What to Look for When Buying a New Sauna For Your Home

Thinking of buying a sauna for your home? Be careful—it’s a big investment. Think about things like how big it should be, what type you want, and any special features. In this blog post, we’ll help you understand everything you need to pick a sauna you’ll really like.

Size matters when it comes to saunas. You need to consider the available space in your home and how many people will be using the sauna at once. Saunas come in various sizes, from compact single-person units to larger models that can accommodate multiple users. Think about how you plan to use the sauna and select a size accordingly.

• Traditional saunas give you strong heat that makes you sweat more: Traditional saunas use hot rocks or stoves to produce intense dry heat (150–195°F or 65–90°C). This kind of heat helps muscles relax, boosts blood flow, and makes you sweat a lot, great for feeling cleansed and refreshed.

• Infrared saunas warm your body gently but go deeper inside: Infrared saunas use special heaters that warm your body directly at a lower temperature (120–140°F or 50–60°C). Even though the air isn’t as hot, the heat goes deeper into your skin, which can help with pain, recovery, and skin health.

• Steam saunas fill the room with moisture that helps your skin and breathing: Steam saunas, also called steam rooms, use a generator to fill the space with humid air (100%–110% humidity). This wet heat opens up your pores, cleans your skin, and helps clear your nose and lungs.

• Infrared saunas are easier to install at home than traditional ones: Most infrared saunas work with a regular home power socket (120V, 15 Amp), so they’re simple to plug in and use. Traditional saunas usually need a 240V setup, which could mean extra money for electrical work.

• All sauna types work, just pick what fits your needs and stay safe: Every sauna type has its own benefits . Choose the one that matches your comfort and lifestyle. No matter what you choose, drink enough water and follow safety rules to enjoy a relaxing and healthy sauna session.

• Extra features can make your sauna time feel more special: When choosing a sauna, look at what extras it offers. Some come with cool additions like built-in speakers, calming color lights, aromatherapy, or even a small TV. These features can turn a regular sauna into a relaxing experience for all your senses, like enjoying soft music while soaking in the warmth.

• Fancy add-ons are only worth it if they actually work: Be careful with flashy features. Many cheap extras, like low-quality red lights, don’t work as well as they claim. Some might not give the health benefits they promise, and others can even release unwanted EMF (electromagnetic fields). It’s always smart to ask about the quality and safety of these extras before buying.

• Being able to control the heat makes the sauna more enjoyable: A sauna with adjustable temperature settings lets you choose the heat level that’s right for you. This helps make your sessions more comfortable and relaxing, especially if you’re sensitive to high heat.

• A built-in timer helps you use the sauna safely: Timers are simple but important. They help you keep track of how long you’re inside so you don’t overdo it. That way, you can relax without needing to constantly check the time.

• A comfortable seat makes a big difference in how you feel: Don’t overlook seating. A good sauna should have seating that supports your body and helps you sit comfortably. This adds to the relaxing experience and helps you stay in a better position while you unwind.

• Don’t forget the money you’ll spend on keeping it running: Traditional saunas may need regular cleaning or part replacements, while infrared saunas are easier and cheaper to maintain.

• Full warranty coverage means fewer future problems: Make sure the warranty protects key parts like the heater and internal systems. If something important breaks, you’ll be glad it’s included. A complete warranty protects your money and gives peace of mind.

• Longer warranties usually mean longer-lasting saunas: When a sauna comes with many years of warranty, it often means the brand expects it to keep working well for a long time. Short warranties can mean short life spans, so always check the number of years covered.

• A smooth claim process saves you stress later: If something goes wrong, you don’t want to deal with delays or confusion. A reliable brand will have a clear and simple process for making warranty claims and getting things fixed quickly.

• A good brand reputation supports the warranty promise: Even if the warranty looks good on paper, it matters whether the company actually honors it. Look at customer reviews and brand reputation to know if they stand behind what they sell.

• Doing some research saves you from buying the wrong one: Before picking a sauna brand, take time to read reviews, compare products, and ask others for their experience. A little research now prevents regret later.

• The type of wood used tells a lot about the brand: Reliable sauna brands use strong and long-lasting woods like cedar or hemlock. If the wood feels cheap, the brand probably is too.

• Good heating systems are a sign of a serious brand: Brands that use carbon or ceramic heaters usually care more about performance. These types of heaters spread heat evenly and work better.

• A strong warranty means the brand stands behind its product: If a brand offers a clear, solid warranty, it's a good sign they believe in their sauna. Always check what's covered before you buy.

• Helpful customer support shows the brand cares about you: Some brands go the extra mile with friendly and fast customer service. That support can make a big difference if anything ever goes wrong.

Safety should be a top priority when buying any home appliance, and saunas are no exception. Look for saunas that have safety features such as temperature controls, automatic shut-offs, and sturdy construction. Additionally, ensure that the sauna you choose complies with safety certifications and standards.

• Using the wrong wood can cause health problems: The type of wood in your sauna matters a lot. Resinous wood can give off strong smells that may trigger allergies or reactions. That’s why non-resinous wood is a better and safer choice.

• Some saunas look fancy but hide cheap materials inside: Just because a sauna looks like it’s made of high-quality wood doesn’t mean it actually is. Many companies only use the advertised wood on the outside and fill the inside with cheaper materials like plywood, glued together to save money and weight.

• Good wood and strong build make a sauna last longer: When you're buying a sauna, you're making a long-term decision. Saunas made from strong, solid wood and built properly will last much longer and give you better value over time.

• Real customer reviews help you know if the wood quality is good: Before you buy, reading what other customers say about their sauna’s build and durability can help you avoid low-quality options. It’s one of the best ways to know if the wood used actually holds up.

• The sauna feels better when the temperature is just right: A thermometer isn’t just a fancy extra, it helps keep the heat at a safe, comfortable level so you can relax without worry.

• Sitting gets more relaxing with a soft bench cushion: Hard benches can ruin the mood. A good cushion adds real comfort and lets you sit back longer without discomfort.

• A few drops of essential oils can change the whole vibe: Adding scents like eucalyptus or lavender makes your sauna smell amazing and helps your mind feel calm and refreshed.

• A clean sauna feels more inviting every time you use it: Using soft brushes and natural cleaners keeps your sauna fresh, hygienic, and enjoyable for every session.

• These simple items turn a hot room into a wellness zone: With the right accessories, your sauna isn’t just hot, it becomes a peaceful place to relax, recharge, and feel your best.

"If saunas do cause health improvements, they may do so either by relaxation or by physiological effects of heat," says Dr. Rita F. Redberg, a general cardiologist.If we consider the health benefits and the relaxing experience that saunas provide, then the answer is yes. However, buying a sauna is a substantial investment, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs.