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The absolute best saunas for home use

We love our sauna picks for use in your home

Sauna accessories in the glow of a tea light.
Lisa-S / Shutterstock

Indulging in the soothing warmth of a sauna within your own home is an experience like no other. If you want to escape the public gym sauna, purchasing a sauna for home use can be a great solution. But how do you know which one to choose?

Whether you desire a spacious infrared oasis or a portable sanctuary, we have curated a selection of top contenders that will elevate your sauna experience to unprecedented levels. There are so many options out there, but never fear — here are the absolute best saunas for home use.

Sun Home Saunas Equinox 2 two person sauna outside sponsored
Sun Home Saunas

Best overall: Sun Home Equinox 2

If you’re looking for a home sauna that merges innovative design and features to create one excellent experience, you should look no further than the Sun Home Sauna Equinox 2. Infrared is known to be a more effective modality compared to traditional dry saunas due to its ability to connect with the body at the cellular level and increase toxin elimination. Meticulously crafted with premium quality materials and craftsmanship, this system will definitely turn some heads.

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The luxurious Luxe black matte exterior ties it all together with a pleasantly modern aesthetic. It uses low EMF full spectrum — near, mid, and far wavelengths — infrared heaters, supplemental halogen heaters, and offers a maximum temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, you get premium Bluetooth wireless with surround sound audio while you’re inside and a limited lifetime warranty to keep everything protected. At the very least, take a closer look because this thing is phenomenal.

Renu Therapy The Rusticus Sauna
Renu Therapy

The Rusticus by Renu Therapy

The Rusticus is an innovative kit sauna by Renu Therapy. Perfect for two to three individuals, this design is seamlessly made to blend into underused spaces like compact corners. This sauna provides multiple seats at different levels and lights up with a state-of-the-art integrated LED lighting system. The Rusticus is made from Cedar and uses stainless steel hardware. It also comes with a 4.5kW electric heater and a water bucket with a ladle, and it can heat up to an impressive 195 degrees Fahrenheit.

Barcelona Sauna
Dynamic Saunas

Dynamic Saunas Barcelona – 1-2 Person Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna

Dynamic Saunas presents an excellent option for sauna enthusiasts seeking a seamless setup process and immersive audio experience. With a range of Infrared saunas like the Barcelona, they cater to different needs and preferences. The Barcelona’s one- to two-person capacity provides ample space for a tranquil, cozy retreat.

Emphasizing convenience, Dynamic Saunas incorporates a music system with Bluetooth capability and dynamic speakers, allowing you to create a personalized auditory oasis. The sauna features a clasp-together assembly, carbon heating elements, a tempered glass door, an interior reading/chromotherapy lighting system, and a roof vent to ensure optimal comfort.

Thermowood sauna from Redwood outdoors
Redwood Outdoors

Thermowood Indoor Sauna by Redwood Outdoors

Redwood Outdoors is well-known for its high-quality saunas. This sauna kit is made from Thermowood, which is a soft wood that has been treated with heat through kilns — a Scandinavian skill. This means that the wood in this kit won’t be damaged by steam. This electric sauna comes with a Harvey Sauna Heater, one of the best brands on the market. Assembling this kit is fairly easy, too. All of the wood comes pre-cut and grooved, so all you need to do is put it together, which will take about four hours.

Grayson Indoor Sauna by Almost Haven
Almost Haven

Grayson Indoor Sauna from Almost Haven

The Grayson Indoor Sauna from Almost Haven is one of the most customizable on this list.  You can choose from two wood types (hemfir or rustic red cedar), four door types (from all glass to all wood), two heater types (6kw and 8kw), and even four stone types. You can grab the standard LED lighting package or upgrade to mood lighting. Whatever you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy two full-length benches to stretch across while you relax in temperatures up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

Serene Life Sauna
Serene Life

Serene Life Portable Steam Sauna

For those seeking a more affordable option, the Serene Life portable sauna is an exceptional choice. Designed for individuals who travel frequently or have limited space, the Portable Steam Sauna offers a compact and convenient solution. Setting up and tearing down is a breeze, allowing you to create your personal spa-like experience wherever you go.

The features of this portable sauna include an easy-access sit-in sauna design, a compact spa size perfect for in-home use, and detoxifying infrared heated body therapy. It comes equipped with a high-powered heating element and a foldable chair for comfortable seating.

With one of these top-tier saunas, you can finally ditch the gym sauna and relax in the comfort of your own home.

Four men sitting in a sauna.
Med Photo Studio / Shutterstock

What are the benefits of saunas?

Infrared sauna bathing has gained popularity in recent years, and proponents claim several potential benefits associated with this type of therapy. It’s important to note that while some people report positive experiences, more research is needed to establish the full extent of these benefits. Here are some potential advantages of infrared sauna bathing:

  1. Relaxation: Many people find infrared saunas to be relaxing. The gentle heat can help relieve stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.
  2. Pain relief: Infrared heat can penetrate deep into the body’s tissues, potentially providing relief from muscle and joint pain. Some individuals with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or muscle soreness have reported benefits.
  3. Detoxification: Advocates claim that infrared saunas can help the body detoxify by promoting sweating. Sweating could also remove toxins and heavy metals from the body, although the extent of detoxification through sweat is a topic of debate.

There are so many benefits to sauna bathing, and you might find different benefits when you try various kinds of saunas. Traditional saunas also have excellent health benefits that will keep you glowing inside and out.

A man throwing water on sauna stones.
Adelaides / Shutterstock

Is it good to sauna every day?

The frequency of sauna use depends on individual factors, personal preferences, and your overall health. Sauna use every day may be safe and beneficial for some people, while others should exercise caution and moderation. Before beginning a sauna routine, consult your doctor. Here are some factors to consider:

  1. Individual tolerance: Everyone’s tolerance for sauna heat varies. Some people may find it comfortable to sauna daily, while others may experience discomfort, dehydration, or other adverse effects if they use a sauna too frequently. Listen to your body and adjust your sauna routine accordingly.
  2. Duration and temperature: The temperature and duration of your sauna sessions also play a role. Infrared saunas, for example, tend to be milder and may be used more frequently than traditional dry saunas or steam saunas. Shorter sessions (15 to 20 minutes) at lower temperatures may be more suitable for daily use.
  3. Hydration: Sauna bathing can lead to significant sweating, which can result in fluid loss. It’s essential to stay well-hydrated before, during, and after sauna sessions. Dehydration can be a concern if you use the sauna daily, so pay close attention to your hydration levels.
  4. Health conditions: If you have certain medical conditions or are taking medications, consult with your healthcare provider before using a sauna daily. Sauna use can affect blood pressure, heart rate, and other physiological parameters, so it’s crucial to ensure it’s safe for your specific health situation.
  5. Age: Older adults, children, and individuals with certain medical conditions may be more susceptible to heat-related issues. They should be cautious and consult with a healthcare provider before using a sauna frequently.
Birch vihta hanging in a Finnish sauna.
Finmiki / Shutterstock

How long should you sit in the sauna?

The appropriate duration for a sauna session can vary based on individual preferences, tolerance, and the type of sauna you’re using (traditional dry sauna, steam sauna, or infrared sauna). Here are some general guidelines for sauna session durations:

  1. Traditional dry sauna: In a traditional dry sauna, where the temperature is higher and the humidity lower, a typical sauna session might last anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes. Some individuals may tolerate longer sessions, but it’s essential to listen to your body and avoid overexposure to high heat.
  2. Steam sauna: Steam saunas, also known as wet saunas, have a lower temperature than dry saunas but higher humidity. Sessions in a steam sauna are generally shorter, often around 10 to 15 minutes. The moist heat can make it more comfortable for some people.
  3. Infrared sauna: Infrared saunas tend to have lower temperatures than traditional dry saunas, making them more comfortable for longer sessions. Many people use infrared saunas for 20 to 30 minutes or even up to an hour, depending on their comfort level. However, it’s still important not to overdo it and pay attention to how your body responds.

Consulting your doctor before starting a sauna routine is a wise decision, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns about how sauna use might affect your individual health. While sauna bathing can have various potential benefits for many people, it’s essential to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your specific situation.

Sarah Joseph
Sarah is a lover of all things outdoors. With a bright sense of adventure and a heart for the mountains, she is always…
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