Well+ Editorial · Sauna Guide 001
Infrared sauna vs traditional sauna.
A practical guide to choosing the right London sauna experience — based on session style, intensity, privacy and the kind of ritual you want to repeat.
Both infrared and traditional sauna can belong in a good recovery routine. The better choice depends less on which is “best” and more on the experience you are actually looking for.
Traditional sauna is usually the classic heat-room ritual: hotter, more atmospheric, and often part of a spa, gym, bathhouse or contrast therapy space. Infrared sauna is typically quieter and more controlled, often booked as a private cabin or treatment-style session.
For London users, the practical question is simple: do you want a fuller heat-room experience, a heat-and-cold ritual, or a calmer private reset?
The quick answer
Choose by session style.
Choose infrared sauna if
You want a quieter, more controlled reset.
Infrared is often the easier choice for a private, appointment-style session where calm, consistency and comfort matter more than a larger heat-room atmosphere.
Choose traditional sauna if
You want a fuller heat-room ritual.
Traditional sauna is usually the stronger fit if you want the classic heat-room experience, a social or spa setting, or sauna paired with cold plunge.
Comparison
How they feel different in practice.
Intensity
Traditional sauna usually feels like the fuller heat-room experience. Infrared is often positioned as a quieter, more controlled session.
Setting
Traditional sauna is often part of a gym, spa, bathhouse or contrast space. Infrared is commonly offered as a private cabin or appointment-led treatment.
Best use
Traditional sauna suits a fuller ritual, especially with cold plunge. Infrared suits a calmer reset where privacy and consistency matter.
First visit
Infrared may feel less intimidating for some first timers. Traditional sauna may feel more familiar if you already know spa or gym heat rooms.
Continue exploring