Despite the risks, some people still consider bringing their phones into saunas for various reasons. Maybe they want to listen to music, time their sauna session, or keep an eye on emails. While it sounds convenient, it might not be worth the risk of damaging your phone.
In the following sections, we’ll dig deeper and ask the right questions why taking your phone into a sauna is risky and explore possible solutions if you really feel you need it in there.
Can I Take My Phone Into a Sauna?
Taking your phone into a sauna is not recommended, and in most cases, it’s best to leave it outside. Saunas are designed for high heat and humidity, which are tough conditions for electronic devices. The high temperatures can mess with your phone’s internal parts, causing them to slow down, overheat, or even break.
And it’s not just the heat—humidity can also sneak its way into your phone, risking water damage.
Why Do People Want to Bring Phones Into Saunas?
Many people bring their phones into saunas to enhance their experience or stay connected. For some, tracking the time during the sauna session is essential, especially when aiming for specific durations for health benefits. Others enjoy listening to calming music, guided meditation, or podcasts to make the session more relaxing or engaging.
On the practical side, some individuals feel the need to stay connected even in the sauna. This could mean keeping an eye on urgent work emails, answering texts, or handling personal matters. Phones also offer health-tracking apps, which might be tempting for those who want to monitor their heart rate or log their sauna time.
Although there are valid reasons for wanting your phone nearby, the sauna environment isn’t ideal for electronics. But if any of these points resonate, keep reading to understand the risks and possible solutions for taking your phone into a sauna safely.
Can High Temperatures Damage My Phone?
Yes, high temperatures can seriously damage your phone. Saunas are typically heated well above the recommended temperature range for most smartphones, which is around 35°C to 45°C (95°F to 113°F) for safe use. When your phone goes beyond this, things can start to go wrong.
Heat can cause the battery to degrade faster, meaning it won’t hold a charge as long over time. In extreme cases, the battery might even swell, putting your whole device at risk. The screen is another vulnerable part—excessive heat can cause it to malfunction or, in some cases, crack. Even the processor inside, the “brain” of your phone, may slow down to avoid overheating, which can impact performance.
So, while the idea of using your phone in the sauna might seem convenient, the risk to your phone’s components is real. Once heat damage happens, it’s often irreversible, and warranties typically don’t cover it. If you want to keep your phone in good shape, leaving it outside is the safer choice.
Can Sauna Humidity Harm Your Phone?
Yes, sauna humidity can harm your phone, especially in steam saunas. Even water-resistant phones are not necessarily steam-resistant. Steam particles are smaller and can work their way into the phone’s internal components, reaching areas that would typically stay dry in other environments. Over time, this can cause corrosion or short circuits.
In a steam sauna, moisture from the air can sneak inside your phone, leading to potential water damage. Even if you’re in a dry sauna, the sweat from your hands or body can still create a moisture risk. And once water damage sets in, it often leads to issues like screen fogging, speaker malfunction, or reduced battery life.
What Types of Saunas are Less Harmful to Phones?
Infrared saunas are slightly less harmful to phones than traditional steam or dry saunas, but it’s still a risk. Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures and don’t have the same high humidity levels, so they’re somewhat gentler on electronics. However, the heat is still significant enough that it can impact your phone’s performance and lifespan over time.
In contrast, traditional saunas—both steam and dry—reach high temperatures and, in the case of steam, high humidity. These are the most damaging environments for any electronic device, as they combine both intense heat and moisture. So, while an infrared sauna might be a safer option for limited phone use, there’s no guarantee it won’t still cause problems.
If you must bring your phone, infrared saunas are the lesser evil, but you’re still better off leaving it outside whenever possible.
Are There Any Safer Ways to Use Your Phone in a Sauna?
Using a phone in a sauna isn’t ideal, but there are a few ways to reduce some of the risks:
- Use a Thermal Case: Some thermal cases are designed to protect electronics from high temperatures, keeping your phone cooler for a limited time. While not foolproof, they can add a layer of protection.
- Place the Phone on a Lower Bench: Heat rises, so placing your phone on a lower bench, closer to the floor, can expose it to slightly cooler temperatures.
- Try a Waterproof or Heat-Resistant Bag: A waterproof bag can offer some protection against steam and moisture, though it won’t fully block all humidity from seeping in over time.
- Limit the Duration: If you must use your phone, limit the time it’s exposed to sauna conditions to avoid prolonged heat exposure.
- Use a Safe Compartment Box: Some sauna brands like Clearlight Sauna offer built-in compartment boxes where you can safely store your phone away from the heat.
Final Thoughts: It's Not Recommended
While it’s possible to take your phone into a sauna, it’s generally a risky choice. The heat and humidity in saunas can cause lasting damage to your phone, and the cost of repairs or replacements isn’t usually covered by warranties. Although some people bring their phones into saunas for convenience, leaving your device outside is the safest option.
Ultimately, stepping away from your phone allows you to fully enjoy the sauna experience and relax without digital interruptions. So, before bringing your phone into a sauna, consider if it’s worth the potential hassle—and enjoy the opportunity for a tech-free break.
