Dry Sauna vs Wet Sauna – A Guide To Help You Choose in 2025

Saunas are a great way to unwind, relax, and improve your health, but with so many different types of saunas available, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. The two most common types of saunas are dry saunas and wet saunas, also known as steam rooms. In this article, we’ll compare the similarities and differences between dry saunas and wet saunas so that you can make an informed decision.

Dry vs Wet Sauna: Which One Should You Choose in 2025?

Deciding between a dry sauna vs wet sauna can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re curious about what is a dry sauna or what is a wet sauna, this guide breaks down the difference between dry and wet saunas to match your health goals and lifestyle. At Epic Hot Tubs, we’re here to help you explore the dry vs wet sauna benefits and find the perfect fit—whether it’s a portable dry sauna or a luxurious steam room for your home.

The wet vs dry sauna debate often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. A dry sauna uses high heat and low humidity for intense detoxification, while a wet sauna offers moist heat to soothe respiratory issues and hydrate skin. Both deliver relaxation and wellness, but understanding the difference between wet sauna and dry sauna can steer you toward the right choice. Let’s dive into the details to see if a sauna dry or wet suits you best.

Dry vs Wet Sauna – TLDR

The two main types of saunas are wet and dry, each with its unique features and advantages. A dry sauna is a traditional Finnish-style sauna that uses hot stones or an electric stove to heat the room to high temperatures, while a wet sauna, also known as a steam room, relies on a steam generator to heat the room and increase the humidity. Both types of saunas provide similar health benefits, such as improved circulation, lower blood pressure, and stress relief. However, there are also differences in the way they work and the benefits they offer.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Sauna

Before diving into the specifics of a dry sauna vs wet sauna, let’s consider practical factors to help you decide. The difference between dry and wet sauna experiences extends beyond health benefits to installation, maintenance, and personal comfort. Whether you’re weighing a steam sauna vs dry sauna for your home, these considerations will guide your choice.

Thinking about a dry or wet sauna for your home? Dry saunas are easier to install and maintain, making them a practical choice for many. Wet saunas, while luxurious, demand more upkeep due to their high humidity. Consider your budget, space, and whether you prefer the crisp heat of a dry sauna or the soothing steam of a wet sauna.

Dry vs Wet Sauna Benefits: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Here’s a deeper look at the difference between dry sauna and wet sauna benefits to help you decide:

Similarities between Wet and Dry Saunas

Despite their different methods of heating, dry saunas and wet saunas have many similarities. They both provide a comfortable and soothing experience that promotes relaxation and stress relief. Additionally, both types of saunas can improve circulation and lower blood pressure, leading to long-term cardiovascular benefits.

Dry and wet saunas also offer similar health benefits for the skin. The heat in both saunas opens up the pores and increases blood flow, which can lead to improvements in skin tone and texture. Regular sauna use can also help alleviate some skin conditions, such as psoriasis and dry skin.

Differences between Wet and Dry Saunas

The most apparent difference between a dry sauna and a wet sauna is the method of heating. A dry sauna heats the air to a high temperature, usually ranging from 160-200°F, using electric stoves or wood fires, and allows humidity levels to stay low. In contrast, a wet sauna, also known as a steam room, pumps steam into the air and maintains a high humidity level of up to 100%.

The difference in humidity levels between dry and wet saunas leads to distinct health benefits. Wet saunas are better suited for people with respiratory issues such as asthma, allergies, or congestion. The moist environment of a steam room can soothe dry respiratory tracts and open up the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, the steam in a wet sauna can also help relieve sore throats and nasal congestion.

Dry saunas, on the other hand, are better suited for people with dry skin or those looking to improve their athletic performance. The high temperature of a dry sauna helps to loosen muscles, making them more pliable and elastic. This makes dry saunas an excellent choice for athletes who want to recover quickly after training or competition.

What Is a Dry Sauna?

A dry sauna, also known as a Finnish sauna, is like a hot, dry oven for your body. It’s a small, enclosed space that’s heated to temperatures between 160-200°F, inducing a profuse, cleansing sweat. The heat is usually generated by rocks or electric heaters, but no matter how it’s created, it’s a fantastic way to warm up on a cold day or to relax and detox after a tough workout. In fact, you could say that a dry sauna is like a gym membership for your skin – it’s a great way to sweat out the toxins and stress of daily life!

Wondering what’s a dry sauna exactly? It’s a dry heat sauna designed to keep humidity low (5-30%), making it ideal for those seeking a sauna without steam. Unlike a wet sauna, a dry sauna uses materials like cedar or pine to absorb moisture, ensuring a crisp, dry environment. If you’re asking is a sauna dry heat, the answer is yes for dry saunas, setting them apart from their humid counterparts.

How Does a Dry Sauna Work?

A dry sauna works by heating a small room to temperatures high enough to make you sweat. The following are the steps for how a dry sauna works:

• The most traditional version uses stones heated over a wood fire. People throw or sprinkle water over the stones to create steam, which boosts the ambient temperature even further.
• Modern saunas use electric stoves or other heating methods instead of the more traditional hot stones.
• Dry saunas incorporate vents to allow steam to escape. This means humidity is usually in the 5-30% range, so although they are sometimes called “dry” saunas, the air inside still retains a certain amount of moisture.
• The walls are usually made of wood, with pine, cedar and spruce being common choices. These walls absorb moisture, also helping to reduce the humidity inside the sauna.
• Temperatures in traditional saunas can reach around 160-200°F, and inside, you will usually find seating at different levels – the upper row of seating has a higher temperature while on the lower row, temperatures are slightly less intense.

In a dry sauna, the heat causes your body temperature to increase, which makes you sweat. The sweat then evaporates and cools your body. This process is a natural cooling mechanism for your body, which can help improve circulation and other health benefits.

Curious about how do dry saunas work? It’s simple: heat from stones or electric heaters warms the air, not your body directly, creating a dry versus wet sauna distinction. This method ensures a sauna dry vs wet experience that’s all about intense, dry heat—perfect for detoxification and relaxation.

What Are the Benefits of a Dry Sauna?

Dry saunas are not just a relaxing way to unwind, but can also have a multitude of health benefits. One of the most significant benefits of using a dry sauna is improved cardiovascular health. Research suggests that frequent use of a dry sauna can lead to lower blood pressure, improved circulation, and a lower risk of heart attack and other heart-related conditions.

Aside from its positive impact on the heart, dry sauna use can also alleviate the symptoms of rheumatic diseases such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It can also enhance exercise performance in athletes and lead to relief from certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema.

Dry sauna use has also been associated with a lower risk of dementia. Studies have found that regular dry sauna use can help prevent the development of cognitive impairment, and reduce the risk of developing dementia. Additionally, dry sauna use has been found to reduce symptoms of asthma.

In summary, the benefits of a dry sauna are more than skin deep. Frequent use can lead to a healthier heart, alleviate the symptoms of various rheumatic diseases, improve exercise performance, provide relief from skin conditions, and even reduce the risk of dementia. Incorporating dry sauna use into your health routine could be a sweet way to take care of your body and mind.

Here’s a quick summary of the benefits:

• Improved heart health: Regular sauna use has been linked to lower blood pressure and a lower risk of heart attack and other heart-related conditions.
• Improved circulation: Sauna use can increase blood flow and improve circulation throughout the body.
• Lower blood pressure: Sauna use has been shown to lower blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Reduced symptoms of rheumatic diseases: Sauna use can help alleviate pain and improve mobility in people with rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
• Better exercise performance: Sauna use before or after exercise can enhance performance and reduce muscle soreness.
• Relief from certain skin conditions: Sauna use can help alleviate symptoms of certain skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
• Fewer symptoms of asthma: Sauna use has been shown to improve lung function and reduce symptoms in people with asthma.
• Lower risk of dementia: Regular sauna use is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

The dry sauna vs wet sauna health benefits lean toward detoxification and athletic recovery for dry saunas. If you’re wondering is dry or wet sauna better for muscle relief, dry heat excels at loosening tight muscles, making it a top pick post-workout.

What Is a Wet Sauna?

A wet sauna, also known as a steam room, is like a hot, humid paradise for your body. Unlike a dry sauna, it is heated by a steam generator that pumps steam into a nearly airtight room, creating a humidity level that approaches 100%. Although steam rooms are not as hot as traditional saunas, usually only reaching around 100-120°F, the high humidity can make them feel hotter than a dry sauna.

Steam rooms are usually made of materials such as ceramic, glass or plastic, and, like traditional saunas, often have graded seating with the higher part being hotter and the lower part being slightly cooler. Sitting in a steam room can offer all the same benefits as a dry sauna, but with the added bonus of extra steam and humidity, which can be especially helpful for respiratory ailments or dry skin. If a dry sauna is like a gym membership for your skin, a wet sauna is like a relaxing spa day that you can experience anytime.

So, what’s a wet sauna? It’s a steam sauna vs dry sauna alternative that uses moist heat to create a humid haven. Unlike the dry and wet sauna contrast of low humidity, a wet sauna’s high moisture content (up to 100%) makes it a standout for skin hydration and respiratory relief.

How Does a Wet Sauna Work?

A wet sauna, also known as a steam room, works by pumping steam into an enclosed space. The following are the steps for how a wet sauna works:

• The steam is generated by an external steam generator and is pumped into the steam room, which is nearly airtight to prevent the steam from escaping. Due to the lack of vents, humidity levels can reach close to 100%, making it a moist and warm environment.
• The steam room is usually made of materials such as ceramic, glass, or plastic, which can handle high humidity levels without warping or rotting.
• Temperatures in a steam room are typically lower than in a dry sauna, usually around 100-120°F, but due to the high humidity, the heat can feel more intense.
• In a wet sauna, the high humidity and heat cause you to sweat, which can help with respiratory conditions and moisturize dry skin. The steam can also loosen tense muscles, making them more pliable and elastic, which can aid in recovery after exercise.

Overall, a wet sauna is like taking a warm, relaxing steam bath, providing a range of health benefits and relaxation.

For those asking how does a wet sauna work, it’s all about steam generation. Unlike how dry saunas work with dry heat, wet saunas infuse the air with moisture, creating a wet or dry sauna experience that’s uniquely soothing and hydrating.

What Are the Benefits of a Wet Sauna?

A wet sauna uses moist heat to induce sweating, providing a different experience than a dry sauna. The warm, humid air in a wet sauna can help relax the body and provide a host of health benefits.

One of the most significant benefits of a wet sauna is its positive effect on respiratory conditions. The moist heat helps to open up airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. This is because the steam in the air helps to moisten the nasal passages and throat, reducing inflammation and clearing out congestion. People who suffer from chronic respiratory problems may find that regular sessions in a wet sauna help to improve their quality of life by reducing the severity and frequency of symptoms.

In addition to its benefits for respiratory conditions, a wet sauna can also be helpful for various skin conditions. The steam in a wet sauna helps to moisturize the skin, improving its overall appearance and elasticity. The heat can also help to open up pores, allowing the skin to more easily expel toxins and impurities. People with eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions may find relief from their symptoms by spending time in a wet sauna. The moist air can soothe dry, itchy skin and promote healing by increasing blood flow to affected areas. Overall, a wet sauna can be an excellent way to improve your skin’s health and appearance.

Wet sauna benefits shine for respiratory health and skin hydration. If you’re debating wet sauna vs dry sauna benefits, wet saunas are a go-to for easing breathing issues and soothing dry skin, making them a top choice for those asking are wet saunas good for you.

Safety Tips for Dry and Wet Saunas

Whether you choose a dry sauna or a wet sauna, safety is key to maximizing benefits. Both types offer incredible wellness perks, but improper use can lead to discomfort or health risks. Here are essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable sauna experience.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after your session to replace fluids lost through sweating, especially in a dry sauna where intense heat can dehydrate you quickly.
• Limit Session Time: Start with 10-15 minutes and gradually increase to 20-30 minutes. Exit immediately if you feel dizzy or unwell, as overheating is a risk in both dry and wet saunas.
• Consult a Doctor: If you have heart conditions, high blood pressure, or respiratory issues, check with a healthcare provider, as the heat and humidity in saunas can be taxing.
• Use Towels: Sit on a towel for hygiene and comfort, and keep another to wipe sweat, particularly in a wet sauna where humidity can make surfaces slippery.
• Cool Down Gradually: After exiting, take a cool shower or rest to lower your body temperature, helping your body adjust whether you’re using a dry or wet sauna.

By following these safety tips, you can confidently enjoy the difference between dry and wet sauna experiences. Whether you’re exploring a steam sauna vs dry sauna, prioritizing safety ensures you reap the full rewards of relaxation and health.

How Do Dry Saunas Compare to Infrared Saunas?

Comparing dry saunas to infrared saunas is like comparing a hot summer day in the desert to basking in the warmth of a cozy fire. While both types of saunas will raise your body temperature, infrared saunas do so using electromagnetic radiation from special lamps, which directly heat your body. On the other hand, dry saunas heat the air around you, which then heats your body. This makes infrared saunas the top pick for those who enjoy a more targeted heating experience.

In addition, infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures than dry saunas, usually between 120˚F (48.9°C) and 140˚F (60°C). This means you can comfortably stay in them longer than in dry saunas, with an average time of 20 minutes. If you’re new to the sauna experience, it’s recommended that you start with a 10- to 15-minute session and gradually work your way up. However, some sauna enthusiasts may stay in an infrared sauna for up to 30 minutes for an ultimate relaxation experience.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Dry and Wet Saunas

What Is Better: A Dry or Wet Sauna?

There isn’t necessarily a “better” option between dry and steam saunas, as both offer unique benefits. Dry saunas tend to have lower humidity and higher temperatures, while steam saunas have higher humidity and lower temperatures.

So, is a sauna dry or wet heat better? It depends on you! A dry or wet sauna choice hinges on whether you prioritize detoxification (dry sauna) or respiratory relief (wet sauna). Both are fantastic, but your goals decide.

When to Use a Dry Sauna?

Dry saunas are a great option when you want to relax, relieve stress, or soothe sore muscles after a workout. They can also help with respiratory and cardiovascular health, but may not be ideal for those with skin conditions or low heat tolerance.

How to Use Wet and Dry Saunas?

To use a wet or dry sauna, start by hydrating and stretching, then spend 10-15 minutes in the sauna. You can sit or lay down, but make sure to bring a towel to sit on and another to wipe away sweat. Leave the sauna if you start to feel dizzy or uncomfortable, and cool down with a shower or cool towel.

Are Saunas Wet or Dry?

Saunas can be either wet or dry, depending on the method used to generate heat. Dry saunas use heated rocks or electric heaters, while wet saunas use steam generators.

For those asking are saunas dry or humid, the answer is both! Dry sauna vs wet options mean you can pick a sauna wet or dry based on your preference for heat type.

Dry or Wet Sauna for Weight Loss?

Both wet and dry saunas can aid in weight loss by increasing heart rate and metabolism, but any weight loss is likely due to water loss and not fat loss.

Is a Dry Sauna Good After a Workout?

A dry sauna can be good after a workout, as it can help relax muscles and improve circulation. However, it’s important to rehydrate after the sauna to replenish fluids lost through sweat.

How Long Is It Safe to Be in a Sauna?

It is generally safe to be in a sauna for up to 20-30 minutes, but it’s important to listen to your body and leave if you start to feel dizzy or uncomfortable. Make sure to drink plenty of water before and after using the sauna to stay hydrated.

Dry vs. Wet Sauna – How Can You Decide Which One Is Best for You?

In conclusion, a sauna is a fantastic way to relax, detox and rejuvenate. Whether you prefer a dry sauna or a wet sauna, the benefits for your body and mind are numerous. For those who are looking to buy a sauna, we recommend trying out a few different types and speaking to one of the friendly experts at Epic Hot Tubs to help you choose the right sauna for your needs. With their wide range of high-quality saunas and exceptional customer service, Epic Hot Tubs is the perfect place to start your sauna journey. So don’t hesitate – start reaping the benefits of a sauna today!

Still torn between dry sauna or wet sauna? Consider your priorities: wet sauna or dry sauna for respiratory relief vs. detoxification. Explore our range at Epic Hot Tubs to find your ideal match.

Why Choose Epic Hot Tubs for Your Sauna?

At Epic Hot Tubs, we’re passionate about helping you find the perfect sauna, whether it’s a dry sauna for intense detoxification or a wet sauna for soothing steam. Our extensive selection includes high-quality dry and wet saunas designed for home use, backed by expert guidance and top-notch customer service. Curious about the difference between dry sauna and wet sauna options? Our team is here to answer your questions and ensure you choose a sauna that fits your lifestyle and wellness goals.

Ready to explore the dry vs wet sauna options? Visit Epic Hot Tubs to browse our range, from portable dry saunas to luxurious steam rooms. Let us help you transform your home into a wellness oasis with a sauna that’s just right for you.

Need help with Home Saunas? Request a FREE Consultation!

Your Name*

First Name Last Name

Email Address*

Phone Number

Message

By submitting this form, you are consenting to our privacy policy.

Phone

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

About The Author:

Manny Brambila

Manny Brambila - Pool & Spa Expert

Manny has been in the Pool & Spa industry for over 15 years and is considered a pool, swim spa, & hot tub expert. He has been a Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) since 2009 and worked 15 years in aquatic training and development for the largest pool chemical and customer care company. He also has been an outside consultant for the Pool and Spa industry in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles since 2018.