Infrared Sauna Safety: What You Need to Know Before You Start

Infrared saunas are one of the fastest-growing wellness trends, and for good reason — they’re safe, effective, and easy to use. But if you’re new to the world of sauna therapy, you might be wondering: Is it really safe? How long should I stay in? Who shouldn’t use an infrared sauna?

At SunWave Saunas, we believe education is key to a great customer experience. Here’s a detailed look at how to use your infrared sauna safely, what to watch out for, and why SunWave Saunas are designed with safety as the top priority.

✅ The Basics: Are Infrared Saunas Safe?

Yes — infrared saunas are considered safe for most healthy adults. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air to 170–200°F, infrared saunas operate at a lower temperature (typically 120–150°F). This makes them more comfortable and easier to tolerate for longer sessions.

Why SunWave Saunas Are Safer:

Low EMF & ELF Technology: Our heaters are tested to ensure extremely low electromagnetic field exposure.
Even Heat Distribution: Prevents overheating and ensures a gentle, controlled experience.
Digital Controls: Allow precise temperature and time settings, so you stay in the ideal therapeutic range.

🧠 Listen to Your Body

One of the simplest but most important safety tips is to listen to your body. If you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or uncomfortable, step out of the sauna, drink some water, and allow yourself to cool down.

SunWave Advantage:
Our saunas have easy-to-reach controls from inside the cabin, so you can lower the temperature or stop the session without getting up.

⏱️ Time Guidelines for Safe Sessions

Infrared sauna sessions can last anywhere from 15–40 minutes, depending on experience level and health status:

Beginners: Start with 10–15 minutes at 110–120°F.
Intermediate Users: Gradually work up to 20–30 minutes at 120–130°F.
Experienced Users: You can safely enjoy 30–40 minute sessions at 130–150°F several times per week.

Pro Tip: Allow your sauna to preheat for 10–20 minutes before entering so the heat is consistent and ready.

💧 Hydration: Your #1 Safety Practice

Because infrared saunas promote deep sweating, staying hydrated is essential. Drink water before, during (if needed), and after your session to replace lost fluids.

Why SunWave Helps:
Our cabins include cup holders and optional accessories so you can keep water nearby for maximum comfort.

🚫 Who Should Avoid Infrared Saunas

While infrared sauna therapy is safe for most people, certain individuals should consult their doctor before use:

Pregnant women
People with heart conditions or low blood pressure
Anyone with open wounds or recent injuries
People taking medications that affect heat sensitivity (e.g., diuretics, antihypertensives)

SunWave Design:
Our low-temperature operation makes our saunas more accessible to people who can’t tolerate the extreme heat of traditional saunas — but we still recommend a doctor’s approval for those with medical concerns.

🧼 Safety Through Cleanliness

Keeping your sauna clean is not just about aesthetics — it’s also about hygiene and health.

SunWave Construction:

Premium Canadian hemlock or red cedar resists bacteria naturally.
Smooth, non-toxic finishes make cleaning easy — just wipe with a damp cloth after each use.

🔌 Electrical Safety

Infrared saunas are electrical appliances, so safe installation matters.

Always plug your sauna into a dedicated outlet.
Avoid using extension cords.
Follow manufacturer guidelines for setup and maintenance.

Why SunWave Is Safe:
All SunWave Saunas are ETL or CE certified, meaning they meet strict safety standards for residential use.

🏆 The Bottom Line: SunWave Saunas Make Safety Simple

Infrared saunas are a safe and effective way to improve health when used responsibly. By staying hydrated, keeping sessions within recommended time frames, and choosing a high-quality sauna like SunWave, you can enjoy all the benefits without worry.

🛒 Start Your Sauna Journey with Confidence

If you’re ready to experience the many benefits of infrared heat — safely and effectively — choose a sauna built with your well-being in mind.