How I Discovered the Truth About EMF in Infrared Saunas
When I first became interested in infrared saunas, I found myself diving into deep research on something I hadn’t expected: electromagnetic fields, or EMF. Infrared saunas seemed like miracle wellness machines—relaxation, detox, pain relief, better sleep—but I wanted to know the risks, too. And that’s when I went down the rabbit hole.
What I discovered was a field full of nuance, contradiction, and misinformation. EMFs are emitted by every electrical device, including saunas, and there’s considerable debate about whether long-term exposure to them is harmful. I wanted to do my due diligence—not just as a business owner, but as someone who uses a sauna daily.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), low-level EMFs are not conclusively linked to health risks. But other research suggests caution. And like many things in wellness, just because something hasn’t been “proven dangerous” doesn’t mean it’s safe. I decided to take things further and consult a physicist friend.
What are EMFs, really?
Think of them as invisible pulses of energy radiating out from any object with an electric current—your phone, laptop, microwave, or sauna heater.
Breaking It Down: What I Learned from a Physicist
My friend explained that EMFs come from any active electrical circuit. Most devices—especially small household ones—emit low levels that dissipate quickly. But large electrical equipment, or prolonged close exposure, can create concern. Infrared saunas are unique because you’re surrounded by electrical components and you’re sitting still inside them for extended periods of time.
I learned there are two types of EMF radiation: ionizing (like X-rays, which are harmful) and non-ionizing (like what comes from saunas, Wi-Fi, and phones). Saunas emit non-ionizing radiation, but the concern is chronic exposure in close proximity.
I also bought an EMF meter on Amazon (Lutron brand) to see for myself. The closer I held it to a device, the stronger the reading. Household items ranged widely—from 2 milligauss (mG) to over 100 mG near a microwave while in use.
Milligauss (mG) matters:
The EPA has recommended that exposure remain under 3 mG where possible. Anything above that is worth questioning.
What the Research Says About EMF Risks
One landmark paper, California EMF Risk Evaluation (2002), reviewed studies on EMF exposure and found troubling patterns. The researchers linked high average EMF exposure to a doubled risk of childhood leukemia in kids under 15. Another study reported increased risks for adult brain cancer, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), miscarriage, and reproductive complications.
Still, the key phrase is heavy and prolonged exposure. Using a hair dryer for five minutes or heating up leftovers in a microwave won’t put you at risk. But what about sitting inside a sauna for 30 minutes every day?
That’s what concerned me.
Why “Zero EMF” Claims Are Misleading
Some sauna companies claim their saunas emit “zero EMF.” Let me be clear: that’s not possible. Saunas are electric devices. Every circuit, every wire, emits some amount of EMF. So when a company makes that claim, it’s either a lie or a misunderstanding—or both.
Now, there are very low-EMF saunas, and that’s what you should aim for. But the only way to verify this is by:
Asking for exact milligauss levels measured inside the cabin
Verifying where the power supply is located
Using your own EMF meter if you want peace of mind
In our industry, companies will often submit just the heater panel to a third-party lab for EMF testing, then wave around a fancy PDF showing ultra-low numbers. But this test doesn’t include the power supply, which is the single biggest emitter in the entire sauna. If it’s placed directly under the bench where you’re sitting, your exposure goes way up—even if the heater itself is low EMF.
Want to be safe?
Ask for the full EMF report of the entire sauna, not just a heater panel. And if they can’t provide it—walk away.
Carbon vs. Ceramic Heaters
Infrared sauna heaters are made of either carbon or ceramic, and sometimes a combination of both.
Carbon heaters are more modern, flexible, and energy-efficient—but they typically emit higher EMF (up to 80 mG or more).
Ceramic heaters run hotter, emit more infrared heat per square inch, and tend to emit lower EMF.
Hybrid ceramic-carbon systems, like True Wave™ heaters, offer a good balance—but only if engineered properly and EMF-shielded.
The best sauna designs also move the power supply to the ceiling, where it’s far from your body. This dramatically reduces the EMF you’re actually exposed to while seated.
Why You Should Measure It Yourself
If you’re serious about your health, I recommend buying a TriField or Lutron EMF meter and checking your sauna’s EMF output yourself. Don’t just rely on marketing claims. These meters are also handy for testing your home environment.
Even with a third-party test, you need to look at what was tested—and what wasn’t.
Read the fine print:
If a test only measures one panel, it doesn’t account for real-world EMF levels once the entire unit is powered up and running.
Final Thoughts: The Less EMF, The Better
Infrared saunas are one of the best health tools available today. But choosing one that emits low EMF is essential—especially if you’re planning to use it daily.
Here’s what to look for:
A sauna with published, transparent EMF specs (under 3 mG at the bench level)
Clear placement of the power supply (away from seating)
Honest sales teams that don’t claim “zero EMF”
If a company refuses to give you numbers or makes vague, overly confident claims—be cautious. And if you’re ever unsure, test it yourself.
The bottom line:
Low EMF infrared saunas are real—but rare. You just need to know what to ask for, and what to avoid.
