna depends on factors such as individual tolerance to heat, overall health, and hydration levels.

In general, it is recommended to limit sauna sessions to 15 to 20 minutes, especially for beginners or those not accustomed to the heat. Regular breaks between sessions to cool down and rehydrate are essential for preventing overheating and dehydration.

Extended exposure to high temperatures in a wet sauna can strain the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Signs that you may have spent too long in a damp sauna include dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and feeling faint.

Listen to your body and how you're feeling during your sauna session. If you start to feel uncomfortable or lightheaded, it's important to exit the sauna and cool down immediately. Stay hydrated before, during, and after the sauna, maintain fluid balance, and prevent dehydration.

Should you be wet going into a sauna?

While it's unnecessary to be wet before entering a sauna, some people dampen their skin with water before entering to enhance the sauna experience. Adding water to the skin can help increase the sensation of heat and make it easier to sweat, which may promote a more profound sense of relaxation and detoxification.

However, whether you choose to be wet or dry before entering a sauna is a personal preference. Some people prefer to enter the sauna with dry skin, allowing their bodies to sweat and heat up naturally. In contrast, others may find that dampening their skin beforehand enhances the sauna experience.

Suppose you dampen your skin before entering a sauna. In that case, it's important to use lukewarm water and avoid getting too wet, as excessive moisture can make it difficult for your body to regulate its temperature effectively.

Additionally, rinse off any lotions, oils, or other products from your skin before entering the sauna, as these can interfere with the sweating process and may create unpleasant odors when heated.

Ultimately, whether you choose to be wet or dry before entering a sauna depends on your preferences and comfort level. Experimenting with different approaches can help determine what works best for you and enhance your sauna experience.

Does a wet sauna need a drain?

A wet sauna typically requires a drain to prevent water from accumulating on the floor and creating a slippery or hazardous environment. Since wet saunas rely on steam to add moisture to the air, condensation can form on the walls, ceiling, and surfaces within the sauna, leading to excess moisture that needs to be drained away.

Having a drain in the sauna's floor allows any excess water or condensation to be safely collected and removed, helping to maintain a clean, dry, and safe environment for sauna users.

Additionally, a drain can help prevent water damage to the sauna's flooring and other components by channeling moisture away from the interior space.

The design and placement of the drain in a wet sauna can vary depending on factors such as the sauna's size and layout and local building codes and regulations.

Some wet saunas may feature a central floor drain, while others may have drains along the walls or in specific areas where water accumulates.