7 Best 4 Person Infrared Saunas (2024 Update) | Buying Guide!

Saunas offer a host of benefits to the user. However, if you’re not a fan sitting in hot air for a long time, you might turn away from a traditional sauna. Luckily, technological advancements have led us to the invention of infrared saunas.

But what are infrared saunas? What are its health benefits? What’s the best-infrared sauna on the market? I’ll answer these questions and more in this article.

Take a look at some of my top picks below:

• 1. Sunray Sequioa Cedar
• 2. JNH Lifestyles Joyous
• 3. Tuscon Monticello
• 4. Maxxus Low EMF FAR
• 5. BSA2418
• 6. Tucson
• 7. JNH Lifestyles Freedom
• 8. Radiant Saunas BSA1320

4-Person Infrared Sauna Models for 2024

Unlike a dry sauna or steam sauna, a radiant sauna does not utilize hot steam or hot air to make you sweat. Instead, it utilizes infrared technology to penetrate your skin, making you sweat from within.

The detoxing health benefits of saunas, in general, are debatable. However, if you’re looking for a way to tap into a relaxing sauna experience but hate humidity and hot air, full-spectrum infrared saunas are a great choice for you.

1. Sunray Sequioa Cedar Capacity with Carbon Heaters – Best 4 Person Sauna

The Sunray Sequioa 4 person infrared sauna is your best choice when it comes to spaciousness. This sauna is the most spacious and comfortable sauna in the market that caters to four people.

If you’re looking for a sauna that won’t feel stuffy when you share it with your loved ones, this sauna is the perfect choice for you. It also boasts:

Carbon Heater – It utilizes 10 Carbon-Nano FAR Infrared Heaters that gives you smooth and evenly dispersed heat. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about harmful EMF effects thanks to its carbon heaters.

Solid Red Cedar Wood – It features an easy-to-install tongue and groove construction, so you don’t have to spend hours installing the unit. It is Canadian Red Cedar Wood construction that comes from authentic Canadian Red Wood. Unlike other wood types, this sauna will not give off an unpleasant aroma and will stay together for years to come.

Safe Construction – This Sunray is ETL/CSA Certified. That means you don’t have to worry about any electrical accidents happening. It meets all electrical standards set by the US and Canada.

Summary: The Sunray Sequioa four person sauna is a beautiful addition to your home if you’re looking for a nice and reliable indoor sauna. It has numerous good reviews. However, you should make sure that there is someone available to help you install this unit as some users have reported that it’s awkward to put together alone.

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2. JNH Lifestyles Joyous 4 Person Far Infrared MG417HB

Personally, I like to have some privacy when I’m enjoying my sauna. However, the JNH Lifestyles Joyous 4 Person sauna features a design that opens up your space.

So if your sauna room isn’t as large as you’d like it to be, this is a great addition to make your space look bigger and less cramped.

This 3-4 person infrared sauna features chemical-free wood and:

Carbon Fiber Infrared Heaters – This Joyous is fitted with top-of-the-line carbon fiber heating panels. This means you don’t have to worry about cold or hot spots. Additionally, it also distributes and generates heat evenly and reliably.

Dual Wall Insulation – This JNH Sauna features double-walled panels for complete insulation. This means your sauna is more power-efficient. It also provides an extra layer of safety. If you were to accidentally damage the outer layer, the inside layer would still be present and vice versa.

Premium Sound System – Most saunas don’t come with a sound system. So you either have to bring your own or sit in it for almost an hour with nothing to do. The Lifestyles Joyous sauna comes with a high-quality sound system. So you can rock out to the latest tunes or relax to the sounds of a zen garden at your own convenience.

Summary: If you don’t mind purchasing a potentially flimsy sauna that might break within the next few months, you’ll enjoy this. Kidding aside, this sauna does offer some nice features for its price. It’s also a pretty decent 3 person corner sauna. However, as some users have pointed out; you would probably get better luck ordering it elsewhere.

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3. Tuscon Monticello 4 Person Infrared Sauna with 10 Carbon Heaters

The lights change according to your mood! Said an excited user. The Tuscon Monticello 4 Person Infrared Sauna comes with 10 carbon sauna heaters that guarantee you fast and even heating.

Additionally, you’ll enjoy the mood lights installed. But that’s only one of its many features.

Other features include:

Built-In Sound System – This Tuscon comes with a fitted sound system to match the mood lights. You can choose to either feel energized or relaxed by the end of your session, thanks to these helpful features.

Fitted Backrests – It can get awkward when you’re in an infrared sauna, and you can’t prop your back on something to relax completely. Take note, and you’ll be there for at least 30 minutes. You can’t sit awkwardly for that long time! Luckily, this Tuscon comes with fitted backrests so you can fully enjoy your time.

Bronze Tinted Glass– This 4 person Tuscon comes with beautifully tinted glass panels and door. So it lends a certain allure to any room you place it in.

Summary: If you’re a fan of mood lighting and listening to music as you relax or energize yourself, this unit is the perfect choice for you. Its the perfect unit for sharing with friends and family as well. On the other hand, you can also enjoy the spaciousness of this unit all by yourself.

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4. Maxxus Low EMF FAR Infrared Carbon Canadian Hemlock Wood

This Canadian Hemlock Sauna will be delivered curbside to your home. If you’re looking for convenient shipping, then you’ve found it.

However, some users have reported that it’s small for its size, so it’s more comfortable if you think of it as a 2 person sauna. Or, if you like having a lot of space, it could also be a 1 person sauna. Whichever way you like it.

This model comes jam-packed with a lot of features like:

Chromotherapy Lights – It’s easy to set the mood in this Maxxus thanks to the chromotherapy lights installed. You can change the lighting to fit your mood and your needs with an easy click of a button.

Tinted Tempered Glass Door and Side Windows – This Maxxus comes with a bronze-tinted tempered glass door and side windows for airing out the room. It not only looks beautiful, but the tempered glass is also incredibly sturdy.

Reasonable Price – Don’t be fooled by the $2000 price point. This Maxxus is incredibly reliable for its price and will last you years if you take care of it properly.

Summary: As I said, if you’re looking for a unit that will be delivered to your home, this is the perfect choice for you. However, you should be wary that some users have reported broken units delivered to them so it might end up as a hassle after all. But it’s a risk worth taking.

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5. BSA2418 4-Person Hemlock by Radiant Saunas

If you’re a fan of the BSA1323, you will enjoy this sauna. It features Canadian Hemlock wood that is scar-resistant and hypoallergenic.

So if you’re like me, and you tend to get a LOT clumsy every now and then, this BSA2418 will survive you.

This unit is built for your home and boasts the following features:

FAR Infrared Heat – This BSA2418 utilizes nine far-infrared heating panels that produce low EMF. Far infrared heating effectively seeps into your skin to make you sweat faster. This removes the need for hot air or steam to facilitate your sweating.

Color Therapy System– This BSA2418 comes with a full-spectrum color therapy system. You can relax, energize, and adjust your mood while enjoying the health benefits of this sauna thanks to the fitted lights.

Built-In Backrests – This unit comes with built-in backrests so you can enjoy your time more. It will also allow you to maximize your relaxation.

Summary: If you don’t mind risking the poor customer service, this unit is a great choice for you. A user even reported that a professional technician attested to the product’s quality. However, it’s always a good practice to proceed with caution.

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6. Tucson – 4 Person Carbon Corner Heatwave

The Tucson Carbon Corner Sauna puts your convenience at the forefront of its design. Unlike other saunas, this unit has an easy-touch control panel on the inside AND outside.

So you never have to go outside just to adjust its settings. It also eliminates the risk of unmonitored heating.

This beautiful model is perfect for claustrophobic users thanks to its glass panels and will fit you like a glove if you’re looking for:

Strength and Durability – The Tucson is made of premium Hemlock wood. It also utilizes a tongue and groove joining method for easy assembly. What you probably don’t know is that this particular type of joinery also increases a unit’s durability and strength.

Interior Lighting – This model is equipped with recessed interior lighting. This allows you to read while enjoying the warmth of your unit.

Guaranteed Quality – This Tucson is certified by CE, RoHS, CETL, and ISO 9001. So you know you’re getting a quality unit.

Summary: If you’re looking for an over-all high-quality infrared sauna, you might be better off looking elsewhere. Although this unit does sport some tempting features, it’s a big risk. If you’re open to risks, then, by all means, purchase this unit.

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7. JNH Lifestyles Freedom

This stunning JNH features a dark wood design with several glass panels that lend to its open feel.

Not only do the glass panels effectively make you feel like there’s more space, but it also doesn’t trigger claustrophobia as well.

This unit is a great purchase if you want:

Convenient Delivery – The curbside delivery makes ordering this unit very convenient for you. However, you may have some delivery taking it up or down any stairs as this unit comes assembled.

Cedar Wood Construction – This model is made of cedarwood. Not only does it look beautiful, but you’ll enjoy the wonderful smell as well.

Bluetooth Compatibility – This unit easily connects to your mobile devices. This means you can easily switch on your tunes without the need for wires and listen to anything you want while using this model.

Summary: This unit is a worthy buy if you’re looking for true convenience. It doesn’t lack in any department. However, some users have reported that JNH Lifestyle is a merchant you need to be wary of.

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8. Radiant Saunas BSA1320

If you’re ready to kick back and relax, this Radiant Saunas unit is perfect for you. It boasts a stunning classic design to improve your home’s aesthetics.

Additionally, it also fits nicely into your corner to save on space without compromising its 4 person capacity.

This unit is ideal if you’re looking for:

Stunning Design – This unit features Canadian Hemlock Wood with intricate carvings and a beautiful finish. It adds a certain elegance to any room you put it in.

Convenient – It comes with magazine racks and towel hooks that help you relax. Keep your magazines, and other necessities close without worrying about outside storage space.

Steady Heat – Its infrared panels produce steady low EMF heat. If you love to sweat, or just want to find a way to relax after a tiring day, this unit is a great choice for you.

Summary: Radiant Saunas is a great brand overall. You can rest assured that this Radiant will look stunning and perform its functions reliably. Choose this if you want a beautiful and functional sauna designed for your home.

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Infrared vs Steam Sauna

Infrared saunas eliminate some of the most annoying factors with steam saunas:

• There is not hot steam, which is not ideal for those with respiratory problems.
• The air itself is not hot, and you can also open a window (when available) to get an extra dose of cool air when needed.
• There is no need to drain water generated by steam saunas.

Summary: Ultimately, infrared saunas are more convenient. They also provide more steady and even heating so you know they’re more effective and power-efficient compared to steam saunas. If you are bothered by sitting in a room full of hot air or steam, an infrared sauna is a good choice for you.

Infrared Sauna Reviews (FAQ)

Do Saunas Need Ventilation?

Yes, saunas do require proper ventilation for several important reasons. Ventilation plays a crucial role in maintaining air quality, regulating temperature, and removing excess moisture within the sauna environment. Without adequate ventilation, the sauna can become uncomfortably hot, excessively humid, and may pose potential health risks.

Proper ventilation helps to circulate fresh air into the sauna, replenishing oxygen levels and preventing the accumulation of stale air. It also helps to control the buildup of carbon dioxide and other potentially harmful gases that can be released during sauna use. By removing these gases, ventilation promotes a healthier and more comfortable experience.

Moreover, ventilation aids in controlling moisture levels within the sauna. Sweating is a natural response to the high temperatures in saunas, and without proper ventilation, the excess moisture can linger in the air, leading to a damp and uncomfortable environment. Adequate ventilation helps to dissipate this moisture, reducing the risk of mold or mildew growth and maintaining a dry and pleasant atmosphere.

Additionally, ventilation assists in regulating the overall temperature. It helps to dissipate excessive heat, preventing the sauna from becoming excessively hot and ensuring a more controlled and enjoyable experience for users.

To ensure effective ventilation, saunas are typically equipped with ventilation systems or features such as vents, windows, or doors that can be opened to allow fresh air to enter and stale air to exit. It is essential to follow manufacturer guidelines and recommendations for ventilation to maintain a safe and comfortable sauna environment.

What is a Radiant Sauna?

A radiant or infrared sauna utilizes heating panels that utilize light to make you sweat. Infrared saunas eliminate the need for steam or hot air and are ideal if you’re claustrophobic.

Should You Shower After an Infrared Sauna?

Definitely. Any session will cause you to be extremely sweaty. Although the detoxification aspect is quite debatable, it is still good to practice proper hygiene.

How Much Space Do You Need for a Sauna?

If you’re choosing a sauna from above, it’s ideal to consider the standard 4 person model dimensions. However, you should also consider the dimensions specified in each individual item.

Normally you need at least 4 by 4 by 8 to 12 feet. You should be able to get away with a smaller room unless you plan on purchasing a 10 person sauna.

Can Infrared Saunas Be Outside?

Usually, an infrared sauna is not an outdoor sauna. However, if you take care to provide roofing for your sauna, then it should work. The main thing to remember is you need to keep it protected from the elements.

On the other hand, you might be better off purchasing an outdoor ceramic sauna or portable sauna for outdoor use.

How Big is a 4 Person Sauna?

Not too small, we went for about 2 1 / 2 feet deep. When one person comes, the other stays on the side. We built it the way it is, so we could add a bench as needed. For the shower, we built a shower room. Our condo is basically a couple of converted garages and a small apartment building all in one. Traditional Finnish sauna usually has a depth of 8 – 10 cm. (nearly 3 inches) The size depends on the number of people using it. It is placed at the center of the room and is constructed so that the visitors can all sit around it comfortably. According to many people who’ve used a traditional Finnish sauna, their imagination is often restricted due to its size.

Sauna “boards” are often strategically placed on all sides of the sauna to offer a more relaxed experience to the guests. You can fit about 5 people in the 4 person bathroom (caveat: the 4 holes on the left is really just a hole and people can crawl in the hole if you prefer).To get in, you open a hatch door (hence the tank). In the bathroom, you have a bench to sit on (no bathroom chair), a 2 person cubicle, and a shower (used by the 2 person cubicle). So, you take off your clothes, you get into the stall, and into the tank, you go. I was really surprised by how small space was and I thought that I would just curl up in the hole and stay there. But you are to get on your hands and knees (kind of like you’re sitting on a toilet), in between your “feet” you hang on and are essentially suspended in the tank. Then you lay back and straddle the arms that are on the sides (sort of like you’re leaning back and sitting on an armchair).

How Many Times a Week Should You Use an Infrared Sauna?

It might be advisable to go for infrared sauna sessions every second or third day. But you shouldn’t overdo it. How Long Should You Stay in the Sauna? A session of about two to three hours is recommended. What if You’re Vomiting or Dehydrated? If you’re feeling nauseous, move to a side room. You can stay in the sauna for up to two hours, with a five-minute break before you head back into the heat. If you’re dehydrated, replace some of the saltwater in the water with cold water to bring down your body temperature.

Drink plenty of fluids. Your body can handle up to two liters of fluid per hour. Are Infrared Saunas Safe to Do on Your Own? With the proper equipment, and you follow the rules above, infrared sauna use is entirely safe. But it’s best to go with a professional instructor, such as one of the many professionals at Schweiger Thermal Spa. They can help you prevent injury, make the most of the sessions.

Does Infrared Burn Fat?

Infrared thermal imaging burns the fat by making visible to the naked eye the heat produced by body fat and the mitochondria within it, according to the American Heart Association. It can detect areas that are particularly thick or hard to see. To use infrared thermal imaging, you first mount a camera on a laser device. Put the device against your skin and hold a numbered wristband against it. If the band begins to glow green, you have increased blood flow to those areas. To track the progress of the burns, strap on a heart rate monitor that you can wear in any location on your body (though of course, you should make sure the device is not affecting your heart rate). Once the device detects that you have begun burning fat.

How Many Infrared Panels Do I Need for Sauna?

Most saunas can accommodate one to four infrared panels. However, make sure that all infrared panels are the same brand and shape so that you can avoid thermal shock. This means that they all have to be the same size, for instance, 1/8″ x 3″ x 10″. You’ll also want to make sure that all the light and heat sources in your sauna are the same. Since the purpose of an infrared sauna is to decrease your internal body temperature and keep it constant, the hotter the lights, the higher the risk of an injury.

Some infrared saunas, like SolTherm and Sauna Gold, have heated lamps and heating elements that increase the temperature to more than 150°F. In order to keep your body temperature constant, you’ll want to use a flat infrared panel, so it doesn’t raise your body temperature above the maximum recommended 185°F. Also, do not let the panels be within two to three feet of one another, or you risk increasing your body temperature above 165°F.

How is an Infrared Sauna Different Than a Regular Sauna?

A proper infrared sauna session has been scientifically proven to reduce inflammation and improve your overall health. But what exactly are infrared saunas? They’re super hot, of course. They’ll come as a shock to those of you who’ve never experienced the heat of an infrared sauna. An infrared sauna is basically a box of body heat, and you can typically choose to get undressed to your underwear or work barefoot in them. They’re also super dry, with dry heat, and it’s recommended to stay for between 30-45 minutes.

Not only do the heat levels in infrared saunas come up to levels that are more intense than you’d experience when taking an icy plunge, but the infrared saunas heat sources are actually hot. On the highest heat setting, it’s recommended that you stay in an infrared sauna for 30-45 minutes.

What is the Rule of 200 Sauna?

The “Rule of 200” in saunas is a guideline used to estimate the safe maximum temperature for sauna sessions. According to this rule, the sum of the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity percentage should not exceed 200. This rule helps to prevent excessive heat and humidity levels that can pose risks to individuals using the sauna.

For example, if the sauna temperature is set at 180°F, the relative humidity should not exceed 20% to maintain a total value of 200. Similarly, if the temperature is set at 200°F, the relative humidity should be kept at or below 0% to adhere to the rule.

Following the Rule of 200 helps to ensure a comfortable and safe experience by balancing the temperature and humidity within reasonable limits. It helps prevent the risk of overheating, dehydration, and respiratory difficulties that can arise from excessive heat and humidity.

However, it is important to note that individual tolerance and preferences can vary. Some individuals may find lower temperatures or higher humidity levels more suitable for their comfort. It is advisable to listen to your body, monitor your well-being, and adjust the sauna settings accordingly to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience.

It is also crucial to consider personal health conditions and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying medical concerns, before using a sauna or adhering to any specific guidelines.

Is 20 Minutes In an Infrared Sauna Enough?

The effectiveness of spending 20 minutes in an infrared sauna depends on your health goals and individual factors. In general, 20 minutes can be a beneficial duration for a sauna session, but there are some important considerations to take into account:

1. Temperature and Sauna Type: The temperature of the sauna and the type of infrared heaters used can significantly impact the effectiveness of a 20-minute session. Infrared saunas typically operate at lower temperatures (around 120-150°F or 49-66°C) compared to traditional saunas (which can reach 170-195°F or 77-90°C). The lower temperature in an infrared sauna may require a longer session to achieve the desired therapeutic effects.
2. Heat Tolerance: Individual tolerance to heat varies. Some people may find it challenging to spend a full 20 minutes in a sauna, while others may be comfortable. It’s essential to listen to your body and not push beyond your comfort level to avoid potential overheating or dehydration.
3. Hydration: It’s crucial to stay well-hydrated before, during, and after a sauna session. 20 minutes of exposure to infrared heat can cause significant sweating, leading to fluid loss. Dehydration can be detrimental to health, so ensure you drink enough water to stay properly hydrated.
4. Health Goals: The specific benefits you hope to achieve with an infrared sauna will also impact the ideal session length. For relaxation and stress reduction, 20 minutes can be sufficient. However, if you’re looking for detoxification, pain relief, or other therapeutic effects, a longer session may be more effective. Some individuals engage in multiple 20-minute sessions with short breaks in between to achieve their goals.
5. Frequency: The frequency of sauna use is as important as the session duration. Regular use over time may be more effective than a single, extended session. This can vary depending on individual needs, but 2-3 sessions per week is a common recommendation.

It’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how long one should spend in an infrared sauna. Personal preferences, tolerance to heat, and health goals play a significant role in determining the optimal duration. For those new to infrared saunas or who have underlying health conditions, it’s advisable to start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration as comfort and tolerance allow. Additionally, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that sauna use is safe and suitable for your individual health needs.

Is Nordic Sauna Better Than Infrared Sauna?

The superiority of Nordic saunas over infrared saunas depends on individual preferences and specific health goals. Nordic saunas, also known as traditional saunas, utilize heated rocks or a wood stove to generate high temperatures, typically ranging from 150 to 195 degrees Fahrenheit (65 to 90 degrees Celsius), along with low humidity levels. In contrast, infrared saunas use infrared heaters to directly heat the body at lower temperatures, typically between 120 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (49 to 65 degrees Celsius).

Both types of saunas offer unique benefits. Nordic saunas are believed to promote relaxation, stress reduction, and cardiovascular health through the combination of heat exposure and the production of sweat. The high temperatures in Nordic saunas can induce a deep sweat, which may help cleanse the skin, promote circulation, and support detoxification.

Infrared saunas, on the other hand, are praised for their ability to penetrate deeper into the skin, potentially providing therapeutic benefits such as pain relief, improved circulation, and enhanced muscle recovery. Additionally, infrared saunas are often preferred by individuals who find the lower temperatures more tolerable or who have respiratory conditions aggravated by high heat and humidity.

Ultimately, the “better” sauna depends on individual preferences, health considerations, and desired outcomes. Some people may prefer the intense heat and steam of Nordic saunas for its traditional ambiance and potential cardiovascular benefits, while others may favor the gentler warmth and targeted heat therapy of infrared saunas for its potential therapeutic effects and lower perceived discomfort.

It’s essential to consider factors such as personal comfort, health conditions, and desired outcomes when choosing between Nordic and infrared saunas. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help individuals make informed decisions based on their specific needs and circumstances.

Final Words. Are 4 Person Saunas Worth the Money?

Definitely. There are plenty of options on the market. If you couldn’t find a sauna above that fits your tastes, consider looking into sauna kits or browsing through Costco.

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However, I will say that all the saunas I’ve listed above are decently priced for their respective benefits.

You will not go wrong with any of the above-listed units. Just make sure you do your research and consider your space and needs before making a purchase.