If you've been researching infrared saunas, you've likely encountered discussions about EMF—electromagnetic fields. This topic generates considerable debate in the wellness community, with some expressing significant concern about EMF exposure while others dismiss it entirely. The truth, as with many health topics, lies somewhere in between.
This guide aims to provide a balanced, factual overview of EMF in the context of infrared saunas. We'll explain what EMF actually is, why it's relevant to sauna users, how to interpret manufacturer specifications, and how to make an informed decision based on your personal risk tolerance.
What Are Electromagnetic Fields?
Electromagnetic fields are invisible areas of energy produced by electrically charged objects. They exist on a spectrum from extremely low frequency (ELF) fields—like those produced by power lines and household appliances—to extremely high frequency fields like X-rays and gamma rays.
The EMF we discuss in the context of infrared saunas is extremely low frequency (ELF) EMF, specifically the magnetic fields produced by electrical wiring and heating elements. This is the same type of EMF produced by virtually every electrical device in your home, from your refrigerator to your mobile phone charger.
EMF strength is measured in milligauss (mG) or microtesla (µT). 1 milligauss equals 0.1 microtesla. Most EMF discussions use milligauss as the standard unit.
Why EMF Matters for Saunas
Infrared saunas present a unique EMF consideration compared to other household appliances for several reasons:
Proximity and Duration
During a sauna session, you sit in close proximity to electrical heating elements for extended periods—typically 20-45 minutes. With most appliances, you maintain greater distance or spend less time near them.
Multiple Heater Panels
Infrared saunas typically have heater panels on multiple sides, meaning exposure comes from several directions simultaneously rather than a single source.
Undressed Exposure
In a sauna, you're typically wearing minimal clothing, meaning there's less material between you and the EMF source (though clothing provides negligible EMF shielding anyway).
Current Research and Guidelines
It's important to note that scientific consensus on the health effects of low-level ELF EMF exposure is not definitive. Major health organisations have reviewed the evidence:
World Health Organization (WHO)
The WHO classifies ELF magnetic fields as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" (Group 2B), based primarily on studies suggesting a possible association with childhood leukaemia at very high exposure levels. This classification puts ELF EMF in the same category as coffee and pickled vegetables—indicating limited evidence of potential harm.
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)
ICNIRP recommends occupational exposure limits of 1,000 milligauss and general public limits of 2,000 milligauss for continuous exposure. These guidelines are based on preventing acute effects (like nerve stimulation) rather than potential long-term effects, which remain uncertain.
EMF Level Comparisons
- Hair dryer (at head): 60-200 mG
- Electric blanket: 5-20 mG
- Microwave oven (1 foot away): 40-80 mG
- Average home background: 0.5-2 mG
- Low-EMF infrared sauna: <3 mG at seating position
- Standard infrared sauna: 3-30+ mG at seating position
How Sauna Manufacturers Address EMF
Quality sauna manufacturers use several strategies to minimise EMF emissions:
Shielded Wiring
Special cables with metal shielding around conductors reduce EMF propagation from the electrical wiring running through the sauna.
Heater Design
The arrangement of heating elements within panels affects EMF output. Some designs naturally cancel out portions of the magnetic field, while others amplify it.
Heater Placement
Strategic positioning of heater panels away from where users sit can reduce exposure at the seating position, even if the heaters themselves emit higher EMF levels.
Carbon vs Ceramic
Carbon fibre heaters generally produce lower EMF levels than ceramic heaters, partly due to their lower operating temperatures and distributed heating surface.
Interpreting EMF Specifications
When evaluating sauna EMF claims, be aware of potential misleading practices:
Measurement Location
Some manufacturers measure EMF at the heater surface, others at the seating position, and others at arbitrary distances. Always ask where measurements were taken. The relevant figure is the level at the seating position—where your body will actually be during use.
Operating Conditions
EMF levels can vary based on temperature settings and whether all heaters are active. Measurements should be taken at typical operating conditions, not with heaters at minimum settings.
Third-Party Testing
Independent laboratory testing is more reliable than manufacturer self-testing. Ask if EMF data comes from an accredited testing facility.
Be cautious of claims like "zero EMF" (impossible for any electrical device) or vague statements like "low EMF" without specific numbers. Reputable manufacturers provide actual measurements in milligauss at specified distances.
EMF Categories in the Sauna Market
Generally, infrared saunas fall into three EMF categories:
Ultra-Low EMF (<3 mG)
Premium saunas with comprehensive shielding and careful design. These typically cost more but provide the lowest exposure levels. Examples include Clearlight, Sunlighten, and higher-end models from established brands.
Low EMF (3-10 mG)
Mid-range saunas with some EMF mitigation measures. Still significantly lower than many household appliances and within levels considered safe by current guidelines.
Standard (10+ mG)
Budget saunas without specific EMF reduction measures. May still be within regulatory guidelines but represent higher exposure than premium alternatives.
Making Your Decision
How much EMF matters depends largely on your personal perspective:
Precautionary Approach
If you prefer to minimise potential risks even without definitive evidence of harm, investing in an ultra-low EMF sauna provides peace of mind. This approach is particularly reasonable for frequent users (daily sessions) or those with heightened health concerns.
Evidence-Based Approach
If you're guided primarily by established scientific evidence, current guidelines suggest that even standard EMF levels in infrared saunas are unlikely to cause harm. The exposure duration and intensity are well within international safety standards.
Balanced Approach
Many buyers choose a middle ground: looking for low-EMF saunas without necessarily paying premium prices for ultra-low levels. This provides some EMF reduction without excessive cost.
1) What are the EMF levels at the seating position during normal operation? 2) Were these measurements conducted by an independent laboratory? 3) What shielding or design features reduce EMF in this model? 4) Can you provide testing documentation?
Other Factors to Consider
While EMF is worth considering, don't let it overshadow other important factors:
- Build quality affects longevity and safety more directly than EMF levels
- Heater coverage and temperature distribution affect therapeutic effectiveness
- Warranty and support matter for long-term ownership
- Wood quality affects comfort, durability, and air quality
- Price should reflect overall value, not just one specification
An ultra-low EMF sauna with poor construction or insufficient heating may be a worse choice than a low-EMF model with excellent build quality and performance.
The Bottom Line
EMF is a reasonable consideration when purchasing an infrared sauna, but it shouldn't be the only factor in your decision. Current scientific evidence doesn't demonstrate clear health risks from the EMF levels found in infrared saunas, even those without special shielding. However, for those who prefer a precautionary approach, low-EMF and ultra-low-EMF options are readily available.
Focus on understanding the actual numbers (measured in milligauss at the seating position), comparing apples to apples across different brands, and balancing EMF considerations with other quality factors. A well-made, properly used infrared sauna—regardless of its specific EMF level—can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine.
For more information on choosing and using your sauna, see our beginner's guide and safety tips.