Thinking About a Sauna? Read This First.
You’re here because you want a home sauna, but you don’t want to waste money on the wrong one.
This guide will cut through the nonsense and show you exactly how to pick the best home sauna for your needs—without falling for overpriced marketing fluff.
We’ll cover everything from size, heating technology, installation, and common mistakes to avoid so you don’t end up regretting your purchase.
Let’s get into it.
What to Look for in a Home Sauna
Buying a sauna without knowing what to look for is a quick way to waste money and end up with something that doesn’t suit your needs.
Here are the main things to consider:
1. Sauna Type: Infrared vs. Traditional vs. Hybrid
Traditional Saunas (Finnish saunas) use heated rocks to warm the air. Temps range from 150°F–190°F, creating a high-heat, full-sweat experience. Ideal for detox, circulation, and deep relaxation. Backed by decades of research.
Infrared saunas use radiant heat to warm your body directly, not the air. They run at lower temperatures (120°F–140°F) and offer a gentler experience. While often marketed for recovery thanks to deep tissue penetration, the science is still catching up compared to traditional saunas.
Hybrid Saunas combine both technologies—but not at the same time. You must choose between traditional heat or infrared before each session. Flexibility is the upside. Fewer infrared panels and less intensity are the tradeoff.
Want a deeper breakdown? Read our full guide on Infrared vs. Traditional Saunas.
2. Size & Space Requirements
Are you using the sauna solo, or do you want to share the space with a partner or friends? Do you prefer to sit upright or want the option to lie down fully?
A one-person sauna might save space but won’t let you stretch out. A two-person unit is a nice sweet spot for comfort and flexibility. If you’re into group sessions or social use, a 3–4 person model—or even more—might be worth the space.
If you're planning to use your sauna for more than just sitting—like practicing hot yoga or doing stretching routines—you’ll need a model with extra interior space and higher ceilings, like the Golden Designs Catalonia Sauna.
Pro Tip: Infrared saunas are usually smaller and easier to install indoors. Outdoor saunas offer a more spa-like feel but require weatherproofing.
3. Materials & Build Quality
Not all wood is created equal. Different types of wood vary in durability, aroma, heat resistance, and how well they handle moisture over time.
One of the big drivers of wood choice is the degree of hardness. Most saunas use softwoods because they stay cooler to the touch, resist warping, and are naturally more insulating.
The most commonly used softwood types are cedar, hemlock, spruce, basswood, aspen, poplar and pine. These are all solid options that have their pros and cons, but the three most recommended are:
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Western Red Cedar – Aromatic, naturally antimicrobial, and highly resistant to warping or cracking under high heat and humidity. A premium choice.
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Canadian Hemlock – Durable, affordable, and low in scent. A great middle-ground option.
- Nordic Spruce – Extremely common in Nordic countries for good reason—it's budget-friendly, stable, and has a clean aesthetic. Slightly more resinous but still excellent for heat and moisture tolerance.
Note: Basswood and Aspen are excellent hypoallergenic alternatives for those with sensitivities.
Glass doors look sleek, but they tend to lose more heat than solid panels. Look for models constructed with thick, insulated panels that retain heat well and offer lasting durability.
4. Heating Technology & Performance
The type of heating system dramatically affects your sauna’s performance, comfort, and cost. Here's what to expect based on the type of sauna:
Traditional saunas have two main types of heaters:
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Electric Heaters: Clean, reliable, and easy to use indoors. They offer fast heating and thermostat control. Great for those who want low maintenance and consistency.
- Wood-Burning Stoves: Found only in outdoor saunas, these create an authentic, off-grid experience. You’ll need to manually light the fire and manage the ventilation, but in return, you get a sensory-rich session filled with crackling sounds, smoky aromas, and intense heat.
Infrared panels come in two main types:
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Carbon Panels: Provide broader coverage and a gentler heat, making them ideal for longer sessions. They heat more evenly and are common in full-body infrared setups.
- Ceramic Panels: Heat up quickly and reach higher temps, but may create hot spots. Better for shorter, more intense sessions.
Infrared saunas also vary by wavelength:
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Near Infrared (700–1400 nm): Thought to promote skin health, wound healing, and collagen production.
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Mid Infrared (1400–3000 nm): Targets soft tissue, joints, and muscles. Often marketed for circulation and pain relief.
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Far Infrared (3000–10,000 nm): Penetrates deepest and is most associated with detoxification and relaxation.
- Full-spectrum: Combines all three wavelengths in one unit. These models aim to offer a well-rounded experience—but they also cost more and not all panels may be active at the same time, depending on design.
So what's most common?
For traditional, electric heaters are the go-to option. For infrared, carbon far-infrared panels are standard, with full-spectrum models marketed as premium.
5. Installation & Power Requirements
Most one- or two-person infrared saunas are plug-and-play at 110V. But once you move up to three-person models or add advanced features, you’ll likely need a dedicated 120V/20AMP or even 240V line.
Traditional saunas almost always require 240V—and a separate connection for the control panel. Plan on hiring a licensed electrician if you’re going this route. Outdoor models also need a flat, water-resistant foundation like concrete or pavers.
6. Location: Indoor vs. Outdoor
Where you place your sauna can affect your experience more than you think. Here's a few of the big things to consider:
Ease of Use & Access Indoor saunas often see more use simply because they’re easier to access and integrate into a routine. Wi-Fi controls help, but don't fully eliminate friction.
Expansion Potential Outdoor setups offer more flexibility for adding other wellness gear like cold plunges or showers down the line. Indoor spaces are often more limited and usually need to be planned more carefully from the start.
Installation & Maintenance Outdoor saunas need a stable foundation, weatherproofing, and protection like a canopy or roof. They also require more seasonal upkeep. Indoor saunas are easier to install and maintain—just avoid high-moisture rooms unless the unit is rated for it.
Climate Considerations Cold climates mean longer warm-up times for outdoor saunas and potential friction. On the other hand, stepping out into cold air between sessions can be invigorating and is often part of a contrast therapy experience.
Bottom line: Outdoor and indoor saunas both have pros and cons. Outdoor units often require more work to install but offer greater expansion potential. Indoor saunas are easier to access and maintain day-to-day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Sauna
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Buying the Wrong Type: Want heat and steam? Go traditional. Prefer gentler sessions? Infrared. Want both? Hybrid—but understand the tradeoffs.
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Ignoring Power Requirements: Bigger units may not be plug-and-play. Check voltage needs before buying.
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Falling for Gimmicks: “Medical-grade” infrared is a buzzword, not a standard.
- Skipping Ventilation: Especially for indoor models—this matters.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Home Sauna for You
By now, you should have a solid grasp on the major differences between sauna types, materials, sizes, and installation needs. A well-chosen sauna can become one of the most valuable health and recovery tools in your routine—but it starts with being intentional.
Ask yourself the big questions:
- Do I prefer intense heat and full-body sweat, or gentler warmth and longer sessions?
- Do I want solo sessions or space for others?
- Is this going indoors or outside—and do I have the right space and power setup?
- Am I planning to build out a larger wellness space now or later?
Getting these answers right means fewer regrets and better wellness results long-term.
Ready to Invest in a Sauna That Fits Your Lifestyle?
Don’t waste time with low-quality models that won’t last. We’ve curated a selection of premium home saunas that meet the highest standards for performance, durability, and relaxation.
Explore Recovery Rituals’ Sauna Collection Now →
Frequently Asked Questions
Are home saunas worth it?
If you use it consistently, absolutely. A home sauna can improve sleep, reduce stress, support recovery, and offer long-term health benefits—without needing to leave the house.
How often should I use a sauna?
Most experts recommend 3–4 times a week for general wellness, though athletes or people with recovery goals may go daily.
What is the best sauna for home use?
It depends on your goals and space. Infrared saunas are easier to install and more compact. Traditional saunas offer a more intense experience and deeper heat. Hybrids offer both—if you’re okay with compromise.
Are home saunas safe?
Yes, as long as you follow safety guidelines. Hydrate before and after, limit session times, and ensure proper electrical installation.
How much does a home sauna cost?
It varies. Small infrared units can start around $2,000, while larger traditional or hybrid models can reach $12,000 or more. Factors like size, materials, and heating tech all affect pricing.
