In Finland, we have around 3 million traditional saunas, while the population is approximately 5.5 million people. This means that, theoretically, every Finnish citizen can use a sauna at the same time, as these 3 million saunas on average accommodate four people per sauna. In other words, 12 million sauna users can enjoy the sauna experience at the same time, while Finland only has 5.5 million inhabitants. This is quite impressive – more saunas than cars in Finland! Finland is undoubtedly the country of saunas, the heart of sauna culture, and the country that produces the best sauna products in the world.
Regarding infrared saunas, according to the Finnish government's media network, there are only around 3,000 infrared saunas in private use in Finland and 200 in spas and fitness centers. This is not an exact figure, but as someone who lived the first 22 years of his life in Finland, it can be confirmed that infrared saunas are very rare. The only times infrared saunas have been observed in Finland have been in a few luxury gyms and spas. Why does the promised land of saunas only have one infrared sauna for every 1000 traditional Finnish saunas? Here are three reasons for this.
1. Health and experience
Finns perceive the heat from wood-burning or electric sauna stoves as more natural and beneficial compared to the radiant heat produced by infrared sauna panels. The traditional sauna experience of higher temperatures and steam is believed to promote better circulation, detoxification and muscle relaxation, among other health benefits. Although infrared saunas are also beneficial, Finnish people see traditional saunas as more beneficial for health.
In addition, it is especially appreciated in Finland, where it is very cold in winter, that the instant heat and steam that traditional saunas provide. In an infrared sauna you have to wait to get warm. How infrared saunas work is that you enter the sauna and lean against the infrared panel. After about 5 to 10 minutes, you start to sweat, as the panel sends the heat directly to the body.
2. Culture
In Finland, the sauna has a deep cultural significance as a place for physical and mental relaxation, purification and socializing. Traditional Finnish saunas provide soft, moist heat, and this steam, known as "löyly," is highly prized for its deep warming properties and health benefits. This integral part of Finnish culture means that Finns are less inclined to switch to infrared saunas, which heat the body directly without this magical steam experience.
3. Availability
Traditional saunas are already everywhere in Finland and are very accessible. Switching to an infrared sauna or building one in the house can feel foreign to Finns who are already used to the traditional sauna experience. This means that many prefer to stick to what they know and appreciate.
Summary
The three main reasons why infrared saunas are not popular in Finland are health and experience, culture and accessibility. Of course, it is not the case that one type of sauna is better than the other in terms of health benefits, but many find that the traditional sauna provides a more satisfying experience.
Badstugutta.no recommends trying both types of saunas before deciding which one suits you best. There are also saunas that combine both infrared panels and traditional sauna heaters to provide both experiences at the same time.
