The difference between a barrel sauna and infrared cabin

Our Tønsaunas come in different shapes and sizes. For example, you can choose from wood-fired or electric heaters, and the sizes range from 1.60 to 4 meters. But there are also other types of saunas, for example an infrared sauna. That's another whole different kind of heat than what you experience in barrel saunas. I explored the main differences between these types of saunas.

Hot air vs. infrared rays

The biggest difference between an infrared cabin and a traditional sauna is in the method of heating. Whereas in our outdoor saunas you heat the room with a heater, infrared rays heat your body in an infrared cabin.

You notice it right away when you walk into the sauna. At a Tønsauna, the heat immediately falls over you like a warm blanket. The temperature usually varies between 75 and 100 degrees. You decide whether you want to increase the humidity by means of a soak. Here you pour water, possibly mixed with an aroma, on the sauna stones. The temperature does not rise this way, but the steam that is created makes it feel warmer.

With an infrared sauna, it's different. Anyway, the temperature is a lot lower, averaging between 35 and 60 degrees. But also, the room you get into is a lot cooler and the air is dry, because the heat rays warm your body rather than the cabin itself.

Health benefits barrel sauna and infrared cabin

There are health benefits to a session in both types of saunas. The high temperatures in a barrel sauna not only make you really relax, it also makes you sweat a good deal. And that's very healthy! It's good for your circulation, you lose waste products and it improves your resistance. You will also notice that your skin and hair become visibly more beautiful and you will sleep better at night. The warmth lets you completely unwind, which is wonderful after a long, busy day.

The heat rays in an infrared sauna work well for muscle and joint pain. It helps to make muscles more flexible and stimulate blood circulation. In addition, it helps detoxify your body.

The experience around it

Our Tønsaunas are outdoor saunas. This means that during a sauna session you are away from all the noises and activities going on in the house. As soon as you step out of the sauna you are in the open air and can enjoy an air bath, just in your garden. It helps you to be more aware of what is going on around you, away from the walls and screens for a while.

In many cases, an infrared cabin can only be used indoors. Depending on the space you have, and the relaxation you may or may not experience with a sauna at home, that's something to factor into your choice.

Which is better?

If you ask us, of course we go right for the traditional outdoor sauna. Not only because of the many health benefits and wide range of options, but also because it is a beautiful eye-catcher in your backyard. However, it is of course important that you consider what you need more in order to make a good choice. Moreover, you want to enjoy this purchase for years to come. Good luck with your search!