Outdoor saunas provide a luxurious escape from the daily grind, offering a sanctuary to relax, unwind, and prioritize mental and physical well-being. With scientifically-backed health benefits like enhanced cardiovascular function, improved mood, and reduced stress, it’s easy to see why sauna use is so popular. (1, 2) As the at-home relaxation space gains momentum, we’re here to help you select the best outdoor sauna for your home.
Our team of experts reviewed the best home saunas for outdoor use on the market to curate a concise list based on various needs and budgets. From classic wood-fired designs to electric heat models, each sauna offers unique features to help you reap the rewards of this wellness practice.
Best outdoor sauna overall
The Sun Home Saunas Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna is our pick for the best outdoor sauna overall. We love how it seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technology with a luxurious design, offering an unparalleled home sauna experience.
Our picks for the best outdoor saunas
- Best overall: Sun Home Saunas Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna
- Best splurge: Plunge Sauna
- Best small: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Mini-Cube Sauna
- Best barrel: Sun Home Saunas Canadian Cedar Barrel Sauna
- Best budget: SweatTent Portable Outdoor Sauna
- Best design: Almost Heaven Timberline 6-Person Cabin Sauna
Compare outdoor saunas
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| Sun Home Saunas Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna | Plunge Sauna | Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Mini-Cube Sauna | Sun Home Saunas Canadian Cedar Barrel Sauna | SweatTent Portable Outdoor Sauna | Almost Heaven Timberline 6-Person Cabin Sauna | |
| Rating | ||||||
| Price | $8,599 | $11,990-$12,990 | $5,000 | $11,549 | $1,599 | $13,289 |
| Dimensions | Height: 82.7″ Width: 57″ Depth: 51.5″ | Height: 95” Width: 68” Depth: 71” | Height: 81” Width: 50.75” Depth: 68.75” | Height: 94.4” Width: 71” Depth: 71” | Height: 84” Width: 72” Depth: 72” | Height: 107” Width: 128” Depth: 112” |
| Weight | 870 lbs | 1,050 lbs | 800 lbs | 1,000 lbs | Tent: 30 lbs; rocks: 20 lbs; stove: 50 lbs | 1,750 lbs |
| Capacity | Two people | Five people | Two people | Four people | Four people | Six people |
Best outdoor sauna overall: Sun Home Saunas Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared
Key product features
What you should know
With smart technology features, LED lighting, and near, mid, and far infrared heat, the Sun Home Luminar Sauna creates a high-end spa-like experience at a lower cost than many of our other top picks.
- We love the mobile-app-enabled control system, which allows you to manage all the sauna features from your smartphone.
- While the $8,000 price tag may seem steep, the cost is reasonable compared to other outdoor saunas. However, the Luminar is smaller than other outdoor saunas we tested and researched.
- This sauna is best for someone who appreciates the design elements of a sauna as much as its functionality.
- The large glass windows and interior/exterior LED lighting complement the tech features to create a truly immersive and beautiful sauna experience.
- It uses grade-A carbonized red cedar wood—the safest and most durable choice for an all-year-round outdoor sauna.
Why we like Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna as best overall
We understand that when putting a sauna in your backyard, it’s important to prioritize ease, convenience, and safety. With its style, functionality, and comfort, the Sun Home Luminar™ Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna is our clear pick for the best outdoor sauna overall.
With a sleek black exterior, indoor and outdoor LED lights, and large glass windows, the Luminar allows you to enjoy views from inside and outside the sauna. We recommend positioning the sauna with its doors facing any trees or green space you have in your backyard. That way, you get a truly immersive and relaxing experience.
The features of this sauna go beyond aesthetics. The smart control system allows you to take charge of your experience without standing up or moving around. Having easy control over the temperature of the space is crucial, as heat tolerance can differ from person to person. In addition, the temperature can impact the sauna’s ability to deliver health benefits, such as potentially reducing stress and improving moods. (3)
Speaking of heat, Sun Home has strategically placed infrared heaters in the Luminar to maximize comfort. Infrared saunas may improve muscle recovery after exercise, making them a great option for athletes. (4) The Sun Homes Luminar has three far-infrared heaters under the bench to help the heat reach your calves and feet. In addition, six full-spectrum heaters surround the rest of the cabin. We love this targeted setup because it ensures your whole body can reap the benefits of infrared heat.
Some sauna users might enjoy cranking the heat up to the highest setting. Ideally, though, your outdoor sauna should provide a range of temperatures. Depending on the season or your physiological needs on any given day, you can adjust the thermostat on the Sun Homes Luminar from 95-150 ℉ (35-65.6 ℃).
No matter how hot you set your Luminar, you can feel confident that it will hold up over time. It’s crafted with grade-A heat-treated carbonized Canadian cedar, which is durable and safe for a heated environment. As a bonus, it emits a beautiful smell without being overpowering or artificial.
Unfortunately, getting the disassembled sauna from your curb to your backyard can be a hassle. While delivery is free, white-glove assembly isn’t provided. You may also have to purchase some tools to set it up. Thankfully, a helpful video tutorial can guide you through each step.
Check out our full Sun Home Luminar Sauna review for more information.
Specs
| Capacity | Two people |
| Max temperature | 150℉ (65.6℃) |
| Footprint | 57” W x 51.5 “D x 82.7” H |
| Weight | 870 lbs |
| Electrical requirements | 240 volts, 20 amps |
| Type of heat | Infrared |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Best splurge outdoor sauna: Plunge Sauna
Key product features
What you should know
The Plunge Sauna combines cedar and hemlock wood with smart features and an ergonomic design to create a versatile wellness experience.
- We love the sleek design of this sauna, which comes with a flip bench so you can enjoy seated relaxation or have enough space for hot yoga.
- At over $10,000, this sauna is more expensive than comparable models, and it doesn’t come with Bluetooth speakers or outdoor lighting.
- This sauna is best for someone looking for versatility, including the ability to sit, stand, stretch, and move in a heated space.
- The modular tongue-and-groove design streamlines the assembly process, which is simpler than other saunas we tested.
Why we like Plunge Sauna as best splurge
The Plunge Sauna is a splurge, but the model’s higher price point provides certain benefits—particularly, the spacious interior. Its unconventional shape allows for more movement than other saunas we’ve tested and researched.
In our evaluation, we found that the 15-degree slanted wall toward the top allows people on the second-level bench to recline. Meanwhile, the flip-up benches permit those who’d rather stand or stretch to move freely. As fitness experts, we love that the space promotes movement and stretching to maximize health and fitness options. The sauna accommodates up to five individuals, though you may only want to use it with four people if you don’t want to feel too cramped.
We love the classic, aromatic incense cedar scent. Combined with warp-resistant hemlock, the cedar contributes to a durable and high-quality design. The DROP electric heater system complements the design. It hangs on the wall and holds Huum sauna stones that can reach temperatures up to 230℉ ( 110° C). Huum sauna stones are known for their durability and provide soft steam, which is ideal for those more sensitive to steam heat.
In testing, we determined that the tongue and groove design of the Plunge Sauna makes assembly simpler than other large saunas that require power tools and other building supplies. However, it’s still a two- to three-hour process. If you want to save yourself the trouble, you can choose white glove delivery at checkout for an additional cost.
The Plunge’s innovative design does have some flaws. Due to the roof’s shape, the sauna can become uncomfortably hot towards the ceiling, where the heat rises and becomes trapped. This may mean rethinking who sits where or adjusting the desired temperature to keep everyone comfortable.
Ultimately, though, the quality craftsmanship, innovative features, and sleek design make the Plunge Sauna a great choice for those wanting a luxurious and versatile sauna experience.
Check out our full Plunge Sauna review for more information.
Specs
| Capacity | Five people |
| Max temperature | 230 ℉ (110℃) |
| Footprint | 68” W x 71 “D x 95” H |
| Weight | 1,050 lbs |
| Electrical requirements | 220-240 volts, 30 amps |
| Type of heat | Dry or steam |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Best small outdoor sauna: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Mini-Cube Sauna
Key product features
What you should know
The Thermowood Sauna’s Scandinavian design makes it easy to assemble, eco-friendly, and durable. There are several ways to make it unique and customized for your home.
- From choosing a heater to adding roof shingles or an outdoor step, the customizable options allow you to craft a truly personalized sauna.
- Redwood Outdoors’ mini-cube design comes to just $5,000—almost half the cost of other top saunas on the market.
- This is a great choice for people who want to prioritize eco-friendly, chemical-free materials in their sauna without giving up durability and safety.
Why we like Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Mini-Cube Sauna as best small
When it comes to the the best outdoor saunas, good things can come in small packages. The Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Mini-Cube Sauna is like the “tiny house” of saunas. If you only need a sauna that fits up to two people, you can save thousands—without compromising luxury—by opting for this compact model.
Both the heating system and the construction materials lend themselves to Scandinavian traditions. The Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Mini-Cube uses a Harvia Kip heater, which many industry professionals consider the gold standard for sauna heaters. It provides a nice, steady dry heat. If you prefer a steamier sauna session, you can choose the Huum DROP stone heater at checkout.
Customizations don’t stop at which heater you’d prefer. Additional options include a manual-control heater or a Wi-Fi-controlled one. And, since there is a large drop when you walk in and out of the sauna, some people may want to consider adding an extra step. However, every decision you make alters the base price of $5,000. For instance, one extra step will increase your final cost by about $100.
The Redwood Outdoors Mini-Cube Sauna consists of thermowood, an environmentally friendly, chemical-free wood designed to endure hot temperatures. Redwood Outdoors claims assembly is easy, but we found that you’ll likely need power tools and an extra set of hands. We also recommend hiring a professional electrician who can connect the sauna to a 240-volt outlet.
Ultimately, the Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Mini-Cube Sauna is a durable and compact outdoor sauna made with traditional Scandinavian elements. But you’ll need to be prepared to spend more than the base amount if you’re interested in add-ons like the front step, chromotherapy lights, Bluetooth speakers, or roof shingles.
Visit our full Redwood Outdoor Sauna review to learn more about this brand.
Specs
| Capacity | Two people |
| Max temperature | 195 ℉ (90℃) |
| Footprint | 50 3/4” W x 68 3/4 “D x 81” H |
| Weight | 800 lbs |
| Electrical requirements | 240 volts for heater, 110 volts for lighting |
| Type of heat | Dry and steam |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Best outdoor barrel sauna: Sun Home Saunas Canadian Cedar Barrel Sauna
Key product features
What you should know
Due to its powerful Huum DROP electrical heater and 1.5-inch-thick walls, the Sun Home Canadian Cedar Barrel Sauna is a smart choice if you’re looking for a year-round, well-insulated, and spacious backyard sauna.
- We love the two outdoor benches and hooks, which create an accommodating space for you to leave your shoes, cell phone, towel, and cold drink outside of the sauna.
- This smallest four-person sauna costs $11,549, which is at the high end of saunas this size. If you upgrade to the largest model (which costs $13,299) you can fit up to eight people.
- The Sun Home Canadian Cedar Barrel is ideal for people who live in regions that experience harsh winters.
- It comes with a control panel that has timers for up to 60 minutes.
Why we like Sun Home Canadian Cedar Barrel Sauna as best barrel
If you have your heart set on a barrel sauna, this model from Sun Home Saunas checks all the boxes. We love its shape and style, which optimizes heat circulation to help ensure a consistently comfortable sauna experience.
While we reviewed the four-person model that costs $11,549, it’s worth noting that there are six- and eight-person models for $12,199 and $13,299, respectively. Whether you plan on using this sauna alone or with a group, the benches and towel hooks on the exterior porch make a great place to retreat from the heat or leave your accessories behind.
This model allows you to comfortably lie on a wide bench and kick your feet up—a feature that not every home outdoor sauna can accommodate.
Another standout feature is the powerful electric heater, which can reach 189℉ in 60 minutes. You can modify the temperature or turn the timer on and off with the digital control panel inside the sauna. But if you want app- or Wi-Fi-controlled elements, you’ll have to look elsewhere. On the plus side, you can leave your cell phone outside and truly disconnect.
Crafted from premium Canadian Western Red Cedar, this Sun Home Barrel Sauna features sustainable and durable materials. It’s great for people who live in locations that experience snowfall since it’s one of the sturdiest and best-insulated saunas on our list.
While the Sun Home Canadian Cedar Barrel Sauna offers many desirable features, there are some drawbacks. We found that the assembly process requires careful attention to detail and can take several hours, even with a friend (or two) helping. Additionally, because of its shape, the widest part of the sauna is in the center. The compact footprint limits the number of users who can comfortably move around inside.
Specs
| Capacity | Four to eight people |
| Max temperature | 189 ℉ (87℃) |
| Footprint | 71” W x 71 “D x 94.4” H |
| Weight | 1,000 lbs |
| Electrical requirements | 220-240 volts, 20 amp |
| Type of heat | Dry and steam |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Best budget outdoor sauna: SweatTent Portable Outdoor Sauna
Key product features
What you should know
The SweatTent Portable Outdoor Sauna is an ideal choice for anyone looking to take their sauna experience on the road. With both dry and steam heat options, the 30-pound weather-proof tent provides a sauna environment wherever you want it.
- We like how the SweatTent’s stove can heat up to 200°F in only 30 minutes.
- At $1,599, this lightweight sauna tent is a more budget-friendly option than others on the market.
- This is a great choice for anyone looking for a portable sauna they can pack in the car and carry around to different locations.
- While there is no digital or Wi-Fi-powered technology, the sauna comes with a wooden thermometer that displays the temperature and humidity level.
Why we like SweatTent Portable Outdoor Sauna as best budget
The SweatTent Portable Sauna is versatile, convenient, and affordable. Think of it as the sauna equivalent of going camping. It’s not the most well-insulated or attractive outdoor home sauna. Still, it offers a practical solution for experiencing the rejuvenating benefits of sauna therapy without the commitment of a large, permanent structure. As a bonus, you can pack it up and put it away when you don’t want a sauna obstructing your view.
The zippered openings allow you to go in and out while keeping the space insulated and warm, though you still need to zip the door quickly to prevent too much heat from escaping. Once inside, you can sit back and relax in a small folding chair, which comes with your purchase, or sit on the floor.
The SweatTent delivers gentle and consistent heat therapy through a basic temperature control panel and specially designed stainless steel wood-burning sauna stove. This custom stove comes with its own carry bag and weighs 50 pounds (without wood).
The sauna’s heater can reach 200℉ in 30 minutes, which is among the fastest we’ve seen in any sauna we tested. The tent itself weighs 30 pounds and comes with a convenient carrying case. The compact and lightweight design of this portable sauna makes it easy to set up and transport. We like the collapsible frame, so you can place it wherever you want—much like pitching a tent.
With portability comes some sacrifices. You can place the tent on just about any surface, but you’ll need to weigh down the outer “skirt” with cinder blocks or bricks to prevent it from flipping up in the wind. And while the SweatTent is a more convenient and affordable model than other saunas, it delivers more of a “camping” vibe than a luxury wellness experience.
Specs
| Capacity | Four people |
| Max temperature | 200 ℉ (93℃) |
| Footprint | 72” W x 72 “D x 84” H |
| Weight | 30 lbs (tent) + 20 lbs (rocks), + 50 lbs (stove) |
| Electrical requirements | None |
| Type of heat | Dry and steam |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Best design outdoor sauna: Almost Heaven Timberline Cabin Sauna
Key product features
What you should know
The Almost Heaven Timberline 6-Person Cabin Sauna delivers a personalized sauna experience from start to finish.
- We love the customizability of almost every element of the sauna, from the heater system to the color of the stones and wood stain. You can even choose from several lighting options and accessories.
- Compared to other six-person saunas of this caliber, the Timberline’s $13,289 price tag is steep. Add-ons will drive the cost up even more.
- This is a great option for people who want a sauna that can blend seamlessly into their outdoor space.
Why we like the Almost Heaven Timberline Cabin Sauna as best design
As soon as you see the Almost Heaven Timberline 6-Person Cabin Sauna, you’ll understand why we love its design. The sauna experience starts outside, with a beautiful spruce-wood wrap-around porch. This thoughtful design element allows you to keep your clothes and towels dry if it’s raining or snowing. It also creates a nice transition from the outside world into the relaxing sauna space. Once inside, this sauna’s powerful electric heater delivers rapid warm-up times and precise temperature control.
The Almost Heaven Timberline Cabin offers complete customizability. From factors like which type of heater you want (electrical or wood-burning) to more minor choices like the color and shape of the sauna stones, you have a say in nearly every feature. We personally love the unique LED mood lighting options. But almost every choice you make comes at an extra cost. The base model starts at $13,289 before any promotions, and the customizations can cost up to $2,400 more.
The two-tiered benches can accommodate up to six people who want to relax together. Two people can comfortably stretch out and lie down. However, for taller individuals, the interior height of 88 inches can be a drawback. You may not be able to stretch your arms overhead without hitting the ceiling.
Specs
| Capacity | Six people |
| Max temperature | 200 ℉ (93℃) |
| Footprint | 128” W x 112” D x 107” H |
| Weight | 1,750 lbs |
| Electrical requirements | 240 volts, 40 amp |
| Type of heat | Dry and steam |
| Warranty | Sauna: limited lifetime; heater: 5 years; heating elements/coils: 1 year |
How we test recovery products
We understand that the right recovery products, from outdoor saunas to cold plunge tubs, are essential for muscle relaxation and stress reduction. We’re here to guide you toward the products that best meet your specific needs. You can read our full recovery product testing methodology here.
Here’s how we assessed each outdoor sauna on our list.
Testing criteria
Performance (recovery effectiveness)—30%
A high-quality outdoor sauna needs to deliver on its promise of aiding your recovery process. When we assess an outdoor sauna’s performance, we look for:
- Temperature range
- Temperature stability
- Ease of use
- Durability and material quality
- Power demand
Design and safety—30%
An outdoor sauna is a big investment, and you should be happy with its aesthetics and safety mechanisms. In this category, we evaluate how a sauna’s design can enhance your experience using it and how much we trust the manufacturer to provide a safe product. We analyze:
- Size
- Accessibility features
- Material safety
- Certifications
- Safety features
Value—20%
When we consider the value of an outdoor sauna, we don’t just look at the sticker price. Instead, we take a holistic view and assess the initial investment against the quality, benefits, and ongoing costs associated with its use.
Customer experience—20%
We know your experience with a company can directly impact how likely you are to make a second purchase—or be satisfied with your first. For customer experience we evaluate:
- Shipping
- Assembly
- Warranty
- Customer support
Benefits of outdoor saunas
Outdoor saunas have a variety of health benefits. These benefits include:
Connection to nature
Outdoor saunas are the pinnacle of luxury, offering an immersive experience by allowing you to enjoy a sauna surrounded by nature. Whether you’re surrounded by trees, mountains, or your own garden, the connection to nature enhances the calming and meditative benefits of the sauna. The sounds of birds, wind, or nearby water can further contribute to a sense of peace and tranquility, elevating your sauna experience and making it more rejuvenating than if it were indoors.
Better ventilation
If you’ve ever spent time in a sauna, you know that ventilation is important. Being located outside provides an outdoor sauna with excellent airflow compared to indoor sauna, which can prevent the buildup of excessive humidity and stale air inside the sauna. This is particularly beneficial in wood-burning saunas where fresh air is needed to keep the fire going efficiently. Good ventilation also ensures that the sauna remains comfortable and prevents mold or mildew from developing in damp conditions. In the end, this contributes to one’s health and wellbeing by keeping the sauna environment healthier and cleaner over time.
Preserves indoor space
While typically on the larger size in terms of the footprint they require, having your sauna outdoors rather than indoors can free up valuable indoor space. This can be very helpful for homes or apartments with limited indoor square footage but more ample outdoor space. By placing the sauna outside, you can have a full-sized unit without compromising your home’s interior design or available space. This is ideal for individuals or families who want a traditional sauna experience without having to dedicate a room or a large portion of their home to it.
Higher heat tolerance
Outdoor saunas, especially wood-burning ones, are typically capable of reaching higher temperatures than indoor infrared models. Since outdoor saunas are often better ventilated and have fewer space constraints, they can sustain more intense heat. This allows users to enjoy a hotter sauna session if desired, and for those who enjoy an extreme heat experience, an outdoor sauna provides an authentic and satisfying environment. It may also be more accommodating for steam saunas.
Year-round use
Outdoor saunas provide a unique year-round experience, particularly in colder climates. The contrast of stepping into a hot sauna when it’s snowing or cold outside creates a refreshing experience. The rapid temperature change as you leave the hot sauna to cool off in the brisk air can further increase circulation and enhance recovery (contrast therapy), making the outdoor sauna a great tool for both relaxation and health in all seasons.
Durability and longevity
Outdoor saunas are constructed from weather-resistant materials like durable woods (such as cedar or spruce) that can withstand various climate conditions. They are designed to handle exposure to rain, snow, and sun while maintaining their structural integrity. This durability ensures that your investment lasts longer than portable models, for example.
Home value
Saunas have become an instant sign of luxury and wellness, which is becoming increasingly important to many home buyers. Installing an outdoor sauna can enhance your property’s aesthetic and functional appeal, increasing its overall value and desirability. An outdoor sauna is often viewed as a luxury addition that enhances outdoor living space, making your home more attractive to potential buyers. In addition to the health and relaxation benefits for you, the added value of the sauna can make it a smart long-term investment in your home’s marketability.
How to choose the best outdoor sauna for you
When making a large purchase like an outdoor sauna to improve your health and well-being, it’s important to decide which features matter most. Here’s what we recommend considering before buying an outdoor sauna:
Cost
The cost of an outdoor sauna can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Begin your sauna search by setting a budget. Then narrow down which features are most important to you, like size, type, and quality. Many sauna companies offer financing, but we also recommend setting aside money for unexpected costs that may arise due to maintenance and electrical needs.
Type of sauna
Saunas come in wood-burning, infrared, or hot stone models and can vary in shape and material. Selecting which type of sauna you want is a big decision that will impact the cost, maintenance requirements, electrical requirements, and overall sauna experience.
Size
Saunas come in different shapes and sizes and have different interior capacities. Some have slanted roofs, some are barrel-shaped, and others are square or rectangular. Think about what shape you want and how many people you want to fit in the sauna. Most home saunas can hold up to eight people. Also, consider whether you want to sit, lie down, or be able to move and stretch in the sauna.
Most importantly, determine how much space you have in your backyard or home. Look at the specs and dimensions of both the interior and exterior of each sauna. Don’t forget to look at details such as the swing angle of the door and the length of the electrical cords. All of these details will help you envision how and where an outdoor sauna might fit into your space.
Features
Modern outdoor saunas come with a variety of features. Examples include lighting, Bluetooth speakers, app-controlled systems, and flip-up seats. These perks can contribute to a more personalized sauna experience, but they may impact the sauna’s cost, size, and more.
Ease of assembly
Saunas have different delivery and assembly processes. Some feature click-and-lock designs, while others require power tools and other supplies. Most saunas weigh hundreds of pounds (or more), so assembly will take work and manpower. You may also need the help of a professional electrician. It’s always a good idea to look at the assembly process before confirming your purchase so you know what to expect.
Lead time
Outdoor saunas can take weeks or months to arrive at your home. The delivery time should be available on the company’s website. You can always contact customer support before placing an order to get a more accurate idea of availability and delivery dates.
Outdoor saunas vs. indoor saunas
While outdoor and indoor saunas provide many of the same health benefits, there are some characteristics and features that separate these two types of saunas.
Location and space requirements
As the name implies, outdoor saunas are installed outside, typically in a yard, garden or near a pool. Indoor saunas, on the other hand, are placed within the home. These different locations can impact your sauna experience in various ways. Outdoor saunas offer the advantage of freeing up indoor space, making them ideal for people who don’t have the room for a sauna inside their home but have ample outdoor space. They often provide a more natural, immersive and relaxing setting. Indoor saunas, on the other hand, can be more accessible and comfortable to use during cold or rainy weather, as they don’t require stepping outside. For some, this can make them more convenient for daily use.
Temperature and ventilation
Outdoor saunas typically have better ventilation due to natural airflow, which keeps them fresh and prevents excess humidity buildup. In addition, they can often reach higher temperatures, especially wood-burning outdoor saunas. Indoor saunas, by contrast, rely on mechanical ventilation systems that can sometimes limit airflow and may trap heat and humidity, potentially requiring more maintenance to keep the environment comfortable.
Installation and maintenance
Indoor saunas are generally easier to maintain and less expensive to install since they don’t require weatherproof materials or additional landscaping. They can fit into existing rooms, such as a bathroom or basement. Outdoor saunas, however, require weather-resistant materials and may involve more complex construction to ensure they can withstand environmental elements like rain, snow, and wind. They also usually require more space.
Additionally, assembly of an outdoor sauna usually has higher upfront costs, but they tend to be durable and eco-friendly, offering long lasting benefits. When it comes to maintenance, indoor saunas often require more upkeep to manage humidity and prevent mold, whereas outdoor saunas can require wood treatments to protect against sun and water damage.
Design and atmosphere
Whether you seek to be immersed in nature or you prefer an isolated, controlled environment, the design and location of your sauna will surely have an impact on the atmosphere. Outdoor saunas offer a natural, scenic atmosphere, which can significantly enhance the relaxation experience. The proximity to nature and the ability to enjoy fresh air during cool-down periods after a session create a more immersive experience. It can also be more romantic, if you enjoy being in a sauna under the stars, in the rain or in the snow. Indoor saunas, on the other hand, provide more controlled and enclosed settings, which can be beneficial for creating a spa-like experience inside the home. You won’t have to worry about the weather and can enjoy a more consistent sauna experience.
Seasonal use
Outdoor saunas provide a unique experience in different seasons, especially in winter climates where the contrast between hot sauna sessions and the cool outdoor air is invigorating. They are ideal for those who enjoy the traditional Nordic sauna experience of alternating between hot and cold. Indoor saunas, however, are more convenient for year-round use without concerns about weather. They are especially practical during cold or rainy seasons when stepping outside may not be appealing. And they may provide more privacy as they are located within your own home.
Environmental impact
If environmental impact is a factor in your decision making, it’s worth noting that outdoor and indoor saunas can leave a different footprint on the planet—and your bank account. Despite outdoor saunas being surrounded by nature, indoor saunas can be more energy-efficient since they are not exposed to fluctuating weather conditions, which can affect the heating process. Outdoor saunas, especially those in colder climates, may require more energy to maintain higher temperatures, particularly during winter months. However, wood-burning outdoor saunas, which use natural fuel sources, can be more eco-friendly if sustainably managed.
FAQs
How much does an outdoor sauna cost?
The cost of an outdoor sauna can vary significantly depending on factors such as size, materials, features, and brand. On average, outdoor saunas typically range from a few thousand dollars to over $10,000 for high-end models with advanced features and add-ons.
Are outdoor saunas worth it?
If you want to improve your health and well-being, an outdoor home sauna is something to consider. Most people use saunas for relaxation, but other sauna health benefits may also include improved cardiovascular, respiratory, immunological, and metabolic functions. (5) Regular sauna use has also been associated with better sleep, mental well-being, and athletic performance in certain studies. (5, 6)
The benefits of sauna usage are even more pronounced when combined with exercise. (7) A 2022 randomized controlled trial (RCT) found that, when combined with exercise, sauna use may lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol, and improve body composition. (7) But keep in mind that temperature matters. According to a 2024 study on the influence of thermal stress on young women who sporadically use the sauna, researchers recommend sauna bathing at a temperature of 80°C (176℉) (8) Extremely high temperatures (120°C or 248℉) are not advised. (8)
Are outdoor saunas expensive to run?
The cost of running an outdoor sauna can vary depending on factors, such as the type of sauna, its size, frequency of use, and local energy rates. Traditional saunas heated by electricity or gas are often more expensive to run than infrared saunas, which typically use less energy. Additionally, proper insulation and efficient heating systems can help reduce operating costs.
How long do outdoor saunas last?
The lifespan of an outdoor sauna depends on the quality of materials, construction, maintenance, and other factors. Well-built outdoor saunas constructed from durable materials such as cedar or hemlock can last for decades with proper care and upkeep. Regular maintenance, such as sealing or staining the wood, ensuring proper ventilation to avoid mold, and addressing any structural issues promptly, can extend the lifespan of an outdoor sauna. Generally, outdoor saunas can last 10-30 years or more when properly maintained.
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Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM
Dr. Raj is quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine. An active clinical researcher, Dr. Raj currently practices at the University of Southern California, where he’s been awarded the Excellence in Teaching award six years in a row. He’s also an associate professor of clinical medicine, assistant program director of the internal medicine residency program, and the associate program director of the sleep medicine fellowship at USC.
Lily Moe
Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.
Amanda Dvorak, CPT
Amanda Dvorak is a Fortune Recommends writer and editor. A garage gym owner who is passionate about working out and healthy living, she has four years of experience writing product reviews for fitness and nutrition websites. Amanda is a certified personal trainer through ISSA.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Rachel Tavel
PT, DPT, CSCS, Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Rachel Tavel is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (National Strength and Conditioning Association), Forbes Health Advisory Board Member and writer. She earned her BA from Bowdoin College and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from New York University.