Can I Bring My Phone in the Sauna? What You Need to Know
Let’s be real—if you’ve ever stepped into a sauna and felt that instant wave of heat hit your face, your first thought probably wasn’t, “Wow, I should bring my $1,000 phone in here.” And yet, we’re all so attached to our devices that the question still comes up often: Can I bring my phone into a sauna?
Let’s break it down and offer a smart alternative that won’t fry your phone—or your peace of mind.
Why Phones and Saunas Don’t Mix
Most traditional saunas, like the Setri Barrel Saunas or SaunaLife G6 Outdoor Sauna we carry at Cedar Sense, are built to get seriously warm—typically between 170°F and 195°F. That’s the kind of environment designed to make you sweat, not your electronics.
Phones are generally rated to operate safely up to 95°F (and maybe survive short bursts up to 113°F). So once you pass those temps—like, say, the moment you open the sauna door—you’re already pushing your phone past its comfort zone. Prolonged exposure can lead to:
- Screen distortion
- Battery swelling or damage
- Random shutdowns
- Overheating alerts (you’ve probably seen that “iPhone needs to cool down” screen at least once)
Bottom line? Traditional saunas and phones don’t play well together.
What About Infrared Saunas?
Here’s where things get interesting. Unlike wood-fired or electric barrel saunas, infrared saunas run at lower temps—around 120°F to 150°F—and they heat you, not the air.
That makes them a little more forgiving when it comes to electronics. Still, it’s not a green light to binge-watch Netflix in there, but if you’re using your phone for a quick playlist check or a guided meditation app, it’s a lower risk environment.
If you’re considering an at-home setup and want that flexibility, our upcoming indoor infrared sauna collection might be exactly what you’re looking for. Keep an eye on our product page or reach out—we’ll help you find the right fit for your space and lifestyle.
But What If I Want Music?
We hear you. Half the fun of a sauna session is setting the vibe—whether it’s lo-fi beats, ambient waves, or your “relaxation” playlist that somehow includes Metallica (no judgment).
The good news? You don’t need to bring your phone into the sauna to enjoy music.
Try Our Bluetooth Sauna Bucket
We designed the Bluetooth Sauna Bucket as the perfect solution for folks who want tunes without toasting their tech. It lives outside your sauna, wirelessly connects to your phone, and delivers crisp, high-quality sound into your sauna space. You control the music from the safety of your phone, while your device stays cool and protected.
👉 Check out the Bluetooth Bucket here
It’s the best of both worlds—your favorite soundtrack, no risk to your screen.
Pro Tips for Using Your Phone Around the Sauna
If you must bring your phone close to the heat, here are a few precautions:
- Use a heat-resistant case or pouch (some people use dry bags made for boating)
- Keep it off the benches—heat rises, so lower spots are cooler
- Limit the time it spends inside (quick in-and-out use only)
- Let it cool down slowly after the session—don’t toss it in a fridge or cold water
Still, the best practice? Leave it outside and just be present. The whole point of sauna time is to unplug, reset, and reconnect with yourself (or your crew).
Final Thoughts: Should You Bring Your Phone in the Sauna?
In short—you can, but you probably shouldn’t.
Traditional saunas and high temps are tough on electronics, and even with infrared setups, there’s still risk involved. If music or podcasts are part of your routine, we recommend the smarter route: let your phone sit safely on the sidelines and let our Bluetooth Bucket handle the entertainment.
Want a sauna that suits your style, space, and sound preferences? Check out our collection of outdoor and indoor saunas at Cedar Sense and discover what it means to sweat in style.
