The 10 Best At-Home Infrared Saunas of 2024

Infrared saunas may improve heart health, soothe sore muscles, offer pain relief, help you sleep better, improve your immune system, and more.

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This story was created by Men's Journal in partnership with Sun Home Saunas.

Infrared saunas have surged in popularity over recent decades, and for good reason. While traditional saunas are acclaimed for their health benefits, infrared saunas have added advantages. According to the Cleveland Clinic, they can enhance heart health, relieve sore muscles, provide pain alleviation, improve sleep quality, bolster the immune system, and more. In this article, we delve into our top picks for the best at-home infrared saunas of 2024.

Infrared saunas operate at a lower heat level, typically between 110 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, yielding maximum benefits. In contrast, traditional saunas require higher temperatures, which some find challenging. Infrared saunas directly heat the body using full-spectrum infrared heaters.

Home infrared saunas appeal to those who seek the benefits of an infrared sauna but find it challenging to select from the vast options available. We've curated the best in-home infrared saunas based on various needs.

Best Overall: Equinox 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna, $6,299 (was $6,999) at Sun Home Saunas

For a daily-use compact infrared sauna, consider the Sun Home Equinox Two-Person Infrared Sauna. This model excels in engineering, design, and performance, utilizing advanced full-spectrum heating that provides near-, mid-, and far-infrared wavelengths.

The sauna includes EMF/ELF-blocking technology and has been third-party tested. It employs Celliant technology, which converts body heat into infrared energy, and is constructed from eco-friendly, non-toxic wood. There's much to appreciate about the Equinox two-person infrared sauna.

Best Outdoor Infrared Sauna: Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna, $9,099 (was $9,799) at Sun Home Saunas

If you have adequate outdoor space and enjoy sauna bathing with others, the Luminar is the only outdoor sauna worldwide equipped with 10 full-spectrum infrared heaters (near, mid, and far). This sophisticated sauna also features heat-treated carbonized wood to maintain optimal outdoor temperatures and offers a spacious design.

The Luminar boasts weather resistance, 15 heaters (10 full-spectrum infrared), an app-enabled control center, Bluetooth premium surround sound, medical-grade chromotherapy, and more.

Best Budget-Friendly Infrared Sauna: Elibbren Single Person Infrared Sauna, $1,366 (was $4,748) at Wayfair

This indoor infrared sauna, crafted from solid hemlock wood, is a superb addition to any home. Standing 61.4 inches high and 35 inches wide, it fits perfectly into any unused corner while offering optimal relaxation.

The sauna includes a tempered glass door, comfortable bench, built-in carbon heating plate, LED lighting, and Bluetooth compatibility.

Best Portable Infrared Sauna: Luminati Infrared Sauna, $3,510 (was $3,900) at Sauna Space

For a lightweight, compact portable sauna option, the Luminati stands out. This sauna offers tool-free assembly and is ideal for those frequently on the move or short on space. It features a hand-blown infrared bulb for full-spectrum infrared therapy, free from EMFs.

The Luminati includes a machine-washable cover and is wheelchair accessible.

Best Personal Sauna: Solstice 1-Person Infrared Sauna, $4,799 (was $5,299) at Sun Home Saunas

Perfect for limited space or private use, this model provides gentle and effective infrared heat to relax and heal your body, boost your immune system, and increase blood circulation.

Fitted with ultra-low EMF heaters, medical-grade chromotherapy, ergonomic benches, and Bluetooth surround sound, it occupies minimal space. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty!

Best Ceramic Infrared Sauna: HeatWave BSA-2406 2-Person Deluxe Ceramic Infrared Sauna, $2,388 (was $2,600) at Amazon

Featuring well-placed far-infrared heaters, an integrated audio system, and durable Canadian Hemlock construction, this two-person sauna is highly rated on Amazon for its easy assembly and comes with a seven-year warranty.

Best Foldable Sauna: Foldaway Sauna, $1,095 at UltraLux

This compact foldable sauna heats up to 170 degrees Fahrenheit in just 30 minutes (optimal infrared temperatures are between 120 and 150 degrees). It includes microfiber neck support and a bamboo chair for added comfort, relaxation, and convenience.

Best Indoor Sauna: Xspracer Moray 1-Person Indoor Sauna, $1919 (was $5,529) at Home Depot

Constructed with a built-in crystal carbon heating board and gentle infrared heat, this one-person indoor sauna is made from top-quality natural Finland spruce wood and features two high-quality speakers for an ultimate sauna experience.

Best Unique Design: SereneLife Portable Infrared Home Spa, $214 (was $224) at Amazon

For a unique sauna experience that keeps your head out, the SereneLife one-person sauna is ideal. This sauna lets you relax and reap all the infrared benefits while reading a book or magazine. The portable sauna includes a chair and temperature controller to ensure a low-maintenance, rejuvenating infrared session.

Best Convenient Choice: Infrared Sauna Blanket, $499 at Sun Home Saunas

If a full-sized sauna isn't for you, consider a Sun Home infrared sauna blanket. This highly affordable model offers the benefits of infrared technology in a portable format. It's easy to clean, made of nontoxic fabric, and leaves you feeling refreshed.

Whether you have ample space and a generous budget or limited space and a tight budget, there's an infrared sauna option for everyone.

FAQs

What to Consider When Looking for the Best Home Sauna

Several factors come into play when selecting a home sauna. First, decide between an infrared or traditional sauna, as each offers different benefits. Then, consider the available space—whether you have a large backyard or are working with a smaller area. Determine if you prefer sauna bathing alone or with others.

Also, consider the materials: opt for lightweight options or heavier models and decide if you want a nontoxic wood. Ensure whether the sauna is meant for indoor or outdoor use by reading the product description carefully. For outdoor models, confirm that the material is weather-resistant.

Finally, decide if you need high-tech features like Bluetooth surround sound or app controllers or prefer a simpler model.

What's Better: Infrared or Traditional Saunas?

While traditional saunas have their benefits, infrared saunas have gained favor for their numerous health benefits. Infrared heat lamps deeply penetrate the skin, aiding with pain, poor mental health, and tired muscles. They also support the immune system and improve sleep. Although more research is needed, some claim infrared saunas are detoxifying.

Traditional saunas, invented in Finland and still popular today, have been around for thousands of years. A 2018 review highlighted regular sauna sessions' benefits on heart health and cognitive function. Both types of saunas may enhance the immune system.

What Are the Benefits of a Home Sauna?

Having a home sauna offers the immense benefit of access anytime. If your sauna fits multiple people, it can be a relaxing social activity with friends or family. Depending on your usage, it might save money and time compared to visiting a sauna elsewhere.

What Is the Healthiest Form of Sauna?

Both infrared and traditional saunas offer significant health benefits. For muscle relaxation and mental health improvement, opt for a modern infrared sauna. To experience traditional bathing sessions, a classic sauna suits the purpose best.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the ideal at-home infrared sauna is a step towards greater wellness and self-care. This list of the 10 best at-home infrared saunas for 2024 can help transform your living space into a personal health sanctuary. For assistance in finding the perfect sauna for your lifestyle, the experts at Sun Home Saunas are available to offer personalized guidance based on your unique needs and preferences. You can contact them here.

Find Your Perfect Infrared Sauna Online

Infrared saunas, although not as fierce as the molten metal pool from Terminator 2, reach high temperatures and prompt numerous beneficial changes in the body.

In Arnold Schwarzenegger's newsletter titled "See You In The Sauna," dated June 15th, he discusses sauna benefits. Notably, studies link sauna use to lower risks of cardiovascular disease and reduced mortality rates.

• Regular sauna users (15 minutes, four to seven times weekly) saw nearly a 50% reduction in fatal coronary heart disease rates.
• Thirty minutes of sauna time improved arterial function and reduced blood pressure.
• In an eight-week study, regular exercisers who added sauna use had lower blood pressure and better cardiovascular health compared to those who did not.

Our Best-Selling Full-Spectrum Infrared Saunas

#1 Most Affordable
#2 Most Durable in Damp Environments
#3 Best for Holistic Wellness

Dynamic Saunas Santiago 2 Person Infrared Sauna
Maxxus 3 Person Infrared Sauna
Golden Designs Reserve 4 Person Infrared Sauna

What Makes It More Affordable:

• 82% cheaper than the Maxxus 3 Person Infrared Sauna and 108% cheaper than the Golden Designs Reserve 4 Person Infrared Sauna
• Only has an interior LED panel reducing manufacturing and purchase costs compared to others that feature both interior and exterior panels
• Doesn't require a dedicated circuit thus saving handyman costs

What Makes It Durable:

• Cedar's natural resins make it water-resistant
• Cedar is insect resistant thanks to its natural oils, which are toxic to insects
• More resistant to decay compared to Hemlock, as aromatic wood attracts and deters insects like moths and beetles

Features that Provide Holistic Wellness:

• Drier sauna experiences as Himalayan salt absorbs steam in the sauna
• Enhanced detoxification as the salt retains more heat in the sauna, increasing sweating
• Equipped with 5 full spectrum near-infrared heaters (the most compared to the other two saunas) for deeper tissue penetration aiding muscle recovery and pain relief

Which Health Issues Are Helped With Sauna Use?

Sauna use has been practiced historically for various health benefits. Here are some issues regularly addressed by sauna use:

• Reduce stress - Frequent users (5-15 times per month) recorded higher mental health well-being scores on the SF-12 tool.
• Lower blood pressure - Before sauna exposure, individuals had a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 137 (16) mmHg. It reduced to 130 (14) mmHg post-session and remained for 30 minutes.
• Assist with weight loss - A study on sauna-induced body mass loss found greater loss in overweight/obese individuals compared to underweight individuals.
• Provide better sleep - Surveyed 423 participants, 353 experienced better sleep quality post-sauna use; more than 80% reported improved sleep quality.
• Improve immunity - Seven days of sauna exposure increased natural killer T cells (NKT) by about 1.8%, aiding in fighting infections and inflammatory conditions.
• Alleviate pain - Post-therapy pain intensity reduced with a median improvement of 3 on the pain scale.
• Aid muscle recovery - Participants rated infrared sauna therapy recovery between 0.1 and 0.7, compared to -0.5 for passive recovery, indicating better recovery with sauna use.

Why Should I Get a Home Infrared Sauna?

An infrared sauna at home provides the same benefits as using one at a gym or spa but offers convenience and potential cost savings.

Visiting a spa regularly can be expensive. Average costs per session range around $48. If you go to the spa weekly for a year, it costs $2,496. Over two years, it costs $4,992, and so on. Investing in a home sauna could be more economical in the long term.

Regular sauna users save money and time by installing a home infrared sauna rather than commuting to a gym or spa.

Only minimal electricity costs are required to operate a home sauna. The annual electricity cost for using the Santiago Sauna once a week is only about $10.12.

Purchasing your own infrared sauna becomes a logical choice for long-term use and savings.

SunRay Saunas Bristol Bay 4-Person Infrared Sauna

HL400KC

The SunRay Saunas Bristol Bay 4-Person Infrared Sauna offers spacious, comfortable relaxation with carbon nano heaters and luxurious features.

• Free Shipping
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Can I Use an Infrared Sauna as a Wellness Spa?

Yes. A sauna can immensely benefit your physical and emotional well-being.

In today's stressful times, a wellness spa atmosphere can mitigate work-related stress that 83% of US workers face. Stress impacts emotional well-being, causing:

• Sleep deprivation
• Neck pain
• Burnout
• Depression
• Difficulty sleeping

How Infrared Saunas Impact Sleep Positively

The heat action in infrared saunas helps users sleep better. Heating the body with infrared rays reduces oxidative stress and muscle stiffness. Ambient lighting and calming music during the session can help users relax.

Combined effects lead to falling asleep more easily and having uninterrupted sleep.

Akinori, a psychosomatic medicine doctor at Kagoshima University Hospital, Shinichi, specializing in Cardiovascular, Respiratory, and Metabolic Medicine, and others studied repeated thermal therapy for chronic pain patients. They evaluated sleep scores by investigating items like falling asleep easily, staying asleep, and waking up early.

Participants exposed to infrared sauna therapy reported lower sleep scores (better sleep) compared to non-therapy groups.

Impact of Infrared Saunas on Body Pain

Infrared saunas alleviate body pain by reducing oxidative stress and minimizing muscle spasms and tenderness. Before infrared sauna therapy, low back pain patients had a median pain scale of 5. It reduced to 3 after 15 minutes in an infrared sauna.

Infrared Therapy Improves Exhaustion and Burnout

Work-induced exhaustion and burnout affect about 83% of workers. Infrared heat therapy reduces oxidative stress, which leads to burnout. Some saunas include Bluetooth or Mp3 inputs allowing users to listen to calming music for relaxation.

Research by Keiko of Seifuso Hospital and Waon Therapy Research Institute found infrared therapy alleviates chronic fatigue syndrome. Participants in the study showed improved physical functionality, reduced body pain, and enhanced vitality after 30 infrared dry sauna sessions over three weeks.

Regular use of as little as 20 minutes can make a significant difference.

The Correlation Between Infrared Saunas and Depression

Frequent infrared sauna use alleviates depression symptoms, such as feelings of misery, hopelessness, and loneliness. The heat action in infrared saunas inhibits sympathetic nerves and activates parasympathetic nerves, reducing heart rate and stress, causing state of calm.

• Reduced heart rate
• Slower, deeper breaths
• Reduced stress and a state of calm

These actions improve mood and minimize depressive episodes.

Can I Use an Infrared Sauna for Post-Workout Recovery?

Yes. Infrared saunas improve post-workout recovery for regular exercisers. The heat keeps muscles from getting too cold, which causes tightness and reduces range of motion. It dilates blood vessels, improving blood flow, reducing waste accumulation, and minimizing inflammation. Infrared saunas alleviate pain and restore muscular strength, enhancing workout recovery.

What Benefits Do Infrared Saunas Offer Over Steam Saunas?

Infrared saunas have several advantages compared to traditional steam saunas:

Achieve a Deeper Heat

Infrared saunas penetrate infrared light into the body, directly