Creating a peaceful escape inside your own home has never been more popular. More and more homeowners are looking into buying a sauna for the home to enjoy wellness benefits without stepping outside. A sauna is no longer considered a luxury reserved for gyms, spas, or resorts—it’s now an accessible health and lifestyle investment.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know before purchasing a sauna: the benefits, types, costs, installation tips, safety, and how to make the best choice for your needs.
Why Consider Buying a Sauna for the Home?
A sauna isn’t just a relaxing space—it’s an investment in health, wellness, and lifestyle. The growing demand for home saunas is driven by:
- Convenience: No need to book spa sessions or travel.
- Privacy: Enjoy your sauna without sharing space with strangers.
- Customization: Choose the design, size, and type that fits your lifestyle.
- Health Benefits: Regular sauna use is linked to improved circulation, detoxification, stress reduction, and better sleep.
Health Benefits of Having a Sauna at Home
1. Detoxification
Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways to eliminate toxins. Saunas heat the body, encouraging deep sweating that helps release heavy metals and other impurities.
2. Stress Relief
The soothing heat relaxes muscles, lowers cortisol levels, and promotes a sense of calm. Many people use their sauna sessions as meditation time.
3. Improved Circulation
The heat increases heart rate and blood flow, similar to moderate exercise, supporting cardiovascular health.
4. Pain Relief
Regular sauna use can reduce stiffness in joints, muscle soreness, and even alleviate arthritis symptoms.
5. Better Skin Health
The sweating unclogs pores, leaving skin refreshed and glowing.
6. Boosted Immunity
Studies suggest that regular sauna sessions may improve immune function by stimulating white blood cell production.
Types of Saunas for Home Use
When buying a sauna for the home, it’s important to understand the different types available. Each type offers a unique experience and set of benefits.
Traditional Finnish Sauna
- Heat Source: Electric or wood-burning stove.
- Temperature: 150–195°F (65–90°C).
- Experience: Dry heat with occasional bursts of steam when water is poured on hot stones.
- Best For: Those who enjoy intense heat and the classic sauna experience.
Infrared Sauna
- Heat Source: Infrared light panels.
- Temperature: 110–140°F (43–60°C).
- Experience: Gentle heat that penetrates deeper into the skin.
- Best For: Users who prefer lower heat but still want maximum detox benefits.
Steam Sauna (Steam Room)
- Heat Source: Steam generator.
- Temperature: 110–120°F (43–49°C) with high humidity.
- Experience: Moist heat that hydrates the skin and soothes airways.
- Best For: People with respiratory issues and those who enjoy humid environments.
Portable Saunas
- Heat Source: Infrared panels or steam generators.
- Design: Compact, foldable, and easy to set up.
- Best For: Budget-conscious buyers or renters who cannot install permanent units.
Choosing the Right Sauna Size
When buying a sauna for the home, size matters. Saunas are typically categorized by how many people they can fit.
- 1-Person Sauna: Perfect for solo relaxation and small spaces.
- 2-Person Sauna: Great for couples and compact homes.
- 4-Person Sauna: Best for families who want to enjoy sauna time together.
- Custom-Built Saunas: Tailored to your available space, can fit large groups.
Indoor vs Outdoor Saunas
Indoor Saunas
- Advantages: Convenient, easy to access, great for year-round use.
- Disadvantages: Requires indoor space and proper ventilation.
Outdoor Saunas
- Advantages: Aesthetically pleasing, adds value to your property, often larger.
- Disadvantages: Requires more installation effort and weather protection.
Cost of Buying a Sauna for the Home
Traditional Sauna Costs
- 1–2 Person: $2,000 – $5,000
- 4–6 Person: $6,000 – $10,000
Infrared Sauna Costs
- Portable Units: $200 – $600
- High-End Units: $2,000 – $7,000
Steam Saunas Costs
- Standalone Units: $1,500 – $5,000
- Luxury Models: $6,000+
Outdoor Saunas Costs
- Barrel Saunas: $3,000 – $8,000
- Custom Cabins: $10,000+
Installation Considerations
When buying a sauna for the home, installation should not be overlooked.
Electrical Requirements
- Infrared and traditional saunas may require dedicated circuits.
- Always consult an electrician for safe installation.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation ensures air quality and prevents mold or moisture issues.
Flooring
Install your sauna on non-porous surfaces like tile, vinyl, or concrete. Avoid carpet or wood floors that absorb moisture.
Location
- Indoor: Basements, bathrooms, or spare rooms.
- Outdoor: Backyard, garden, or patio.
Safety Tips for Home Sauna Users
- Stay hydrated before and after each session.
- Limit sauna time to 15–30 minutes per session.
- Avoid alcohol before sauna use.
- Cool down gradually after leaving the sauna.
- Consult your doctor if you have heart conditions or a chronic illness.
Features to Look For When Buying a Sauna
When making your purchase decision, consider these features:
- Heating System: Infrared panels vs. traditional heaters.
- Timer & Temperature Controls: Easy digital panels are user-friendly.
- Lighting: Soft LED or chromotherapy options.
- Bluetooth Speakers: For music and relaxation.
- Safety Certifications: Look for CE, ETL, or CSA certifications.
- Warranty: Longer warranties reflect better quality.
Maintenance of Home Saunas
To keep your sauna in top condition:
- Wipe down benches and walls after each use.
- Use sauna-safe cleaning products.
- Regularly check the heater and electrical components.
- Replace rocks in traditional saunas every 2–3 years.
Eco-Friendly and Energy Efficiency Options
If sustainability is important, look for:
- Infrared saunas (more energy-efficient).
- Low EMF heaters (for safer operation).
- Saunas with insulation to reduce heat loss.
Where to Buy a Sauna for the Home
You can purchase from:
- Online Retailers: Amazon, Costco, Wayfair.
- Specialty Sauna Stores: Sauna Works, Almost Heaven Saunas.
- Home Improvement Stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s.
- Custom Builders: For unique outdoor installations.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Sauna for the Home
Pros
- Health benefits at your convenience.
- Increases property value.
- Saves long-term spa costs.
- Provides a private relaxation space.
Cons
- High upfront cost.
- Requires space and installation effort.
- Ongoing electricity and maintenance expenses.
What is the 200 rule for saunas?
The “200 rule” is a guideline often used in sauna culture. It suggests that the combined temperature in Fahrenheit and humidity percentage should be around 200 for a comfortable sauna experience. For example, a sauna at 170°F with 30% humidity fits the rule. This balance helps maintain both heat intensity and breathing comfort.
What to consider when buying a home sauna?
When buying a sauna for the home, consider these factors:
Size & Space – Choose a model that fits your available space (indoor, outdoor, or bathroom-friendly).
Type of Sauna – Decide between traditional (wood-burning or electric) or infrared saunas.
Budget – Home saunas range widely in price, from affordable portable options to luxury custom builds.
Maintenance – Look at how easy it is to clean and maintain.
Energy Efficiency – Check the power usage to avoid high operating costs.
Health Goals – Infrared is great for relaxation and pain relief, while traditional saunas offer intense heat and steam.
What is the best type of sauna for home use?
The best type depends on your needs:
Infrared Sauna – Ideal for smaller spaces, lower energy costs, and deeper muscle relaxation.
Traditional Finnish Sauna – Great for those who enjoy high heat, steam, and an authentic sauna experience.
Steam Sauna – Best if you prefer high humidity and a spa-like atmosphere.
For most homeowners, infrared saunas are the most practical because they are compact, energy-efficient, and easy to install.
Does a sauna make your electric bill go up?
Yes, but the impact depends on the sauna type and how often you use it.
Infrared Saunas – Usually cost between $10–$20 per month for regular use since they require less power.
Traditional Electric Saunas – Can add $30–$60 per month, depending on size and frequency of use.
Overall, modern saunas are designed to be energy-efficient, so with moderate use, the increase in your bill is usually manageable.