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The best at-home infrared sauna options: Our top picks

Our top choices for personal infrared home saunas

Sarah Joseph
By
Lisa-S / Shutterstock

In recent years, the demand for at-home infrared saunas has soared, and manufacturers have definitely stepped up their game. The year 2023 has brought us some of the best infrared sauna options on the market today. That said, it can be tricky to figure out the right personal sauna option for you.

Our recommendation is that you keep an eye out for units made of hemlock and red cedar, which prove to stand the test of time when it comes to infrared therapy. We also recommend you choose an infrared sauna with a medium amount of glass — enough window that you don’t feel claustrophobic, but not too much so your sauna can retain its heat efficiently.

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Infrared saunas feel different from wood or electric saunas, but they all offer a ton of benefits. Whether you seek relaxation, detoxification, or pain relief, here are our picks for is year’s best infrared saunas that will elevate your wellness journey from the comfort of your own home.

SunHome Saunas Equinox 2 two person sauna sponsored
SunHome Saunas

Sun Home Equinox 2

Weight loss promotion, increased longevity, stress relief, relaxation, and much more are all benefits of using an infrared sauna, or more specifically, the Sun Home Equinox 2, which is large enough for two people. Superior craftsmanship and unparalleled innovation collide, offering not just a beautiful design on the outside but tons of unique features on the inside, too. Using safe, ultra-low EMF infrared heaters and supplemental halogen heaters to increase to a max temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, this sauna will give you the steam of a lifetime, all in the comfort of your home. Its powerful full spectrum — near, mid, and far — infrared heaters provide all of the beneficial wavelengths for maximum health benefits. It features Bluetooth wireless with premium surround sound, so you can listen to your favorite tunes while you kick back. Plus, it’s easy to assemble and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. If you’re looking for both form and function with no compromises, this sauna is the way to go.

Barcelona Sauna
Dynamic Saunas

Barcelona Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna by Dynamic Saunas

The Barcelona Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna can hold one to two people. It has a music system with Bluetooth capabilities. One of the great things about this unit is that it has clasp-together assembly, which means setup is a breeze. It’s got a roof vent, a chromotherapy lighting system, and six carbon heating elements.

Serene Life Sauna
Serene Life

Portable Sauna SLISAU30BK by Serene Life

For those who call the road their home, a wooden sauna will definitely not be your best option. Meet the full-sized Portable Sauna by Serene Life. This sauna can be heated up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit and is very easy to set up and tear down because all the pieces are numbered. While this portable sauna retails for $390, a foldable sauna chair is also included with your purchase, so you don’t have to worry about seating.

Montilemar Infrared Sauna by Dynamic Sauna
Modern Reform

Montilemar Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna by Modern Reform

The Montilemar Infrared Sauna by Modern Reform is a fantastic four-person home infrared sauna option, primarily because of its roomy interior. With this sauna, you can gather the family together for some bonding time, or simply stretch out on the bench. There’s enough space to lie down if you are so inclined, and the windows offer lots of light and scope for the imagination. The infrared therapy options are fantastic, with nine carbon heating panels.

Luminati Infrared Sauna by Sauna Space
Sauna Space

Luminati Infrared Sauna by SaunaSpace

If you’re sensitive to EMFs (electromagnetic fields), then the Luminati might be the best choice on this list for you; it uses the company’s special ThermaLight technology instead. This portable tent has a machine-washable cover and is wheelchair accessible, and comes with accessories like an ergonomic sauna stool and an exfoliating brush.

Infrared Sauna built inside of a home.
Alhim / Adobe Stock

What is infrared?

An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared heaters to emit infrared light experienced as radiant heat, which is absorbed directly by the body. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around you, infrared saunas penetrate the skin more deeply, causing you to sweat and experience the benefits of heat therapy at lower temperatures. The heat generated by infrared saunas is believed to have various health benefits, such as relaxation, detoxification, pain relief, improved circulation, and potentially even weight loss.

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Each sauna on this list brings unique qualities to the table, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize versatility, ease of setup, spaciousness, or EMF sensitivity, these top contenders provide an excellent range of choices.

If you’re looking for the perfect at-home infrared sauna to elevate your wellness journey, consider these options carefully. Invest in the one that resonates with you, and embrace the blissful warmth and transformative health benefits it has to offer. If full-sized saunas are not for you, consider checking out some infrared sauna blankets instead. They are not only more portable, but provide many of the same health benefits for a budget.

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Sarah Joseph
Sarah Joseph
Contributor
Sarah is a lover of all things outdoors. With a bright sense of adventure and a heart for the mountains, she is always…
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Measure your space
Before purchasing an infrared sauna kit, the first step is to measure the available space in your home where you plan to install the sauna. Consider the dimensions of the kit and ensure that it fits comfortably in the designated area. If needed, consider portability as a variable in your decision. Measure the width, height, and depth of the space to compare it with the dimensions of the sauna kit you're interested in. Additionally, make sure to leave some clearance around the sauna for ventilation and easy access.
Calculate your budget
Setting a budget is crucial when selecting an infrared sauna kit. Prices can vary significantly depending on the size, features, materials, and brand. Determine how much you're willing to invest in a home sauna and explore options within your budget range. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option available, keep in mind that higher-quality saunas often come with better features, longer warranties, and improved performance, making them a worthwhile long-term investment. Also, be prepared for additional hidden costs.
Choose low-EMF levels
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are a concern with electrical devices, including infrared saunas. While infrared saunas haven't been studied that well yet, high-EMF levels are considered bad for health due to potential adverse effects. To ensure a safe and healthy personal sauna experience, prioritize saunas with low-EMF levels. Some at-home infrared saunas don't explicitly say whether they are high- or low-EMF. If that's the case, don't risk purchasing it because it's likely a high-EMF model.

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Electrical upgrades
Saunas require dedicated electrical circuits to handle the high power needs of the heating elements. If your existing electrical system can't handle this demand, you might need to upgrade your electrical panel or wiring. This can be a substantial additional cost, especially if your home's electrical infrastructure is outdated. Every sauna's electrical needs are different, so consult your sauna's manuals or manufacturer.

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An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared heaters to emit infrared light directly onto the body. This is known as heat therapy. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air to warm the body, infrared saunas use infrared radiation to penetrate the skin and heat the body more directly. This means you sweat much more at a lower temperature, making the practice much more relaxing.

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