Advantages and Disadvantages of Steam Saunas

There are many different kinds of saunas on the market today. When most people think of a traditional sauna, in which water is poured over hot stones in order to heat it and steam the air, what they're thinking about is known as a steam sauna. These steam saunas heat the air inside to a temperature of between 70 and 100 degrees Celsius, and they maintain a relative humidity of about 20%.

Traditional saunas are a luxury product, in the same category of and often used after a soak in a hot tub. Finnish saunas have become much more affordable in recent times, and today they can sell for roughly as low as $2500 in United States dollars.

Traditional saunas are considered to be healthy investments, as the high temperature induces sweating which is said to have many health benefits. In Finland, Finnish saunas are so popular that many people have observed that there are more steam saunas in the country than cars. This may perhaps be an exaggeration, but the popularity of Finnish saunas in certain countries such as Finland is not in doubt.

Steam saunas increase the blood flow and help in burning calories as well. They are said to relieve lower back pain and the symptoms of arthritis as well. Scandinavian saunas are popular among sports medicine specialists who believe that their use will aid an athlete in the process of stretching and warming up for competition. In addition, athletes may enjoy using a traditional sauna in order to relieve the aches and pains experienced from a hard day of athletics.

Even though a Scandinavian sauna is a pleasurable and healthy way of relaxing and increasing health and a sense of well being, it is still necessary to always keep moderation in mind. Over use of a hot rock sauna can result in heat stroke, dehydration, and may even be fatal in some severe cases. It's recommended to never use a steam sauna alone, and to make sure the heating element is on a timer. Also, never use a traditional sauna when tired, as it would not be recommended to fall asleep while enjoying the sauna experience.

There are other downsides to owning a hot rock sauna as well. The heaters are incredibly inefficient, and they require a lot of power in order to generate the steam needed. Some traditional saunas require up to 10 kilowatts of power. Hot rock saunas can also be a breeding ground for mould and bacteria that love a humid environment. Owners of steam saunas should clean them regularly in order to maintain the healthy benefits of a traditional sauna without endangering the health of its occupants.

There are also other options to a traditional sauna for the purpose of minimising the drawbacks that come with sauna ownership. A far infrared sauna may be an option to consider. They are quickly gaining popularity in the US, are often portable, and much more power efficient. They are also far more hygienic than steam saunas, as they don't provide the same kind of breeding ground for mould and bacteria.

But whatever your choice of sauna, you're sure to enjoy a relaxing and invigorating experience.

Di Vapor invites you to view their full range of steam saunas. Submit a brochure request to receive a printed catalogue in the post with our full range of steam sauna units. This article was written by David A Timothy for Di Vapor Steam Saunas.

Copyright © April 2011 Di Vapor.

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