Can You Take Your Phone in the Sauna?

 

Many of us treat our phones as an extension of ourselves, taking them everywhere from the dinner table to the bathroom. So, it's natural to wonder if you can bring your phone into the sauna to listen to music, a podcast, or just scroll while you relax. While it might seem like a good idea, taking your phone into a sauna is a risky move that can lead to permanent damage.

This article will discuss the risks associated with bringing your phone into a sauna and explore safer alternatives for entertainment while you sweat. By the end, you'll understand why it's best to leave your device behind and how to make your sauna session both relaxing and tech-safe.

Why Your Phone and Saunas Don't Mix

Smartphones are intricate pieces of technology, and they aren't designed to withstand the extreme conditions found inside a sauna. Both traditional and infrared saunas create environments that can be disastrous for electronic devices. Here are the main reasons why you should think twice before bringing your phone in for a sweat session.

Extreme Heat Can Cause Overheating

The most immediate danger to your phone in a sauna is the heat. Traditional saunas can reach temperatures between 150°F and 195°F (65°C to 90°C), while infrared saunas typically operate between 120°F and 140°F (49°C to 60°C). (Heating Times For Infrared Saunas, n.d.)

Most smartphone manufacturers, including Apple and Samsung, recommend against using their devices in temperatures above 95°F (35°C). (One Tech Tip: This summer, don't let your phone overheat, 2025) Exposing your phone to temperatures beyond this range can cause it to overheat quickly.

When a phone overheats, you might see a temperature warning on the screen before it automatically shuts down to prevent damage. However, repeated or prolonged exposure to high heat can cause permanent harm, including:

• Battery Degradation: Heat is a major enemy of lithium-ion batteries. High temperatures can cause the battery to lose its ability to hold a charge, shortening its overall lifespan. In extreme cases, it can even cause the battery to swell or leak, posing a safety risk. (In situ observation of thermally activated and localized Li leaching from lithiated graphite, 2024)
• CPU Damage: The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of your phone. Overheating can damage the processor, resulting in slower performance, frequent crashes, and ultimately, device failure.
• Screen Damage: The display is another sensitive component. The adhesives used to hold the screen together can weaken in high heat, potentially causing the screen to lift or display discoloration and touch-screen malfunctions. (Can You Take Your Phone Into a Sauna? Risks & Precautions, 2025)

Humidity and Moisture Lead to Water Damage

Traditional saunas are not just hot; they are also very humid, especially when water is poured over the hot rocks to create steam. This high humidity can be just as damaging as direct contact with water.

Even if your phone is rated as water-resistant, these ratings (such as IP67 or IP68) are based on tests conducted in controlled laboratory settings with fresh water. They do not account for the penetrating nature of steam and condensation. (What do IP ratings mean? Waterproof ratings explained, 2023)

Here's how humidity can harm your device:

• Internal Condensation: When you bring a cool phone into a hot, humid sauna, condensation can form inside the device. This moisture can short-circuit internal components, leading to corrosion and irreparable damage over time. (Using a phone in a sauna, n.d.)
• Compromised Seals: The water-resistant seals on your phone can degrade when exposed to the high heat of a sauna. Once these seals are compromised, moisture can easily get inside, even if you’re not in the sauna. The damage might not be immediate but can appear days or weeks later. (Can You Take Your Phone in the Sauna? The Pros and Cons, n.d.)
• Voided Warranty: It's essential to note that most manufacturers' warranties do not cover damage caused by water or heat. (Will my warranty cover water damage on my waterproof phone?, n.d.) If your phone stops working after a trip to the sauna, you'll likely be responsible for the full cost of repairs or replacement.

What About Infrared Saunas?

Some people believe that infrared saunas are safer for electronics because they are less humid and operate at slightly lower temperatures than traditional saunas. While the risk from humidity is lower, the temperature in an infrared sauna is still well above the safe operating range for a smartphone.

Even at 120°F (49°C), your phone is at risk of overheating. The infrared waves that heat your body also heat your phone, potentially causing the same internal damage as a traditional sauna. The conclusion remains the same: it's best to leave your phone outside.

Safer Alternatives for Sauna Entertainment

Enjoying a sauna is about relaxation and disconnecting. Leaving your phone behind can be a great opportunity for a digital detox. However, if you really want some entertainment, there are safer ways to enjoy music or podcasts.

• Waterproof MP3 Players: There are many devices on the market designed specifically for use in wet and hot environments. A waterproof MP3 player or a specialty sauna-safe audio system can handle the heat and humidity without any risk.
• Built-in Sauna Speakers: Many modern saunas come equipped with built-in, heat-resistant sound systems. These are connected to a source outside the sauna, allowing you to stream audio safely. If you're a frequent sauna user, this might be a worthwhile investment.
• Read a Book: Go old-school and bring a physical book or magazine. Please be aware that the high humidity in a traditional sauna can cause the pages to warp over time, so it's best not to bring a cherished first edition.
• Embrace the Silence: The simplest and perhaps most beneficial option is to enjoy the silence. Use your sauna time for meditation, deep breathing, or simply letting your mind wander. It's a rare opportunity to unplug and be present in the moment.

Time to Unplug and Relax

While it's tempting to bring your phone with you everywhere, the sauna is one place it just doesn't belong. The combination of extreme heat and humidity can cause irreversible damage to your device's battery, screen, and internal components. Any resulting damage is likely not covered by your warranty.

Instead of risking an expensive repair, use your sauna time as a chance to disconnect. If you need entertainment, consider safer, waterproof alternatives. By leaving your phone behind, you not only protect your device but also give yourself a much-needed break from the digital world, allowing you to fully embrace the restorative benefits of the sauna.