Can You Take Your Phone in a Sauna? The Pros and Cons

Using your phone in a sauna¹ may seem convenient for listening to music, staying connected, or even reading. However, this practice comes with significant risks to both your device and your safety.

Phones can overheat, malfunction, or suffer permanent damage in sauna environments due to extreme heat and humidity.

This article will explore the potential benefits and risks of taking your phone into a sauna, practical alternatives, and essential safety tips.

Can I Take My Phone and AirPods in the Sauna?

Many people wonder whether their modern devices can handle sauna conditions. While phones and AirPods are designed for various environments, saunas often exceed the limits of their capabilities.

Electronic devices are not made to withstand the high heat and humidity of a sauna, which can lead to malfunctions or irreparable damage.

Risks of Taking Devices into a Sauna

Most saunas operate between 150°F (65°C) and 200°F (93°C)², far exceeding the safe operating temperature for phones and AirPods, which typically ranges from 32°F (0°C) to 95°F (35°C). Prolonged exposure to such extreme conditions can cause:

• Overheating: Heat can cause lithium-ion batteries to swell, degrade, or even explode in rare cases.
• Moisture Damage: Even water-resistant devices can suffer from internal condensation when exposed to sauna humidity.
• Warranty Issues: Damage caused by saunas may void your device’s warranty, as manufacturers typically exclude such conditions.

Safer Alternatives

If you want to bring technology into your sauna experience, consider these options:

1. Heat-Resistant Cases: Specialized cases can shield devices from extreme temperatures, but their effectiveness is limited in humid environments.
2. Outside Placement: Keep your devices outside the sauna and use Bluetooth speakers to maintain connectivity.
3. Short-Term Use: Limit device exposure to a few minutes and monitor for signs of overheating or moisture damage.

Will My Phone Mess Up in a Sauna?

Even the most advanced smartphones are not immune to sauna conditions. Overheating and humidity can cause immediate and long-term damage.

Extreme heat can degrade a phone’s battery, weaken its internal seals, and compromise its overall functionality.

Key Problems with Phones in Saunas

1. Battery Issues: High heat accelerates chemical reactions within the battery, reducing its capacity and lifespan.
2. Internal Condensation: Moisture can enter through tiny gaps in the phone’s casing, leading to corrosion of circuits.
3. Screen Damage: Glue holding the screen may weaken, causing it to detach or fog up.

How to Protect Your Phone

• Avoid using your phone for prolonged periods in the sauna.
• Check your device’s operating temperature limits in the manufacturer’s manual.
• Invest in waterproof and heat-resistant accessories if usage is unavoidable.

Can I Listen to Music in the Sauna?

Music can enhance the relaxing ambiance of a sauna session, but using personal devices like phones or AirPods in this environment is risky.

Bluetooth speakers placed outside the sauna³ provide a safer and more reliable option for enjoying music.

Why AirPods Are Not Suitable

AirPods and similar earbuds are not designed for high-temperature and humid environments. Common issues include:

• Sound Degradation: Heat can alter the internal components, reducing sound quality.
• Battery Malfunction: Lithium-ion batteries in AirPods are highly sensitive to heat.
• Moisture Exposure: Even small amounts of condensation can damage sensitive electronics.

Tips for Enjoying Music Safely

1. Use External Speakers: Waterproof and heat-resistant speakers work well outside the sauna.
2. Prepare Playlists in Advance: Set up your music before entering the sauna to minimize device usage.
3. Explore Sauna-Safe Devices: Some speakers are designed specifically for high-temperature environments.

Are There Any Negatives to Sauna?

While saunas provide numerous health benefits⁴, improper or excessive use can lead to potential drawbacks.

Overuse of saunas can result in dehydration, skin dryness, or even more severe health issues in vulnerable individuals.

Potential Risks of Sauna Use

Safety Guidelines

• Avoid saunas if you have certain medical conditions like heart disease or low blood pressure.
• Listen to your body and exit the sauna if you feel uncomfortable.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before or during sauna sessions.

How Long Should I Sit in a Sauna?

The ideal sauna session length depends on your experience level, the sauna type, and your personal health.

Experts recommend sessions lasting 10-20 minutes for traditional saunas⁵ and slightly longer for infrared saunas.

Suggested Session Durations

How to Monitor Your Body

• Begin with shorter sessions and gradually increase as your tolerance builds.
• Pay attention to signs of discomfort, such as dizziness or nausea.
• Cool down after each session with a cold shower or rest in a cool area.

Conclusion

Taking phones, AirPods, or other devices into a sauna can be tempting but often leads to significant risks. To enhance your sauna experience without endangering your devices or health, explore safer alternatives and adhere to recommended guidelines.