Choosing the Right Sauna for Your Home
Welcome to your ultimate guide on choosing the perfect sauna! Whether you're a sauna newbie or a seasoned health and wellness junkie (in the best way possible of course), we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make the right decision. Let's dive in and turn up the heat on your home wellness journey!
What Are the Different Types of Saunas?
There are a few different types of saunas that have been crafted over the years. The main types can be broken down into :
- Traditional Finnish Saunas (hot stones, dry heat, low humidity)
- Infrared Saunas (infrared light heats the body directly)
- Turkish-style, commonly referred to as Steam Baths / Steam Rooms (highest humidity)
Traditional saunas and infrared saunas are the most common for home use. You can learn more about the differences in our Traditional vs Infrared Saunas: Key Differences article.
Traditional Finnish Saunas
A Traditional Finnish Sauna is the most classic form of sauna, typically wood-lined, where the air in the room is heated using a stove with hot rocks, creating a dry heat environment, until you are ready to start pouring water over the hot stones. You can control the humidity within the room, depending on how much water you choose to pour, it's completely up to you. And let's be honest, nothing really beats that classic 'sizzling hiss of water' sound.
The temperature inside a Finnish sauna usually ranges between 70°C and 100°C (158°F to 212°F) with a relative humidity of about 10 to 20 percent. This unique combination of high heat and low humidity provides a therapeutic experience that promotes sweating, detoxification, and relaxation.
The dry heat quickly raises your skin temperature, causing you to sweat, A LOT, as your body works to cool down. This process not only helps to flush out toxins but also relieves muscle tension and improves circulation. Many people find the experience incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating, making it a perfect way to unwind and de-stress.
Infrared Saunas
An Infrared Sauna is a modern take on the traditional sauna, using infrared light to generate heat. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you, infrared saunas warm your body directly. This is achieved through infrared lamps that emit light waves which penetrate the skin and heat your body from the inside out. Typically, infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, usually between 49°C and 60°C (120°F to 140°F), making them a comfortable option for those who find the intense heat of traditional saunas too overwhelming.
The deep, penetrating heat of an infrared sauna offers a range of health benefits. As your body absorbs the infrared light, your core temperature rises, which can lead to increased blood flow, pain relief, and improved skin health. This type of heat therapy helps to detoxify the body by promoting sweating, similar to moderate exercise. Additionally, because infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, they are often more compact and easier to install in various home settings.
If you would like to learn more about Infrared Saunas, check out our Infrared Saunas: How Do They Work? article.
How Much Does a Sauna Cost?
These are some of the big questions aren't they? How much will one of these hot ticket items set you back? How much should I spend on a sauna?
You can find that home sauna prices range from $2,000 to $4,999 for a very solid entry level unit, $5,000 to $7,999 for high quality mid level market saunas and $8,000+ for premium home saunas.
There are two main factors that will normally indicate whether a home sauna will be more expensive or less expensive. These 2 factors are :
- The Type of Sauna.
- The Size and Capacity of the Sauna.
Traditional Finnish Saunas and Steam Baths are usually more expensive than Infrared Saunas, mostly due to their electrical requirements, the burner heater and the actual installation costs (you must have a certified installer complete the installation). Infrared Saunas on the other hand, are a plug and play unit, meaning that once you have completed the setup of the sauna unit, you would just plug the sauna into a standard outlet and can begin your sauna session.
As you can imagine, the bigger the capacity a home sauna is, the larger the physical size of the unit must be and therefore more costs relating to the actual production. This ultimately means a more expensive sauna.
Still unsure? Don't worry. We've helped break down the size and capacity of the popular types of Traditional Finnish Saunas and Infrared Saunas for you, to make sure you spend the right amount on the perfect sauna.
Revel Glacier Duo Cedar Ice Bath R-ICEDUO-V2
Yet to be reviewed
Revel Arctic Cedar Ice Bath R-ICEFOUND
Yet to be reviewed
Revel Glacier Solo Cedar Ice Bath R-ICESOLO-V2
Yet to be reviewed
Revel Eden 4 Person Traditional Barrel Sauna R-BT-4P
Yet to be reviewed
Revel Edenview 4 Person Traditional Cedar Barrel Sauna R-BT-CEDAR-4P
Yet to be reviewed
Revel NordicWave 2 Person Infrared & Traditional Hybrid Sauna R-CS-2P
Yet to be reviewed
Revel NordicWave 3 Person Infrared & Traditional Hybrid Sauna R-CS-3PB
Yet to be reviewed
Revel Kora 2 Person Far Infrared Sauna R-FI-2P
Yet to be reviewed
Revel Kora 3 Person Far Infrared Sauna R-FI-3P
Yet to be reviewed
Revel Nova 2 Person Full Spectrum Infrared Cabin R-FS-PREM-2P
Yet to be reviewed
Will a Sauna Fit in Your Home?
Before purchasing a sauna, you need to make sure you have the available space in your home OR that the sauna can actually go IN the home. Saunas come in various sizes, both indoor and outdoor, from compact one-person units to larger models that can accommodate up to six people. We've broken down the usual physical size's you can come to expect with a home sauna, what type of space it's suited to and how many people you can expect to fit during your sauna sessions.
Indoor Sauna Size Guide
Indoor saunas are exactly what they sound like - they are saunas designed to be installed and enjoyed within the comfort of your home. These saunas have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and accessibility. With an indoor sauna, you can enjoy the relaxation and health benefits of a sauna experience without stepping outside, making it perfect for year-round use regardless of weather conditions. They offer privacy, save time on travel to public saunas, and can be a luxurious addition to your home wellness routine. Indoor saunas are also versatile, fitting into various spaces such as basements, spare rooms, or even master bathrooms, allowing you to create a personal spa retreat within your living space.
Here we've made very easy for you to see what Indoor Sauna will best suit your needs.
Single-User Infrared Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1850 mm (Height) x 950 mm (Width) x 650 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 1 person
- Ideal For: Small apartments or homes with limited space. This compact sauna can fit into a bathroom or a small corner of a bedroom.
2-Person Infrared Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1900 mm (Height) x 1200 mm (Width) x 1050 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 2 people
- Ideal For: Couples or individuals who prefer a bit more space. Suitable for medium-sized rooms such as a spacious bathroom, home gym, or a dedicated wellness room.
3-Person Infrared Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1900 mm (Height) x 1550 mm (Width) x 1100 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 3 people
- Ideal For: Small families or friends who enjoy sauna sessions together. Requires a larger area, perfect for a basement or a larger room / wellness area.
2 to 3 Person Traditional Finnish Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1950 mm (Height) x 1500 mm (Width) x 1100 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 2 to 3 people
- Ideal For: Those who enjoy the traditional sauna experience. Best suited for a dry, dedicated space in your home, away from bathrooms or areas with high moisture. A spare room or a specifically designed home spa area would be perfect.
3 to 4 Person Traditional Finnish Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1950 mm (Height) x 1500 mm (Width) x 1100 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 3 to 4 people
- Ideal For: Families or groups of friends. Best suited for a dry, dedicated space in your home, away from bathrooms or areas with high moisture. This size requires a more spacious area, such as a basement, spare room or a specifically designed home spa area would be perfect.
2 to 3 Person Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1950 mm (Height) x 1180 mm (Width) x 1030 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 2 to 3 people
- Ideal For: Individuals or couples looking for a more versatile sauna. This compact size can fit into medium to large-sized rooms.
3 to 4 Person Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1950 mm (Height) x 1530 mm (Width) x 1030 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 3 to 4 people
- Ideal For: Families or small groups. Fits well in a basement, home gym, or large bathroom.
Outdoor Sauna Size Guide
Outdoor saunas bring the traditional sauna experience into your backyard or garden space. These freestanding units offer a unique blend of nature and relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of heat therapy while surrounded by fresh air and natural scenery. Outdoor saunas are ideal for those who want to create a dedicated wellness retreat separate from their main living space. They can be a striking feature in your backyard or dedicated outdoor space, adding both value and real character to your property. Whether it's a barrel sauna nestled among trees or a modern cabin-style unit on your patio, outdoor saunas provide a serene escape just steps from your door. They're perfect for get togethers of like minded wellness people, friends and family, can be used year-round, and offer the added benefit of a refreshing cool-down in the open air after your sauna session.
6 Person Traditional Barrel Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1916 mm (Height) x 1800 mm (Width) x 1500 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 6 people
- Ideal For: Large families or social gatherings. Requires a significant outdoor space, such as a backyard or garden. The barrel design not only looks attractive but also maximises heat retention and air circulation.
8 Person Traditional Barrel Sauna
- Standard Dimensions: 1916 mm (Height) x 1800 mm (Width) x 2400 mm (Depth)
- Capacity: 8 people
- Ideal For: An absolute beast of a sauna, perfect for large families, big group of friends or social gatherings. Requires a significant outdoor space, such as a backyard or garden. The barrel design not only looks attractive but also maximises heat retention and air circulation.
Measuring Your Space for your Home Sauna
Now that you know the sizes these amazing saunas can come in, let's measure the area where you plan to install the sauna. Here are some good tips to keep in mind :
- Ceiling Height and Area Space: Make sure your ceiling height can accommodate the sauna. Most saunas require a minimum ceiling height of around 2000 mm to ensure proper installation and ventilation. You also want to ensure you have measured the floor space in the designated area, to make sure the sauna will definitely fit.
- Clearance and Ventilation: Once you have accounted for your ceiling height and measured the space in the room, ensure you're installing the sauna on a perfectly flat, stable surface. For traditional Finnish saunas, keep the unit away from any source of water, flames, or flammable materials. For infrared saunas, if the area tends to be damp, place rubber matting or another suitable barrier underneath the sauna.
- Door Swing: Ensure there's enough space for the door to open fully without obstruction. Last thing you want is to finish installing your sauna and then realise you can't get inside to use it! This is a very rare thing to happen, but still, better to be prepared than not.
- Check for Power Supply: Make sure that the area you are planning to install the sauna in has access to the necessary electrical supply. Check the compliance of your electrical installation before connecting the sauna to the power supply. Infrared saunas are typically standard plug and play units, while traditional saunas will need a qualified electrician to complete the installation. Importantly, do not plug any other appliances into the same outlet as your infrared sauna.
- Location: This should be an easy one but still, make sure you decide well beforehand if you want an indoor or outdoor sauna. Indoor saunas are great for year-round use, since you don't have to factor in the weather too much. For traditional Finnish saunas, ensure you install them in a dry area, away from any source of water. Outdoor saunas can obviously save indoor space and are well equipped for standard outdoor weather, but remember that wood is sensitive to moisture. For outdoor traditional Finnish saunas, it's important to treat the outside of the wood against moisture using a saturator. And then there are also those chilly walks to and from the sauna (nature's hot and cold therapy in action).
How Easy is it to Install a Home Sauna?
Now that you've measured your space and chosen the right size for your home sauna, you might be wondering about the installation process. Don't sweat it (pun intended)! Let's break down how easy it can be to get your personal wellness oasis up and running.
Infrared Saunas: The Plug-and-Play Champions
Remember when we mentioned that infrared saunas are typically plug-and-play units? Well, we weren't kidding! These units are designed with easy installation in mind:
- Location: Install on a completely level floor. If the area tends to be damp, place rubber matting or another suitable barrier underneath the sauna.
- Assembly: Most infrared saunas come in pre-built panels that slot together, flatpack style! (but no arguing)
- Electrical: Once assembled, simply plug into a dedicated outlet but do not plug any other appliances into the same outlet as your infrared sauna.
- Time: With a helper and some basic tools, you could be sweating it out in your new sauna in just a few hours or even sooner, if you are a flatpack speed runner - safely of course.
- Surroundings: Do not store flammable objects or chemical substances near the sauna.
Check out just how easy an Infrared Sauna installation can be. These guys get it done in under 20 minutes!!
Traditional Finnish Saunas: A Bit More Involved, But Oh So Worth It
Traditional saunas require more careful planning and installation:
- Location Prep: Install on a perfectly flat and hard surface in a dry area. Keep away from any source of water (bath, damp floor, swimming pool), flames, or flammable materials. And remember, because these units do require special installation by an electrician, the spot you choose will be its home - unless you are willing to pay for more install costs to move it elsewhere.
- Wood Treatment: For outdoor saunas, treat the outside of the wood against moisture using a saturator.
- Assembly: Just like the Infrared Saunas, many traditional saunas come in pre-cut, ready-to-assemble flatpack-esque kits. Note that assembly typically requires 3 adults.
- Electrical Installation: Ensure your electrical installation complies with requirements before connecting the sauna. You will require a qualified electrician
General Installation Tips for Both Types
- Read the manual thoroughly before starting - it's your best guide for safe installation.
- Gather all necessary tools before beginning the assembly process.
- Position your saunas mains cable so that it's easily accessible and protected from being crushed or pinched.
- Do not install a locking system on the sauna door.
- After installation, do not use liquid cleaning products. Use a wet rag for cleaning, and always disconnect the sauna before cleaning.
What is a Sauna?
Simply put, a sauna is a heated room designed to make you sweat, while gaining some serious health benefits thanks to the high temperatures. Think of it as your personal wellness retreat, typically lined with wood for a cosy, natural feel. The temperature inside ranges from a warm 70°C to a hot 100°C (158°F to 212°F). Whether you're seeking deep relaxation, detoxification, or relief from muscle tension, a sauna can offer a multitude of benefits.
How Does a Sauna Work?
When you step into a sauna, the air is heated using a stove or hot rocks, or you might be receiving direct heat from infrared lamps. This heat causes your skin temperature to rise to around 40°C (104°F), prompting your body to start sweating as it works to cool down. It’s not unusual to sweat about half a litre in a single session! This process helps detoxify your body, giving you that refreshed and revitalised feeling.
How Hot Does a Sauna Get?
A sauna typically heats up to between 70°C and 100°C (158°F to 212°F), creating a perfect environment for a short session of five to twenty minutes. Although it sounds intense, your body is much more equipped to handle this heat than you might think - in saying that, you should always listen to your body and always stay hydrated.
How much does a Sauna cost?
Generally, you are looking at around $1,900 all the way up to $8,999. The cost is mostly associated with the size and capacity of the sauna, so if you are planning on doing solo sauna sessions, you can expect to pay closer to the minimum side of the cost scale.
Should you hydrate during a sauna?
You should aim to drink about 2 glasses of water before and especially after your sauna sessions, this will help to ensure that your body is adequately hydrated before entering the sauna and can replenish fluids lost during the session.
If you plan on hydrating during your sauna session, it is recommended to drink warm or room temperature water, avoiding any possible shock to your system. And just be sure not to drink too much water during your sauna session, a single glass with small sips should do it. Overhydration can be just as dangerous as dehydration, so just be mindful.