Low VOCs and Far-Infrared Saunas: What You Need to Know

This article explains what VOCs are, why they matter in far-infrared saunas, how emissions are measured, and how material choices directly affect the air you breathe during sauna use.

Summary

When you invest in a far-infrared sauna, the quality of the air you breathe inside it matters just as much as the heat it produces. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can be released from certain woods, adhesives, finishes, and components, especially when exposed to heat. Because infrared saunas operate in a warm, enclosed environment, material selection and testing are critical.

What Are VOCs?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based chemicals that easily evaporate into the air at room temperature. Common VOCs include formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. These compounds are often found in plywood and particle board, engineered wood composites, synthetic adhesives and glues, solvent-based paints, stains, and lacquers, and certain plastics, foams, and fabrics.

When VOCs are released into enclosed spaces, they can accumulate and degrade indoor air quality. Heat accelerates this process, increasing both the rate and concentration of off-gassing.

Why VOCs Matter in Far-Infrared Saunas

Far-infrared saunas operate at lower air temperatures than traditional saunas, typically between 115 and 150°F (46–65°C). However, this heat is sustained for extended periods and applied in a compact, enclosed cabin. Under these conditions, even trace VOC emissions can become noticeable.

Some infrared sauna manufacturers use cost-saving materials that are hidden from view once the sauna is assembled. While these materials may look harmless from the outside, they can release VOCs, including formaldehyde, when heated.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency classifies formaldehyde as a probable human carcinogen. For individuals using a sauna as part of a wellness or detox routine, exposure to avoidable chemical emissions undermines the purpose of the experience.

Common Sources of VOCs in Infrared Saunas

VOCs can originate from multiple parts of a sauna, not just the heaters.

1. Engineered wood and framing materials such as plywood, particle board, and medium-density fiberboard often rely on chemical binders and resins. These adhesives are a major source of formaldehyde emissions, especially under heat.
2. Interior finishes like stains, varnishes, lacquers, and sealants applied inside the sauna can release solvents as temperatures rise. Even low-VOC finishes may still emit trace compounds when heated repeatedly.
3. Adhesives and sealants used during assembly can off-gas over time, particularly in areas that experience sustained warmth such as wall seams, flooring systems, and heater mounts.
4. Heater components and fabrics can also be a source of VOCs if they are not designed and tested for high-temperature environments.

Understanding VOC Standards and Testing

VOC claims can be misleading if the distinction between material content and actual emissions is not clearly defined.

Content standards focus on what chemicals are present in individual materials. These standards assess formulation but do not always reflect what is released into the air once the product is assembled and heated.

Emission standards measure what a finished product releases into the air over time. France’s Émissions dans l’air intérieur labeling system is among the most stringent indoor air quality standards in the world. To earn an A+ rating, a product must meet strict emission thresholds after extended chamber testing, typically over 28 days.

When a sauna complies with French A+ standards, it means the fully assembled unit meets real-world emission limits, even in warm, enclosed environments like a sauna.

Why Whole-Sauna Testing Matters

Testing a single heater or material sample does not reflect actual sauna use. VOCs can originate from wiring, adhesives, framing, flooring systems, and concealed components.

Radiant Health saunas are tested as complete units by a government-certified independent laboratory. Results consistently show zero detectable VOC emissions inside the sauna cabin. This ensures that what users breathe during a session reflects the performance of the entire sauna, not just individual components.

What This Means for You

Using a sauna built with unfinished interior wood and tested non-off-gassing materials helps maintain clean air even at elevated temperatures. Limiting finishes to exterior surfaces prevents lingering chemical odors. Independent whole-unit testing provides transparency and confidence that claims are based on measurable standards rather than marketing language.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What wood do you use and why? Radiant Health uses unfinished Canadian hemlock inside the sauna to minimize potential VOC sources from coatings or adhesives.
2. Does heat increase VOC emissions? Yes. Heat accelerates off-gassing, which is why materials must be tested under conditions that reflect sauna use.
3. How can I keep my sauna air clean over time? Maintain good ventilation in the room where the sauna is installed, avoid scented cleaners, and clean interior surfaces with mild soap and water only.