Are you looking for the best sauna thermometer? Then you’re in the right place!
In this article, I’ll show you my favorite sauna thermometers for different needs.
Whether you want to measure your sauna temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius, want a 2-in-1 thermometer and hygrometer, or need the most accurate thermometer out there, I’ve got you covered.
So what’s my experience with sauna thermometers?
My first sauna thermometer was a dial thermometer. My sauna always felt hot, but the thermometer was showing 85°C (185°F), right where I wanted it.
I believed that I just wasn’t used to the sauna heat, but then my friends also commented on how warm my sauna was.
He recommended that I buy a laboratory thermometer to get a more accurate reading. And he was right, my 85°C (185°F) sauna was actually 95°C (200°F) the whole time!
Why does thermometer accuracy matter?
In all honesty, most sauna goers don’t need to know the exact temperature of their sauna.
But having a well-functioning thermometer in your sauna is a quality-of-life improvement. If the temperature is too high, you could risk overheating or even feeling unwell.
On the other hand, if the temperature is too low, you won’t get the full benefits of a sauna session, like improved blood circulation and recovery.
Having an accurate sauna thermometer also teaches you exactly how much wood you need to burn in your stove to reach your desired sauna temperature.
A high-quality thermometer helps you control the environment and get the best experience possible every time you use your sauna.
Let’s look at the best options and figure out which one is right for your sauna.
Find What You Are Looking For
Best 2-in-1 Sauna Thermometer And Hygrometer: HSE Cedar Sauna Thermometer & Hygrometer
Pros
- Beautiful cedar design.
- No batteries or electricity needed.
- Shows temperature in both °C and °F
- Measures both temperature and humidity.
- Long-lasting due to cedar’s moisture resistance.
Cons
- Needs occasional manual recalibration.
- Analog readings might not be as precise as digital ones.
The HSE Cedar Sauna Thermometer & Hygrometer is both good-looking and functional. It’s made from Canadian red cedar, and the thermometer shows both temperature and humidity.
It’s also great for anyone who wants to keep track of the sauna conditions in both Fahrenheit and Celsius.
The analog mechanism means you don’t need batteries – it works with metal strips that react to changes in heat and humidity.
The natural wood design gives a classic look that blends well with the warm environment of a sauna.
Plus, it has great durability thanks to cedar wood’s natural resistance to moisture.
With both temperature and humidity readings, you can ensure your sauna temperature is ideal for a comfortable and effective session.
Calibration Tip: If you notice the readings aren’t accurate, you can recalibrate it using a flat-head screwdriver in the slot on the back. Calibration keeps your readings accurate, especially after lots of use in hot, humid conditions. This will help maintain the thermometer’s reliability so you can keep your sauna at the perfect temperature.
Best Sauna Thermometer in Fahrenheit: LUMERAM Aluminum Sauna Thermometer
Pros
- Strong aluminum build.
- Easy to read, even in a steamy sauna.
- Low maintenance.
- Simple and quick installation.
- No risk of glass breaking.
Cons
- Only measures in Fahrenheit.
- No hygrometer for humidity readings.
The LUMERAM Aluminum Sauna Thermometer is all about strength and precision. Made from high-quality aluminum, it can handle the intense heat of a sauna.
The large numbers make it super easy to read, even with steam around. Plus, it has no glass cover, which means less maintenance and no risk of the glass fogging up or breaking.
The LUMERAM thermometer is designed for easy installation and durability. It’s lightweight and simple to mount, so you can place it wherever you need without hassle. It’s ideal for those who.
This model is a great pick if you want a basic yet reliable thermometer and don’t need extra features like humidity measurement.
Calibration: This thermometer doesn’t need calibration. It’s ready to use right away, making it perfect for anyone who wants low-maintenance accuracy. The aluminum material ensures accuracy without much adjustment, even after heavy use.
Best Sauna Thermometer in Celsius: HSE Cedar Sauna Thermometer
Pros
- Beautiful cedar wood design.
- No electronics or batteries are needed.
- Easy to recalibrate manually.
- Complements traditional sauna aesthetics.
- Durable thanks to high-quality cedar wood.
Cons
- Only measures temperature; no humidity readings.
- Analog readings may not be as precise as digital models.
- Requires occasional recalibration to maintain accuracy.
The HSE Cedar Sauna Thermometer is a great choice if you prefer Celsius readings. It has the same nice design as the 2-in-1 version, with beveled edges and a glass cover.
It uses an analog mechanism with no need for batteries. The natural Canadian cedar wood gives it a classic look that fits well in any sauna.
The thermometer’s simple analog dial makes it easy to read the temperature. It also has a secondary dial showing the temperature in Fahrenheit.
Because it only measures temperature, it’s a straightforward tool for anyone who likes to keep things simple in their sauna.
Plus, the cedar wood is naturally resistant to heat and moisture, making it durable even in the challenging conditions of a sauna.
Calibration: You can recalibrate this thermometer using the screwdriver slot on the back. Regular calibration helps keep the thermometer accurate, which is important to make sure your sauna is always at the perfect temperature. With careful recalibration, you can ensure that your sauna sessions remain comfortable and safe.
Best Digital Bluetooth Sauna Thermometer: RuuviTag Pro
Pros
- High-accuracy sensor.
- Monitors temperature, humidity, and motion.
- Easy to use with smart home systems.
- Set alerts for sauna conditions.
- Bluetooth makes it convenient to monitor remotely.
Cons
- Needs battery power.
- Temperature readings only up to 85°C (185°F)
- Could be overkill if you only want basic readings.
The RuuviTag Pro 3in1 Bluetooth Temperature & Humidity Sensor is a great choice for all tech lovers.
It measures both temperature and humidity. You can monitor sauna conditions from your phone thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity.
The operating temperature range only goes up to 85°C (185°F), which is sufficient for most sauna users. But you might need to choose a different option if you prefer a warmer sauna.
The RuuviTag Pro comes with an app that allows you to set up alerts for when the sauna reaches specific temperature or humidity levels.
This makes it easy to maintain optimal conditions without the need to constantly check the thermometer manually.
It’s also great for people who love smart home gadgets and want to automate their sauna experience.
Calibration: Digital thermometers like the RuuviTag Pro don’t need traditional calibration. Make sure the sensor is stable and the battery is working well for the best accuracy. Ensuring the sensor is properly installed will help give you the most reliable data for your sauna environment.
Most Accurate Sauna Thermometer: Laboratory Grade Thermometer
Pros
- Extremely accurate readings.
- No electronics or batteries are needed.
- Great for use in extreme heat.
- Reliable even in challenging sauna conditions.
- Trusted for scientific use.
Cons
- Does not include a hygrometer.
- Does not come with a wall-mount
If accuracy is the most important thing for you, then a laboratory-grade liquid-in-glass Thermometer is the way to go. It gives you super accurate readings without needing any batteries or electronics.
It’s perfect for those who want total control over their sauna temperature.
These thermometers are often used in scientific settings, which speaks for their accuracy and reliability.
This is the best choice if you are really particular about your sauna sessions and want to make sure the temperature is always just right.
Calibration: This thermometer doesn’t need calibration since it’s already made to be very precise.
Best High-End Sauna Thermometer: Fischer Sauna Thermometer
Pros
- Crafted with high-quality materials.
- Measures both Fahrenheit and Celsius.
- Large dial for easy reading.
- Rust and corrosion-resistant.
Cons
- Slightly expensive.
- No hygrometer for humidity readings.
The Fischer Sauna Thermometer is a high-end choice for those who want top-of-the-line sauna accessories.
It’s built out of stainless steel and shows both Celsius and Fahrenheit. The high-quality build ensures it will last a long time and delivers accurate temperature readings.
The Fischer Sauna Thermometer performs well and also looks great in your sauna. The stainless steel construction is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for the humid sauna environment.
The large, easy-to-read dial lets you see the temperature from across the room, which makes it suitable for larger saunas.
Calibration: The Fischer thermometer is precisely calibrated during manufacturing, but it’s a good idea to check it regularly to ensure it stays accurate. With proper maintenance, this high-end thermometer can last a lifetime.
Sauna Thermometer Comparison Table
| Thermometer | Fahrenheit | Celsius | Hygrometer | Price |
| HSE Cedar Sauna Thermometer & Hygrometer | Yes | Yes | Yes | $$ |
| LUMERAM Aluminum Sauna Thermometer | Yes | No | No | $ |
| HSE Cedar Sauna Thermometer | Yes | Yes | No | $ |
| RuuviTag Pro Bluetooth Thermometer | Yes | Yes | Yes | $$ |
| Laboratory Grade Thermometer | Yes | Yes | No | $ |
| Fischer Sauna Thermometer | Yes | Yes | No | $$$ |
Where To Place Your Sauna Thermometer
Placement is key for getting accurate temperature readings in your sauna.
The best spot for your thermometer is at eye level when you’re sitting on the sauna bench. Preferably on the wall behind you or next to you. This way, it measures the temperature where you’re actually feeling it.
Thermometer Distance From Heater
If you put the thermometer too close to the heater it may show a temperature that’s higher than what most of the sauna actually feels like.
Placing it too far from where you sit might mean you don’t know how hot it actually is where you are sitting.
Make sure the thermometer is at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from the heater to avoid direct heat affecting the reading. Especially if it’s a wood-burning sauna heater.
Thermometer Height Placement
Place the thermometer at eye level where you sit. This will give you the most accurate reading of the temperature that you are experiencing.
Placing the thermometer too low gives an inaccurate reading of the temperature you’re experiencing. Since heat rises the air is cooler closer to the floor.
Also, avoid putting it near windows or doors, as drafts can change the temperature and make the reading less reliable.
Common Calibration Tips For Sauna Thermometers
Make sure you let your new thermometer reach equilibrium before installing it in your sauna.
This can be done by leaving the thermometer in your sauna overnight (while the sauna is off). This ensures that the thermometer adjusts itself to the equilibrium room temperature.
The next step is to control the temperature in your sauna with a digital room thermometer.
If your sauna thermometer shows the same temperature as your digital thermometer it’s safe to say that it’s accurate, if it doesn’t, simply calibrate your sauna thermometer accordingly.
- Analog Thermometers: Analog thermometers like the HSE Cedar Thermometers can be calibrated manually by adjusting the dials using a flat-head screwdriver. This keeps your readings accurate, especially after lots of use. If the thermometer shows inconsistent readings, recalibration can bring it back to accuracy.
- Digital Thermometers: Digital thermometers, like the RuuviTag Pro, don’t need calibration. Just make sure the sensor is placed securely and the battery works well for accurate readings. Keeping the sensor clean and dust-free can also help maintain its accuracy.
Why Calibration Matters? Over time, thermometers may drift from accurate readings because of exposure to high heat and humidity.
Calibration helps bring them back to being accurate and ensures you always get the correct temperature in your sauna.
Proper calibration means you can relax with confidence, knowing your sauna is at the right temperature for a safe and enjoyable session.
How To Build Your Own Super Accurate Sauna Thermometer
Building your own super-accurate sauna thermometer is easier than you might think. It can make a big difference in the quality of your sauna sessions.
If you want precision without the cost of a high-end thermometer, this DIY approach is perfect for you!
What You’ll Need:
- Laboratory-Grade Liquid-in-Glass Thermometer: These thermometers are incredibly accurate and can handle the high temperatures in a sauna.
- Wooden or Metal Mounting Bracket: Choose a sturdy material that can handle the heat and humidity of a sauna.
- Screws and Screwdriver: You’ll need these to attach the thermometer securely to the wall.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Choose the Right Spot: Place it at eye level where you’re seated on the sauna bench. Make sure it’s away from direct heat (at least 3 feet from the heater) and not near windows or doors where drafts could affect the reading.
- Prepare the Mount: If you’re using a wooden mounting bracket, make sure it’s treated for high heat and moisture. Attach the bracket to the wall using screws, ensuring it’s secure and level.
- Attach the Thermometer: Carefully slide the liquid-in-glass thermometer into the mounting bracket. Make sure it’s held securely but without too much pressure.
- Test It Out: Once the thermometer is mounted, it’s done! Now you’ll get reliable readings every time you use your sauna.
FAQs: Advanced Sauna Thermometer Tips
Here are some frequently asked questions about sauna thermometers.
How Do Thermometers React To Humidity In a Sauna?
Thermometers, especially analog models, can be affected by humidity levels, which can impact their accuracy over time.
According to a study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), high humidity can cause slight expansion in materials, leading to less accurate readings over time.
Models like the HSE Cedar Sauna Thermometer & Hygrometer are designed to withstand sauna humidity without significant drift but can be adjusted if the accuracy worsens.
Digital models tend to handle humidity better, offering real-time adjustments.
What Materials Are Best For a Sauna Thermometer?
Aluminum and stainless steel are great for withstanding high temperatures and moisture.
Wood, like cedar, is naturally resilient to heat and moisture but can be treated to maintain durability for longer.
Why Does Thermometer Placement Matter So Much?
Heat rises, and placing the thermometer at eye level when seated ensures you’re monitoring the temperature where you’re actually feeling it.
Improper placement could mean you’re overheating or over/underestimating the sauna’s heat.
