An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared light to create heat. Basically, infrared light is a type of light we can’t actually see, but we can feel it as heat. Infrared saunas use this kind of light to warm your body directly.

When you sit in an infrared sauna, instead of heating the air around you, the heat from the infrared lights targets your body directly. This provides a deep, penetrating heat that can make you sweat and help your muscles relax.

Home infrared saunas are enjoyed by many people due to their potential physical and mental wellbeing benefits. One popular time to use an infrared sauna is after a long, hard workout or swim. Far-infrared heat can help soothe tired or sore muscles and support post-exercise relaxation.

You don’t need to have completed a strenuous workout to enjoy a home infrared sauna. Many people simply use their sauna to unwind after a long day. Spending time in a heated space, focusing on your breathing and allowing yourself to slow down can be a soothing and relaxing experience.

You can enjoy this time on your own or relax with friends and family in one of the larger infrared sauna models, such as a four-person sauna.

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A traditional Finnish sauna heats the air around you, which then warms your body. It generally operates at a higher temperature and may use water poured over heated stones to create bursts of steam.

An infrared sauna works differently. Instead of relying primarily on hot air, infrared heaters emit radiant heat that warms your body more directly. Because the surrounding air does not need to reach the same high temperature, many people find infrared saunas more comfortable and easier to enjoy for longer sessions.

Both options provide a warm, relaxing sauna experience. The right choice comes down to whether you prefer the intense heat and traditional ritual of a Finnish sauna or the gentler ambient temperature and direct warmth of infrared.

Infrared saunas use specialised heaters to emit infrared energy, which is experienced by the body as heat.

Rather than heating the entire room to the high temperatures associated with a traditional sauna, the infrared energy warms your body more directly. This creates a deep, comfortable warmth while the surrounding air remains at a comparatively lower temperature.

For the most comfortable infrared sauna experience, wear as little as you feel comfortable with. Swimwear or loose, lightweight clothing made from breathable natural fibres, such as cotton, are practical options.

Avoid heavy, tight or layered clothing, as it can trap heat and make the session uncomfortable.

Always bring a clean towel to sit or lie on. This helps absorb perspiration, protects the sauna surfaces and maintains hygiene.

Bare feet are generally best inside the sauna. If you prefer to wear something on your feet, choose clean, suitable footwear and follow the sauna manufacturer’s recommendations.

Remove jewellery, watches and other metal accessories before your session, as they can become hot and uncomfortable.

The price of an infrared sauna varies depending on its size, materials, construction quality, features and technology. For this reason, there is no single price that applies to every model.

Kiva Wellness offers a range of home infrared saunas designed for different spaces, lifestyles and budgets, from compact one-person models through to larger six-person saunas.

When comparing prices, consider the sauna’s build quality, heating technology, capacity, warranty and access to local support, not simply its initial purchase price.

The number of calories used during an infrared sauna session varies between individuals and is difficult to measure accurately.

Heat exposure can temporarily increase your heart rate as your body works to regulate its temperature. However, sitting in a sauna does not provide the same physical or metabolic benefits as exercise and should not be treated as a weight-loss method or replacement for regular movement.

Any immediate reduction on the scales after a sauna session is primarily caused by fluid loss through perspiration. This weight returns once you rehydrate.

An infrared sauna is best enjoyed for warmth, relaxation and general wellbeing rather than calorie burning. If you have a medical condition or concerns about using heat therapy, speak with your healthcare professional before using a sauna.

If you are new to infrared saunas, begin with a short session of around 5 to 10 minutes at a comfortable temperature. You can gradually increase the duration as your body becomes accustomed to the heat.

Even experienced users should generally keep sessions under 30 minutes and follow the operating and safety instructions provided with their sauna.

Drink water before and after each session, and leave the sauna immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, weak or unwell.

Many people enjoy an infrared sauna several times throughout the week. If you are just beginning, start with one or two shorter sessions and gradually increase the frequency depending on how you feel.

As a general guide, limit use to three or four sessions per week, allow your body time to recover and remain properly hydrated.

Avoid using a sauna after consuming alcohol. If you are pregnant, take medication or have an existing medical condition, speak with your healthcare professional before beginning regular sauna use.

Cleaning an infrared sauna is generally simple, particularly when it is done regularly.

After each session, wipe down the benches, backrests and other high-contact areas with a clean, damp cloth to remove perspiration. Placing a towel on the bench during use will also help protect the timber and make ongoing cleaning easier.

For a more thorough clean, switch off and unplug the sauna, allow it to cool completely and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Use a soft cloth with water or a small amount of mild cleaner suitable for the sauna’s timber. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive products and excess water, as these may damage the wood or other components.

Do not spray liquids directly onto heaters, control panels or electrical components. Apply cleaning products to the cloth first.

Dust the exterior regularly and clean the glass with an appropriate glass cleaner. Leave the door open after cleaning so the interior can dry and ventilate completely before the next session.