Differences between a Finnish Sauna, Barrel Sauna, and Infrared Sauna

Buying a sauna is a significant investment, but many people choose to install one because of its numerous health, lifestyle, and convenience benefits. In this blog we take a look at the most common sauna types. 

Finnish Sauna

A Finnish sauna, also known as a traditional sauna, is one of the oldest and most well-known types of saunas. It is deeply rooted in Finnish culture and has been used for thousands of years.

Characteristics:

• Uses a heater (electric or wood-burning) to heat stones, which then radiate heat throughout the room.
• Typically operates at 80–100°C (176–212°F).
• Can be dry or humid, depending on whether water is thrown onto the hot stones (löyly).
• Requires preheating, usually taking 30–60 minutes to reach the desired temperature.
• Constructed from wood, such as cedar, spruce, or hemlock.
• Traditionally located indoors but can also be built outdoors.
• Often larger, allowing for multiple people to enjoy it at once.

Experience:

• Produces intense heat, causing sweating and deep relaxation.
• Users can control humidity by adding water to the stones.
• Encourages circulation, detoxification, and muscle relaxation.

Pros:

• Offers a traditional sauna experience.
• Adjustable humidity levels.
• Available in different sizes and configurations.
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations.

Cons:

• Requires more space than other sauna types.
• Longer preheating time.
• Higher energy consumption.

Barrel Sauna

A barrel sauna is a specific type of Finnish sauna that has a rounded, barrel-like shape. It operates similarly to a traditional sauna but has a unique design that offers some advantages.

Characteristics:

• Made from wooden planks, often cedar, pine, or spruce.
• The curved design helps with better heat circulation and energy efficiency.
• Typically heated with a wood-burning stove or electric heater.
• Can reach temperatures of 80–100°C (176–212°F).
• Usually placed outdoors, as its shape is ideal for external settings.
• Space-efficient due to its cylindrical design, which reduces the amount of unused air inside.

Experience:

• Similar to a traditional Finnish sauna but with improved air circulation.
• Heats up slightly faster than a standard rectangular sauna due to less interior volume.
• Can be placed in gardens, backyards, or near lakes.

Pros:

• More energy-efficient than traditional square or rectangular saunas.
• Faster heating time due to efficient heat distribution.
• Space-saving and visually appealing.
• Can be installed outdoors in natural surroundings.

Cons:

• Less interior space, which may be less comfortable for lounging.
• Not ideal for indoor use.
• Requires outdoor weatherproofing.

Infrared Sauna

An infrared sauna is fundamentally different from a Finnish or barrel sauna because it does not heat the air. Instead, it uses infrared light waves to heat the body directly.

Characteristics:

• Uses infrared panels (near-infrared, mid-infrared, or far-infrared) to emit heat.
• Operates at lower temperatures, around 45–65°C (113–149°F).
• No need for a heater, stove, or hot stones.
• Does not require preheating, as the heat is absorbed directly by the body.
• Often made from wood but can also have glass or synthetic elements.
• Typically installed indoors.
• Runs on electricity with lower energy consumption than traditional saunas.

Experience:

• Produces gentler heat, making it easier to breathe and more comfortable for longer sessions.
• Directly penetrates the skin, promoting deep tissue relaxation.
• Less intense sweating compared to a Finnish sauna but still aids in detoxification.

Pros:

• Lower temperatures make it more accessible for people sensitive to heat.
• Energy-efficient, using less electricity than traditional saunas.
• No preheating required; ready for use almost immediately.
• Often cheaper to install and maintain.
• Can be placed in small spaces, making it ideal for home use.

Cons:

• Lacks the traditional steam and humidity experience.
• Less social; typically designed for one or two people.
• Some users prefer the intense heat of a Finnish sauna.