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The Spruce / Sabrina Jiang
A home sauna can bring the benefits of a spa retreat, right into your own home. But you don’t need to install an entire spa suite to get the therapeutic benefits. There are options that are portable and can be easily stored, or permanent fixtures you can install in just a few hours.
Because home saunas often combine water and electricity, it is important to find a model that is safe for home use. “Be sure to only purchase from reputable retailers,” said Brianne Deerwester, communications coordinator for the Electrical Safety Foundation International. “This helps you avoid counterfeits that may not have built-in safety features like those which have been certified and tested by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), who ensures electrical products meet current safety standards and are safe with proper use.”
We researched the best home saunas on the market, evaluating ease of assembly and use, comfort, design, and overall value. Here are the best home saunas that can make your house feel like a relaxing retreat every day,
Best Overall
Dynamic Golden Designs Andora 2 Person Dry Heat Sauna
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Amazon
Professional look and style
Inner and outer LED controls
Bluetooth compatible
Even heating
Might feel too cozy for two people
The Dynamic Golden Designs Andora Sauna is our top pick because it combines the style that you would expect from a professional spa space with the ease of an at-home setup. It uses six infrared elements that provide even heating and don’t require a water reservoir. You can conveniently adjust them using a touchscreen LED display on the outside or inside of the sauna. We also love that the sauna features Bluetooth speakers—also controlled by the LED display—so you can listen to your favorite relaxing music.
The structure as well as the interior seats are made of extra thick Reforested Canadian hemlock planks that help keep the heat inside. The window and door are made of tempered glass that extends from the floor to the ceiling. The solid wood construction throughout makes it extra-durable and stylish (although it also makes it quite expensive).
You can fit two people in this sauna, although they should be pretty comfortable with each other, because it is still a small space. Inside, there is also an AUX jack and a magazine rack so you can read or listen to your favorite music to help you unwind.
Price at time of publish: $2,299
Dimensions: 50 x 42 x 77 inches | Heating Elements: 6 infrared | Extra Features: Solid wood, Bluetooth compatible, AUX jack, magazine rack
Best Budget
Kuppet Portable Folding Steam Sauna-2L One Person Home Sauna Spa
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Amazon
Affordable
Portable
Nine settings
Available in multiple colors
Seat isn’t very comfortable for longer sessions
We recommend the Kuppet single-person steam sauna as our best budget, because not only is it affordable, but it is also easy to take with you and store. The sauna is made of insulated fabric that is waterproof and fits around a metal frame. Once seated inside, your head sticks out of the top of the sauna, and you can adjust between nine levels of heat and steam using the included remote control. It also comes with a wooden foot roller massager you can use inside to help relax your feet while you steam. It has a 2-liter reservoir to fill before you start using it.
The chair included is a simple, camp-style folding chair. However, it's not the most comfortable seating for longer sessions in the sauna. You can choose to upgrade your chair, but keep in mind that this is a steam sauna—anything that goes inside will be exposed to plenty of moisture. While limited in features, this affordable option gives you a relaxing spa-like experience at home.
Price at time of publish: $72
Dimensions: 40.6 x 33.9 x 28.8 inches | Heating Elements: 1 steam | Extra Features: Remote control
Best Splurge
TheraSauna 4-Person Indoor FAR Infrared Sauna
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WAY FAIR
Can adjust temperature and infrared
Memory settings
Comfortable seating
Heats up quickly
Not the best option for small spaces or budgets
If you want the best of the best, the Therasauna FAR Infrared Sauna has all of the extra features that you could want, with space for multiple people. This sauna seats four people comfortably, thanks to the two curved benches that face each other. You can easily adjust the settings using a convenient touchscreen panel that allows you to control the interior and exterior lights, adjust the temperature micron settings of each of the heating elements, and set memory levels for each day of the week for two different users.
Keep in mind, this is a larger investment in both space and money as one of the largest and priciest saunas on our list. Aside from its overall dimensions, this sauna has a vent that requires some clearance, adding to the already large size. But if you have the space and budget, this high-quality sauna will provide both a stylish decor element and a spa-like retreat for years to come.
Price at time of publish: $11,210
Dimensions: 78 x 56 x 84 inches | Heating Elements: Infrared | Extra Features: Touchscreen, interior and exterior lights, memory settings
Best Traditional
Almost Heaven Saunas Worthington 4-Person Indoor Traditional Steam Sauna
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WAY FAIR
Modern design
Heats up to 195 degrees Fahrenheit
Multiple bench configurations
Straightforward installation
May not work on all floors
Expensive
This traditional steam sauna is just like what you picture at the spa: sleek glass doors, minimalist design, gentle backlighting, and steam. It comes with two benches that can seat up to four people in a variety of configurations. The setup and installation are straightforward, mainly due to the walls being pre-assembled. All you need to do is put them together and set up the steam and heating element. The steam gets up to 195 degrees Fahrenheit at maximum temperature.
This sauna does not have an included floor—Almost Heaven Saunas recommends using vinyl, concrete, ceramic, laminate, or tile. This may limit your locations to set up the sauna or add additional cost to the overall project (if your existing flooring isn't suitable). Since this is already an expensive sauna, you should take into consideration the added cost of flooring (if needed), periodic maintenance or replacement, as well as the position of the vent to reduce steam damage to the surrounding area. It does come with a lifetime limited warranty and a five-year warranty on the heater to help protect your investment.
Price at time of publish: $10,192
Dimensions: 80 x 80 x 61 inches | Heating Elements: Steam | Extra Features: Two bench seats, LED lighting, glass front
Best Portable
SereneLife SLISAU35BK Full Size Portable Steam Sauna
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Amazon
Easy to pack and unpack
Comes in infrared or steam
Carrying case included
Foldable frame
Camp chair isn’t very comfortable
This handy portable sauna comes in infrared or steam models so you can opt for the option that works best for you while still getting all the benefits of a packable system. The sauna body is made of a waterproof and insulated fabric that keeps the heat inside when in use. To get in and out, all you have to do is unzip the door and sit on the included camp chair. Use the included control pad to adjust the temperature, set a timer up to 60 minutes, and turn on the foot heating pad. When you are done, just take down the tent, fold up the frame and chair, and pack it up in the included carrying bag.
Keep in mind that this is a portable sauna and doesn’t provide the same feeling of luxury as a permanently installed model. Also note that the steam option does have additional parts that are not stored as easily, such as the steamer unit. The infrared model uses a panel on the top of the tent. And even though it doesn’t have extra features, such as a speaker or Bluetooth capability, the infrared option is still quite expensive for a small, portable model, especially compared to the best budget pick on this list.
Price at time of publish: $270
Dimensions: 35.4 x 35.4 x 70.9 inches | Heating Elements: Infrared or steam | Extra Features: Carrying case
Best Outdoor
Almost Heaven Saunas Salem 2-Person Traditional Steam Sauna
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WAY FAIR
Rustic design
Solid cedar construction
High max temperature
Timer for turn-on in advance
Requires more setup
No Bluetooth compatibility
Takes up to an hour to heat up
The round shape of this home sauna adds a unique element to your yard as well as a relaxing outdoor oasis. While it is more expensive, we recommend springing for the model with a vista window to really take advantage of the natural scenery around you. You can set the timer to turn on the sauna for up to eight hours in the future. Keep in mind that it can take up to an hour to heat up to its maximum of 195 degrees Fahrenheit.
This is a steam model, so you will need to have water on hand, and it does require a bit more complicated setup. It has two benches inside and can fit two people comfortably. And while it is a bigger investment, it is made of solid cedar that weathers beautifully and comes with a lifetime warranty on the sauna itself and a 5-year warranty on the heater inside.
Price at time of publish: $8,140
Dimensions: 77 x 47 x 72 inches | Heating Elements: Steam | Extra Features: Benches, LED lights, timer
Best for Garages
Radiant Saunas 2-Person Hemlock Infrared Sauna
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Amazon
Interior and exterior lights
Minimal prep and installation
Adjustable vent
Seven-year warranty
A little expensive for the size
Adding a home sauna to your garage doesn’t require a lot of prep and installation when you use an infrared model. The Heatwave Radiant Suana has six infrared heating elements that can be programmed up to 141 degrees Fahrenheit. It takes up less space than some larger models, which means that you don’t necessarily have to sacrifice storage or parking space.
This model fits two people side by side on a bench and comes with two backrests to make it more comfortable. It also has interior and exterior controls as well as lights. In a dark garage space, the light can really make the entire experience more enjoyable. You can also adjust the roof vent so that anything stored overhead doesn’t get heated. This sauna is a little more expensive than other options of the same size, but we think it is a great option for garages considering its features.
Price at time of publish: $2,516
Dimensions: 49 x 39 x 75 inches | Heating Elements: 6 infrared | Extra Features: Dual controls, interior and exterior lights, backrests
Our top pick is the Dynamic Golden Designs Andora 2 Person Dry Heat Sauna. It is a great value for its range of features, including Bluetooth compatibility, multiple controls, and solid wood construction. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Kuppet Portable Folding Steam Sauna-2L One Person Home Sauna Spa, which is an affordable steam sauna made for one person.
What to Look for in a Home Sauna
Infrared or Steam
The first choice you have to make when buying a home sauna is to choose between a traditional steam or an infrared model. While both options will produce the same sweaty result, they achieve it in different ways. Traditional steam saunas create a sweatbox environment by heating the air inside the box. Infrared saunas heat your body from within by using infrared light without raising the air temperature around you. If you like the effects of a sauna but can’t stand the heat, try an infrared model like our best splurge option, the TheraSauna 4-Person Indoor FAR Infrared Sauna.
Safety
It’s important to choose a home sauna that is equipped with safety glass and has simple and intuitive controls so that you can relax without worrying about overheating or getting locked in. When choosing a home sauna, be sure to choose the correct model for its intended location. And be sure to consult an electrician to make sure that you are installing it properly to keep you and your friends and family safe.
“All wiring and repairs should be performed by a qualified electrician,” says Brianne Deerwester, communications coordinator for the Electrical Safety Foundation International.
Extra Features
While the most important thing about a home sauna is its ability to help you sweat out toxins, you may want to consider a model that has extra features to heighten the experience. This might include built-in speakers so you can listen to music or podcasts, reading lights, or colorful and adaptable mood lighting. For example, the Dynamic Golden Designs Andora 2 Person Dry Heat Sauna, our best overall has great features including Bluetooth speakers and an LED control panel.
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How do home saunas work?
Traditional steam saunas heat the air inside the box by heating up water to the desired temperature to create steam. Infrared saunas heat your body from within using infrared light without raising the air temperature around you. This process is similar to how the sun heats the earth.
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Where do you put a home sauna in your home?
You can put a home sauna either indoors or outdoors. Popular indoor locations for home saunas include finished basements, spacious primary suites, and unused space in garages. If you are setting up a home gym, adding a small sauna can be a relaxing reward at the end of your workout. And you can place a compatible sauna outside on a deck or in a shed in the backyard; just make sure that it is shielded from the elements to protect it from damage. For example, we think the Almost Heaven Salem Steam Sauna is a great outdoor option due to its stylish construction and features.
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How much power does a home sauna use?
The exact wattage of a home sauna depends on the individual model. It typically ranges from 1 to 1.7 kWh. Smaller, portable units use less power than larger models with multiple heating elements.
“Saunas may take in a lot of power,” said Deerwester. “Consumers should have a qualified electrician provide a site assessment on their home to ensure their electrical system can support the sauna, and if not, they can make the necessary upgrades.”
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How do you install a home sauna?
Home saunas often come in a ready-to-install kit. Some have preconstructed side panels that snap together. Hanging doors may require some skill and is best done with two people. Most home saunas require a power drill and screwdrivers to put the pieces together. Portable home saunas are even easier to set up. They often use a metal frame that supports a fabric tent with a foldable chair inside.
Setting up the electrical components may be trickier, depending on where you want to install your home sauna. Make sure that your home can support the energy needs of the model. “You should have a qualified electrician inspect and upgrade your home sauna in accordance with applicable local codes and the National Electrical Code,” said Deerwester. Not only does this keep you safe, it also ensures that the sauna’s warranty stays in place.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer who specializes in home and family products. Melynn has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To make this list, she looked for home saunas that provided comfort and style while still being easy to set up and use. She also talked to Brianne Deerwester, communications coordinator for the Electrical Safety Foundation International, about safety features and certifications that people should look for, as well as when to get the help of a professional with the installation.