Are Infrared Saunas Safe? [2021 Guide]

Yes, infrared saunas are safe to use. From the electrical components to the wood to the heating elements, everything has been tested and certified for your health and safety. Our saunas are designed and manufactured to last–which is why we cover them with a full lifetime warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee. We also have the lowest EMF of any infrareds sauna on the market. Guaranteed.

And no, infrared saunas are not like ‘microwaving’ yourself. We use the far infrared band of light which is absorbed by your body and raises your core body temperature. Same energy as the sun.

best indoor saunas - indoor saunas
safe infrared sauna heaters
Listen to this page on SoundCloud

Infrared Saunas are Incredibly Safe to Use Infrared Saunas are Incredibly Safe to Use

Infrared saunas utilize radiant heat which is the same the sun’s far infrared light (thermal radiation). Radiant heat is more efficient than heating the air alone because it warms the body from the inside. Thus, the body directly absorbs as much as 93% of the heat generated by our combination carbon/ceramic heaters. Far infrared radiation (FIR) is considered harmless for humans, plants and animals (it is even used to heat premature babies in hospital incubators).

The invisible radiant waves penetrate the body’s tissues to a depth of over one and one half inches, which then gets absorbed by your soft tissue and water molecules. In fact, the infrared wavelength is tuned to correspond very closely to the body’s own generated radiant energy wavelength output. Absorbing far infrared waves from an infrared sauna is no different than sitting in the sun as 53 percent of the sun’s energy is far infrared energy.

Our saunas are not only extremely safe but seriously contribute to ongoing health maintenance. 

Infrared Sauna Contraindications Infrared Sauna Contraindications

Children: Keep small children out of infrared saunas, and, really, out of all saunas. Before puberty, the bodies of children just can’t regulate their internal temperatures the way adults can through sweat production. Small children are also far more likely to hurt themselves by touching the heater.

As children get older, brief and always supervised sessions are okay, but never ever bring a child who can’t communicate how they are feeling into a sauna. Experts suggest that adolescents and supervised children spend 15 minutes or less inside saunas, or avoid using a sauna at all.

Pregnant women: Experts recommend that pregnant women limit sauna use. Raising your body temperature to 100 degrees or higher greatly increases risk of fetal complications or birth defects, especially during the first trimester, according to the Organization of Teratology Information Services.

Most studies about pregnancy and saunas seem to focus on the first trimester, but the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says to skip saunas, and even excessively hot baths, during all three trimesters. I’m inclined to agree with that–it’s common sense not to take unnecessary risks with your child.

Elderly: With the elderly, whether or not they’re able to use an infrared sauna should really be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Many folks are able to use saunas–both infrared and traditional steam saunas–right up into their eighties. This is commonplace in Finland, of course, where use of traditional steam saunas is a major part of the fabric of life.

As I mentioned above, the only risks that are inherent to infrared saunas are those that are also inherent to sweating outside on a very hot day. If the elderly folks in your life become uncomfortable when they start sweating, or if they’re at risk of getting heat stroke or dehydration, it’s probably best to limit their time in the sauna.

Pets: Keep your pets out of saunas. As with children, pets don’t have the ability to sweat in the way that human adults can. Your pets also can’t verbalize when they begin to feel extreme discomfort, and they, like children, are at a great risk of accidentally making contact with the very hot parts of your sauna.

Your dogs and cats also have fur, which makes the conditions even hotter for them. It’s best to let your beloved animal companions keep you company right outside the sauna door.

Avoid Sauna Use Completely If You Have: Avoid Sauna Use Completely If You Have:

  • Suffered a stroke (the sort caused by bleeding in the brain)
  • Severe aortic stenosis
  • Recently suffered a heart attack
  • Unstable angina pectoris
  • Lupus
  • Brain tumors
  • Been prescribed a steroid that interferes with blood circulation

Consult a Doctor If You Have:

  • Very high blood pressure
  • Very low blood pressure
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Silicone implants

Raising your core body temperature and having a good, prolonged intensive sweat is how you reap the many benefits that far infrared saunas have to offer, such as weight loss, joint pain relief, clearer skin, and lower blood pressure. However, as I mentioned above, there may also be some risks to having a raised body temperature, whether you are in a controlled setting like a sauna, or in the outdoors, exercising–it’s always best to consult your physician.

My general advice is if you have any reason whatsoever to doubt that a far infrared sauna is a safe and healthy therapy option for you and your body, go ahead and consult your doctor. I’m happy to tell you through this site or over the phone about the experience I’ve accrued in my years involved with far infrared saunas, but only a doctor can give medical advice.

General Infrared Sauna Tips General Infrared Sauna Tips

As with most things in life, there is a right way and wrong way to use a far infrared sauna. We’ve already discussed some of the risks and conditions that users should be aware of when they plan their far infrared sauna therapy. Now let’s take a look at some ways you can enhance your wellness and safety when using an infrared sauna.

Pick the most consistent time to sauna: It is best to use a sauna first thing in the morning or the last thing at night. This is when you are the most relaxed and your sauna session will be the most effective. Taking a sauna consistently is best for your health. It’s a bit like going to the gym. It’s easy to go when in a good routine.

Shower before: Showering beforehand can result in a faster and heavier sweat, which leads to a more productive experience. A warm shower just before going into the sauna raises your body’s core temperature and also begins to stimulate your body’s circulation, giving you a ‘head start’ on your sauna session. It also removes dirt, dry skin, and any other residue that might get in the way of a good sweat.

Hydration: Drink water before, during and after you exit the sauna to replace what you lost through sweating. Avoid sugary drinks the day of, as well as sodas, coffee, and alcohol, as these tend to dehydrate, rather than hydrate, your body. I know in my case, I was dependent on coffee and would sometimes drink too much soda or alcohol, but after a few weeks of using a sauna, my body began craving more clean, cold water to replace the liquids it was losing through sweat. Don’t drink from a plastic water bottle in your sauna as the plastic can melt.

Enjoy your sauna: It’s what you got it for right? SaunaCloud® has the most comfortable benches, backrests and sauna cabins in the industry. If you’re not comfortable, you won’t use it! I like to meditate and enjoy my 30 minutes away from the world and take a sauna every day for my physical, mental and spiritual health.

Wear little clothing: Don’t let too much clothing get in the way of the infrared light that heats your body. If you’ve gone ahead and gotten a far infrared sauna for your own home, I’d suggest wearing no clothes at all. If not, try to wear loose fitting clothes that are breathable (cotton is a good choice). Loose or no clothing allows your body to sweat more freely (and is just more comfortable when your body temperature is raised).

Shower after: After my sauna, while my body temperature is still a bit raised, my soft tissue a bit malleable, and my metabolism primed, I like to take a very hot shower. I do this every time I use an infrared sauna, particularly if it’s late at night. It cleanses the sweat, and any toxins that have been brought to the surface of my skin, and it soothes my muscles. I’ve gotten some of the best sleep in my life right after a hot shower I’ve taken right post-sauna. Just avoid any soaps or lotions with too many chemicals. Your pores will be wider than usual and you wouldn’t want to clog them.

Remember to relax: Always relax after a sauna session to allow your body to readjust. This is never difficult as simply taking the sauna is extremely relaxing!

I hate to admit it, but I was actually a bit hesitant the first time I ever used an infrared sauna. I’d been in traditional steam saunas before, and the stuffiness created by the incredibly high levels of humidity just wasn’t for me. I also didn’t know much about the technology, and I certainly didn’t know how safe they were. However, as I’ve said time and time again, using one changed my life. After my first time, I went right out and started talking to experts about the safety aspects. I learned all that I could, and next time I went into the sauna, the only thing on my mind was the health benefits.

That’s really how it should be for most people. For most adults, there’s no more risk to using a far infrared sauna than there is in spending a hot day outside at a picnic. Put aside any misconceptions you may have and give it a whirl. I truly believe that you’ll enjoy the weight loss, clear skin, pain relief, and detoxification so much that your misconceptions about sauna safety will immediately disappear.

The bottom line? For the majority of people, infrared saunas are a safe and efficient way to reap major health benefits in your life. To learn more about how infrared saunas work, their safety, and how they can benefit your body, contact the passionate sauna experts at SaunaCloud, or take a look at our top-of-the-line saunas, designed with a patented combined ceramic/carbon heater system to give you the best health benefits with the most comfort.

Shop our Full Spectrum Saunas

A+ BBB Rating, Full Lifetime Warranty, Only ★★★★★ Reviews

I am glad infrared saunas have developed the way they have, because I couldn’t imagine my life without the benefits they provide, like deep sleep, lower blood pressure, less joint pain, weight loss, and a boosted immune system. Here at SaunaCloud I sell saunas that are some of the best history has offered. My far infrared saunas use advanced ceramic-carbon combination heaters for an amazing sauna experience. For more information on how SaunaCloud’s infrared saunas work and how they can improve your health, download my book The Definitive Guide to Infrared Saunas. Just give us a call at SaunaCloud 1.800.370.0820.

If you enjoyed this page, please share it below ↓ Thanks for reading,

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Christopher Kiggins | Sauna Enthusiast

Christopher Kiggins | Sauna Enthusiast

I have been writing, learning, educating and generally pointing people in the right direction infrared sauna wise since 2012. Let me know how I can help: chris@saunacloud.com - (530) 417-1220

infrared saunas - outdoor saunas

The Definitive Guide to Infrared Saunas

I have the most in-depth guide to infrared saunas ever written that you can have for free. I give you my honest and upfront account of what to look for when searching for an infrared sauna.

E-Book valued on Amazon for

$10

for FREE

TOPICS COVERED IN OUR FREE E-BOOK

Light vs Hot Rocks

In-depth explanation between Infrared vs Traditional vs steam saunas explained

Health Benefits

We cover all of the amazing health infrared sauna benefits from a boosted immune system to detoxification

Buying Guide

We have written the most comprehensive infrared sauna guide, so you know what to look for when purchasing

Medical Studies

We list all current and historical medical studies on infrared and saunas of all types

infrared sauna - sauna heater for sale

"Chris' book was the most helpful piece of info that led to my purchase."

Very insightful and upfront look at what to look for and how to avoid the common purchasing pitfalls (and b.s.) that I am so glad I avoided. It's a easy to read book that I am very glad I found... Thanks again Chris

Deborah D. Maine

5/5
Outdoor Sauna Infrared
best infrared heaters - sauna heater for sale

GRAB YOUR FREE COPY TODAY !
TAKE IT WITH YOU ON ANY DEVICE

Don't take my word for it. Read the first few pages and see how getting the right infrared sauna will change your life.

We only offer ☆☆☆☆☆ Service!

I am 2 years into my relationship with Sauna Cloud. The key is “relationship”! If I have questions, or needs regarding my Sauna Cloud Sauna, Christopher is here for me. It has been that way from the beginning, answering my questions, and teaching me, not just selling me along the way. My Sauna Cloud experience could not be better. I bought it to help me age gracefully and maintain the balance of good health. It is my friend, my safe place, my health haven. It functions and easily and well. There are no issues. My sweats are long and thorough! best wishes, john
clearlight sanctuary outdoor 2 - best outdoor saunas
John T.
We absolutely adore this sauna. We use it three times a week to detox and enjoy. Not only is it beautiful but is easy to use. It is like a piece of furniture in our small bathroom. We opted for a sauna instead of a bath tub and do not regret our choice. Chris was great to work with and over the year we worked with him waiting for our house to be built he was always so helpful. This is an awesome sauna!
infrared heater - full spectrum saunas
Peonia M.
Couldn’t be happier with my Clearlight Infrared sauna purchase from Sauna Cloud. Quality construction and just a beautiful unit. Excellent customer service as well. Highly recommend Chris and Sauna Cloud.
hot yoga sauna - best infrared sauna
Mike Stuart
Sauna Cloud Infrared Saunas
5.0
Based on 18 reviews
powered by Google
Kathleen Miritello
Kathleen Miritello
14:28 08 Oct 20
I purchased a full-spectrum infrared sauna from Chris at Sauna Cloud in 2017, and it has been one of the best investments I've ever made. Regular use of the sauna has helped accelerate my recovery from heavy metal poisoning as well as significant toxic black mold inhalation. Chris was great to deal with and helped locate a sauna that met my needs at a time... when their inventory was low. The feel and quality are on a par with any high-end piece of furniture. It was easy for two people to assemble. The biggest surprise was the incredible quality of the built-in stereo speakers. I plug my iPhone into the audio jack on the front control panel, and I feel as though I am at a concert when I am taking a sauna. My sauna fit perfectly into a storage closet in my garage (with the closet doors removed) - see photos. For me, it is a worthwhile investment to ensure a lifetime of better health.read more
Steve Brightman
Steve Brightman
18:20 07 Oct 20
Chris was great to work with: originally ordered a Sanctuary before the shutdown. Job went into jeopardy, Chris refunded my deposit and cancelled my order no problem. Ordered again 5 weeks ago, showed up on time, Chris was always a phone call away for questions etc. Great service- awesome product.
Devlin Jackson
Devlin Jackson
23:31 06 Oct 20
Chris was very patient and did a great job explaining how Infrared saunas work. I purchased the CS1 which arrived on time and his team installed with no issue. Unit looks great in my small office and workout room. At 6'2" I fit very comfortably in the unit. I'm definitely feeling the benefits if using my sauna daily. My aches and pains from old athletic... injuries have been minimized once i started using my sauna.read more
johnny thed
johnny thed
20:22 06 Oct 20
I am 2 years into my relationship with Sauna Cloud. The key is “relationship”! If I have questions, or needs regarding my Sauna Cloud Sauna, Christopher is here for me. It has been that way from the beginning, answering my questions, and teaching me, not just selling me along the way. My Sauna Cloud experience could not be better. I bought it to help me age... gracefully and maintain the balance of good health. It is my friend, my safe place, my health haven. It functions and easily and well. There are no issues. My sweats are long and thorough! best wishes, johnread more
Motzart Paonia
Motzart Paonia
17:53 06 Oct 20
We absolutely adore this sauna. We use it three times a week to detox and enjoy. Not only is it beautiful but is easy to use. It is like a piece of furniture in our small bathroom. We opted for a sauna instead of a bath tub and do not regret our choice. Chris was great to work with and over the year we worked with him waiting for our house to be built he... was always so helpful. This is an awesome sauna!read more
CJ Huddleston
CJ Huddleston
00:52 30 Jun 20
Don’t waste your time reaching out to other companies. Call/text/or email Chris. He will explain everything in details, won’t try to sell you, but will place you with the best sauna for your needs While working in your budget. You will not receive this customer service with any other vendor; I know as I reached out to six before I found him.
Paul Michael Noble
Paul Michael Noble
04:50 22 May 20
Chris was the most helpful person I spoke with regarding building my custom infrared sauna. I had no idea where to begin and he made the process easy by walking me through everything. He's an electrician to boot so he spoke the language my contractor could understand. I couldn't be happier with my sauna!!
Bob Arseneau
Bob Arseneau
06:30 03 Dec 19
Chris and Allan were very helpful designing and retrofitting our old hot rock sauna to custom infrared. They seemed very experienced and worked with me and my electrician every step of the way to make sure everything got installed properly. I've been in touch a few times since then to tell them how happy I am with my sauna and the improvement I feel in my... health. Thanks again -Bobread more
Oscar Fuster
Oscar Fuster
19:58 26 Sep 19
We bought a three person teak infrared sauna last year from Chris and it is one of the best things we've done for our health. We use it daily after our workout and it definitely helps reduce inflammation and soreness. We received it on a timely basis and it was easy to put together. My wife and I installed it in about 2 hours. It is a very high quality... product and I highly recommend it and Sauna Cloud was a pleasure to deal with.read more
Scott Burns
Scott Burns
08:17 11 Sep 19
I bought a two people infrared cedar sauna from Debbie last winter in December and use it regularly now. It’s a great way to relax for me after a hard work day and I’m feeling noticeably better and less tired since. I'm sleeping really good. You can buy a similar sauna from different companies but I would recommend this one because of the quality and their... service is exceptional. Thank you for guiding me guys! Scottread more
Next Reviews

Get In Touch Today !

We promise to get you the best possible sauna, deal and service you can find!

Sauna Cloud, LLC BBB Business Review