The Complete Beginner's Guide to Infrared Saunas
Everything you need to know before buying your first infrared sauna, from understanding the technology to choosing the right type for your needs.
We're a team of wellness enthusiasts who test infrared saunas, research the science, and create in-depth guides to help Australians make informed decisions about home sauna therapy.
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Everything you need to know before purchasing your infrared sauna
Near-infrared (NIR) penetrates the skin surface for skin health. Mid-infrared (MIR) goes deeper for muscle recovery. Far-infrared (FIR) penetrates deepest for detoxification. Full-spectrum combines all three for maximum benefits.
1-person saunas are perfect for small spaces. 2-person saunas offer flexibility for couples. 3+ person saunas are ideal for families. Consider your available space and how many people will use it regularly.
Carbon fibre heaters provide even heat distribution and are energy efficient. Ceramic heaters heat up faster but create hot spots. Look for low-EMF certifications and quality materials for safety.
Portable/blanket ($200-$600) for budget-friendly options. Mid-range ($1,000-$3,000) for quality cabin saunas. Premium ($3,000+) for full-spectrum, luxury features, and larger capacities.
Infrared saunas may help with detoxification, muscle recovery, stress relief, improved circulation, skin health, and weight management. Always consult your doctor before starting sauna therapy.
Most home infrared saunas use standard 240V Australian outlets. Larger cabin saunas may require dedicated circuits. Portable and blanket saunas are plug-and-play with minimal setup required.
Get answers to common questions about infrared saunas
Traditional saunas heat the air around you to high temperatures (80-100°C), while infrared saunas use infrared light to directly heat your body at lower air temperatures (45-65°C). This makes infrared saunas more comfortable, energy-efficient, and allows for longer sessions. The infrared heat penetrates deeper into tissues, providing therapeutic benefits at more tolerable temperatures.
For beginners, start with 2-3 sessions per week, 15-20 minutes each. As your body adapts, you can increase to daily sessions of 30-45 minutes. Listen to your body and stay hydrated. Most users find 3-4 sessions per week provides optimal benefits without overdoing it.
Yes, infrared saunas are generally considered safe for most healthy adults. The infrared technology is the same used in hospitals for warming newborns. However, you should consult your doctor if you're pregnant, have heart conditions, low blood pressure, or are on medications. Always stay hydrated and exit if you feel dizzy or unwell.
Look for saunas with EMF (electromagnetic field) levels below 3 milligauss (mG) at the seating position. Quality manufacturers will provide third-party EMF testing results. Low-EMF or ultra-low-EMF saunas use shielded wiring and careful heater placement to minimize exposure. This is especially important for frequent users.
Space requirements vary by type: Portable/blanket saunas need minimal space and can be stored when not in use. 1-person cabin saunas typically need about 1m x 1m floor space. 2-person saunas need approximately 1.2m x 1.2m. Allow at least 15cm clearance on all sides for ventilation. Most can fit in a bedroom, bathroom, or garage corner.
Carbon fibre heaters provide larger surface area coverage, more even heat distribution, lower surface temperatures, and are more energy-efficient. They also tend to have lower EMF levels. Ceramic heaters heat up faster and produce more intense, concentrated heat but can create hot spots. Many premium saunas now use carbon or a carbon-ceramic hybrid for the best of both worlds.
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