We str the go-to website when you’re looking to purchase a sauna for your household.
Perhaps you’re wanting to replace a sauna you’ve had for years or are looking to upgrade. Maybe you’re even buying a sauna for the very first time. We know how difficult it can be to select the best option when there are so many available.
Many sauna users understand the benefits but don’t understand the difference in types and can use some assistance when it comes to selecting the right size and heating type for them. Fit Clarity aims to help by providing information and clear and informative reviews. We strive to be the best site for anyone looking to purchase a sauna.
We know that once you’ve added a sauna to your home you’ll wish you had made the purchase years earlier! With one of the sauna options outlined below, you’ll be feeling relaxed and rejuvenated in no time.
Reviews Of The Best Infrared And Home Sauna Kits
JNH Lifestyles 2 Person Far Infrared Sauna
The JNH Lifestyles 2 person infrared sauna is a great option for those that want a sauna that not only looks amazing but can be set up within a few hours. Just imagine having an instant sauna.
In addition to the ease of set up users have enjoyed the wide range of features available.
Included in this kit are 7 carbon fiber far infrared heaters that are ETL approved to deliver the best performance. The construction is high level with a double layer of Canadian hemlock T&G Timber for added insulation.
All of the components are UL listed and ETL approved and the entire sauna includes a 5 year warranty in case you do experience any unexpected issues.
For added personalization there is a build in AUX control and 2 high end speakers so that you can play whichever music you prefer while you relax. There is also a digital control that allows you to control temperature and duration.
This is the best rated, and highest quality sauna we’ve reviewed. It holds up well throughout the years and the added speakers and remote have mad the sauna a good fit for those that want just a little extra.
Radiant Saunas BSA2409 2 Person Hemlock Infrared Sauna
If you’re needing a sauna and want one that is well constructed but will take up little space, the Radiant 2 person sauna is a good option.
It is large enough to hold 2 people comfortably but not so large that it is difficult to find somewhere to set it up.
The manual photos could be better but guaranteed that if you follow the written directions you should have no trouble setting this sauna up. There’s also enough online support that you shouldn’t have an issue.
Included with the Radiant sauna are 6 carbon heaters that will deliver 1725 watts and will heat the sauna up to a toasty 141 degrees Fahrenheit.
The construction is made of solid Hemlock notched with convenient buckle assembly.
This sauna comes with a load of extras including an EZ-touch interior and exterior LED control panel that includes a sound system with radio, CD player, and AUX for connecting mp3 players and high end built in speakers. Also included are a chromo therapy light, exterior light, towel, magazine rack, oxygen ionizer, 2 backrests, and conveniently tinted glass for privacy.
JNH Lifestyles Joyous 3 Person Canadian Hemlock Wood Sauna
Another great option from JNH is their Lifestyles Joyous 3 person Canadian hemlock sauna. Featuring many of the same great features as the first review listed here but larger and with even more add-ons.
The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, and for good reason. One of the best benefits we found is the fact that the bench is large enough that the user can lay on it if they choose.
Many smaller saunas only feature enough space to sit so if you’re someone that would like to lay down to relax, this is probably a better option for you.
The sauna comes with 8 carbon fiber far infrared heaters so that the sauna will heat up quickly and efficiently. Each of the heaters is installed within the framing so that they will hit ideal target areas of the body such as the back, side, and calves.
The construction is 100% Canadian hemlock with zero added chemicals. The planks are tongue and groove making construction quick and easy.
We were able to piece the sauna together in a single hour.
Additional features include dual wall insulation, safety glass in the door, a premium sound system with 2 speakers and amplifier, LED lighting, digital control panel for adjusting the temperature and duration, and a long 5 year warranty for all parts, including the audio and speakers.
Better Life BL6109 1-2 Person Carbon Infrared Sauna
The Better Life BL6109 1-2 person carbon infrared sauna is perfect for the family or individual that wants a sauna but has extremely limited space.
This sauna can be a tight fight for 2 adults but the small size means it heats up quickly and works wonderfully if you’re willing to take turns.
This sauna arrives with easy snap together assembly that took us less than 45 minutes to fully assemble. Obviously we’ve got some experience, but others we’ve talked to were able to do the same.
It also includes a dual interior and exterior soft touch control panel that features an LED display with easy to read temperature and time.
One of the nicest benefits of the Better Life sauna is the reduced wattage floor and lower bench heaters so that no matter where you step or sit the surface is a comfortable temperature.
Included with each sauna is a full radio with CD player and mp3 auxiliary. Additionally there is a chromo therapy system with a remote to cycle through the color array and brightness control so that you can set how light or dim you would like the light to be. This sauna can be installed nearly anywhere with a regular outlet as it runs on a typical 110 volt outlet.
Lifesmart Infra Color Ultimate Sauna
The Lifesmart Infra Color Ultimate Sauna is preferred option for those wanting a non-infrared sauna.
This Lifesmart sauna is ideal for a smaller household, but is actually quite roomy for its size and could potentially fit 3 individuals but is most comfortable with 2.
Instead of infrared heating, this sauna includes 4 carbon tech and 2 ceramic heaters which can heat the entire sauna to the desired temperature within 30 minutes. There is an additional foot reflexology heater included as well.
For added benefit Lifesmart has included a multi spectrum Infracolor chromo therapy light system that comes with its own remote control.
There is a fresh air vent that can be opened after use and tinted glass on the door to allow for an added sense of privacy.
Overall a very solid unit if you’re not looking for the infrared option.
Infrared And Home Sauna Sizes
When it comes to saunas it is important to consider the space you have available. Be careful to pay attention to strict dimensions and measure the space where you intend to place the sauna.
When it comes to selecting a sauna it is a good measure to purchase one that will accommodate 1 more person than intends to use it.
As an example, a sauna that says it will fit 3 people is usually most comfortable with 2. This is a very important factor to consider because no one will use a sauna that they are not comfortable sitting in.
Also decide if you think you would like to lie down – in some saunas the benches are large enough that you can recline comfortably, while with others you are left sitting. Both can be great but it is up to you to decide how you will be most comfortable.
Saunas come in a wide range of sizes and it is important to pay attention to the particular dimensions and select the one that will work best for your family.
Here are the Fit Clarity suggestions by size:
Single Person
JNH Lifestyles Joyous 1 Person Far Infrared Sauna
This incredible single person sauna comes with all the perks of the larger options but will fit into a smaller space and is ideal for a single user or a household that is willing to alternate turns. At only 35.5” (w) x 35.5” (d) x 75” (h), this sauna still packs a punch.
Included in the package are 6 carbon fiber far infrared heaters that are situated to ideally target known problem areas including the back, side and calves. The construction is high quality Canadian hemlock that gives a traditional yet sturdy sauna look and appeal.
The tongue and groove construction make this a quick set up and includes a see through door with special safety glass for high temperatures. The dual wall insulation will keep in the interior where it needs to be and will keep the rest of your home safe from moisture.
The only small issue we’ve come across is that the included audio system is not under warranty.
There is added LED lighting and a digital control to adjust temperature and duration.
Double Occupancy
DYNAMIC SAUNAS AMZ-DYN-6106-01 Barcelona 1 to 2-Person Far Infrared Sauna
The Dynamic Barcelona sauna is a unique addition to our list as it is low EMF and is completely constructed from reforested Canadian hemlock making it a good option for the environmentally friendly.
Listed as an oversized sauna you will find that 2 people can fit comfortably without feeling overly crowded.
The walls are double paneled and include interior planks that are thicker than those provided by other retailers. Thicker interior planks mean that this sauna holds heat extremely well and will heat more efficiently so that it wastes less energy.
For the heating there are 6 low EMF infrared carbon heating panels including a foot heater.
The assembly is easy and should take most people less than an hour to fully complete.
There is an interior and exterior soft touch control panel and LED display with sauna temperature and time. For added enjoyment there is a built in speaker system with an mp3 aux connection so that you can play your favorite music.
Triple Occupancy
JNH Lifestyles 2-3 Person Corner Far Infrared Sauna
The JNH Lifestyle 2-3 person sauna is perfect for those with a corner location. This sauna is extra roomy given its corner design and will comfortably fit 3 adults.
This sauna comes complete with 5 carbon fiber far infrared heaters that are ideally located to hit high stress areas of the body.
Each sauna is constructed of top quality Canadian hemlock with easy to assemble tongue and groove set up. Most users we spoke to noted being able to assemble the entire sauna in an hour.
The dual wall construction ensures better heat insulation and protection for the rest of your house. The included clear glass door is created from special safety glass that will hold up to high temperatures.
There is a premium sound system with amplifier and mp3 auxiliary so that you can listen to your favorite music. Convenient LED lighting on the interior allow you to see easily even when the rest of your home is dark. There is an included 2 year part warranty in case there are ever any unexpected problems.
What Is A Portable Sauna?
A portable sauna is a set up that offers all of the great health benefits of a standard sauna but with a unique portability that allows you to take your sauna with you.
These are ideal for athletes and those with muscle injuries or other body pain that would require them to be able to use their sauna daily. A portable sauna can easily be packed up for vacations and trips so that you know you’ll never miss a day and will continue to get the therapeutic relief you need. These saunas are light weight and are made from a durable fabric that can be folded and carried.
A portable sauna also provides an option for those that wish to have a sauna but don’t have the extra space to accommodate one. They take up very little space and can be set up for each use and then packed away until next time.
Additionally, due to their non-wood construction they are much cheaper making them available for all that wish to have a sauna in their home.
Reviews Of The Best Portable Saunas
Durherm Portable Personal Folding Home Steam Sauna
For a portable sauna the Portable Therapeutic Steam Sauna is a roomy size (28″ x 33″ x 43″) making it a great option for all body types.
It comes with a convenient timer that can be set to anywhere from 10 minutes all the way up to a full hour.
The included generator holds a generous 1.8 liters and transmits 800 watts of power ensuring that your personal tent completely fills with steam so that you get the full sauna effect.
The sauna runs on 120 volts so can be used in any regular outlet making it perfect for travel or home use.
You’ll be surprised how well this thing works, but just note that you’ll need to have a chair or stool to put in the unit, as it doesn’t come with a seat.
Durherm Far Infrared Portable Sauna
If you’re wanting a portable sauna that still offers some of the more high tech heating elements that larger standard saunas offer then this portable sauna will work for you.
The Durherm Far Infrared Portable Sauna was created for users just like yourself.
You want the great appeal of a larger sauna but the convenience of a portable sauna.
This sauna includes a Far Infrared heater box with a super conductive ultra-thin carbon fiber heating element. This sauna has a roomy design that will allow you plenty of room to read, watch TV, or listen to music as you enjoy your sauna.
The sauna box includes additional negative ion far infrared carbon fiber heating panels with temperature preset controls so that you can set your own personal heat level.
There is an included hand held controller to change easily change the temperature and timer.
This sauna comes with its own compact folding chair, a foam floor cushion, and easy to use zippers at the entrance and the arm holes for ease of use.
Steamflex Therapeutic Portable Steam Sauna
Yet another option for a portable sauna, and this one may seem a bit strange at first.
The Steamflex Therapeutic sauna is designed to fit massage tables so it can be used while lying down instead of sitting up.
It is fairly easy to adjust this sauna to work on a bed or floor if you do not own a table.
The Steamflex comes with its very own carry bag and to transport your sauna, all that is necessary is to fold it up and placed into the bag. It only takes a few minutes and you’ll be out the door.
To set up the tent there are two sturdy yet flexible fiberglass rods that feed through the waterproof nylon cover. Also included in the set is a table cover and the electric steam generator.
The steam generator will hold up to 2 liters when completely full and runs off a standard wall circuit. The full length of the cover is 72” and will accommodate people of most sizes.
What About Outdoor Saunas?
When you’re considering a sauna for your home, there are clearly plenty of options. One of the best options if you’re living in a smaller home or simply don’t have a convenient space to locate a full size sauna within your residence, is an outdoor sauna.
One of the great benefits of an outdoor sauna is that they are available in many shapes and sizes that are both appealing and unusual adding a fun appeal to your property. Furthermore, being an outdoor sauna means that they are usually larger and can accommodate more users so you could invite all of your friends over to have a sauna party.
Outdoor saunas include all the wonderful amenities of an indoor sauna but are sturdier and built to hold up in the elements. Given that they are to be used outside some include their own awnings and porches for extra storage where you can leave your shoes and robes or towels before entering the sauna.
Purchasing an outdoor sauna is much like adding another building to your land. They have high end construction and are built to be attractive and useful.
Four Person FIR Far Infrared Outdoor Luxury Hemlock Sauna
This attractive outdoor sauna is perfect for anyone that wants a high end sauna that will add appeal to their entire yard. Don’t be fooled by the apparent hexagonal shape, this sauna is a square but has the door tilted sideways at a corner lending a hexagonal look to the structure.
This amazing outdoor sauna includes a 100% waterproof fully shingled roof and construction. All of the windows are high end tempered glass and most households can have the sauna fully assembled in an hour or less.
It uses FIR far infrared ceramic heaters to heat the sauna quickly and efficiently and comes with a radio with CD player so that you can listen to your favorite music. There is an ionizer with ozone generator and a digital control panel located on the inside of the building to keep it out of the elements.
There are 4 LED reading lights for those that prefer to peruse their favorite book as they relax and 4 chromo therapy color LED lights.
This sauna does need a 220 volt outlet so make sure when you set the structure up that you are located near an outlet or can put one in. There are multiple warranties on this sauna including a 10 year limited warranty for the structure and 3 years for the heaters and electronics.
Almost Heaven Saunas AHCPY65RC 4-Person Canopy Barrel Sauna
The Almost Heaven sauna is an attractive, functional choice for anyone looking for an outdoor sauna. If you’ve seen some of the older versions it is important to note that this one varies slightly.
The door has now been pushed back to allow for a porch area. A fantastic improvement that gives the user space to leave their shoes and other items before entering the sauna.
This sauna features a fun barrel shape that was designed to provide optimal interior space while making a minimal footprint on your property. The interior is lined with opposing benches that run the full length of the barrel so each user has plenty of space.
To heat the room there is a 4.5kw heater by Harvia a specialist Finnish company that is known for their quality heaters.
Like the other outdoor sauna you will need a 220 volt outlet so plan accordingly prior to set up.
Reviews Of The Best Infrared Blankets
Infrared blankets are ideal for users that want to be able to enjoy a sauna but either don’t have the space, money, or due to medical concerns need to lie down. These portable and easy to use blankets provide the therapeutic benefits of a sauna for a fraction of the price and space. You can select exactly how you use your blanket. Use it while lying down, or sitting up and find whichever position is most comfortable for you.
Nova Microdermabrasion 3 Zone Fir Far Infrared Sauna Blanket
The Nova Microdermabrasion 3 Zone Fir Far Infrared Sauna Blanket is a high quality model with low output voltage (3.36 V / 300 Watt). This is handy because it means there is no risk of burn or shock. Clearly safety should be your number one priority when using one of these unique products.
Like most blankets of this sort, there are 3 sections that you can control the temperature for, which means your feet, middle, and top parts of your body can all be different temperatures, and you can adjust them exactly how you’d like with the remote.
Temperatures range from 40F to 85F, and it’s 180 CM by 90 CM, or 6 feet by 3 feet.
Overall it’s a high quality product and is one of the only competitors to Sanven, who we have reviewed below.
Sanven Sauna Blanket
The Sanven Sauna Blanket features Far infrared heating elements that guarantee to penetrate and get deep into your muscle tissue to relieve your tension and stress.
This sauna blanket includes 3 independent heating zones that you can personalize individually. Set each zone to be the ideal temperature for that area of your body. If your back is particularly bothering you, simply set it to a higher temperature and set the timer to the amount of time you think you need, up to 60 minutes. If you end up feeling like you need more time simply reset the timer and continue to relax.
Each of the zones can be adjusted from 77 degrees Fahrenheit to 167 degrees Fahrenheit. Clearly these blankets can get warm!
This Sanven Sauna Blanket is made of highly durable thick polyurethane material that will last for years to come.
The full blanket size is 170 cm by 83 cm and is large and roomy enough to accommodate nearly all body types.
FoodKing Sauna Blanket
3 Zone heat function control, adjustable temp from 80 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, high quality thick, soft material…this new entrant to the market is a winner.
This is marketed as a healthy “detox slimming” blanket, and if you read about the benefits of saunas, you’ll be glad to know that you can get some of those with the convenience (and cost savings) found in a sauna blanket.
You’ll get far infrared heat that is known to be a better source of heat for deep tissue penetration.
There are three divided areas that you can set to heat to your personal preference. They are laid out horizontally into upper body, waist, and lower body sections.
The blanket itself is made out of high quality PU material that is safe with heat so as to protect the surface the user lies on. The control device allows you to set temperature and time setting for each of the 3 blanket divisions. The timer can be set anywhere from 5 to 95 minutes, for longer durations the timer will need to be reset.
What Is A Sauna?
Many cultures the world over have had their own variations of saunas. It is essentially a small room or building that has been specially designed to be heated to high temperatures with a level of controlled humidity.
Around the world saunas have been used for both recreation and therapeutic purposes while the most common use is for relaxation and for the health benefits that saunas can offer.
How Does A Sauna Work?
For many, their saunas are built out of woods that release a pleasant smell when heated but there is much more to a sauna than heat and a nice relaxing aroma. There are two main types of saunas to keep in mind when you consider selecting one for yourself and your family. There are dry and wet. The option you pick will simply be a matter of taste.
Wet saunas are often referred to as steams rooms and are kept at a lower temperature than a dry sauna. A wet sauna will usually vary a bit between 100 and 115 Fahrenheit. They are kept at this lower temperature so that the hot water will not scald and injure the user.
A dry sauna can be as hot as 250 degrees Fahrenheit but keeps the moisture to nearly zero so that it doesn’t encounter a hot water issue.
The moisture that exists in the wet sauna will actually feel just as hot as the dry sauna because the sweat that is produced cannot evaporate to cool your body.
The heat source used in the sauna itself can vary. Traditionally wood-burning saunas have existed throughout history but today the most popular are infrared.
Going back to a traditional sauna, as it helps to get the picture across, there will be a small corner stone is used to heat the rocks that will be used to create steam. As the rocks become heated they will absorb the heat and can continue to heat the space themselves. The rocks used within the sauna are special because they have to be capable of standing up to high temperatures. The most common are peridotite, basalt, or hornblende.
To create the steam your sauna will usually include a bucket and a ladle. Once your rocks are heated by the stove you use the ladle to scoop water from the bucket onto the rocks. As the water hits the rocks a burst of steam will rise into the air. The steam released by the hot rocks is the humidity you need to get the full sauna effect.
However, now there are infrared saunas, which use infrared technology to provide the same benefits at a more efficient and even more beneficial way. You can read about those particular reviews below, as we cover quite a few infrared powered saunas.
Why Use A Sauna?
Before selecting a sauna it is a good idea to know a bit more about why our customers enjoy their saunas so much and how they help them.
Using some sort of steam bath is a custom that dates back to ancient times, all the way back to some of the earliest nomadic tribes. Saunas, or sauna-like structures have been used to treat muscle soreness and tension, and according to some cultures, it can help with “spiritual pollution”. Fit Clarity doesn’t hold any claims about any religious aspect of sauna usage but we do stand by medical science.
Medical doctors have found that even a small amount of time spent in a sauna can be beneficial. The sweat our bodies produce is an integral part of healthy living. When you use a sauna, the heat from the stove, or infrared light triggers your nerve endings to release a neurotransmitter. This neurotransmitter is called acetylcholine and is the trigger that signals to all of the sweat glands on your body that they need to get to work. In a single 15-minute sauna your body will shed as much as 4 cups, an entire liter of sweat. This is your body’s way of controlling its temperature while in the hot room. As the sweat is released from your body you are ridding your body of waste and toxins.
It is debatable how much toxin is actually released from the body through the sweat but there are additional benefits to consider as well. The sauna aids the body in other beneficial secretions such as excess salt, uric acid, and urea. The larger organs in our body, such as our kidneys and liver are the ones that usually filter these but the sauna can help as well.
Types Of Saunas Including Traditional And Infrared (And A Comparison)
Wood Burning
A wood burning sauna is as close as anyone can get to the saunas found in ancient Finland. In this type of sauna the space and rocks are heated by wood. The stove is continuously heated and allows the user to alter the temperature of the room by the rate at which the wood is burned. Wood burning stoves are still available and are a great option for those that want an authentic feel.
Electrically Heated
Electric heated saunas first appeared in the 1950’s and are the majority of what is found today. For many an electric heater is the only real option because of where they live and where they plan on placing their sauna, burning wood just wouldn’t be possible. Electric saunas have come a long way and now come with options such as floor or wall mounted and are safe and easy to use. The electric heaters will emit heat well and often come with remote controls with a temperature display and a timer making them convenient to use.
Infrared
The newest innovations for sauna lovers is the infrared sauna. With infrared the hot rocks and stove are unnecessary. This new technology makes it possible to deliver the heat directly through the body through the use of infrared light. It is debated that this type of sauna is more effective since the infrared light can penetrate further into muscle tissue and has the added benefit of providing the positive aspects we acquire from sunlight without sun exposure which can have a negative effect.
Comparison
There are two main differences between a more traditional sauna that is wood or electric heated, and the newer infrared saunas. Firstly, an infrared light sauna has virtually no water. This means that there is no steam whereas the first two options rely on the steam to up the temperature and help you sweat. Secondly, the infrared doesn’t heat the entire space like a traditional sauna. When you use wood or electric the entire sauna space is heated by the stove, with infrared the sauna uses radiant heat. There are heating elements that reflect the heat directly to the user’s body and the light can penetrate deeper than traditional sauna methods making this a particularly useful type of sauna for athletes.
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