Portable saunas are popular because they are lightweight, convenient, and affordable, and they offer the same benefits as regular a sauna.
Portable saunas can be safe when used correctly and following manufacturer instructions. However, it’s important to consider factors like heat regulation, ventilation, and personal health conditions. Consult a healthcare professional, adhere to safety guidelines, and use the sauna responsibly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
In the rest of the article, we are going to have a better look at how portable saunas work, the pros and cons of using portable saunas, and how to use these types of saunas safely.
Table of Contents
- What Are Portable Saunas
- How Portable Saunas Work
- Types of Portable Saunas
- Pros & Cons of Portable Saunas
- How to Use Portable Saunas Safely
- Conclusion
What Are Portable Saunas
Portable saunas are compact, easy-to-install devices that bring the benefits of traditional saunas to your home. They generally come in two types: infrared portable saunas and traditional steam or dry-heat portable saunas.
Traditional steam or dry-heat portable saunas involve heating the air around you to create a steamy or dry atmosphere.
Infrared portable saunas, on the other hand, use infrared technology to directly heat your body, rather than heating the entire room. As a result, infrared saunas typically take less time to heat up and may feel more comfortable for some people.
That said, both saunas can offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, similar to using a full-size sauna.
How Portable Saunas Work
As we said in the previous section, portable saunas come in two main types: infrared portable saunas and traditional steam or dry portable saunas. Both types are designed to provide users with the benefits of a traditional sauna in a more convenient, portable format.
Steam Portable Saunas
A portable steam sauna works by using a steam generator to create steam inside the sauna tent. You simply add water to the generator, and it heats up to produce steam. The steam fills the tent, raising the temperature inside and creating a moist, hot environment. As you sit inside, your body warms up, causing you to sweat and relax.
Infrared Portable Saunas
A portable infrared sauna uses infrared heaters that emit infrared rays to penetrate your skin and raise your body temperature. This allows for a lower temperature inside the sauna compared to a steam sauna or traditional sauna, while still providing the benefits of regular a sauna session.
Some portable saunas also come in the form of infrared sauna blankets, which you can wrap around your body to enjoy the benefits of infrared heat. They work similarly to infrared saunas by using infrared light to directly heat your body.
It’s important to note that while portable saunas can provide some benefits, they may also emit low levels of EMF radiation. However, the levels are typically considered safe for most users.
Types of Portable Saunas
There are 2 types of portable saunas. Let’s take a look at them:
1. Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas use infrared light to generate heat, directly warming your body rather than the air around you. These saunas tend to heat up faster, making them a more energy-efficient option. The main advantage of an infrared sauna is that it operates at lower temperatures, making it more comfortable for those who are less heat-tolerant. We have compiled a list of some of the best infrared portable saunas. Take a look.
2. Steam Saunas
Steam saunas use a generator or other device to create steam, increasing the humidity inside the sauna. The moist heat produced in steam saunas can help soothe your respiratory system and open up your pores. One drawback of this type of sauna is that you may need to carefully manage the humidity levels to avoid mold or mildew issues. Take a look at some of the popular choices for steam saunas.
Pros & Cons of Portable Saunas
When considering a portable sauna, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of the device to determine if it’s the right choice for you. Here, we’ll discuss some of the main pros and cons of using portable saunas.
Pros
Some potential benefits of portable saunas are:
- Detoxification
- Mental & physical relaxation
- Immunity boost
- Lower risk of heart issues
- Potential skin and collagen improvement
- Affordability
Cons
Despite the positives, there are some drawbacks to consider when deciding on a portable sauna.
- Dehydration and red eyes
- Magnifies certain skin issues
- Steam generators can be noisy
In conclusion, it’s essential to consider both the pros and cons of portable saunas to make an informed decision that best fits your needs.
How to Use Portable Saunas Safely
In this section, we are going to have a quick look into the steps you need to take to use portable saunas safely:
Clean and Inspect Regularly
Taking good care of your portable sauna is essential for ensuring its safety. Firstly, clean your sauna after each use to prevent the buildup of sweat, bacteria, and smells. Consider using sauna blankets or towels to protect your body and the sauna’s interior. Secondly, inspect your sauna regularly for any damage or wear and tear, addressing issues promptly to maintain its functionality and safety.
Monitor Usage Time
When using a portable sauna, it’s important to limit your sessions to avoid overheating or dehydration. It’s generally recommended to keep sessions between 10-20 minutes, paying attention to how your body responds to the heat. Avoid using the sauna if you’re feeling unwell, have a fever, or experience any adverse reactions.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial when you’re using a portable sauna. Ensure you drink plenty of water before and after each session to replenish fluids lost through sweating. Dehydration can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and other health risks, so make sure you’re consistently hydrating yourself throughout the day as well.
Conclusion
Portable saunas can offer some health benefits, such as lowered risk for high blood pressure and alleviation of arthritis symptoms. However, their safety depends on a few factors that you should consider when using one.
Be mindful of potential risks, including dehydration, overheating, and dizziness. Always listen to your body and monitor your reaction to the heat during sauna sessions. Ensure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna sessions.
Portable saunas, especially infrared models, might provide less heat compared to traditional saunas due to their small size, so be aware of the limited heat they produce. Additionally, most portable saunas ask you to keep parts of your body (like your head and arms) outside the tent, which can slow down the heating process.
Finally, pay attention to the temperature and timer settings to maximize safety and comfort during your portable sauna sessions. By taking these precautions and regularly maintaining your portable sauna, you can safely enjoy the health benefits it offers while minimizing any risks associated with its use.
(Featured image by smartmakshop from Pexels)
