Two of the best options for relaxing after a long day or throwing the perfect weekend gathering are the sauna and the hot tub. But which one is better for true relaxation? At Stoked Saunas, we’ve seen more and more people in Minnesota, especially in Mankato, choosing the portable sauna experience over traditional hot tubs—and for good reason.
Let’s break down the differences, benefits, and why saunas are heating up the relaxation game in 2025.
Heat Source & Experience
Saunas offer dry or steam heat through wood-fired or electric heaters, reaching temps between 150–190°F. This deep heat penetrates your muscles, eases your joints, and flushes out toxins.
Hot tubs use streams to gently massage users and warm water (often between 100°F and 104°F). While soothing, it doesn’t match the full-body detox and circulation boost of a sauna.
Winner: Sauna for deeper relaxation and wellness benefits.
Stress Relief & Mental Wellness
Both options promote relaxation, but the sauna’s heat causes your body to release endorphins, decrease cortisol levels, and enter a near meditative state. At Stoked Saunas, our users often describe feeling “lighter,” “mentally clear,” and “completely relaxed” after a single 20-minute session.
Winner: Sauna for stress and anxiety relief.
Hygiene & Maintenance
Let’s be honest—hot tubs require a lot of maintenance. You need filters, chemicals, and constant cleaning. Even then, bacteria can build up in jets and water if not properly cared for.
Portable saunas, on the other hand, are self-contained, require no plumbing, and don’t use water in a way that breeds bacteria. Our mobile sauna rentals are sanitized after each use, making them safer and easier to manage.
Winner: Sauna for hygiene and low maintenance.
Mobility & Experience
Want to host a backyard gathering, girls’ night, or a college sauna party? A portable sauna from Stoked Saunas can be delivered right to your driveway, lakefront, or cabin—no hookups needed.
Hot tubs are stationary or need permanent installation—not ideal for short-term fun.
Winner: Sauna for flexibility and mobile fun.
Minnesota Winters
When the Minnesota wind bites, nothing beats a wood-fired sauna in the snow. The extreme temperature contrast strengthens your immune system and leaves you refreshed like nothing else.
Hot tubs can feel relaxing in winter, but they don’t provide the same circulatory boost or full-body heat therapy.
Winner: Sauna for cold-weather wellness.
Why Minnesotans Choose Stoked Saunas
Here’s what sets our sauna rentals apart:
- Wood-fired heat for authentic sauna vibes
- Delivered across Mankato and surrounding Minnesota areas
- Fully mobile with no electricity or plumbing needed
- Comes with bucket, ladle, Bluetooth speaker, thermometer, lights
- Perfect for bike riders, college students, families, and mor
Final Verdict
While hot tubs are great, saunas win when it comes to true relaxation, wellness, and convenience—especially in the chilly Midwest. With Stoked Saunas, you can experience the healing power of heat in the comfort of your own space.
Ready to ditch the bubbles and get steamy?
Book your portable sauna rental today with Stoked Saunas—where heat meets happiness.
