Factual information is what is needed to find out what you should know about infrared vs traditional saunas. Comparing the two may not show one to be necessarily better than the other. It will depend on what your purpose is for purchasing it to determine which is has the greater benefit.

A traditional sauna has very high heat. It may reach a temperature as high as 220 degrees. Steam is produced when water is poured on the heated rocks. Those with sinus problems or respiratory issues may find benefit from using this type of sauna. The heat and steam has limited ability to remove contaminates from the body. It does detox but only at about three percent since it only heats the skin.

The traditional sauna can be built one of two ways. The typical way will take a few days to complete assembly. A prefabricated version is easier to put together and will take only a couple of hours to assemble. This unit must have a dedicated 15 to 20 amp socket. A professional electrician should install the socket. These take may take up to 40 minutes to heat up and cost 20 cents more per use than the infrared type.

The infrared sauna offers a milder environment. Its maximum temperature will reach 150 degrees. Instead of the intense heat, there is a feeling of being in the warmth of the sun. It is the same rays but without the harmful UV rays. It is able to heat up very quickly, anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes. Since the heat is not as high as a traditional sauna it make take the same amount of time to start sweating. The heat penetrates the skin with this type of sauna and can remove up to 20 percent of the toxins that may be in the body. This type of heat may also increase the metabolism and blood and oxygen flow.

Prefabricated panels are used to put together this sauna. These are either snapped or screwed together. Many of the smaller units will plug into a regular socket. The larger units will need a dedicated 15 amp plug. These will heat up faster. It may take no more than 20 minutes to heat up.

The wood is usually the same in both types of saunas, cedar wood. This is cleaned with a mix of water and detergent. Let it dry completely after washing the benches and walls. If it is used a couple of times a week, a cleaning once a month should be enough.

Since there is a lot of sweating involved in using a sauna, dehydration can become a concern. Drink plenty of water before and after. During the sauna take drinks frequently. If there are any health concerns ask your physician before using one.

In the construction, materials, cost, and maintenance infrared vs traditional saunas are very similar and in some ways the same. The biggest differences are the intensity of the heat and its delivery. There are also differences in the possible health benefits. The steam adds to the experience for some and is not truly an infrared therapy without it. Weigh what you will need it for and what experience you want.