What is the difference between a Turkish bath, a sauna and a steam room?

Three kinds of heat

You will often see the hammam, sauna and steam room listed together, but each one has its own conditions and its own flow. The sauna uses dry heat, the steam room uses high humidity, and the Turkish bath combines a heated stone surface, water and traditional care steps. When you choose, think about how you want to rest and about your health as well as the heat.

Sauna: dry, noticeable heat

In a wood-lined sauna the air is dry and you feel the heat more sharply. If it is your first time, start with a short session, cool down between rounds and drink water.

Steam room: humid and soft

The steam room may feel less hot than the sauna, but the dense humidity increases its effect on your body. Breathe slowly, leave if you feel unwell and rest after your session.

Turkish bath: water, stone and ritual

A hammam session can include warming up, scrub, foam, rinsing and rest. Your attendant should adjust the pressure and pace to your sensitivity.

Which one should you choose?

For a dry heat break, start with the sauna. For a humid space, try the steam room. For a traditional experience built around water and care steps, the hammam is a good place to begin. If you have heart or circulation problems, blood pressure problems, are pregnant or take medication regularly, consult your doctor first.

This article is general information. It does not replace personal medical advice or diagnosis.