The Fitbit Charge, Inspire, Versa, Sense, and Luxe models are designed to be worn while exercising and all day long. An after-workout sauna session is a favorite routine for many- so, can you wear a Fitbit in the sauna?
According to the official Fitbit website, most Fitbit products will work between 14° to 113° F and have a water resistance down to 50 meters. Typically, you should be able to use your FitBit in the steam room or infrared sauna, but not in a traditional sauna as the 177° F temperature will be too high.
Keep reading to find out if you should wear your Fitbit in the sauna, how the models stack up in a traditional sauna, infrared sauna, and steam room, and what the best fitness tracker is to take with you inside.
Should you wear a Fitbit in the sauna?
Many people wear their Fitbits the majority of the day, and wearability in the sauna is a concern for many active users. To preserve the device and allow it to function accurately, we must follow the recommended limits of each model.
Simply put, you should wear your Fitbit in the sauna if the average temperature is below 113° F for most models. Of note- excessive heat, greater altitudes, and an abundance of moisture can damage electronics. All Fitbit models are water-resistant, and some can withstand a temperature of 140° F, but none can bear the 177° F heat of a traditional sauna.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Fitbit Model
You have a few different options when it comes to owning a Fitbit. The types that will be covered in this article include the Fitbit Charge, Fitbit Inspire, Fitbit Versa, Fitbit Luxe, and Fitbit Sense. Like I mentioned above, each kind has its own set of specifications. Be sure to find your model below!
- Temperature Range and Altitude Capability
Each Fitbit model will have specs and what the company likes to call “environmental requirements” necessary to follow while wearing.
Under the environmental requirements on their website, you’ll find the operating temperature range and the maximum operating altitude. Depending on your model, the temperature max will be either 113° F or 140° F, with a peak operating altitude of 28,000 feet.
Luckily for sauna-lovers alike, there are saunas located all over the world. Remember to take a peek at the altitude limits of your model before bringing your Fitbit along!
- Degree of Water Resistance
Like the temperature and altitude restrictions, the Fitbit models all have different degrees of water resistance to function appropriately. While some are safe for swimming and high-heat exposure, others are specifically recommended to keep out of saunas and steam rooms altogether.
- Warranty Coverage
All of the Fitbits come with the option to purchase a 2-Year Protection Plan. The cost of the plan and the deductible required per claim are model-specific.
Each of the plans covers the same damages, although there is no mention of saunas in their Terms & Conditions documents. It’s safe to assume if your model specifically states to avoid saunas, damages resulting from such use would not be covered.
- Materials and Care
The materials used in Fitbits are a combination of silicone, metal, polyester, and plastic. Increased temperatures in the sauna can heighten allergic reactions to these materials, so make sure to care for your Fitbit properly.
Ways to do that include not wearing your device too tightly, taking it off to give your skin a break, and cleaning it with a gentle, hypoallergenic cleanser in between uses.
As long as you follow the designated rules of your Fitbit species, you’re free to use it as you please. Check out the information below to find out if your Fitbit is safe for the sauna!
Can you wear a Fitbit Charge in the sauna?
The Fitbit Charge is a wearable technology that integrates GPS, heart rate tracking, and sleep monitoring into a comfortable band. This model is made for those that want live pace recognition to crush their next marathon!
According to the operating temperature, and given that the average temperature of a traditional sauna is 177° F, you should not wear your Fitbit Charge in the sauna. Such usage could lead to permanent damage and would not be covered under the protection plan.
Specifications relevant to sauna/steam room usage include:
- Operating temperature: -4° to 140° F
- Maximum operating altitude: 28,000 feet
- Water resistance: Down to 50 meters. After moisture exposure, make sure to dry the band to ensure safety and accuracy. Not recommended for use in a hot tub or sauna.
- Warranty Coverage: 2-Year Protection Plan for $24.99 ($15 deductible per claim) covers damage from dropping it, liquid spills, and screen cracks from day 1, and mechanical and electrical failures after the Fitbit manufacturer warranty expires.
- Materials and Care: Made of plastic resin, stainless steel, a flexible sport material, and polyester; Care for by giving your wrist a break, washing with a hypoallergenic cleanser, and ensuring that this device is clean and dry in between uses.
What about an infrared sauna?
An infrared sauna is slightly cooler with less humidity and has an average temperature range of 125-155°F. Because the temperature limit on the Fitbit Charge is 140°F, as long as the sauna is below that condition, you’re safe to wear it!
One user mentioned using his Fitbit in an infrared sauna without any reported damage though said to keep it dry for an accurate reading.
What about a steam room?
There is no advisory against using the Fitbit Charge in a steam room. Considering the average steam room is 112°F (well below the maximum operating temperature), it won’t cause any issues.
However, due to the 100% humidity in a steam room, it may be challenging to get accurate heart-rate readings. Additionally, if there is any damage or cracks on the screen, I would avoid using a steam room as moisture may penetrate the device and negatively impact the electrical systems.
Can you wear a Fitbit Versa in the sauna?
The Fitbit Versa is a fitness-minded smartwatch and music player, with built-in GPS technology, on-screen workouts, and swim lap tracking. This model is perfect for anyone that wants their tracking and playlist features all on the same device. But can you take it in a traditional sauna?
Like the Fitbit Charge, the Versa is specifically not recommended for use in traditional saunas because its temperature limit is only 140° F.
Specifications relevant to sauna/steam room usage include:
- Operating temperature: -4° to 140° F
- Maximum operating altitude: 28,000 feet
- Water resistance: Down to 50 meters. After moisture exposure, make sure to dry the band to ensure safety and accuracy. Not recommended for use in a hot tub or sauna.
- Warranty Coverage: This model has two iterations on the website- the Versa 3 and Versa 2, each with different warranty plan prices. The Versa 3 offers the 2-Year Protection Plan for $44.99 ($30 deductible per claim), and the Versa 2 offers it for $34.99 ($25 deductible per claim). Both cover damage from dropping it, liquid spills, and screen cracks from day 1, and mechanical and electrical failures after the Fitbit manufacturer warranty expires.
- Materials and Care: Made of a flexible sport material and aluminum; Care for the same as the Fitbit Charge
What about an infrared sauna?
The Fitbit Versa can be used in an infrared sauna, as long as the temperature stays below 140°F and the device is kept dry for heart-rate precision.
Make sure to have a towel handy to wipe off your sweat!
What about a steam room?
Historically, steam is much more proficient at penetrating electronics- so if the watch is damaged, I would steer clear. Even a Versa in perfect condition should be used in the steam room with caution.
Take breaks every 10 minutes to limit moisture exposure, or consider wrapping a towel over the top of the Fitbit to protect it.
Can you wear a Fitbit Sense in the sauna?
The Fitbit Sense is the most sophisticated smartwatch in the portfolio. It has a blood oxygen reading feature, an FDA-approved ECG sensor, and the ability to measure electrodermal activity and skin temperature; this watch does it all!
Although not specified, because the operating temperature of the Fitbit Sense is 113° F, you should not wear it inside of a traditional sauna.
Specifications relevant to sauna/steam room usage include:
- Operating temperature: 14° to 113° F
- Maximum operating altitude: 28,000 feet
- Water resistance: Down to 50 meters. After moisture exposure, make sure to dry the band to ensure safety and accuracy.
- Warranty Coverage: 2-Year Protection Plan for $59.99 ($35 deductible per claim) covers damage from dropping it, liquid spills, and screen cracks from day 1, and mechanical and electrical failures after the Fitbit manufacturer warranty expires.
- Materials and Care: Made of a flexible sport material and aluminum; Care for the same as the Fitbit Charge and Versa
What about an infrared sauna?
Unfortunately, the lowest temperature in an infrared sauna is still going to be too hot for the Fitbit Sense. Stay away from both traditional and infrared saunas with this device.
What about a steam room?
At 112°F, a steam room is just under the recommended temperature limit for this smartwatch.
Taking the moisture factor into consideration, err on the side of caution and keep out of steam rooms as well.
Can you wear a Fitbit Luxe in the sauna?
With its low-profile design and stainless steel accents, the Fitbit Luxe makes for a fashion-forward fitness piece. This model is ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to sacrifice style.
Do not wear your Fitbit Luxe in a traditional sauna as it will not function properly due to its temperature limitation of 113° F. A traditional sauna is too hot and may cause long-term damage.
Specifications relevant to sauna/steam room usage include:
- Operating temperature: -4° to 113° F
- Maximum operating altitude: Not specified
- Water resistance: Down to 50 meters. After moisture exposure, make sure to dry the band to ensure safety and accuracy.
- Warranty Coverage: 2-Year Protection Plan for $29.99 ($15 deductible per claim) covers damage from dropping it, liquid spills, and screen cracks from day 1, and mechanical and electrical failures after the Fitbit manufacturer warranty expires.
- Materials and Care: Made of silicone, stainless steel, and anodized metal; Care instructions are not explicitly listed, but because it has decorative features, make sure to handle with more care than the other models.
What about an infrared sauna?
Like the Sense, the temperature limit of 113 °F is not enough for the Fitbit Luxe to withstand an infrared sauna.
What about a steam room?
Because of the 100% humidity inside of a steam room- avoid wearing your Fitbit Luxe inside so that the screen and the anodized metals are not ruined.
Overall this model is neither sauna nor steam room friendly!
Can you wear a Fitbit Inspire in the sauna?
The Fitbit Inspire is the sportiest looking of the bunch. It can track your steps, monitor your activity levels, determine calories burned, and detect your menstrual cycle.
Keep away from traditional saunas, as your device won’t function properly and may be damaged in 177-degree heat.
Specifications relevant to sauna/steam room usage include:
- Operating temperature: 14° to 113° F
- Maximum operating altitude: 28,000 feet
- Water resistance: Down to 50 meters. After moisture exposure, make sure to dry the band to ensure safety and accuracy.
- Warranty Coverage: 2-Year Protection Plan for $29.99 ($15 deductible per claim) covers damage from dropping it, liquid spills, and screen cracks from day 1, and mechanical and electrical failures after the Fitbit manufacturer warranty expires.
- Materials and Care: Made of silicone and plastic; Care instructions are the same as the Fitbit Charge, Versa, and Sense
What about an infrared sauna?
Keep away from infrared saunas as well; 125 °F is still too hot!
What about a steam room?
Although it has the same temperature range as the Luxe, the Fitbit Inspire has a much more durable makeup.
Be cautious when using in a steam room, take breaks, and have a towel nearby to dry off your Fitbit. Lastly, ensure the temperature doesn’t surpass 113° F.
What’s the best fitness tracker to take into the sauna or steam room?
The Fitbit Charge and Versa are the most high-temperature resilient, making them the safest models for some infrared saunas and steam rooms. However, they still are not the most durable options for a traditional sauna, and neither is specifically recommended for saunas at all!
So, where does that leave us?
Fortunately, some versions of Garmin smartwatches can be used safely in the sauna and steam room due to their maximum operating temperature of 122ºF and waterproof rating of 5 ATM (atmospheric pressure). Check out this video of a Garmin Fenix 6 Pro being tested in a sauna.
Garmin Smartwatches
Here’s a list of models that have been tested successfully in the sauna:
- Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music
- Garmin Fenix 6 Pro
- Garmin Vivoactive HR
- Garmin Fenix 5
As I mentioned above, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music has a waterproof rating and maximum operating temperature that makes it suitable for steam rooms and some infrared saunas. No damage has been reported after using in a traditional sauna, although damage from sauna use is not covered under their warranty.
The Garmin Fenix 6 Pro has a temperature indicator and, while testing, did not surpass its maximum operating temperature in a traditional sauna. Success!
In summary, while the Fitbit Versa and Charge are the most suitable for use in the sauna, neither are recommended for a traditional sauna. The Fitbit Inspire, Sense, and Luxe are more fragile and safe to use only as directed in infrared saunas or steam rooms. You might consider opting for a Garmin if you want the most durable fitness super watch.
Next time you think about wearing your Fitbit in the sauna, be sure to check the safety information first!