2010 January
Steam Showers
A steam shower is a type of shower that uses a humidifying steam generator to produce water vapour that is dispersed around a person's body. A steam shower is essentially a steam room that offers the typical features of a bathroom shower. Steam showers are generally found in self-contained enclosures that prevent the water vapour from escaping into the rest of the room, avoiding damage to drywall, paint, or wallpaper. A steam shower can be a social affair if the enclosure seats more than one person. Steam showers combine the functionality of a standard steam room with many additional features including a shower. Steam showers are available in a variety of materials, including but not limited to tile, acrylic, fibreglass, stone, and wood.
Luxury that Lasts
Over the years, the bathroom has transformed from a utilitarian space to a haven in the home, a place to relax and recharge with water experiences that soothe and excite the senses. No wonder homeowners with remodel plans are looking to blend spa-like amenities with their unique visions of comfort and style in the bathroom.
Burn Calories in a Steam Shower Unit
Burn Calories in a Steam Shower Unit
We are constantly on the search for more ways to keep in shape, whether it’s through the use of a new diet or exercise regime; but did you know you could actually burn calories while taking a shower? That’s right, with the use of a steam shower, you would not only have the latest technology in your bathroom but you would also be benefitting from it in a health manner. So what exactly is a steam shower system?
Modern steam showers utilise a system that uses a humidifying steam generator as a means of producing water vapour. This water vapour, or steam, is then dispersed around your body whilst you are in the shower. Steam Showers are becoming highly popular in countries all around the world and rather than being restricted to spas and health clubs they are now available to consumers in their own homes. They are normally set in a self-contained enclosure that is used as a means of preventing the steam from escaping and entering into the main part of the bathroom. This ensures that steam doesn’t cause damage to any of your fittings or fixtures as well as trapping all of the vapour in the shower enclosure to benefit you.
If you are one of the many people considering updating aspects of their bathroom, then you will be pleased to know that these showers are available in a range of materials, including tile, acrylic and stone as well as wood and fibreglass.
If you already have a free standing shower present in the room then it could well be possible to simply convert it instead of replacing it, so how does this work? Just add a steam generator, which will produce the vapour as well as water. By doing this you are not only improving your bathroom but you are also adding value to your home, considering this feature is thought to be a top class item to have in this room of your home.
As well as the luxury of your own spa, this fixture is also great for your health. It has been used as a therapy, effective in relieving symptoms of asthma, sinusitis and allergies. This fixture is also the perfect way of helping you shed those extra calories helping you stay in good shape. Steam helps the body to shed toxins. On top of this the fixture also aids your immune system; it pushes for the production of more white blood cells, which are used to protect the body against virus and bacteria.
There are so many advantages associated with a steam shower unit. It is these points that demonstrate exactly why this fixture is so popular amongst so many people. If you’re still not convinced why not pay your local spa a visit and test one out, you’ll soon see what all the fuss is about!
Find out more about how you can benefit from a Steam Shower Unit by giving Springwave a call today or visit our Bristol based showroom. We offer you some of the best quality, affordable Steam Shower Units, so start reaping the benefits.
Steam Bathing Introduction
Steam Rooms
Let's look at...
- What they are
- Why people use steam rooms
- How to take steam baths
Steam baths have been popular for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks used to take them, as well as the Romans, Turks, and Russians. Today, steam rooms can be found in most spas and health clubs, but...
Thanks to developments in steam generator technology, residential steam rooms are becoming more and more popular.
What is a steam room?
A steam room is an enclosure with an average temperature somewhere between 115 - 125 degrees Fahrenheit. A steam generator is used to keep the room filled with thick clouds of mist.
Steam rooms are made of water proof materials (tile, cement, marble, etc). The room has to be well sealed to prevent the steam from escaping and to prevent moisture damage to the surrounding structure.
Why do people take steam baths?
People use steam rooms for a variety of reasons...
To let off steam! - I personally love the steam room for the relaxing feeling that comes when I step in. For me (and many others) the effects are instant, the steam room is one of the most soothing places to go. If there is any tension before you step in, you’re almost guaranteed to feel lighter when you come out.
Improve skin complexion and tone - Steam bathing is great for skin cleansing and softness, regular use can help keep your skin smooth, soft, and glowing.
Pain relief - The heat produced in a steam room can provide temporary relief for muscle and joint pain. Steam bathing on a regular basis can also help injuries heal faster.
Respiratory relief - Steam has been used over the centuries to ease congestion and provide relief for various respiratory ailments.
How to take a steam bath
There aren’t too many rules, but…
Don’t eat first - Wait 1 or 2 hours after a meal. The effect of heat on your blood circulation can interfere with digestion.
Dress light - Or not at all! Some people do go nude. I use the steam room at the gym where I work out, and I wear a towel to sit on and soak up perspiration. If you have your very own personal home steam room, suit yourself!
Drink water - Drink at least 8 ounces before you start a steam bath.
Don’t stay too long - Yes, a steam room can be incredibly relaxing, but try not to stay in past 15 or 20 minutes. Some people do prefer to stay longer, listen to your body; it will let you know when it's time to go.
That’s really about it.
If you have any health complications, make sure you talk to your doctor first to make sure steam bathing won’t be harmful to you.
Sauna vs. Steam Room
Let's talk about...
- the difference between a sauna vs. steam room, and
- which one is better
Even though they’re both basically hot baths, a sauna uses dry heat and a steam room uses moist heat.
Saunas have very low humidity, which means they can be much hotter than steam rooms. They're usually between 80°C and 100°C, which is perfectly safe because they use dry heat.
A steam room is usually about 40°C. If the steam room was any hotter than that it would scald your skin!
Sauna vs. Steam Room Heat and Construction
Saunas and steam rooms are constructed with different materials because of their heating methods.
Traditional saunas are heated with stones placed on a heater - usually an electric or wood-burning heater. Steam is produced by pouring water over the stones. This raises the temperature in the sauna by several degrees, but the steam quickly dissipates. Far infrared saunas use infrared heaters. Saunas are usually made of wood and include wooden benches to sit on (small portable "saunas" are an exception).
Steam rooms are heated with a steam generator. Steam is fed into an almost airtight room where it builds up to create a humidity level around 100%. Steam rooms are designed to contain the moisture created by the steam. Materials like ceramic tile are often used. Steam rooms should be built with a slanted ceiling to prevent the steam build-up from dripping onto the bathers.
Sauna vs. Steam Room Comparison - Which one is better?
This one is really a matter of personal preference; although some experts do favour one over the other. Sauna and steam baths both have therapeutic benefits. Both are good for:
- improving blood circulation
- cleaning and rejuvenating the skin
- easing muscle tension
- promoting feelings of relaxation and well-being
- enhancing detoxification processes
Additional Benefits of a steam room
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- Steam rooms feel hotter because perspiration doesn't evaporate and carry away heat.
- If you have respiratory problems like sinus congestion or asthma, you might prefer the moist heat of a steam bath to bring relief of symptoms. Steam inhalation is very effective against bronchitis, sinusitis and allergies.
- A possible downside to a steam room is that it may be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria because of the warm, moist conditions. This isn't much of a concern if the steam room is regularly cleaned and disinfected.
Food for thought...
Steam rooms, hot-air saunas and hot tubs heat your body from the outside.
Infrared saunas emit far infrared rays which heat your body from the inside.
Many sauna researchers believe that this inside-out heating action provides additional benefits.
Sauna vs. Steam Room Maintenance
Both saunas and steam rooms are relatively easy to maintain.
A steam room can be washed with a ceramic tile cleaner, and the steam generator will require periodic draining.
The floor of a wood sauna should be cleaned regularly to prevent rotting. Oxiclean is good for removing bacteria and mould. The walls and ceiling don't need to be cleaned as often.