Steam Shower vs. Sauna: What’s the Difference?

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a steam shower and a sauna? If so, you're not alone. Both are commonly found in spas and gyms and use heat to help people relax and relieve stress, but there is one key difference: moisture. A steam shower uses moist heat, whereas a sauna uses dry heat. 

At first glance, a steam shower doesn't look that different from a regular shower. Typically, it is constructed from ceramic tile, glass, and/or other waterproof, nonporous materials. But unlike a regular shower, a steam shower must be fully sealed in order to trap the steam inside. A steam generator is used to produce the steam and the bather then luxuriates in the misty space, which is kept at a temperature of around 100–115°F with roughly 95-100 percent humidity.

Why would anyone want to do such a thing?! There are many good reasons. A steam shower can provide potential health benefits and the warm environment can potentially create a pleasant, calming experience, especially when you incorporate extras like aromatherapy into your steam shower.

While a steam shower uses a steam generator to produce steam, a sauna may use any of a number of heat sources, such as a wood stove, an electric heater, or an infrared lamp. (In the case of an infrared sauna, instead of the air being heated, your body is heated directly without warming the air around you.)

The sauna space is generally made of wood, which insulates and absorbs very little heat and helps prevent the walls and seating area from feeling uncomfortable to touch or sit on. This is important because saunas operate at much higher temperatures than steam showers do, generally 160–195°F in the U.S. with only 5-10 percent humidity.

Today, you can enjoy a steam shower, sauna, or both from the comfort of your home. One thing to keep in mind is that a steam shower can be incorporated into a shower area that's sealed, but a sauna is usually a separate space. Regardless of which option you choose, you'll be making an investment in your home and your wellbeing.