Used Sauna vs. New Sauna: Which One Should You Choose?

A sauna is an incredible investment in relaxation, detoxification, and overall well-being. But when it comes to buying one, should you go for a brand-new model or save money with a used one? 

The wrong choice could mean hidden costs, repairs, or even safety risks. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons to help you decide wisely.

• The more you use a sauna, the more it helps your heart:  Studies  have shown that frequent sauna bathing can have significant long-term health benefits.

• "The more often you use the sauna, the stronger the health benefits," says Dr. Rhonda Patrick, a scientist and health educator.

• "People who sauna four to seven times a week are 63% less likely to die from sudden cardiac death than those who only go once a week."

• You can find many used saunas online, but be careful: If you're looking for a high-quality used sauna, you have several great options. Many online marketplaces, like eBay and Facebook Marketplace, offer a wide selection, but always check seller reviews and ask for detailed pictures.

• Buying a refurbished sauna from a brand is a safer option: Some sauna manufacturers sell refurbished or demo models, which can be a safer choice. These often come with warranties, giving you peace of mind when buying used.

• Specialty sauna stores may offer used models in great shape: Retailers specializing in saunas may also offer pre-owned units. These are often in excellent condition and have been properly inspected before resale.

• Wellness centers sometimes sell good-quality saunas when they upgrade: Physical stores and wellness centers sometimes sell their older saunas when they upgrade. These can be great finds if you're looking for commercial-grade quality at a lower price.

• Buying from a seller is cheaper, but stores offer more peace of mind: While buying from an individual seller might be cheaper, a sauna retailer often ensures better quality and reliability, making it a smarter long-term investment.

• More people are spending on saunas than ever before: Buying a sauna is a big decision, and cost plays a huge role. The sauna and spa market has been growing rapidly, increasing from $3.97 billion in 2024 to $4.22 billion in  2025  at a 6.2% annual growth rate. This surge shows that more people are investing in saunas for their health and well-being.

• A new sauna costs more, but it’s a safer bet: A new sauna can range from $2,000 to over $10,000. While you pay more upfront, you're getting something brand-new with no wear and tear, and likely under warranty.

• Used saunas are cheaper, but they can come with hidden problems: Used saunas often cost 30–50% less than new ones. That sounds like a great deal, but older units may need repairs, new heaters, or upgraded wiring. These extra costs can add up quickly.

• Installing a used sauna might cost more than expected: Installation costs vary. Some used saunas need adjustments or upgrades before they can be safely used, while most new saunas are designed for easier setup.

• Older saunas can use more electricity and raise your bills: Used models are often less energy-efficient than newer ones. Over time, this means you could end up paying more in electricity with an older unit.

• You might save money now with used, but new can be cheaper in the long run: While buying used saves you money at the start, ongoing costs like maintenance, installation, and energy use might make a new sauna more affordable over time.

• A new sauna works faster and uses less energy: A brand-new sauna usually performs better because it heats up more quickly and runs more efficiently than a used one.

• Old saunas may lose performance over time: As saunas age, parts like the heater and insulation can wear out, making them less efficient than when they were new.

• Taking care of your sauna helps it last longer: Even an older sauna can still work well if it’s been regularly cleaned, maintained, and properly cared for.

• Replacing old parts can make a big difference: Upgrading a few key parts, like the heater or insulation, can bring a used sauna closer to the performance of a new one.

• Infrared saunas can feel gentler but still work well: According to  Dr. Melissa Young  , infrared saunas are often more comfortable for users while still offering the same health benefits as traditional ones.

• Good sauna use is part of a healthy routine: Using a sauna is great, but combining it with good sleep, healthy food, and stress control is what really improves your long-term health.

• Used saunas need more maintenance than new ones: A used sauna needs more frequent maintenance than a new one because its components have already seen wear.

• Old saunas often have heater and wiring problems: Common issues include heater inefficiency, wood deterioration, and electrical problems.

• It’s important to check for damage before buying: Before buying a used sauna, check for cracks, mold, and faulty wiring to avoid costly repairs.

• Repairs on old saunas can get expensive over time: Over time, repair costs add up, making a new sauna a better long-term investment.

• You’ll need to reseal and re-stain the wood regularly: To keep an older sauna in good shape, reseal and re-stain the wood regularly.

• New saunas come with warranties that save money: Unlike used saunas, new ones often come with warranties that cover maintenance, reducing unexpected expenses.

• New saunas are less work and less worry: A new sauna means less hassle, while a used one requires extra care.

• Used saunas can collect germs if not cleaned regularly: A used sauna can collect bacteria and mold over time, especially if it wasn’t properly maintained.

• Mold often hides in corners and vents: To check for mold and mildew, inspect corners, benches, and ventilation areas for dark spots or musty smells.

• If there’s mold, a deep clean is necessary: If you find any, deep cleaning is a must. Scrub the surfaces with a sauna-safe disinfectant and let everything dry completely.

• Sweat stains and bad smells come from poor upkeep: Poor maintenance can also lead to hygiene issues like sweat stains and lingering odors.

• Dirty saunas can lead to skin problems: In some cases, unclean saunas may cause skin infections.

• A clean sauna helps your body get rid of toxins:  Dr. Sara Gottfried  , a board-certified gynecologist and author, points out that sweating plays a key role in detoxification, helping the body eliminate toxins through the skin.

• New saunas stay cleaner because you control the care: Compared to used ones, new saunas are much easier to keep clean since you control their upkeep from the start.

• A sauna can last up to 30 years if built and maintained well: A well-built sauna can last 15 to 30 years. How long it lasts depends on the materials used, how well it’s taken care of, and where it’s located.

• Using strong wood helps your sauna last longer: Wood like cedar or hemlock resists warping and holds up over time, while cheaper materials can break down faster and shorten your sauna’s life.

• Saunas are built to last—just look at Finland: Finland has around  3.3 million  saunas for 5.5 million people. That’s more saunas than cars, showing how long-lasting and important they are in daily life.

• A well-maintained sauna gives you benefits for decades: When taken care of properly, a sauna isn’t just for the short term, it can offer years of comfort, relaxation, and health benefits.

• Cleaning and checking your sauna keeps it in good shape: Regular tasks like cleaning, sealing, and checking for wear and tear help your sauna stay safe and work well for many years.

• Old or poorly cared-for saunas don’t last as long: Used saunas wear out faster, especially if they weren’t maintained. Signs of trouble include wood cracks, rusted heaters, and weak heat.

• Taking care of your sauna now means fewer problems later: Putting effort into care today helps your sauna stay strong, safe, and enjoyable for a long time to come.

• New saunas usually come with a long warranty: When you buy a new sauna, you typically get a solid warranty that lasts several years. This gives peace of mind if something goes wrong.

• Used saunas often don’t have any warranty left: Most used saunas have little or no coverage remaining. And since many companies don’t allow warranty transfers, it’s smart to check the policy before buying.

• Refurbished saunas come with shorter warranties: While some refurbished saunas include a warranty, it's usually limited and shorter than what you'd get with a new one.

• New sauna owners get fast and direct support: Buying new means you can contact the manufacturer for help. They usually offer better and faster customer service.

• Used sauna buyers might have trouble getting help: If you buy used, getting support can be tricky, especially if the original manufacturer doesn’t assist second-hand owners.

• Finding parts is easier for newer saunas: Replacement parts for new models are easier to get. With older or used saunas, parts might be hard to find or more expensive.

• Support gets expensive once the warranty runs out: After the warranty ends, getting help or repairs often costs extra, or may not even be available anymore.

• Setting up a new sauna is usually quick and simple: New saunas typically come with all the parts you need and clear instructions. This makes the setup process much smoother, especially if you’re doing it yourself or with minimal help.

• Used saunas often have missing or damaged parts: When buying a used sauna, you might find that some parts are worn out or missing completely. This means you’ll spend extra time searching for replacements before you can even start the setup.

• Old sauna wiring might not be up to today’s safety standards: Used saunas can come with outdated electrical wiring, which might need upgrading. This can be tricky and often requires professional help to make sure it’s safe and up to code.

• Fixing issues with a used sauna takes more time and effort: Used saunas don’t always come with manuals or support, so figuring out what’s wrong can be frustrating. Troubleshooting takes longer because you’re working without a clear guide.

• A new sauna saves time and avoids surprise problems: Compared to used ones, new saunas offer a much smoother experience. There are fewer unexpected issues, and you won’t have to waste time fixing or replacing things right from the start.

• New saunas use less electricity because they’re built to save energy: A new sauna uses less power than a used one because modern models come with better insulation and energy-saving technology.

• Old saunas often waste more power due to wear and outdated parts: Older saunas often consume more electricity due to worn-out heating elements and outdated designs.

• Bad insulation makes saunas work harder and use more energy: The insulation quality also plays a huge role, poor insulation forces the heater to work harder, increasing energy use.

• Smart features in new saunas help lower power bills: Newer saunas also have smart features like programmable timers and improved heating systems that reduce power consumption.

• All these improvements make new saunas more energy efficient: These advancements make modern saunas the better choice for energy efficiency.

• You can choose everything—wood, lights, seats, and more: New saunas let you personalize almost every part, from how it looks to how it feels when you sit inside.

• Smart features let your sauna follow your routine: Things like voice control, set-it-and-forget-it sessions, and separate temperature zones make your sauna work the way you want.

• Even an old sauna can be upgraded with smart tech: You don’t need a brand-new sauna to enjoy smart features, you can add Wi-Fi and control it from your phone.

• Add music, color lights, and digital controls for more comfort: Bluetooth speakers, mood lighting, and easy thermostats make every sauna session more relaxing and fun.

• New saunas come with more smart options built-in: While you can upgrade an old sauna, a new one usually gives you more smart features right from the start.

• Saunas made with better wood keep their value longer: A sauna’s resale value depends on many factors, but some hold their worth better than others. High-quality wood, like cedar or hemlock, keeps a sauna valuable longer, while cheaper materials wear down faster.

• Well-known sauna brands are easier to resell: Popular sauna brands tend to hold their value better because buyers trust names they recognize and associate them with reliability and quality.

• A well-maintained sauna loses value much slower: Regular upkeep plays a big role in keeping resale value high. On the other hand, heavy use and lack of care can cause a sauna’s value to drop quickly.

• Upgrades help, but only if buyers see the benefit: Improving features, like better heaters or smart controls, can increase resale price, but only when buyers feel those features are useful or desirable.

• Infrared and quality traditional saunas hold value best: Infrared saunas and solidly built traditional saunas tend to resell better than lower-end models. Choosing wisely from the start can mean a sauna that stays valuable for years.

• Check for any visible damage right away: Before buying a used sauna, inspect it carefully. Look for any visible signs of wear, such as cracks, scratches, or broken parts.

• Make sure there’s no water damage or mold: Ensure the wood isn’t rotting, and check for mold or mildew. Moisture damage can seriously weaken the sauna’s structure and lead to bigger problems.

• Test the heater to see if it works properly: Test the heating element to see if it warms up quickly and evenly. If it doesn’t, fixing or replacing it could cost you more later.

• Look at the glass to be sure it’s not cracked: If the sauna has glass panels or doors, inspect them for cracks or chips. Damaged glass can be unsafe and may need replacement.

• Think about the repair costs before you decide: A good inspection will help you know whether the sauna is ready to use or if you’ll need to spend more money fixing it up.

• Start by knowing what types of saunas are available: Decide between traditional, infrared, electric, or wood-burning saunas. Each type offers different benefits depending on your preferences and needs.

• Traditional and infrared saunas heat your body in different ways: Traditional saunas use hot rocks and steam, giving you that classic sauna feel.  Infrared saunas  heat your body directly with radiant heat, which some people find more comfortable.

• Wood-burning saunas give a natural feel but need more work: If you like a rustic experience and don’t mind extra maintenance, wood-burning saunas might be a great choice. Just remember, they require proper setup and more upkeep.

• Where you plan to put the sauna makes a big difference: Think about whether the sauna will go indoors or outdoors. If you’re short on space, portable saunas could be a practical solution.

• Pick a sauna that fits how often and why you’ll use it: A home sauna is usually used for personal relaxation, while a commercial sauna needs to handle more frequent use. Choose one that fits your lifestyle.

• Understanding the pros and cons helps you make the right choice: Every sauna type has its good and bad sides. Knowing these will help you decide which one works best for your home, space, and needs.

• Start by checking what type of heater it has: The heating system is the heart of any sauna. Find out whether it uses an electric, wood-burning, or infrared heater. Each type works differently and comes with its own maintenance needs.

• Look closely for rust, damage, or wear on the heater: Carefully inspect the heating elements. Rust, cracks, or worn-out parts can affect performance and may be signs the heater is nearing the end of its life.

• Make sure the sauna heats up properly and evenly: A good sauna should reach the right temperature quickly and stay there. If the heater struggles to do this, it could cost more to run and be less enjoyable to use.

• Ask if the heater was ever repaired or replaced: Knowing the heater’s history helps you understand how reliable it is. A unit that needed frequent repairs might give you trouble down the line.

• Test all the heater controls to see if they work: Check that the temperature and timer controls respond properly. Faulty controls can make the sauna hard to use or even unsafe.

• A well-working heater saves you money and stress later: If the heating system is reliable, you'll enjoy the sauna more and avoid unexpected repair costs in the future.

• Make sure your home supports the sauna’s voltage: Used saunas can run on either 110V or 220V. Check which one your sauna needs and confirm that your home’s electrical system matches.

• Some saunas need their own power line: Not all saunas can share an outlet with other devices. Certain models require a dedicated circuit to work safely.

• Find out how much power the sauna uses: Before buying, check how many amps the sauna draws. Some saunas may need to be hardwired, which could mean extra installation work.

• Check if the sauna comes with the right power cord: Used saunas might not include all original parts. Make sure the power cord fits your outlet and matches the unit’s electrical needs.

• Knowing all this upfront saves time and trouble later: Understanding the sauna’s power requirements now can prevent unexpected issues and help ensure safe, easy setup.

• Make sure the sauna actually fits in your space: Before buying a used sauna, measure the available area in your home. Look at both the outside and inside dimensions to be sure it fits where you want it, whether it’s a basement, bathroom, or outdoor patio.

• Think about how many people will use it at the same time: Ask yourself how many people will be using the sauna together. A one-person sauna takes up less space, but a sauna for four people needs a lot more room. Pick a size that matches your actual needs.

• Check if there’s enough room to sit or lie down comfortably: Look at the seating inside the sauna. Make sure there’s enough space for you (and others) to sit or lie down without feeling cramped. A good fit means a more relaxing experience.

• Fresh air needs a way in and out: A sauna works best when fresh air can circulate. Make sure there are vents and that they aren’t blocked, or you might end up feeling stuffy and uncomfortable.

• Poor airflow can make the sauna feel too hot: If air doesn’t move properly, it can cause overheating. Always check the ventilation setup before buying a used sauna.

• Good insulation helps keep the heat inside: The better the insulation, the longer the sauna stays warm. Pay special attention to the ceiling, it’s where heat escapes the fastest.

• Cracks and gaps let the heat escape: Look closely for any small openings in the walls or ceiling. Even tiny gaps can make the sauna lose heat and waste energy.

• If it cools down too fast, insulation might be the problem: A sauna that doesn’t stay warm likely has poor insulation or bad sealing. This means higher energy use and less comfort.

• The less the sauna was used, the better its condition: If the previous owner only used the sauna occasionally, there's a good chance it's still in great shape. Light use means less wear and tear over time.

• Regular cleaning shows the sauna was well cared for: Ask how often the sauna was cleaned. A sauna that was cleaned regularly is less likely to have issues like mold, mildew, or damage inside.

• Long periods of no use can lead to hidden problems: If the sauna sat unused for months, it might have developed mold, electrical issues, or wood damage, even if it looks fine on the surface.

• Water damage or mildew is a red flag: Look closely for any signs of water damage or mildew. These can cause serious structural issues and may cost a lot to fix.

• It's safer to have the wiring checked by a professional: If you can, ask an electrician to inspect the sauna. This helps make sure there aren’t any electrical issues that could be dangerous later.

• A clear maintenance record shows how the sauna was treated: If the owner kept records of cleaning and repairs, it’s a good sign they took care of the sauna. A well-maintained sauna usually lasts much longer.

• You need to be sure replacement parts are still being made: Before buying a used sauna, check if the parts are still available. Some older models stop production on parts, which makes fixing them later a real problem.

• If original parts aren’t available, you might be able to use alternatives: Find out if you can use generic or compatible parts instead of the originals. This is especially important for things like heaters, control panels, or wood panels.

• Special features might be hard or impossible to fix: If the sauna has any unique features, check whether the company still supports them. If they don’t, repairs could become expensive or impossible.

• Knowing all this can save you a big headache later: Doing this homework now means you won’t be stuck with a sauna that’s too difficult, or too costly, to repair when something breaks.

• Used saunas usually cost less, but it depends on their condition: Used saunas are generally cheaper than new ones, but the actual savings depend on how well the sauna has been taken care of. A good-condition sauna can be a bargain, while a worn-out one might end up costing more.

• If you need frequent repairs, your savings could disappear: A used sauna that breaks down often can become expensive to maintain. The money you save upfront could quickly be spent on fixing problems.

• Older saunas might raise your electricity bill: Many older saunas use more power than newer models. Over time, the extra energy cost can make a new, energy-efficient sauna a smarter choice.

• Refurbished saunas can be a better deal than old used ones: Refurbished saunas are used units that have been repaired or upgraded. They often cost less than new models but come with newer parts, which may reduce repair needs.

• Low price now doesn’t always mean lower cost later: It’s important to think about long-term costs like maintenance and electricity. A sauna with a higher upfront price might save you money over time if it runs better and lasts longer.

Buy from a reputable source.

Finally, make sure you're buying from a reliable seller . Check online reviews or ratings if purchasing from a marketplace.

Ask for proof of purchase or ownership to ensure it’s not stolen. A trustworthy seller should be upfront about any defects or past repairs .

Whenever possible, inspect the sauna in person before committing . Be cautious if the seller demands a rushed payment or refuses to meet in person. A transparent transaction will help you avoid scams and ensure a better buying experience .

When it comes to investing in your relaxation and well-being, which sauna suits you best, a brand-new model or a pre-owned option?

Both choices offer significant benefits, from stress relief to improved circulation, but the right one depends on your priorities.

If long-term reliability, energy efficiency, and hassle-free maintenance are key, a new sauna is a smart investment, offering warranties and modern features that enhance your experience. 

On the other hand, if budget is your main concern and you are willing to inspect and maintain a unit, a high-quality used sauna can provide the same therapeutic benefits at a fraction of the cost. 

Whatever your preference, the most important step is making an informed decision. Explore your options today and choose the sauna that fits your lifestyle best.