Imagine coming home after a long day, feeling the need to unwind, and stepping out to your backyard to find your very own oasis: an outdoor sauna. If you’ve ever dreamed of adding a space to your home that combines relaxation, health benefits, and the joy of being outdoors, then an outdoor sauna could be an ideal addition for you. In this guide, we’ll explore all of the amazing outdoor sauna options available for homes, helping you make an informed decision that best fits your needs, style, and budget.
Why an Outdoor Sauna?
Before we dive into specific options, it’s important to understand why an outdoor sauna could be a fantastic choice for your home. The benefits are numerous—ranging from improving blood circulation and easing muscle pain to providing a serene spot for mindful relaxation. Unlike indoor saunas, outdoor saunas connect you with nature, offering a more tranquil experience. Whether you’re enjoying a cool winter day or a crisp evening, an outdoor sauna provides a special opportunity to enjoy a warm, steamy environment while being surrounded by fresh air.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the various options that are out there for you.
1. Barrel Saunas
If you’re looking for a classic and attractive outdoor sauna, a barrel sauna is an excellent option to consider. Barrel saunas are shaped like, well, a barrel, and they come in various sizes to accommodate anywhere from two to eight people. The unique barrel shape not only adds a rustic and beautiful aesthetic to your outdoor space, but it also helps with heat distribution, ensuring an even temperature throughout.
Barrel Saunas on Amazon:
One highly recommended product is this Barrel Sauna Kit available on Amazon. With over a thousand positive reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this sauna is a hit among homeowners. It’s made from quality cedar, which ensures durability and excellent heat retention. It’s also surprisingly easy to assemble, with customers praising its quality craftsmanship and the joy it brings to their relaxation routines.
Pros of Barrel Saunas:
- Efficient heat distribution thanks to the rounded shape.
- Easy installation and smaller footprint.
- Visually appealing rustic design that fits naturally into outdoor settings.
Considerations:
Barrel saunas do tend to be smaller in size, which is ideal for intimate relaxation but may not work for larger groups or families. Consider a larger model if you want to entertain guests.
2. Cabin Saunas
Cabin saunas resemble small wooden cabins, providing a more spacious sauna experience compared to barrel saunas. They tend to be rectangular in shape and can accommodate multiple people—making them perfect for families or entertaining guests. With cabin saunas, you can enjoy a more traditional sauna experience that feels just like stepping into a cozy lodge.
Cabin Saunas on Amazon:
If you’re interested in a cabin sauna, you might want to check out this Compact Wood Cabin Sauna available on Amazon. It’s got solid reviews for its reliability and gorgeous Scandinavian design. Many customers love its large tempered glass window that allows them to enjoy their backyard view while they unwind. The unit comes in various sizes, ranging from smaller models to larger, family-sized saunas.
Pros of Cabin Saunas:
- Spacious, with more headroom and seating space.
- Traditional sauna experience with wood-burning stove options.
- Various customization options for benches, heaters, and windows.
Considerations:
Cabin saunas require more space and may take more effort for installation. You will also want to make sure you have a level area to place the structure on, which may require some additional groundwork.
3. Infrared Outdoor Saunas
Infrared saunas are a great choice if you’re looking for something that heats quickly, offers health benefits, and is energy-efficient. Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to emit infrared light, which warms the body directly rather than heating the air around you. This makes it easier to breathe and offers a different sauna experience compared to traditional saunas.
Infrared Saunas on Amazon:
This 2-person Outdoor Infrared Sauna is one of the most highly-rated infrared sauna products on Amazon. Customers appreciate the ease of use, its energy efficiency, and the fact that it can be assembled in under an hour. It’s lightweight, portable, and can comfortably fit two to three people. It’s also got a sleek modern design that’ll look great in any backyard.
Pros of Infrared Saunas:
- Quick heating times and energy-efficient.
- Can be installed almost anywhere—less space required.
- Lower temperatures, making it ideal for people who struggle with traditional saunas.
Considerations:
Infrared saunas don’t reach the same high temperatures as traditional saunas, so if you prefer intense heat, you may want to consider other types. Some people also prefer the ritualistic feel of a wood-fired sauna, which infrared doesn’t provide.
4. Wood-Burning Outdoor Saunas
For a truly authentic experience, consider a wood-burning outdoor sauna. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the smell of natural wood and the soothing crackle of a fire as you relax in the steam. Wood-burning saunas require a little more effort when it comes to heating up—you’ll need to chop wood and tend the fire—but for many people, this ritual is a big part of the charm.
Wood-Burning Sauna Kits on Amazon:
One popular wood-burning sauna is the Allwood Sauna Hut available on Amazon. Customers love this sauna for its old-world charm and high-quality materials. It’s made of Nordic spruce, giving it a long life and a traditional aesthetic. Many reviewers mention how much they enjoy the scent and ambiance created by burning natural wood.
Pros of Wood-Burning Saunas:
- Authentic, traditional sauna experience.
- Creates a cozy and rustic atmosphere.
- Can be used in remote locations without an electrical source.
Considerations:
This type of sauna requires more maintenance, including the need to chop or purchase wood and the process of lighting the fire. It’s also not ideal if you’re looking for a “quick” sauna, as it can take time to heat up.
5. Portable Outdoor Saunas
If you’re not looking for a permanent structure, a portable sauna could be a great choice. Portable outdoor saunas come in various forms, from pop-up tents to lightweight infrared models. They’re a budget-friendly option and can be easily stored when not in use, making them ideal if you have limited space or if you rent your property.
Portable Saunas on Amazon:
Check out the Radiant Saunas Rejuvinator Portable Sauna on Amazon. It’s received over 2,000 reviews with a high satisfaction rating, largely because it’s affordable, easy to use, and can be set up in just a few minutes. While this isn’t the kind of sauna you’d use to host guests, it’s perfect for solo sessions to help you unwind after a long day.
Pros of Portable Saunas:
- Affordable and easy to set up.
- Doesn’t require a large footprint—can be moved and stored.
- Great for trying out a sauna experience without a large investment.
Considerations:
Portable saunas lack the ambiance and luxury of a permanent outdoor sauna. The materials are often less durable, so they may not stand up to consistent outdoor use over a long period of time.
Heating Options to Consider
When choosing the best outdoor sauna, you’ll also need to think about the heating method that suits you best. The most common options are electric, wood-burning, and infrared. Each comes with its pros and cons:
- Electric Heaters: Convenient and easy to use. Just flip a switch and let it heat up. Best for those who want an easy, consistent experience.
- Wood-Burning Heaters: Authentic, charming, and ideal for those who love natural elements. Requires manual work but creates a unique experience.
- Infrared Heaters: More energy-efficient and heats your body directly. They operate at a lower temperature, which is better for those with breathing issues.
Features to Look for in an Outdoor Sauna
When you’re ready to start shopping for an outdoor sauna, here are a few features that will help you narrow down your search:
- Capacity: Think about how many people you’d like to fit in the sauna at once. Will it be just you, or do you plan on entertaining family and friends?
- Materials: Cedar is the most common wood used for saunas due to its durability and resistance to decay. Look for saunas that use high-quality wood for maximum lifespan.
- Windows: If you enjoy a view of your garden, look for saunas that feature tempered glass windows.
- Assembly: Some saunas come fully built, while others require assembly. Make sure you know what you’re getting into, especially if you plan to install it yourself.
The Installation Process
Most saunas come in a pre-cut kit that you’ll need to assemble yourself, although professional installation services are available. Typically, you’ll need a flat surface such as a concrete slab or a deck, access to electricity (unless you’re going for a wood-burning model), and, in some cases, a permit from your city.
Final Thoughts: Which Sauna is Right for You?
Choosing the right outdoor sauna for your home depends on what matters most to you. Are you looking for an authentic experience with a wood-burning sauna, or do you want the convenience of a plug-and-go infrared model? Maybe you need a portable solution that fits into a smaller backyard, or you dream of a rustic barrel sauna that becomes a permanent part of your garden oasis.
Whatever option you decide on, adding an outdoor sauna to your home is an investment in your health, relaxation, and overall well-being. Imagine stepping into the comforting heat, feeling your stress melt away, and knowing that you’ve created a sanctuary just steps from your door. Whether you’re aiming for solo relaxation or shared moments with loved ones, the perfect sauna is out there waiting to transform your outdoor space.
Happy sauna hunting, and here’s to your new oasis of tranquility!
