Both steam baths and saunas are popular experiences that many people use to find peace, cleanse the body and support health. However, although they are similar at first glance, there are significant differences in temperature, humidity and effects.
At Sauna House we have chosen to focus on the classic sauna experience because we believe in the deep, dry heat and the ritual of sauna steam, calm and cold water. But we often get the question: “What is the difference between a steam bath and a sauna?”, which is why we give you a thorough overview here.
What is a steam room?
A steam bath, also called a Turkish bath or “steam room”, is a hot room with very high humidity. The temperature is typically 40-45°C, but because the humidity is close to 100%, the heat feels stronger than it actually is.
The air in a steam room is heavy and saturated with moisture, and visible steam hangs in the room. You don't sweat to the same extent as in a sauna, but your skin is moisturized and feels more enveloping.
Benefits of steam bath:
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Gentle heat for those who cannot tolerate high temperatures.
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Moisturizes the skin and opens the pores.
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Relieves respiratory problems such as cough, stuffy nose and asthma.
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Relaxing and gentle on the nervous system.
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What is a sauna?
A traditional sauna, like the ones we have at Sauna House, is a dry room with temperatures between 70 and 100°C. The air is dry, but you can increase the humidity briefly by pouring water over the red-hot stones. This creates steam and makes the heat more intense for short moments.
In the sauna, the body works quickly, you sweat intensely, your heart rate increases, and the body begins to cleanse itself. The combination of heat and sauna steam can create a sensual experience where both body and mind get a deeper break.
Benefits of sauna:
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Intense heat causes heavy sweating and cleansing.
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Increases blood circulation and strengthens the heart.
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Relieves muscle tension and joint pain.
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Reduces stress and promotes deep relaxation.
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Suitable for sauna steam and combination with cold water.
The difference between a steam bath and a sauna is primarily temperature, humidity and heat sensation.
The choice between a steam bath and a sauna is largely about personal preferences and needs.
Choose a steam bath if you:
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Is sensitive to high heat.
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Need relief in the respiratory tract.
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Want a milder, moist heat experience.
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Will pamper the skin with moisture and warmth.
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Choose a sauna if you:
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Want deep detox and heavy sweating.
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Will increase circulation and strengthen the heart.
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Seeking mental relaxation and physical recovery.
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Will combine heat with cold water and sauna steam.
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At Sauna House we choose the sauna and the ritual surrounding it
We have chosen to specialize in traditional sauna because we believe in the peace, depth and renewal that this particular form of heat offers. With daily saunagus sessions, beautiful saunas and access to cold water tubs, we create a holistic experience where the heat is not just felt on the skin, but in the body and mind.
For us, sauna is not just heat. It is a ritual. A place where you step out of the everyday pace and into a world of calm, presence and balance. Where you can sweat it out, let go and find something that feels real.
Steam baths and saunas can both be beneficial to your health, but they provide very different experiences. While the steam bath envelops you with moist heat and gentle relief, the dry heat of the sauna goes deeper and creates a physical and mental cleansing.
At Sauna House, we invite you to experience what the classic sauna can do for your well-being. Whether you are looking for detox, recovery or deep peace, we are ready with heat, steam and cold dips, and a community that is built on more than just sweat.
