Sauna Humidity & The Rule of 200:

Sparkling Pools and Harbor Hot Tubs is Hamptons Happiness, established in 1981 by Ian Fyffe, and we believe that your home should be a retreat where relaxation and rejuvenation are just a few steps away.

While temperature often gets all the attention in sauna discussions, humidity is equally important. Together, heat and moisture determine how comfortable, and effective, your sauna sessions will be.

Why Humidity Matters

The difference between a “dry” and “wet” sauna comes down to one element: humidity.

• Dry Sauna: Heat is intense, sharp, and penetrating. Sweating is stimulated by hot, dry air.
• Wet Sauna: When water is ladled onto sauna rocks, steam is created, raising humidity and creating a softer, more enveloping heat.

Humidity impacts not just your comfort but also how your body responds to the heat—whether it feels relaxing and breathable or sharp and challenging.

The Finnish Rule of 200

Sauna culture in Finland, where the practice has centuries of tradition, uses a simple guideline known as the “Rule of 200.”

According to this principle:

• The temperature in Fahrenheit + the humidity level in % should equal around 200.

For example:

• A sauna set at 160°F with 40% humidity strikes the balance.
• A hotter sauna at 180°F might feel comfortable at 20% humidity.

This isn’t a strict rule but a helpful guideline to optimize comfort and health benefits, especially for beginners.

Customizing Humidity Levels

Your perfect balance depends on personal preference and health goals:

• Lower humidity (10–20%) feels drier, more intense, and may suit those seeking a vigorous, sweat-inducing session.
• Moderate humidity (20–40%) creates a gentler, more relaxing experience, easier on the lungs and skin.
• Higher humidity (40–60%) simulates a steamier environment, softening the heat and enhancing detoxification.

Tips for Adjusting Humidity

• Use a ladle and bucket: Adding small amounts of water to the sauna stones instantly raises humidity.
• Experiment with intervals: Try alternating between dry and wet moments in a single session.
• Cool down between rounds: Step outside or into a cold plunge before returning for a fresh cycle.
• Enhance with aromatherapy: Add a drop of essential oil to your ladle water for an uplifting scent as steam rises.

Your Sauna, Your Ritual

Humidity, like temperature, is about balance and listening to your body. What feels invigorating to one person might feel overwhelming to another. At Hamptons Happiness, we help you select saunas with heaters and designs that allow you to fine-tune both temperature and humidity—so every session feels tailored to you.

Ready to design your perfect sauna experience?

Visit our showroom or contact us today. Let’s find the balance of heat and humidity that transforms your home into a true wellness retreat.