Sauna in backyard of house
Lifestyle

Want to Reap the Daily Benefits of a Sauna? Get One for Your Home

Your morning routine just got an upgrade.
By Lauren Bedosky
March 2, 2023

Our product recommendations are selected by editors, tested first-hand, or expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site.

If you’re like us, the sauna is your preferred way to cap off a workout. You may do it to unwind. Or to score the many reported health benefits, such as decreasing post-workout muscle soreness and promoting recovery (1).

No matter your reason, it becomes far easier to reap daily benefits by investing in a home sauna.

There are three main types of home saunas: dry sauna, steam sauna, or infrared sauna. A dry sauna uses burning wood or an electric heater to create dry air and high temperatures (e.g., a traditional Finnish sauna), whereas a steam sauna relies on steam from boiling water to generate heat. Finally, an infrared sauna utilizes infrared light as a heat source.

Some are designed for indoor use only, whereas others can be placed indoors or outdoors. While pricey, indoor and outdoor saunas are often constructed of high-quality wood, making them an eye-catching addition to your living space.

If you’re working with limited space or not ready to commit to an installed sauna, look for a portable home sauna. In addition to being much more affordable, portable home saunas can be set up and taken down in minutes.

We’ve scoured the market for the best options to suit various budgets and preferences. Start here if you’re ready to invest in a home sauna.

SAUNA 101

The 5 Best Home Saunas On the Market

Maxxus Lifesauna Aspen Upgraded 2-Person Electric Infrared Sauna

  • Infrared heat
  • Indoor
  • 49 in. W x 40 in. D x 77 in. H

 
Use the Maxxus sauna to spend quality time with your partner. This two-person infrared sauna includes a sound speaker system for streaming your favorite tunes and a soothing chromotherapy light system. That and an infrared foot heater provide maximum opportunity for relaxation and recovery. Meanwhile, the tempered glass door creates an open feel, while solid side walls promote greater heat retention. There’s also a fresh air vent to improve air circulation.

Sunlighten Signature I

  • Infrared heat
  • Indoor
  • 37.8 in. W x 39.8 in. D x 77.7 in. H

 
Prefer to sauna solo? The Sunlighten single-occupant indoor sauna is ideal for getting in some alone time. Take a seat on the ergonomic bench and soak in the comforting infrared heat and chromotherapy lighting, which utilizes colors from the sun’s visible light spectrum for various health benefits. Plus, this cabin-style sauna looks as good as it feels. It’s made of gorgeous wood (choose between eucalyptus and basswood) and features a clear door with a magnetic seal locking system. The magnetic seal holds in heat without unsightly screws or nails.

ALMOST HEAVEN Audra Canopy Barrel Sauna

  • Dry sauna and steam sauna
  • Indoor or outdoor
  • 72 in. W x 51 in. D x 71 in. H

 
Enjoy this Almost Heaven barrel-shaped sauna in two ways: Heat it up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit for a traditional dry sauna, or sprinkle water on the sauna stones (included) to create a steam sauna experience. Place the sauna in your home or yard and invite up to three buddies to hop in. Cool off on one of two exterior benches when you need a break. Choose between rustic fir, rustic red cedar, and onyx-stained hem fir wood.

Durasage Lightweight Portable Personal Steam Sauna

  • Steam sauna
  • Indoor
  • 28.5 in. W x 33.5 in. D x 39 in. H

 
For those on a budget, there’s the Durasage steam sauna. It’s portable, lightweight, and features an easy setup tent-like design. Sit inside on the foldable chair (included) and let the 800-watt steam generator do its work. The internal temperature ranges from 110 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Zippered openings at the top allow your head and hands to be free, so you can read or use your phone while you steam.

SereneLife Portable Full-Size Infrared Sauna

  • Infrared heat
  • Indoor
  • 16 in. W x 7 in. D x 43 in. H

 
For another budget-friendly pick, check out the SereneLife infrared sauna. This portable fabric and metal alloy unit features a clear zip-open door and a clear plastic window in the back. Sit on the folding chair (included) and soak in the soothing heat. Or stand and utilize the integrated foot pad heating mat. If needed, you can easily tweak the temp (up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit) and timer settings from inside with the remote control (included).

References