Introduction
Have you ever been sitting in a sauna, enjoying the heat, and thought, “It’d be nice to listen to music or check my messages right now”? You’re not alone. Many sauna lovers—whether in a Being Sauna, traditional steam room, or modern infrared sauna—wonder if bringing their phone is okay.
But here’s the truth: while it’s tempting, the mix of extreme heat and moisture is a dangerous cocktail for electronics. And your phone, no matter how high-tech, is still a delicate piece of equipment.
Let’s dive into the facts, risks, and safer alternatives so you can make an informed decision.
Understanding the Sauna Environment
Temperature and Humidity Levels in Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas can reach temperatures of 150–195°F (65–90°C) with humidity levels ranging from 5% to 30%. That’s hotter than most electronics are built to withstand.
Infrared Sauna Heat Differences
Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures—120–150°F (49–65°C)—but the heat penetrates your body directly. While it might seem gentler on your phone, it can still push it past safe temperature limits.
How Moisture and Heat Affect Electronics
Heat accelerates chemical reactions inside batteries, potentially causing swelling or leakage. Moisture leads to condensation inside your device, potentially short-circuiting it.
Risks of Taking Your Phone into a Sauna
Heat Damage to Internal Components
Your phone’s CPU and memory chips are sensitive to overheating, which can slow performance or cause permanent failure.
Battery Performance and Overheating
Lithium-ion batteries dislike high heat—exposure above 95°F (35°C) can reduce capacity and lifespan.
Screen and Display Issues
OLED and LCD screens can warp, discolor, or lose touch sensitivity when exposed to sauna heat.
Short-Circuiting from Humidity
Even “water-resistant” phones aren’t designed for steam penetration over extended periods.
Specific Considerations for Different Phone Types
iPhones in Saunas
Apple advises against operating iPhones above 95°F—saunas exceed that instantly.
Android Devices in Saunas
While some Androids have better water resistance ratings, none are rated for extreme heat.
Waterproof vs. Heatproof – The Misconception
IP ratings (like IP68) protect against water, not high temperatures. A waterproof phone can still overheat in a sauna.
Infrared Sauna and Phones – Is It Safer?
How Infrared Heat Works
Infrared saunas heat objects directly, not the air, meaning less steam but still intense heat exposure for your phone.
Potential Reduced Risk – But Still a Concern
Yes, there’s less humidity, but the sustained warmth can still harm battery life and internal components.
Benefits of Taking a Phone in the Sauna (If Any)
Listening to Music or Podcasts
Your favorite playlist can make the sauna more relaxing—but at what cost to your device?
Meditation and Relaxation Apps
Apps that guide breathing exercises or meditation can enhance your sauna experience.
Tracking Sauna Sessions with Apps
Some people use health apps to track time and heart rate, but smartwatches are a safer tool for this.
Safer Alternatives to Taking Your Phone in the Sauna
Waterproof and Heatproof Cases
Some rugged cases can provide partial protection, but no case guarantees full heat resistance.
External Bluetooth Speakers
Leave your phone outside and connect it to a heat-safe speaker placed nearby.
Smartwatches for Sauna Use
Many smartwatches can withstand sauna heat better than phones, especially fitness-focused models.
Expert Opinions on Sauna Phone Use
Electronics Manufacturers’ Warnings
Apple, Samsung, and other manufacturers clearly warn against high-heat environments.
Sauna Health Experts’ Advice
Wellness experts agree—bringing electronics disrupts relaxation and poses risks.
Tips if You Must Take Your Phone into a Sauna
Limit Time and Exposure
Only bring your phone in for short sessions (under 5 minutes).
Keep Phone Away from Direct Heat Source
Place it near the floor where temperatures are lower.
Use Protective Gear
Consider thermal insulation pouches for electronics.
Myths About Phones and Saunas
“It’s Fine if It’s Waterproof”
Waterproofing won’t save your device from overheating.
“Infrared Saunas Won’t Harm Phones”
Even without steam, infrared heat still shortens device life.
Real-Life Experiences from Sauna Users
Positive Experiences
Some claim they’ve used their phones in saunas without issues—though often for very short periods.
Costly Mistakes
Others report melted screens, swollen batteries, and complete device failure after one session.
Conclusion – The Final Verdict
Can you take your phone into the sauna? Technically, yes—but you probably shouldn’t. Whether it’s a Being Sauna, traditional steam room, or infrared sauna, the risks to your device far outweigh the convenience.
FAQs
1. Can I use AirPods in a sauna?
Not recommended—heat can damage batteries and electronics inside AirPods.
2. Does infrared heat affect phone battery life?
Yes, prolonged exposure reduces battery capacity.
3. Are any phones heatproof?
No consumer smartphones are rated for sauna-level heat.
4. How hot is too hot for a smartphone?
Anything above 95°F (35°C) risks damage.
5. What’s the safest way to enjoy music in a sauna?
Use a Bluetooth speaker outside the sauna or a heat-resistant audio device.