Many sauna companies make claims that only their infrared sauna has wood that is non-toxic. This is true ONLY in one sense: All wood from around the world is toxic to varying degrees when the sawdust of the wood is inhaled. It is Carpenters that need to be aware of the different toxic levels of wood when they are cutting and sawing different woods. It is ridiculous to compare sawdust to sitting in a sauna. Sawdust in any form from any tree is not good for you. We don't think you will be cutting up your Infrared Sauna when you get it unpacked, so there is little concern with most sauna woods.

IS THE WOOD SAFE AND HYPOALLERGENIC?

Hypoallergenic only means that the wood contains minimal allergens so it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Spruce, Birch, Hemlock, Basswood and Poplar / Aspen are all softwoods that can be considered hypo-allergenic because they do not give off noxious gasses or seep an oily residue that can trigger an allergy attack. Only about 1% of the population is chemically sensitive. This percentage would also have problems with perfumes, chemicals and to cedar. With the balance of the population the choice of wood would be a preference. If you are concerned about allergies, we highly recommend that you check with an allergist to be sure you do not purchase a sauna made from a wood to which you have a confirmed allergy. It would be terrible if you purchase a poplar sauna only to find out that you have an allergy to poplar! When in doubt, always check with your health care professional.

BASSWOOD:

The wood is soft, odorless, tasteless, weak, and easy to work with. The wood varies from creamy white to light brown and has a fine, and normal texture. Because the wood is soft, light, and weak it is well suited to make several things like yardsticks, pulpwood, cheap furniture, and boxes.

SPRUCE / PINE:

Both spruce and pine are good sturdy materials that will last for years. Spruce knots will not leak sap, so even knotty spruce can be used in a sauna. Pine, however, should always be clear if being used in saunas.

CEDAR:

Cedar wood is very common in traditional saunas that use rocks and moisture to heat the air. Cedar has been the most commonly used material for saunas in North-America. Cedar does have a natural resistance to bacteria growth where white woods do not. It is red in color with a very pleasing aroma

POPLAR / ASPEN:

Aspen is found throughout all of North America. It is used for general interior woodworking, including veneer and woodturning. Aspen lumber is prone to warping and the wood is susceptible to insect damage. This wood is also prone to dents and dings.