Buying guide for best infrared saunas
Ready to buy now? Shop the best:
Are you considering making an investment in self care and wellness? An infrared sauna is a popular choice for those who seek a comforting experience with therapeutic heat and light.
Unlike a traditional sauna, which relies on a convection heat source, an infrared sauna warms the space with light. This means that infrared saunas are effective at a lower temperature while still providing a great sweat experience. As a result, they’re preferred by people who aren’t comfortable in the high heat of traditional saunas. Infrared saunas are available as portable or more permanent wooden models, and there’s one for every budget.
We at BestReviews are here to help make your decision easier, so we’re sharing this buying guide on infrared saunas. Read on to learn more about their features and benefits and pick up a few shopping tips while you’re at it. Our top choice is the Dynamic Saunas Barcelona 2-Person Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna, which includes Bluetooth and built-in speakers so you can listen to music while you unwind.
Editors’ picks
Dynamic Saunas Barcelona Two-Person Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna
Editors' Favorite
Dimensions: 39” W x 36” D x 74” H | Maximum Temperature: 135 degrees | Capacity: 2 people | Warranty: 5-year limited
The Dynamic Saunas Barcelona Two-Person Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna offers a quality build and user-friendly setup at a reasonable price. Made of durable and attractive hemlock wood, it’s slightly smaller than our top pick, with interior dimensions of 36 by 32 by 67 inches.
Like our favorite infrared sauna by the brand, this model also has simple controls and produces heat by low EMF infrared panels. Setting it up only takes about an hour, and no wiring is needed — simply plug it in and enjoy. Light therapy, MP3 input, speakers and dependable heat are all part of its feature set.
It reaches a maximum temperature of 135 degrees, which is comfortable and relaxing for its occupants. It also comes with a five-year limited warranty on the electronic parts for peace of mind.
SereneLife Portable Sauna Box for Home
Great Value
Dimensions: 35.4" W x 35.4" D x 70.9" H | Maximum Temperature: 140 degrees | Capacity: 1 person | Warranty: 1-year limited
When it comes to value and versatility, the SereneLife Portable Sauna Box for Home is one of the best infrared saunas available. In addition to being affordable and suitable for limited budgets, it’s also a portable option that can be used in various locations. It’s lightweight and simple to set up, and the frame folds so you can move it around with ease.
Designed for use by one person at a time, this sauna reaches a maximum temperature of 140 degrees with three carbon-fiber heating panels. Once you’re inside, you can adjust the time and temperature easily with the remote control.
Useful features come with the SereneLife Sauna Box so you can make the most of your relaxation sessions. These include durable zippers, a window panel, inside storage pocket, heated foot pad and a chair that folds for storage. You can use this sauna seated or standing to promote relaxation with beneficial heat. Plus, the materials are easy to clean after use, so maintenance is a breeze.
Dynamic Saunas Cordoba 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna
Best Full-Spectrum Sauna
Dimensions: 42” W x 36” D x 68” H | Maximum Temperature: 140 degrees | Capacity: 2 people | Warranty: 5-year limited
Made of long-lasting hemlock wood, the Dynamic Saunas Cordoba 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna grabs your attention with its stylish appearance. It offers a roomy interior that can comfortably fit two people, and it includes a durable bench so you and another occupant can sit back and recline while enjoying beneficial heat.
In addition to its attractive design and spacious build, this sauna delivers full spectrum infrared heat that reaches a maximum temperature of 140 degrees that soothes muscles, eases stress and offers other benefits. It also produces red-light therapy that enhances relaxation and circulation. Built-in Bluetooth connectivity and speakers allow you to listen to music, podcasts and more as you enjoy your sauna experience.
You’ll also appreciate how easy the Cordoba sauna is to assemble — no wiring required. Although this premium model is available at a high price, it’s backed by a five-year limited warranty to protect the various electronic components and provide peace of mind that you made a smart purchase.
Kunsana 3-Person Infrared Sauna
Best for its Spacious Interior
Dimensions: 62.99” W x 42.91” D x 75.79” H | Maximum Temperature: 149 degrees | Capacity: 3 people | Warranty: 2-year limited
If you are looking for an infrared sauna that can fit a trio, the Kunsana 3-Person Infrared Sauna is an outstanding choice. With a width of almost 63 inches and a built-in bench that can hold as much as 600 pounds, you can enjoy the numerous benefits of dry infrared heat while relaxing with friends.
Made of hemlock wood, this sauna is stylish and easy to assemble. It’s powered by ceramic heating tubes and infrared panels that produce steady, soothing heat. The maximum temperature is 149 degrees, which promotes relaxation, reduces muscle tension, calms stress and more. Dual Bluetooth speakers allow you to enjoy entertainment during heat sessions.
Other notable features include user-friendly controls, relaxing chromotherapy lighting and fast heating. A two-year limited warranty protects your investment. Although the price falls on the higher end of the spectrum, this sauna is still a solid deal thanks to its spacious size and impressive feature set.
OUTEXER Far Infrared Sauna
Best Cabin Sauna for Tight Spaces
Dimensions: 35.2” W x 27.6” D x 61.6” H | Maximum Temperature: 140 degrees | Capacity: 2 people | Warranty: 7-year limited
If you don’t have a lot of space for an infrared sauna, the OUTEXER Far Infrared Sauna proves that’s not a problem. It will fit in a small room, thanks to its compact dimensions of 35.2 by 27.6 by 61.6 inches. While it’s best for one person, customers say two people can squeeze in just fine.
Powered by six low EMF infrared panels, this sauna is efficient and reaches a maximum temperature of 140 degrees. Speakers, user-friendly controls and light therapy are included in its set of features. Made of hemlock wood, it goes well with most decor.
This well-made infrared sauna is one of the most affordable models we considered, making it a good choice for anyone watching their budget but wanting to add relaxing heat therapy to their wellness plan. Despite the low price, it comes with a seven-year limited warranty.
Dynamic Saunas Andora Two-Person Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna
Elegant Relaxation
Dimensions: 47” W x 43” D x 74” H | Maximum Temperature: 135 degrees | Capacity: 2 people | Warranty: 5-year limited
From its stylish appearance to its spacious interior, the Dynamic Saunas Andora Two-Person Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna is one of the best infrared saunas available. Constructed of hemlock wood, the interior measures 43 by 37 by 68 inches and can comfortably hold up to two people. This makes it a good choice for couples. Users love the consistent warmth that’s produced with six low EMF carbon infrared panels. It’s also user-friendly, as it can be assembled in approximately an hour, doesn’t require wiring and boasts straightforward controls.
This sauna produces therapeutic heat and includes extras to make your time inside even more enjoyable. It reaches a maximum temperature of 135 degrees and offers soothing light therapy. An MP3 auxiliary input and quality speakers make it possible to listen to your favorite music or podcasts while relaxing.
We also appreciate that this sauna comes with a five-year limited warranty on the electronic components. This adds value and peace of mind that your investment is protected during the coverage period.
Key considerations
Infrared sauna styles
Infrared saunas are fully enclosed spaces for total temperature control.
Wooden infrared saunas are made of wood and glass and resemble traditional saunas. Wooden models have well-sealed doors, which are typically made of glass and premium wood.
Portable saunas usually consist of a folding chair and pop-up frame that encloses the body from the neck down. Portable infrared saunas rely on zippers to keep the warm air in. While these models don’t close off as well as saunas with doors, they’re constructed with additional seams and barriers to control the temperature.
Sleeping bag or blanket saunas fall under the umbrella of portable saunas, but given their popularity, they’re in a league of their own. For these, you’ll need to lie flat on a bed or the floor and zip yourself into the sauna from the feet to the neck.
Seating
In most infrared saunas, you need to sit upright. There are only a handful of models with full-length benches for lying down. Wooden saunas have simple benches. Depending on their capacity, they can accommodate from one to six people. Portable models come with a folding chair or stool and fit one person. These saunas are often available for purchase in pairs so that two people can enjoy them simultaneously.
Infrared lighting
Infrared saunas use radiant heat from heat lamps, wire elements, carbon heating panels, or ceramic elements. Because infrared heat is broad spectrum, it’s often classified by its wavelength. In the case of infrared saunas, far infrared (FIR) emitters are most common, especially in wooden models. Once the emitted heat hits an object, such as the body, it’s radiated back and continues to warm the area around it.
EMF
Every electronic device emits EMF, or electromagnetic fields. This includes everyday items like hair dryers and cell phones, as well as infrared saunas. Generally speaking, infrared saunas emit a low level of EMF, making them safe for regular use. In fact, some manufacturers have made great strides in further reducing EMF in their infrared saunas. They’re very forthcoming in their advertising about it, so it’s relatively easy to identify models with this feature if you’re specifically looking for it.
Health considerations
Before using an infrared sauna, it’s necessary to make sure there are no health concerns that would restrict your use of one. If you’re at risk for high blood pressure, dehydration, or illness, it’s recommended that you discuss infrared sauna use with your doctor first.
It’s also important to use your infrared sauna safely and appropriately. Sessions should be limited to a 20-minute maximum. If you’re new to using an infrared sauna, begin with 5 to 10 minutes per session and gradually work your way up to 20 minutes.
Features
Materials
Wooden infrared saunas are made with Canadian hemlock or cedar or other premium wood. These types of wood are known for their luxurious color and finish in addition to commercial-grade durability. Wooden saunas also use high-quality glass panels for doors and windows.
When it comes to something as large as a wooden sauna, assembly is something you’ll need to consider, not to mention include in your budget. There are some models with easy DIY assembly, while others are better left in the hands of a professional.
Portable infrared saunas feature cabins made of plastic or wood frames covered with a few layers of nonporous material. Many have terry cloth or plush details around the collar as well. Seats are constructed from a variety of heat-safe materials, including plastic, canvas, neoprene, and mesh.
Controls
Infrared saunas are equipped with timers, heat settings, and light controls. They’re adjusted by way of a remote or control panel. Manufacturers strongly recommend learning how to control these features before using the infrared sauna for the first time, both to avoid injury and to ensure a comfortable experience.
Sound system
Some infrared saunas are equipped with a sound system to create the best experience and ambience. These models have inside speakers that are Bluetooth enabled or can be hooked up to an outside media device.
Extras
Some wooden saunas also come with magazine racks, sauna buckets, and/or headrests. Sauna buckets are great if you’d like to include aromatherapy in your sessions. Some portable saunas come with heated footpads, magazine pockets, and/or seat pillows.
Infrared sauna prices
Infrared saunas range in price from $130 to $3,000. While there’s one for any budget, you certainly get what you pay for with these, so spend wisely.
Inexpensive: For the budget-conscious shopper, you can find portable models and blanket styles for between $130 and $500. Infrared saunas with chairs are at the lower end of the range, whereas blanket styles are usually toward the top of the range.
Mid-range: If you’re interested in a wooden infrared sauna, single- and double- occupancy models begin at $1,000 and go up to $1,800. Many models are available with a timer, sound system, speakers, and even Bluetooth capability.
Expensive: Infrared saunas that accommodate three or more people cost $2,000 and more. These are significantly larger units that require professional assembly. Most have all the bells and whistles you can imagine and are often constructed with premium imported wood.
Tips
- Drink plenty of water. To avoid dehydration, be sure to drink plenty of water while you use the sauna as well as before and after.
- Add a sauna to your wedding registry. A portable sauna costs about the same as a small kitchen appliance. Add one to your wedding registry for a unique self-care gift that will get plenty of use.
- Use clean towels every time. To keep your infrared sauna clean and keep bacteria at bay, use a clean towel every time.
- Rinse off before entering the sauna. It’s best to enter your infrared sauna after taking a soapy shower. In addition to promoting relaxation, it also helps to prevent dirt and grime from entering the sauna.
- Protect your hair. To prevent damage or excessive dryness, wrap your hair in a towel before using the infrared sauna.
- Use a deep conditioner inside the sauna. You can also coat your hair with a deep conditioner for a special moisturizing treatment. Make sure your hair is well secured under a towel to prevent conditioner from dripping in the sauna.
- Don't overdo it. If you're new to saunas, it's best to start out with shorter sessions of 10 to 15 minutes and then work your way up to longer ones.
- Ask a doctor. If you are pregnant, have cardiovascular disease or other medical conditions, check with your doctor to ensure an infrared sauna is safe for you.
FAQ
Q. Will I need a permit to install a sauna in my backyard
A. It depends on your town’s ordinances and zoning laws, which may stipulate dimensions and approved structures. A sauna is usually small enough to install without a permit, but it’s best to check before moving forward with it.
Q. How do I get my infrared sauna repaired?
A. Contact the manufacturer directly and inquire about their repair process. If your sauna is still covered under warranty, the company may dispatch a technician at no charge. If not, it might be able to provide a list of recommended sauna repair companies in your area.
Q. Can I use a different chair inside my portable sauna?
A. While another chair may fit inside, it’s best to stick with the one that came with the sauna. It’s made from heat-safe materials and won’t burn you or melt. Some chairs are also treated with antimicrobial or antibacterial coatings to provide a sanitary sauna experience. Unfortunately, other chairs may introduce bacteria or dirt into the sauna.
How we analyzed
We began our analysis of infrared saunas with 60 models. We narrowed them down to the best by assessing features, materials, designs and price. Lighting, seating, electromagnetic fields and controls are key features we considered. Our research also included details about seating and nice-to-have extras, such as built-in sound systems. Plus, we factored in any health concerns that need to be checked out prior to use. Lastly, we looked at customer feedback for insight into their ease of setup and overall performance to help us choose the top models.
