{"id":60762,"date":"2025-10-28T23:38:08","date_gmt":"2025-10-28T22:38:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/?post_type=new&#038;p=60762"},"modified":"2025-12-09T10:25:41","modified_gmt":"2025-12-09T09:25:41","slug":"types-of-sauna","status":"publish","type":"new","link":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/ca\/solucions-comercials\/inspiracio\/bloc\/types-of-sauna\/","title":{"rendered":"What are the types of saunas? Design and user experience differences"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the types of saunas?<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>The four most common types of sauna today include dry, wet, infrared and hybrid saunas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While we elaborated an<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/commercial-solutions\/inspiration\/blog\/spa-saunas\/\"> in-depth guide for sauna types for wellness centers<\/a> in a separate article, their different definitions can be summarized as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Dry saunas: <\/strong>also known as <a href=\"http:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/commercial-solutions\/inspiration\/blog\/finnish-saunas\/?_gl=1*1nsd2aj*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTQ2MDk2NDE4Mi4xNzYwOTQ5MDIz*_ga_6CPK6086Q4*czE3NjA5NDkwMjIkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjA5NDkwMjIkajYwJGwwJGgw\">Finnish saunas<\/a>, they present a low humidity level (around 5-20%) and high temperatures (around 70-90\u00baC). This provides a calming environment that helps in muscle relaxation and has been linked with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41371-017-0008-z\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cardiovascular benefits<\/a>, reducing the risk of <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28905164\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">respiratory diseases<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5941775\/#abstract1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">beneficial psychological effects.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><strong>Wet saunas: <\/strong><\/strong>sometimes referred to as steam rooms, hammam or Turkish baths, these spaces maintain very high humidity (around 100%) with temperatures not exceeding 50\u00baC. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/commercial-solutions\/inspiration\/blog\/steam-bath\/?_gl=1%2A1q67puo%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2AMTQ2MDk2NDE4Mi4xNzYwOTQ5MDIz%2A_ga_6CPK6086Q4%2AczE3NjA5NDkwMjIkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjA5NDkwMjIkajYwJGwwJGgw\">Steam baths <\/a>are linked to benefits for mucus and nasal congestion, clearing pores and body detox, muscle relaxation, improving blood circulation, increasing oxygen levels and relieving mental fatigue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><strong>Infrared saunas: <\/strong><\/strong>these types of saunas employ infrared lamps based on electromagnetic radiation to generate heat. A choice that allows them to operate at lower temperatures compared to dry saunas (usually between 40\u00baC \u2013 60\u00baC), while also offering low humidity levels (between 10 \u2013 35%). As such, they are associated with similar effects as the dry sauna (relaxation, elimination of toxins, improving blood flow, relieving pain and promoting physical recovery), all without the temperature levels that might feel too extreme for some users.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><strong>Hybrid saunas:<\/strong><\/strong> spaces such as biosaunas and salt saunas can be understood as part of this category. In the case of biosaunas, they offer a hybrid between the traditional Finnish sauna and the steam bath, as they represent an environment with a medium humidity level and a lower temperature than the traditional sauna. Additionally, during biosauna sessions essential oils are diffused, stimulating the users\u2019 senses. Meanwhile, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/commercial-solutions\/inspiration\/blog\/salt-saunas\/?_gl=1%2A88hsoh%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2AMTQ2MDk2NDE4Mi4xNzYwOTQ5MDIz%2A_ga_6CPK6086Q4%2AczE3NjA5NDkwMjIkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjA5NDkwMjIkajYwJGwwJGgw\">salt saunas<\/a> involve the incorporation of Himalayan salts to surfaces, which are then ionized thanks to the environment\u2019s temperatures and humidity. As a result, a saline and mineral environment is created that offers important benefits for respiratory, dermatologic, muscular and circulatory conditions, as well as stress relief.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"589\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/productimages_763227__2021_08-1024x589.png\" alt=\"What are the types of saunas?\" class=\"wp-image-60769\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/productimages_763227__2021_08-1024x589.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/productimages_763227__2021_08-300x173.png 300w, https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/productimages_763227__2021_08-768x442.png 768w, https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/productimages_763227__2021_08.png 1350w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the design considerations for the different types of saunas?<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond their specific health benefits, it\u2019s important to consider all types of saunas have a direct influence on the<strong>architectural layout, technical infrastructure,<\/strong>and overall<strong>user flow.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As such, each sauna variant comes with specific spatial and environmental requirements that must be considered during the design phase:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Design for flow: sauna placement and circulation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Saunas are not isolated elements, but part of a broader wellness circuit. From this perspective, <strong>designing with flow in mind<\/strong> means ensuring that users can transition smoothly between sauna types, showers, and rest areas without disrupting the <strong>therapeutic rhythm. <\/strong>A key movement to enhance both comfort and operational efficiency in wellness centers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As such:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Finnish saunas are often placed <strong>near cold plunge pools<\/strong> or <strong>relaxation areas <\/strong>to support thermal contrast therapy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Steam saunas require proximity to<strong> drainage systems<\/strong> and <strong>ventilation shafts.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Infrared cabins can be integrated into <strong>smaller zones<\/strong> due to their compact footprint and lower heat output compared to other types of saunas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ventilation and climate control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ventilation is critical for maintaining <strong>air quality and temperature stability, <\/strong>with the different types of saunas presenting unique requirements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dry saunas need <strong>controlled airflow<\/strong> to prevent overheating and ensure oxygen circulation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Steam saunas require <strong>humidity extraction systems <\/strong>to avoid condensation and mold.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Infrared saunas demand <strong>less ventilation <\/strong>but benefit from smart climate controls to allow users to customize their experience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In this context, having access to<strong> integrated solutions for ventilation, heating, and humidity management <\/strong>such as the ones offered by Fluidra are key to tailor the different types of saunas and their spatial context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategic planning for indoor vs. outdoor installations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The decision to install a sauna indoors or outdoors affects both the technical setup and the user experience, and is thus another key consideration when it comes to design:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indoor saunas<\/strong>offer controlled environments and easier access to utilities, making them ideal for spas, gyms, and wellness hotels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Outdoor saunas<\/strong>, however, provide a nature-connected experience, often with panoramic views and enhanced relaxation. These types of saunas require weather-resistant materials, such as thermally modified wood and insulated glass, as well as considerations for drainage, foundation, and seasonal use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>An example of smart and versatile design,<strong> Fluidra\u2019s modular sauna cabins<\/strong> are designed to adapt to the distinct needs of both indoor and outdoor settings, all while ensuring durability and aesthetic harmony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Material selection considerations for the different types of saunas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the right materials is essential to ensure the <strong>longevity, safety, and comfort <\/strong>of sauna installations. This is why expert sauna builders like Fluidra prioritize materials that combine <strong>thermal performance, aesthetic appeal, and durability<\/strong> in high-humidity environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some key materials to consider when building the different types of saunas include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/commercial-solutions\/inspiration\/blog\/wood-for-sauna\/\"><strong>Wood types for dry saunas<\/strong><\/a><strong>,<\/strong> with Nordic spruce, hemlock, red alder, and thermo-treated woods for insulation and resistance to heat and humidity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stone and tiles<\/strong> are ideal for steam environments due to their durability and ease of cleaning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Glass elements<\/strong> that add a contemporary touch and openness to infrared and salt saunas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/steam-bath.jpeg\" alt=\"Material selection considerations for the different types of saunas\" class=\"wp-image-60766\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/steam-bath.jpeg 1000w, https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/steam-bath-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/steam-bath-768x512.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to choose the right sauna for your project?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When selecting a sauna type, consider the following questions and their implications:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>What is the main user profile?<\/strong> Athletes, senior users or relaxation seekers will typically look for different experiences and be attracted to different sauna types. Make sure your choice aligns with their expectations by having a comprehensive picture of your customers\u2019 needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>What are space and infrastructure opportunities and limitations?<\/strong> Consider the unique ventilation needs for all types of saunas, as well as requirements for humidity control and energy supply needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>How does each sauna type intersect with your business model?<\/strong> Operators looking for premium differentiation might look for the most modern, sophisticated types of saunas, or offer unique experiences rooted in tradition; meanwhile, those looking to offer hybrid experiences or maximize their ROI will similarly need to adapt their choice of sauna to their distinct business\u2019 goals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The types of saunas and their impact on business strategy<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As seen above, selecting the right sauna type represents a strategic decision that affects not only the wellness experience but also the<strong>operational success<\/strong>of a spa or wellness center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As such, operators should ensure their choice aligns sauna technology with user needs and design goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A journey that is best taken with <strong>Fluidra<\/strong>: as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/commercial-solutions\/sectors\/wellness-center\/\">specialists in wellness center design and development<\/a>, we can help you create spaces that <strong>inspire, heal, and retain clients.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently asked questions about types of saunas<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which type of sauna is the best?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The best type of sauna largely depends on the health effects and user experience you\u2019re looking for. Broadly speaking, dry saunas are best for <strong>deep heat and detox<\/strong>; wet saunas, for <strong>respiratory cleansing and relaxation<\/strong>; infrared saunas, for gentle <strong>muscle recovery<\/strong> without extreme temperatures; and salt saunas for <strong>respiratory and skin benefits.<\/strong> Read more in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/commercial-solutions\/inspiration\/blog\/spa-saunas\/\">in-depth guide for sauna types for wellness centers<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How many sauna types are there?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, types of saunas are described as four: dry saunas, wet saunas, infrared saunas and hybrid models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is healthier, steam or infrared sauna?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It depends on the expected health effects. On the one hand, the steam sauna offers unique health benefits due to being a high humidity environment, including<strong> deep hydration <\/strong>and relief from<strong> respiratory congestion<\/strong>. On the other hand, infrared saunas are usually linked with gentle but deep-penetrating heat that promotes <strong>muscle relaxation <\/strong>and<strong> pain relief.<\/strong> Both options are linked to detoxification benefits, as well as calming effects.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What are the types of saunas? The four most common types of sauna today include dry, wet, infrared and hybrid saunas. While we elaborated an in-depth guide for sauna types for wellness centers in a separate article, their different definitions can be summarized as follows: What are the design considerations for the different types of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":60763,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true},"new-category":[93],"class_list":["post-60762","new","type-new","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","new-category-wellness"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/new\/60762","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/new"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/new"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/60763"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=60762"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"new-category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fluidra.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/new-category?post=60762"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}