What You Need to Know About Saunas

If you are going to be getting a sauna, whether it is an indoor or outdoor sauna, you want to know a few basic facts first. Below, you’ll learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions regarding them, so you can make a more informed choice as a customer.

Can You Put Cushions in a Sauna?

Although some might prefer sitting directly on the wood, if you want more comfort, you can add sauna cushions to the sauna. These will have padding, so you will be more comfortable while using your sauna. You can have removable cushions, so you can take them out and wash them. After all, they are likely to have your perspiration on them and having them machine-washed will keep them nice and clean.

Get a good sauna cushion today, or some sauna seat covers for your bench. This will help to improve the sauna experience. Find those that are moisture-resistant and perfectly sized for your space.

A zippered cover for the sauna seat will provide added convenience. Choose quality materials like linen, cotton, or other fabrics that are easy to machine wash.

When buying seats or a seat cover, you can also check out reviews to get a better idea of the fabric options that work well and that won't be a harbor for mold.

How Do You Use a Sauna Pillow?

You can use a sauna pillow in a range of ways. First of all, it will provide some added luxury to the space, allowing you to create a comfy atmosphere. The pillows are also a nice option for those who might want to stretch out and have one beneath their heads.

Along with a seat cushion, having a good pillow with a foam core can help provide comfort for your back. However, you might want to have the skin of your back touch the cedar wood or other wood, which can retain heat.

Again, these are going to gather perspiration in the sauna, so make sure they are machine washable and that you clean them regularly. If you use the sauna frequently, it may be a good idea to have several that you can switch in and out when needed.

Do Sauna Pods Work?

Some people might not have enough room in the house or the backyard for a full sauna. In those cases, they may want to invest in a sauna pod instead. These radiant saunas work similarly to other saunas. The pods are relatively small and can be kept in a workout or relaxation room, for example. You lay down in the pod and close it, allowing the heat to wash over you.

While these can work well, many people will prefer the traditional style saunas that have more space to move around and get comfortable.

Do Saunas Get Rid of Inflammation?

The heat from the sauna helps to stimulate circulation, and this can help to reduce swelling and inflammation. Many people like to take some time in the sauna because of this benefit, as it can help to alleviate pain in the muscles and joints.

Who Should Not Use a Sauna Blanket?

An infrared sauna blanket works similarly to an infrared sauna. The blanket wraps around the body and gets warm, causing you to sweat. While it works similarly to a traditional sauna, some people should stay away from these blankets.

Those who have a fever, who are insensitive to heat, who have pacemakers, and hemophiliacs should avoid using these sauna blankets. Those who have conditions associated with impaired sweating and those who are taking medications like diuretics or beta-blockers should not use the blankets either.

The best thing to do is talk with a doctor before using these types of blankets to see if there are any potential issues for you. It is always better to be safe rather than sorry.

Do Saunas Damage Your Skin?

Saunas will not damage your skin. Spending time in a sauna could end up helping your skin. Sweating in the sauna helps to draw oxygen and nutrients to the surface of the skin, which helps with rejuvenation. Many people who use a sauna regularly say they have better skin than before they started spending time in the room.

How Long Do You Have to Sit in a Sauna to Detox Your Body?

This is one of the most common questions regarding sauna use. You won’t be able to detox your body in a single session. Instead, you will want to spend time in the sauna a few times a week and work toward detoxing your body. When you are first starting with a sauna, only spend about 10 minutes inside. Once you have become more accustomed, you can bump it up to 20 minutes or so. You can do this several times a week.

Where Should You Sit in a Sauna?

The location where you sit doesn’t matter too much, as the temperature will be about the same throughout. However, you may be a bit warmer if you are close to the heating source. Regardless of where you choose, make sure you have a towel that you can use to sit on, even if you have cushions in the sauna. It will help to keep things cleaner.

Should You Sit or Lie in a Sauna?

The choice is up to you. If this is your own sauna at home, feel free to lie down and spread out as much as you would like. Figure out the position that’s comfortable for you whether you are sitting or lying down.

What Are the Benefits of a Sauna Chair?

Some people like sauna chairs and portable saunas because of the benefits they can provide. They are smaller than a traditional sauna, but they can still heat your body to help with muscle and joint pains, as well as detoxification.

Is Sitting in a Steam Room Good for You?

Steam rooms and saunas are both good for you. They can help to improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, promote skin health, reduce stress, help with recovering from workouts, and even boost the immune system. They can remove toxins, as well. Those who are looking to better their health will appreciate steam rooms as much as saunas.

How Do You Sit in a Steam Room?

You will find that you sit in a steam room the same way that you would sit in a sauna. Make sure you have a towel, as well as a comfortable location to sit or stretch out. Relax and let the warm steam wash over your body.

Is It Better to Sit in Sauna or Steam Room?

Both of these options can provide you with relaxation and some nice health benefits. There is a difference in how it feels, though. Heat in the sauna tends to be on the dry side, while there is more humidity and moisture in the steam room.

How Long Should You Sit in a Steam Room?

You can sit in a steam room for about the same amount of time that you would spend in a sauna. Generally, you will want to be in there for about 15 to 20 minutes. You could then head outside for a few minutes, maybe have something to hydrate you, and then go back in again for another 15 to 20 minutes.

How Wide Are Seats in a Sauna?

The width of the sauna seats will vary depending on the model you choose and whether you have a custom option. They will generally be at least 20 inches wide. Benches will be wider and deeper, of course. When you are choosing your sauna, consider what will be most comfortable for you.

How Deep Should Sauna Benches Be?

When it comes to the depth of a sauna bench, you want to find an option that will be comfortable and ensure you have plenty of room. Typically, this means that you want them to be at least 20” deep, while many prefer a 24” bench. Wider benches will be able to accommodate someone who decides to stretch out and lie down. You might want to consider a double-wide bench.

What Size Should a Sauna Door Be?

A standard sauna door will be 24” x 80”, and the opening for the door will be 26” x 83”. Of course, if you have a custom sauna, the dimensions may be different. Most of the time, though, these will be the dimensions for your door.

How Much of a Gap at the Bottom of a Sauna Door?

Saunas need to have ventilation and having a gap at the bottom of the door is essential. Typically, the gap should be ¾” to an inch. This helps with the airflow.