Sauna Types – Different Kinds of Saunas Explained

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Written By: Timo

There are many different types of saunas available, each with its own unique features and characteristics. In this article, we will explore the various types of saunas available, including traditional and infrared saunas.

We will also discuss the different ways in which saunas can be classified based on heating method, ownership, location, size, wetness/dryness, and origin.

Two main types: traditional & infrared

The most common dichotomy in saunas is the one between traditional and infrared saunas.

(Globally, at least. In Finland, infrared saunas are not even considered as real saunas. If you ask a Finnish person that which type of sauna they prefer, they’ll assume you are asking if they prefer electric or wood-burning saunas.)

Traditional Sauna

The first type of sauna we will discuss is the traditional sauna. Traditional saunas are heated by a wood-fired stove or an electric heater, and are known for their dry heat and intense temperature.

Traditional sauna = regular sauna, Finnish sauna, dry sauna, real sauna, or just good old plain “sauna” as we say in Finland.

In a traditional sauna, the heat can reach upwards of 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius), creating a relaxing and therapeutic environment.

Traditional saunas can be classified based on their heating method, with wood-fired saunas providing a more authentic experience and electric saunas offering a more convenient option.

Infrared Sauna

Another type of sauna is the infrared sauna, which uses infrared technology to heat the body directly rather than heating the air around you.

Infrared saunas are known for their ability to penetrate deeper into the body, providing a more intense and targeted sweat. They are also typically lower in temperature than traditional saunas, making them more comfortable for some people to use.

Many ways to categorize saunas

In addition to these two main types of saunas, there are many other subtypes to consider based on factors such as ownership, location, size, and wetness/dryness.

For example, saunas can be classified based on whether they are intended for use in a home, public facility, or gym. They can also be classified based on their location, with indoor saunas being the most common and outdoor saunas providing a unique experience.

Saunas can also vary in size, from large sauna houses to smaller, portable options. Additionally, saunas can be either dry or wet, with steam saunas providing a more humid environment and dry saunas offering a drier heat.

Traditional saunas by heating method

One way to classify traditional saunas is by the method used to heat them. The two main methods used to heat traditional saunas are wood-fired stoves and electric heaters.

Wood Burning Sauna

Wood-fired saunas are the most traditional type of sauna, and are known for their authentic and natural experience. In a wood-fired sauna, a stove is used to heat rocks, which in turn radiates heat throughout the sauna.

The heat from a wood-fired sauna can reach upwards of 212 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a relaxing and therapeutic environment. Wood-fired saunas are often made from wood or other natural materials, and are known for their unique, earthy scent.

Electric Sauna

Electric saunas are a more modern type of traditional sauna. In an electric sauna, an electric heater is used to heat the air inside the sauna. Electric saunas are known for their convenience and ease of use, as they do not require the use of wood.

Electric saunas can also be more easily controlled in terms of temperature and humidity, making them a good option for people who want a more customizable sauna experience.

In conclusion, traditional saunas can be classified based on the method used to heat them. Wood-fired saunas offer a more authentic and natural experience, while electric saunas offer convenience and ease of use. Both types of saunas provide a relaxing and therapeutic environment, making them a popular choice for many people.

Based on ownership

Another way to classify saunas is based on who owns them. Some common types of saunas based on ownership include home saunas, public saunas, and gym saunas.

Home Sauna

Home saunas are saunas that are owned and used by individuals or families in their homes. Home saunas can be either traditional or infrared, and can be either indoor or outdoor. Home saunas are a popular choice for people who want to enjoy the benefits of a sauna in the privacy of their own home.

Public Sauna

Public saunas are saunas that are owned and operated by public facilities, such as hotels, resorts, spas, and community centers. Public saunas are typically larger and more elaborate than home saunas, and often feature multiple rooms and amenities such as steam rooms, cold plunge pools, and massage areas.

Public saunas are a popular choice for people who want to experience the full range of sauna amenities and services.

Gym Sauna

Gym saunas are saunas that are owned and operated by gyms and fitness centers. Gym saunas are typically smaller and more basic than public saunas, and are intended for use by gym members as part of their workout routine. Gym saunas are a good option for people who want to incorporate sauna use into their fitness routine.

In conclusion, saunas can be classified based on who owns them. Home saunas offer privacy and convenience, while public saunas provide a more luxurious and elaborate experience. Gym saunas are a good option for people who want to incorporate sauna use into their fitness routine.

Based on location

Another way to classify saunas is based on where they are located. Some common types of saunas based on location include indoor saunas and outdoor saunas.

Indoor Sauna

Indoor saunas are saunas that are located inside a building or structure. Indoor saunas are the most common type of sauna, and are typically found in homes, public facilities, and gyms. Indoor saunas are a good option for people who want to enjoy the benefits of a sauna in any weather.

Outdoor Sauna

Outdoor saunas are saunas that are located outside, either in a separate structure or in a designated area. Outdoor saunas are less common than indoor saunas, but offer a unique experience. Outdoor saunas can provide a refreshing and invigorating environment, and are a good option for people who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while using a sauna.

In conclusion, saunas can be classified based on their location. Indoor saunas are the most common and offer the convenience of being able to use a sauna in any weather. Outdoor saunas are less common but offer a unique and refreshing experience.

Based on size

Saunas can also be classified based on their size. Some common types of saunas based on size include sauna houses, sauna rooms, portable saunas, barrel saunas, and personal saunas.

Sauna House

Sauna houses are the largest type of sauna, and are typically standalone structures or buildings that are dedicated solely to sauna use.

In Finland, sauna houses are commonly found on summer cabins that a lot of Finns have. Some detached house owners also have a wood-burning sauna house on their backyard in addition to an electrically heated sauna inside the house.

Sauna Room

Sauna rooms are smaller than sauna houses and are typically located inside a larger building or structure, such as a home or public facility. Sauna rooms are a good option for people who want the benefits of a sauna but do not have the space for a standalone sauna house.

Portable Sauna

Portable saunas are the smallest type of sauna, and are designed to be easily transported and set up in any location. Portable saunas are a good option for people who want to enjoy the benefits of a sauna but have limited space or want to be able to use a sauna in different locations.

Barrel Sauna & Personal Sauna

Barrel saunas and personal saunas are similar to portable saunas, but are designed to be more compact and portable. Barrel saunas are shaped like a barrel and are designed to be placed in a designated area, while personal saunas are small enough to be used by one person at a time. Both barrel saunas and personal saunas are a good option for people who want a compact and portable sauna.

In conclusion, saunas can be classified based on their size. Sauna houses are the largest and most luxurious option, while portable saunas and personal saunas are the smallest and most compact. Sauna rooms are a good middle ground for people who want the benefits of a sauna but do not have the space for a large sauna house.

Based on wetness / dryness

Saunas can also be classified based on their level of wetness or dryness. Some common types of saunas based on wetness / dryness include dry saunas, steam saunas, steam baths, and smoke saunas.

Dry Sauna

Dry saunas are saunas that are heated to a high temperature but do not have any additional humidity. In a dry sauna, the heat is intense and the air is dry, providing a relaxing and therapeutic environment. Dry saunas are the most common type of sauna and are known for their ability to induce sweating and promote relaxation.

Steam Sauna

Steam saunas are saunas that are heated to a lower temperature than dry saunas but have a high level of humidity. In a steam sauna, the heat is less intense but the air is more humid, providing a more relaxing and soothing experience. Steam saunas are often used for their therapeutic and health benefits, and are a good option for people who want a more gentle sauna experience.

Steam Bath

Steam baths are similar to steam saunas, but are typically larger and more elaborate. Steam baths often feature multiple rooms and amenities such as cold plunge pools and massage areas. Steam baths are a popular choice for people who want to experience the full range of sauna amenities and services.

Smoke Sauna

Smoke saunas are a type of sauna that uses a wood-fired stove to heat the sauna and create a smoke-filled environment. In a smoke sauna, the heat is intense and the air is filled with smoke, providing a unique and authentic experience. Smoke saunas are less common than other types of saunas and are typically only found in certain regions of the world.

In conclusion, saunas can be classified based on their level of wetness or dryness. Dry saunas are the most common and provide a intense, dry heat. Steam saunas and steam baths offer a more gentle and humid experience, while smoke saunas provide a unique and authentic experience.

Based on origin

In addition to the different types and subtypes of saunas available, saunas can also be classified based on their origin. Some of the most well-known types of saunas include Finnish saunas, Russian banyas, Turkish baths, and Hammams.

Finnish Sauna

Finnish saunas are the most traditional type of sauna, and are known for their dry heat and intense temperature. They typically feature a wood-fired stove, and are often made from wood or other natural materials. Finnish saunas are an integral part of Finnish culture and are often used for social gatherings and relaxation.

Russian Banya

Russian banyas are another type of sauna that originated in Russia. Banyas are similar to Finnish saunas in that they are typically heated by a wood-fired stove, but they also often incorporate steam rooms and cold plunge pools. Banyas are known for their social aspect and are often used for celebrations and gatherings.

Hammam

Hammams are a type of sauna that originated in the Middle East. Hammams are typically large, elaborate facilities that feature steam rooms, hot and cold pools, and massage areas. They are known for their relaxing and therapeutic atmosphere, and are often used for social gatherings and beauty treatments.

Turkish Bath

The Victorian Turkish bath is a type of sauna that was popular in Victorian England. These baths were modeled after the traditional Hammams of the Middle East, and typically featured steam rooms, hot and cold pools, and massage areas. They were often used for social gatherings and were considered a luxurious and indulgent experience.

In conclusion, there are many different types of saunas available, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Whether you are looking for a traditional Finnish sauna, a Russian banya, or a Victorian Turkish bath, there is a sauna to suit your needs and preferences. Understanding the different types of saunas available can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect sauna for you.

There are many different types of saunas available, each with its own unique features and characteristics. In this article, we will explore the various types of saunas available, including traditional and infrared saunas.

We will also discuss the different ways in which saunas can be classified based on heating method, ownership, location, size, wetness/dryness, and origin.

Two main types: traditional & infrared

The most common dichotomy in saunas is the one between traditional and infrared saunas.

(Globally, at least. In Finland, infrared saunas are not even considered as real saunas. If you ask a Finnish person that which type of sauna they prefer, they’ll assume you are asking if they prefer electric or wood-burning saunas.)

Traditional Sauna

The first type of sauna we will discuss is the traditional sauna. Traditional saunas are heated by a wood-fired stove or an electric heater, and are known for their dry heat and intense temperature.

Traditional sauna = regular sauna, Finnish sauna, dry sauna, real sauna, or just good old plain “sauna” as we say in Finland.

In a traditional sauna, the heat can reach upwards of 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius), creating a relaxing and therapeutic environment.

Traditional saunas can be classified based on their heating method, with wood-fired saunas providing a more authentic experience and electric saunas offering a more convenient option.

Infrared Sauna

Another type of sauna is the infrared sauna, which uses infrared technology to heat the body directly rather than heating the air around you.

Infrared saunas are known for their ability to penetrate deeper into the body, providing a more intense and targeted sweat. They are also typically lower in temperature than traditional saunas, making them more comfortable for some people to use.

Many ways to categorize saunas

In addition to these two main types of saunas, there are many other subtypes to consider based on factors such as ownership, location, size, and wetness/dryness.

For example, saunas can be classified based on whether they are intended for use in a home, public facility, or gym. They can also be classified based on their location, with indoor saunas being the most common and outdoor saunas providing a unique experience.

Saunas can also vary in size, from large sauna houses to smaller, portable options. Additionally, saunas can be either dry or wet, with steam saunas providing a more humid environment and dry saunas offering a drier heat.

Traditional saunas by heating method

One way to classify traditional saunas is by the method used to heat them. The two main methods used to heat traditional saunas are wood-fired stoves and electric heaters.

Wood Burning Sauna

Wood-fired saunas are the most traditional type of sauna, and are known for their authentic and natural experience. In a wood-fired sauna, a stove is used to heat rocks, which in turn radiates heat throughout the sauna.

The heat from a wood-fired sauna can reach upwards of 212 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a relaxing and therapeutic environment. Wood-fired saunas are often made from wood or other natural materials, and are known for their unique, earthy scent.

Electric Sauna

Electric saunas are a more modern type of traditional sauna. In an electric sauna, an electric heater is used to heat the air inside the sauna. Electric saunas are known for their convenience and ease of use, as they do not require the use of wood.

Electric saunas can also be more easily controlled in terms of temperature and humidity, making them a good option for people who want a more customizable sauna experience.

In conclusion, traditional saunas can be classified based on the method used to heat them. Wood-fired saunas offer a more authentic and natural experience, while electric saunas offer convenience and ease of use. Both types of saunas provide a relaxing and therapeutic environment, making them a popular choice for many people.

Based on ownership

Another way to classify saunas is based on who owns them. Some common types of saunas based on ownership include home saunas, public saunas, and gym saunas.

Home Sauna

Home saunas are saunas that are owned and used by individuals or families in their homes. Home saunas can be either traditional or infrared, and can be either indoor or outdoor. Home saunas are a popular choice for people who want to enjoy the benefits of a sauna in the privacy of their own home.

Public Sauna

Public saunas are saunas that are owned and operated by public facilities, such as hotels, resorts, spas, and community centers. Public saunas are typically larger and more elaborate than home saunas, and often feature multiple rooms and amenities such as steam rooms, cold plunge pools, and massage areas.

Public saunas are a popular choice for people who want to experience the full range of sauna amenities and services.

Gym Sauna

Gym saunas are saunas that are owned and operated by gyms and fitness centers. Gym saunas are typically smaller and more basic than public saunas, and are intended for use by gym members as part of their workout routine. Gym saunas are a good option for people who want to incorporate sauna use into their fitness routine.

In conclusion, saunas can be classified based on who owns them. Home saunas offer privacy and convenience, while public saunas provide a more luxurious and elaborate experience. Gym saunas are a good option for people who want to incorporate sauna use into their fitness routine.

Based on location

Another way to classify saunas is based on where they are located. Some common types of saunas based on location include indoor saunas and outdoor saunas.

Indoor Sauna

Indoor saunas are saunas that are located inside a building or structure. Indoor saunas are the most common type of sauna, and are typically found in homes, public facilities, and gyms. Indoor saunas are a good option for people who want to enjoy the benefits of a sauna in any weather.

Outdoor Sauna

Outdoor saunas are saunas that are located outside, either in a separate structure or in a designated area. Outdoor saunas are less common than indoor saunas, but offer a unique experience. Outdoor saunas can provide a refreshing and invigorating environment, and are a good option for people who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while using a sauna.

In conclusion, saunas can be classified based on their location. Indoor saunas are the most common and offer the convenience of being able to use a sauna in any weather. Outdoor saunas are less common but offer a unique and refreshing experience.

Based on size

Saunas can also be classified based on their size. Some common types of saunas based on size include sauna houses, sauna rooms, portable saunas, barrel saunas, and personal saunas.

Sauna House

Sauna houses are the largest type of sauna, and are typically standalone structures or buildings that are dedicated solely to sauna use.

In Finland, sauna houses are commonly found on summer cabins that a lot of Finns have. Some detached house owners also have a wood-burning sauna house on their backyard in addition to an electrically heated sauna inside the house.

Sauna Room

Sauna rooms are smaller than sauna houses and are typically located inside a larger building or structure, such as a home or public facility. Sauna rooms are a good option for people who want the benefits of a sauna but do not have the space for a standalone sauna house.

Portable Sauna

Portable saunas are the smallest type of sauna, and are designed to be easily transported and set up in any location. Portable saunas are a good option for people who want to enjoy the benefits of a sauna but have limited space or want to be able to use a sauna in different locations.

Barrel Sauna & Personal Sauna

Barrel saunas and personal saunas are similar to portable saunas, but are designed to be more compact and portable. Barrel saunas are shaped like a barrel and are designed to be placed in a designated area, while personal saunas are small enough to be used by one person at a time. Both barrel saunas and personal saunas are a good option for people who want a compact and portable sauna.

In conclusion, saunas can be classified based on their size. Sauna houses are the largest and most luxurious option, while portable saunas and personal saunas are the smallest and most compact. Sauna rooms are a good middle ground for people who want the benefits of a sauna but do not have the space for a large sauna house.

Based on wetness / dryness

Saunas can also be classified based on their level of wetness or dryness. Some common types of saunas based on wetness / dryness include dry saunas, steam saunas, steam baths, and smoke saunas.

Dry Sauna

Dry saunas are saunas that are heated to a high temperature but do not have any additional humidity. In a dry sauna, the heat is intense and the air is dry, providing a relaxing and therapeutic environment. Dry saunas are the most common type of sauna and are known for their ability to induce sweating and promote relaxation.

Steam Sauna

Steam saunas are saunas that are heated to a lower temperature than dry saunas but have a high level of humidity. In a steam sauna, the heat is less intense but the air is more humid, providing a more relaxing and soothing experience. Steam saunas are often used for their therapeutic and health benefits, and are a good option for people who want a more gentle sauna experience.

Steam Bath

Steam baths are similar to steam saunas, but are typically larger and more elaborate. Steam baths often feature multiple rooms and amenities such as cold plunge pools and massage areas. Steam baths are a popular choice for people who want to experience the full range of sauna amenities and services.

Smoke Sauna

Smoke saunas are a type of sauna that uses a wood-fired stove to heat the sauna and create a smoke-filled environment. In a smoke sauna, the heat is intense and the air is filled with smoke, providing a unique and authentic experience. Smoke saunas are less common than other types of saunas and are typically only found in certain regions of the world.

In conclusion, saunas can be classified based on their level of wetness or dryness. Dry saunas are the most common and provide a intense, dry heat. Steam saunas and steam baths offer a more gentle and humid experience, while smoke saunas provide a unique and authentic experience.

Based on origin

In addition to the different types and subtypes of saunas available, saunas can also be classified based on their origin. Some of the most well-known types of saunas include Finnish saunas, Russian banyas, Turkish baths, and Hammams.

Finnish Sauna

Finnish saunas are the most traditional type of sauna, and are known for their dry heat and intense temperature. They typically feature a wood-fired stove, and are often made from wood or other natural materials. Finnish saunas are an integral part of Finnish culture and are often used for social gatherings and relaxation.

Russian Banya

Russian banyas are another type of sauna that originated in Russia. Banyas are similar to Finnish saunas in that they are typically heated by a wood-fired stove, but they also often incorporate steam rooms and cold plunge pools. Banyas are known for their social aspect and are often used for celebrations and gatherings.

Hammam

Hammams are a type of sauna that originated in the Middle East. Hammams are typically large, elaborate facilities that feature steam rooms, hot and cold pools, and massage areas. They are known for their relaxing and therapeutic atmosphere, and are often used for social gatherings and beauty treatments.

Turkish Bath

The Victorian Turkish bath is a type of sauna that was popular in Victorian England. These baths were modeled after the traditional Hammams of the Middle East, and typically featured steam rooms, hot and cold pools, and massage areas. They were often used for social gatherings and were considered a luxurious and indulgent experience.

In conclusion, there are many different types of saunas available, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Whether you are looking for a traditional Finnish sauna, a Russian banya, or a Victorian Turkish bath, there is a sauna to suit your needs and preferences. Understanding the different types of saunas available can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect sauna for you.