Help Me Choose My Sauna
Not sure where to start? Answer these five questions and we'll point you to the perfect sauna for your home, budget, and lifestyle.
Step 1: Indoor or Outdoor?
The first decision is where your sauna will live.
🏠 Go Indoor if you:
- Have a spare bathroom, basement, or garage
- Want year-round use regardless of climate
- Prefer plug-and-play installation
- Have limited outdoor space
Best options: Indoor Saunas — pre-built rooms designed for interior installation.
🌲 Go Outdoor if you:
- Have a backyard, deck, or yard space
- Want a dedicated wellness retreat separate from your home
- Like the look of a natural cedar structure
- Plan to pair it with a cold plunge or pool
Best options: Barrel Saunas • Cabin Saunas • All Outdoor Saunas
Step 2: What Type of Heat?
This is the biggest decision — it shapes the entire sauna experience.
⚡ Infrared Sauna
Infrared panels heat your body directly rather than heating the air. The result is a lower ambient temperature (120–140°F vs 160–195°F for traditional) that many people find easier to tolerate longer.
- Easier on the lungs and cardiovascular system
- Faster warmup (15–20 min vs 45–60 min)
- Lower operating cost
- Great for pain relief, relaxation, and detox
Shop: Infrared Saunas
🔥 Traditional / Finnish Sauna
The classic experience — a heater (electric or wood-burning) heats rocks, which heat the air. You can pour water over the rocks for steam (löyly). High heat, high humidity option.
- Authentic Finnish sauna experience
- Higher temperatures for a more intense session
- Steam option (löyly) for added intensity
- Preferred by experienced sauna users
Shop: All Traditional Saunas • Sauna Heaters
🔄 Hybrid Sauna
Can't decide? Hybrid saunas combine infrared panels with a traditional heater, giving you both experiences in one unit.
Shop: Hybrid Saunas
Step 3: How Many People?
| Sauna Size | Fits | Typical Footprint |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Person | Solo use | 3' × 3' to 3' × 4' |
| 2-Person | Couples or solo with room to stretch | 4' × 4' to 4' × 6' |
| 3–4 Person | Small families or group sessions | 5' × 6' to 6' × 6' |
| 5+ Person | Large families, social saunas | 6' × 8' and up |
Tip: Size up if you prefer lying down, or if you plan to sauna with guests.
Step 4: Electric or Wood Burning? (Traditional Saunas)
If you chose a traditional sauna, you'll need a heater. Here's how to pick:
⚡ Electric Heater
- Plug in and go — precise temperature control
- No wood storage or fire management
- Works indoors or outdoors
- Compatible with smart controls (timers, apps)
Shop brands: Harvia • HUUM • Saunum • Leisurecraft
🪵 Wood Burning Heater
- Off-grid capable — no electricity needed
- Traditional crackling fire experience
- More intense, aromatic heat
- Best for outdoor cabins and rural settings
Shop: Wood Burning Heaters • Wood Burning Saunas
Step 5: What's Your Budget?
| Budget Range | What to Expect | Where to Start |
|---|---|---|
| Under $2,000 | 1–2 person infrared or basic electric indoor units | Infrared Saunas |
| $2,000–$5,000 | Quality 2–4 person infrared or starter traditional models | All Saunas |
| $5,000–$10,000 | Premium outdoor barrel or cabin saunas, larger infrared units | Outdoor Saunas |
| $10,000+ | Full-size cabin saunas, custom installations, premium brands | Cabin Saunas |
Shop By Brand
If you already have a brand in mind, browse their full lineup:
- Golden Designs — Wide range of infrared saunas
- SaunaLife — Premium outdoor barrel & cabin saunas
- Leisurecraft — Cedar outdoor & indoor models
- Finnmark Designs — Scandinavian-inspired premium saunas
- ThermaSol — High-end custom sauna systems
Still Not Sure? We're Here to Help.
Our sauna specialists can match you to the perfect model based on your space, goals, and budget. Call us or use the chat below — we typically respond within minutes.