5 Sauna Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to Know

Sauna culture is full of traditions, but also plenty of misinformation. Whether it’s confusion about heat types, “detox” claims, or what makes a sauna “authentic,” we’re here to set the record straight.

Here are 5 sauna myths — debunked.

Myth #1: Infrared Saunas Are the Same as Traditional Saunas

Truth: Infrared saunas and traditional saunas are not the same experience — not even close.

• Infrared saunas heat your body directly using light wavelengths.

• Traditional saunas (wood, pellet, or electric) heat the air and stones, which creates löyly (steam from water hitting hot stones).

Infrared may warm you, but it cannot replicate the wave of heat and humidity that defines a true sauna.

Learn more:

• Finnish Sauna Society – Differences Between Infrared and Traditional Saunas

• Cleveland Clinic – Infrared vs. Traditional Saunas

Myth #2: Electric Heat Is “Just as Good” as Fire

Truth: Electric heaters are convenient, but they often lack the deep stone heat needed for rich löyly.
Wood and pellet stoves create a dynamic flame, producing radiant and convective energy that charges the stones to 400–500°C, essential for soft yet powerful steam.

Learn more:

• SaunaTimes – Why Sauna Rocks Matter

• Localmile.org – Heat Dynamics of Sauna Heaters

Myth #3: You Need a Huge Space for a Real Sauna

Truth: A good sauna isn’t about size — it’s about proportion and airflow.
A well-insulated, properly designed small sauna can deliver a better experience than a larger one with poor heat circulation.

Learn more:

• Saunologia – The Law of Löyly

Myth #4: Saunas Are Only for Detoxing

Truth: While saunas promote sweating, they are not a magic detox tool. Your liver and kidneys do most of the body’s detoxification.
The real, proven benefits of sauna are:

• Improved cardiovascular function

• Reduced stress and muscle tension

• Better recovery and sleep

Learn more:

• Mayo Clinic – Health Benefits of Sauna Use

• PubMed – Cardiovascular and Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing

Myth #5: Pellets Aren’t “Real Fire”

Truth: Wood pellets are compressed wood — 100% natural and often made from sawmill byproducts.
When burned, they create a real flame just like logs, but with:

• Consistent burn and temperature

• Cleaner combustion

• Less ash and less hassle

Learn more:

• U.S. Department of Energy – Wood Pellet Basics

The Takeaway

Sauna is about quality of heat, not just tradition. At Tova, we keep fire at the heart of the experience — but make it cleaner, easier, and better for the modern world.