How to Choose the Best Personal Sauna

for Your Home

 

Personal saunas have changed the way we enjoy thermal therapy. Unlike public saunas, which have less-than-stellar hygiene and questionable odors, personal saunas allow you to sweat out on your own terms. 

 

While personal saunas eliminate the quirks of communal sweat sessions, one can easily get confused considering the vast array of options, from infrared rays to traditional steam. 

 

To cut through the confusion, we've put together this buying guide with all the information on personal saunas to ensure your home spa is nothing short of perfect.

 

Different Types of Personal Saunas

 

When scouring the market, you'll come across the following types of personal saunas:

Traditional Saunas

Modeled after Finnish heritage, traditional saunas operate on an indirect heating approach. They can be powered by a wood-burning heater or electric heater and topped with a pile of rocks that radiate heat throughout the space. Once heated, the room temperature soars to around 150 to 195 degrees Fahrenheit, which ultimately raises your core body temperature. 

 

Research shows that sauna bathing can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress levels, boost immunity, and may aid in detoxification. 

Steam Saunas

Also known as steam rooms, these saunas boast a steam generator that hydrates the air with a constant mist, keeping the environment at nearly 100% humidity. 

 

Steam saunas run cooler than traditional saunas, usually around 110 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a different kind of therapeutic heat. The high moisture content is particularly beneficial for respiratory issues and hydrating the skin. 

Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas swap traditional heating methods for infrared lamps that directly warm your body. These saunas typically operate at lower temperatures of 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit while keeping humidity levels to the minimum, making them a great option for those who might find the higher temperatures of traditional saunas a bit much or feel out of breath in steam saunas. 

 

Since infrared saunas offer deep tissue penetration, studies show that they may help with cellular regeneration and muscle relaxation, treat dementia, and reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia and other chronic issues.

 

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Personal Sauna

Whether you prefer the intense heat of a traditional sauna for detoxification or the soothing mist of a steam sauna for sinusitis relief, it's important to consider a few things before buying any one of them. This includes:

Wood Quality

When it comes to personal saunas such as Almost Heaven Salem Standard Barrel Sauna, the choice of wood is a big deal. If the wood is of subpar quality, your sauna might get infested with mold or mildew, develop cracks with temperature fluctuations, fail to retain heat efficiently or lose its aesthetic appeal way too soon.

 

Top timber choices include cedar, hemlock, spruce, and thermally modified aspen.

 

• Cedar: Often preferred as sauna wood, cedar is naturally antibacterial and antifungal, so mold and mildew don't stand a chance. It can withstand high heat without warping. Its aromatic scent? That's just a free bonus that enhances the sauna experience. 

• Hemlock: If you're looking for an affordable and durable alternative to cedar, hemlock is your sure bet. It boasts a beautiful, smooth grain and is less likely to emit any aroma, making it a perfect choice for those with sensitive noses. 

• Spruce: Traditionally used in Finnish saunas, spruce is a reliable and resilient choice that balances cost without compromising on quality. It also has that light, fresh aesthetic that can be pretty inviting. Unlike others, this wood can withstand natural elements, making it the perfect choice for an outdoor personal sauna.

• Thermally Modified Aspen: This wood undergoes a natural process that enhances its durability, moisture resistance, and insulating properties. It is also a low-resin and hypoallergenic option for the more sensitive sauna enthusiast.

 

You should use sustainably sourced timber that combines structural integrity with a rustic touch. 

 

Warm-Up Time

 

If you've been to a public sauna, you might already know how long the waiting time can kill the vibe. That's why it's important to check the heating time of your preferred sauna before buying.

 

Traditional and steam saunas might test your patience a bit more; they generally take about 30–40 minutes to reach that sweat-inducing temperature. 

 

Infrared saunas might be a better choice if you're planning your sauna session around a tight schedule. These saunas heat up almost instantly, making them perfect for those impromptu stress-release sessions.

 

Operating Cost

Operating costs are crucial, especially if you plan on using your sauna regularly. Traditional wood-burning saunas can cost roughly $60 per week for four to five sessions. Electric heaters, while easier to manage, still use a lot of power, which might drive up the monthly cost to $500. 

 

Steam saunas require less energy, but keep in mind the cost of water, which depends on your local rates. Infrared models might be a better choice if you're looking for an energy-efficient sauna. Since these saunas come with infrared panels that directly warm up your body, you'll only have to pay $4 to $7 monthly to reap all the benefits of sauna therapy. 

 

Maintenance Requirement

 

If you're a busy parent or generally have an active lifestyle, opt for a low-maintenance sauna to enjoy a top-notch experience. 

 

The maintenance requirements of all three saunas vary. Traditional saunas require regular cleaning of the stove or heater, and you've got to keep an eye on those wood supplies. Then there's the occasional re-staining or treatment of the wood panels to keep them looking fresh and fabulous.

 

Steam saunas require a bit more elbow grease. Thanks to all that humidity, you'll need to be on top of cleaning to prevent mold and limescale build-up. While buying, ensure your sauna slopes towards a drain for easier cleanup, and consider a water softener if you've got hard water rolling through your pipes.

 

Infrared saunas are the lowest-maintenance option. However, to avoid pesky sweat odors, you will want to keep the infrared panels free of dust and ensure proper ventilation.

 

Installation

 

Bringing your sauna home is exciting, but let's talk about installation. Traditional saunas might require a bit more work and space, especially if you're going for that authentic wood-fired experience. Think about ventilation, too. 

 

Steam saunas need waterproofing measures and, of course, a reliable water source for that glorious steam. Infrared saunas like Dynamic Sauna Barcelona Edition DYN-6106-01 offer the plug-and-play solution, often requiring just a standard electrical outlet to get you started. 

 

Before buying, consider your space and your DIY skills — and maybe keep a professional's number handy, just in case.

 

Additional Features

 

Modern saunas come with a variety of bells and whistles. The possibilities are endless, from Bluetooth speakers and chromotherapy lighting to customizable controls and automatic timers. 

 

Some of these add-ons are quite budget-friendly, but others might drive up the cost, so you must explore your options before splurging on the accessories.

 

FAQs

How long should you sit in a personal sauna?

 

When using a personal sauna, it's recommended to start with 10 to 15 minutes and gradually increase to 20 to 30 minutes as your body adjusts. Always listen to your body and stay hydrated.

 

Is a home sauna worth it?

 

Absolutely, investing in a home sauna can be worthwhile. It offers convenience, promotes relaxation, and provides numerous health benefits, such as improved circulation and detoxification. You should consider your lifestyle and wellness goals to determine its value.

 

How much does a single sauna cost?

 

The cost of a single sauna varies widely based on its type and features. Generally, prices range from $1,000 to $5,000. High-end models with advanced features may cost more.

 

Do saunas use a lot of electricity?

 

Saunas, especially larger models, can consume a significant amount of electricity. However, many modern saunas are designed to be energy-efficient. The actual usage depends on factors like the sauna's size, type, and frequency.

 

Why Choose GRIM PARENT LIMITED for Your Personal Sauna

 

GRIM PARENT LIMITED is a reliable retailer offering top-of-the-line personal saunas that can be installed indoors and outdoors, depending on your space. 

 

You can even use our sauna finder quiz to narrow your options. Do you have questions or need help deciding? No problem! Just contact us to chat with our sauna experts.