8 Best Home Saunas We Tested in 2024

The 8 Best Home Saunas to Step Up Your Wellness Routine

Want to transform a corner of your living room, home gym, or backyard into your own personal day spa? Home saunas offer all the potential health benefits of heat therapy, with no spa membership required. And you can reap those benefits anytime it’s convenient for you, whether you’re soothing sore muscles after a workout or de-stressing after a long day.

If you’ve already started searching for a home sauna, you know there are endless options to choose from — and they can be pricey, so you want to make sure you’re buying a sauna that’s built to last and suits your needs. Before you make the investment, here’s what you need to know about the benefits, the most important features, and our picks for the best home saunas.

The Best Home Saunas

Best Overall

Sunlighten mPulse dISCOVER Smart Sauna

Price $12,599 and up

Max temperature 140 degrees F

Capacity 4 people

Dimensions 70.6" wide x 78.5" high x 70.6" deep

Warranty Limited lifetime (7 years) on cabinetry and heaters; 3 years on controls; 1 year on stereo

Sunlighten, a reputable sauna brand and a staple on multiple best-home-sauna lists, was a top recommendation from Lauren Thayer, a registered nurse at Health Canal, and Mindy Pelz, DC, a holistic health expert and the author of The Reset Factor. The mPulse in particular has garnered rave reviews from wellness bloggers around the web. While it’s one of the priciest options in their product line, the bells and whistles make it a standout.

Made from fragrant basswood, eucalyptus, or cedar, the mPulse offers full-spectrum infrared heating along with chromotherapy lighting and an integrated Blaupunkt sound system. Customized presets let you select specific blends of infrared and red light therapy adapted to specific health goals, like immunity or muscle recovery. If you’re looking for a sauna that feels like a true home sanctuary, this is a worthy splurge.

Best Infrared Home Sauna

Sun Home Equinox

Pros

  • Advanced infrared technology with full-spectrum heating
  • Low EMF/ELF shielding
  • Eco-friendly materials
  • User-friendly design

Cons

  • Pricey compared to some other models
  • Requires a lot of space
  • Energy consumption may be higher due to powerful heaters
  • Dedicated electrical setup for optimal performance

Price $6,399

Sun Home Equinox offers a monthly payment plan for qualified customers through affirm. Monthly payments start at $222.

Max temperature 165 degrees F

Capacity 2 people

Dimensions 50.9" wide x 77.7" high x 45.9" deep

Warranty Limited lifetime warranty (7 years) on cabinetry and heaters; 3 years on controls

Indoor saunas aren’t always the most aesthetically pleasing addition to your home décor, so we have to give this sauna bonus points for its eye-catching black louvered exterior. Made from solid eucalyptus wood, the framework features tongue-and-groove construction for easy assembly, so you can soak up the health benefits in no time.

Beyond the elegant design, the Equinox also delivers on functionality. It features four far-infrared heaters and two full-spectrum heaters, along with chromotherapy lighting, a programmable 24-hour timer, and built-in Bluetooth surround sound.

Best Dry Sauna

Radiant Health Saunas Elite Series EC-4H

Pros

  • Large carbon fiber heaters
  • Independent VOC lab testing ensures non-toxicity
  • Low EMF levels
  • Heated floor with ceramic tiles
  • Delayed start option

Cons

  • Takes time to heat up to 130 degrees F
  • Pricey
  • Lack of financing options
  • Dedicated electrical setup for optimal performance
Price $7,170

Max temperature 140 degrees F

Capacity 4 people

Dimensions 60" wide x 77" high x 60" deep

Warranty Lifetime warranty on heaters and wood; 5 years on electrical components

“Dry saunas, also known as Finnish saunas, offer a higher temperature with lower humidity,” Mike Silverman, a certified personal trainer and a master trainer at LivingFit says. “This can enhance the feeling of heat on the skin and promote sweating, which helps in detoxification.” Radiant Health saunas are his top pick for the best dry sauna because of their high-quality materials and safety controls. “It's essential to invest wisely in a sauna that meets both your health and safety needs,” Silverman adds.

The Radiant Health Elite Series EC-4H is made from kiln-dried Canadian hemlock and features a low-EMF Carbon Flow far-infrared heating system with digital controls, color light therapy, and ceiling-mounted speakers. A standout feature is its corner design, which fits four people comfortably while keeping a relatively small five-foot-square footprint.

Best Sauna for Sale at Costco

Dynamic Gracia Infrared

Pros

  • Low EMF emissions
  • Durable construction
  • User-friendly features
  • Quick heating time, 30 percent faster than saunas with ceramic panels

Cons

  • Wide range of models may make it hard to decide
  • Limited information on testing and certifications
  • Heat distribution could be less satisfying compared to traditional saunas
Price $1,699

Max temperature 140 degrees F

Capacity 1–2 people

Dimensions 40" wide x 75" high x 36" deep

Warranty 5 years on the electronics; 1 year on wood; plus Costco’s return policy

For the most part, the overlap between the best home saunas and the cheapest home saunas is near zero. “Be wary of very inexpensive saunas, as they’re likely low-quality and won’t last. They may even be a fire hazard,” Pelz says.

A notable exception, however, is the Dynamic brand of saunas at Costco. These saunas get rave reviews from customers across the board, and they also earned a stamp of approval from Thayer. The Gracia stands out as one of the best budget saunas on the market, thanks to its quality materials and a surprising suite of features.

Made from reforested Canadian hemlock, the Gracia features energy-efficient, low-EMF, far-infrared heat technology that can reach a maximum of 140 degrees F — although the ideal operating temperature is a bit lower, between 120 and 130 degrees F. You’ll also find thoughtful features like chromotherapy lighting, a reading lamp, a Bluetooth music connection, and an LED control panel for the temperature and timer.

If you’re not sure how much square footage you’re ready to dedicate to a sauna, the Gracia’s compact footprint is a big plus. It can be assembled by two people in under an hour and plugs into a standard 120V outlet. Inside, the bench seating offers plenty of room to seat one person comfortably — or two if you’re cozy. If you’re not quite ready to drop a few mortgage payments on a home sauna, this is a solid budget-friendlier option.

Best Steam Sauna

Redwood Outdoors Cedar Barrel Sauna

Pros

  • Stylish design
  • Durable cedar construction
  • Offers a traditional Finnish sauna experience

Cons

  • Cedar wood may release an odor when heated
  • Cedar wood changes color when heated, turning grey
  • Requires specific maintenance to prevent mold and mildew growth

Price $6,599

Redwood Outdoors offers a monthly payment plan for qualified customers through affirm. Monthly payments start at $229.

Max temperature Varies

Capacity 6 people

Dimensions 72.75" wide x 76.5" high x 71" deep

Warranty 1-year limited warranty

Designed for outdoor sauna bathing, this cedar sauna features a traditional Scandinavian barrel design that distributes heat evenly for maximum efficiency — plus it’ll give your backyard instant mountain-retreat vibes.

One standout feature is the ability to choose from three different Harvia heaters. The KIP is a traditional Finnish wall-mounted electric heater; the Cilindro is a cylindrical electric heater that holds 160 pounds of sauna rocks; and the M3 Wood Stove pairs with a chimney kit for a timeless off-the-grid experience. If you’re looking for a steam sauna specifically, the Cilindro will deliver the most intense humidity of these three options.

Along with the heater, each sauna kit comes with a heater guard, water bucket, ladle, sauna rocks, and seating benches — and not much else. The design of this outdoor sauna is rooted in tradition and authenticity, so it’s not loaded with high-tech extras. But the trade-off is a no-frills sauna that’s designed to last up to 20 years.

Best Outdoor Sauna

SunRay Grandby Outdoor Infrared Sauna

Pros

  • Sealed weatherproof cabin for outdoor use
  • Comfortably seats 3 people with wide bench seating
  • Quick heating with 8 ceramic heaters reaching up to 140 degrees F
  • Oxygen ionization system for air purification
  • Convenient features like Bluetooth and cup holders

Cons

  • Not as powerful as some outdoor saunas
  • Space requirements may need consideration
  • Higher price
  • Dedicated electrical setup for optimal performance

Price $3,490

SunRay offers a monthly payment plan for qualified customers through Bread Pay. Monthly payments start at $161.

Max temperature 140 degrees F

Capacity 3 people

Dimensions 69" wide x 83" high x 47" deep

Warranty 7 years for defects in materials and workmanship; 1 year on radio

With a weatherproof cabin and shingled roof, this patio-size sauna — named the “Best Outdoor Sauna” by Forbes — is designed to weather the elements. Made from Canadian hemlock, the Grandby features comfy bench seating for up to three people and eight ceramic heaters that quickly bring the sauna up to temperature.

The price tag is relatively reasonable compared with many outdoor saunas, but the Grandby still offers some essential tech extras — like recessed lighting, a Bluetooth speaker system, an LED control panel, and an oxygen ionization system for air purification. Not a bargain, but not quite an all-out splurge, it’s one of the best values on the market.

Best Portable Sauna

Therasage Thera360

Pros

  • Reaches high temperatures
  • Offers full-spectrum infrared radiation
  • Includes red light therapy, grounding, and negative ions
  • Made from VOC-free materials with no off-gassing

Cons

  • Limited space for one person only
  • Restricts lying down or stretching out
  • Takes up indoor floor space unless folded after use
Price $1,197

Max temperature 170 degrees F

Capacity 1 person

Dimensions 33" wide x 46" high x 37" deep

Warranty 1-year limited manufacturer's warranty

Portable saunas are inexpensive, but reviews are often riddled with complaints about cheap materials and off-gassing odors. The Thera360, however, is made of nontoxic, easy-to-clean bamboo and features full-spectrum infrared heating panels with tourmaline gemstones. Reviewers say it’s easy to assemble and helpful for relieving chronic pain.

“I am a dedicated user of the Therasage portable sauna and incorporate it into my daily routine,” says Morgan Lucas, ND, a naturopathic doctor who specializes in regenerative medicine and works with Immunocologie Skincare. “One of the main reasons I prefer this brand is its ability to provide full-spectrum capabilities, combining the advantages of both far-infrared and near-infrared therapy. Additionally, it includes a red light panel, offering a comprehensive three-in-one experience. The Therasage sauna is renowned for its excellent quality, low EMF emissions, compact design, and quick heat-up time. I absolutely love mine.”

Plus, while many portable saunas are designed to be full-enclosure tents, the Thera360 leaves your head and hands free, which may be a more comfortable experience for some people. If you need a sauna you can fold up and store out of sight, this option puts a luxe spin on the typical portable sauna.

Best Sauna for Multiple People

Renu Therapy Rusticus 6-Person Indoor Sauna

Pros

  • Accommodates up to 6 people with multiple seat levels
  • Durable rustic cedar construction
  • LED light bar

Cons

  • Higher price compared to smaller models
  • Requires significant space
  • Potential higher energy consumption
  • Dedicated electrical setup for optimal performance

Price $7,869

Renu Therapy offers a monthly payment plan for qualified customers through affirm. Monthly payments start at $273.

Max temperature 195 degrees F

Capacity 6 people

Dimensions 85" wide x 77" high x 63" deep

Warranty Limited lifetime warranty on the sauna room; 5-year limited lifetime warranty on the heater and its components; 1-year warranty on the heating elements

Want to share the benefits of sauna bathing with your favorite people? This roomy sauna seats up to six people on two levels of bench seating, so you have plenty of space for guests.

While the Rusticus has topped several lists of the best steam saunas, it can also be used as a dry sauna, with a stainless steel heater that reaches up to 195 degrees F in less than an hour — the hottest temperature rating on this list. To use it as a steam sauna, just ladle water onto the sauna stones for a burst of humidity.

Made from aromatic cedar, the tongue-and-groove lumber helps to simplify installation, but you’ll still need some patience and an extra set of hands. Expect it to take around six hours for two people to assemble it. The heaters require 30 amp service, so you may also need to enlist the help of an electrician during the process.

Most Affordable

Saunabox SmartSteam Kit

Pros

  • Made with non-toxic, durable bamboo
  • Includes biohacking consulting for optimal use
  • Portable foot panel enhances spa-like experience

Cons

  • Limited space for one person only
  • Heat distribution may be less satisfying than traditional saunas
  • Requires specific maintenance and cleaning
Price $349

Max temperature 130 degrees F

Capacity 1 person

Dimensions 35" wide x 74" high x 35" deep

Warranty one year full warranty

The SaunaBox is a unique sauna unit crafted from non-toxic bamboo, known for its durability and eco-friendly properties. This portable sauna offers a luxurious spa-like experience with a foot panel for added comfort. It’s designed to provide potential health benefits such as detoxification, relaxation, improved circulation, and potential weight loss. A 2018 review of research in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that regular sauna use enhanced excretions of toxins through increased sweating.

Customer reviews of the SaunaBox highlight its innovative design and use of sustainable materials like bamboo. Users appreciate the portability of the unit and the convenience it offers for at-home sauna sessions. Customers have positively noted the detoxification benefits and relaxation experienced in the sauna. While some reviewers mention the higher price point for a single-person sauna as a drawback, many find the quality and features of the SaunaBox worth the investment. Overall, customer feedback suggests that the SaunaBox delivers on its promises of a rejuvenating sauna experience with health-enhancing benefits.

Why You Can Trust Us

We spoke to experts in physiology and holistic health, combed through customer reviews across the internet, and analyzed popular home saunas with our own multi-point methodology to answer these questions:

  • Are the materials used high quality, and is the unit well constructed?
  • Does the company offer a good warranty (at least one year)?
  • Are verified customer ratings high (4.5–5 stars)?
  • Is the sauna recommended by an expert?
  • Does the heater use common voltage (available in most homes) or does it require extra?
  • Does it require assembly, and if it does, how easy is it?
  • How well does it heat and maintain that temperature?
  • How easy is it to keep clean and maintain at home?
  • How durable is the sauna?
  • Are the dimensions reasonable for home use?

Meet Our Experts

  • Lauren Thayer, RN, a registered nurse at Health Canal
  • Mindy Pelz, a doctor of chiropractic medicine and a holistic health expert
  • Mike Silverman, a certified personal trainer and master trainer at LivingFit
  • Morgan Lucas, ND, a naturopathic doctor who specializes in regenerative medicine
  • Maggie Berghoff, a functional medicine nurse practitioner

The Benefits of Heat Therapy

Sauna bathing has been a Finnish tradition for thousands of years, and for good reason — sweating it out in a sauna is a great way to unwind and stay warm. But emerging research suggests saunas may also support physical and mental health in a few key ways.

Heart Health

“Saunas induce a response called passive heat therapy, which [research] has been shown to improve circulation and enhance cardiovascular function,” says Silverman. “This effect can be particularly beneficial for those with hypertension or other cardiovascular issues.”

“Saunas induce a passive cardiovascular workout by raising the body's core temperature, increasing heart rate, and dilating blood vessels,” Lucas adds. “This mimics the effects of moderate-intensity exercise and can help improve cardiovascular function and strengthen the heart muscle over time.”

Pain Relief

Sitting in a sauna may help to stave off muscle soreness after a tough workout, according to research. It may also lessen pain and stiffness associated with arthritis and other chronic pain conditions, some research suggests, although additional studies are needed to determine optimal frequency and duration for targeted health effects.

“The heat generated in saunas helps to dilate blood vessels, improve blood circulation, and relax muscles,” Lucas says. “This increased blood flow promotes the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, which can aid in reducing inflammation and alleviating pain caused by conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or muscle strains.”

Better Sleep

Saunas are ideal for relaxation and stress relief, and research suggests your sweat sesh may also help you get a good night’s sleep. A survey of frequent sauna bathers found that 83 percent reported better sleep after a sauna session.

Longevity

Research suggests regular sauna use can reduce all-cause mortality by as much as 40 percent, says Tom Ingegno, a doctor of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Sauna bathing may also bolster the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. One 26-year study found that a combination of high cardiorespiratory fitness and frequent sauna bathing had more positive outcomes on mortality risk than cardiorespiratory fitness or frequent sauna bathing alone.

What to Look for in a Home Sauna

It can be costly and time-consuming to head to a spa every time you need a sauna break, so many consumers have started looking into home saunas as an alternative. If you’re one of them, you’re not alone — the sauna market is projected to grow by $12 million between 2022 and 2027.

When deciding which type of home sauna will work best for you, there are a few important factors to consider.

Type of Heat

Saunas can achieve their therapeutically high temps in three different ways.

  • Dry saunas These saunas use a heating element to heat the air, which gets trapped inside the sauna. “Overall, dry saunas are more widely used due to their increased benefits of weight loss, cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory benefits, and pain relief,” says Maggie Berghoff, a functional medicine nurse practitioner and the author of Eat to Treat: Your Three-Step Plan to Reduce Inflammation, Detoxify Your Life, and Heal Your Body.
  • Steam saunas Steam saunas use boiling water, or water poured over hot rocks, to create humidity. Steam is typically the best option for skin health and for getting relief from an upper respiratory illness, Berghoff says.
  • Infrared saunas. “Infrared saunas warm your body directly from the heat from infrared lamps using electromagnetic radiation,” Thayer says.

Temperature Range

It’s important that your home sauna reach its max temperature efficiently. But when comparing home saunas, don’t just look for the highest possible max temperature, because different types of saunas have different optimal temperatures. “Traditional saunas are the hottest, between 150 and 195 degrees F, with stones that can be splashed with water to humidify the room,” Ingegno says. “Infrared saunas have very low humidity and generally run around 140 degrees F at their maximum setting. Which is best may come down to personal preference.”

Construction

Home saunas are typically constructed from moisture-resistant hardwoods, while lightweight portable models may be made from a durable, insulating fabric. “You want to ensure that the sauna you’re looking to purchase is made with materials that are non-toxic,” Thayer says. “In addition, make sure the sauna uses tempered glass for the doors and windows, has a timer with automatic shutoff, and has an electrical certification.”

Placement

Home saunas may be designed for indoor or outdoor use, so if you’re looking to keep your sauna outdoors, be sure to choose one that can stand up to the elements. You’ll also need to make sure the nearest outlet can support the sauna’s electrical requirements. Many models are compatible with a standard 120V outlet, but some may require an upgrade to 240V.

EMFs

Infrared saunas emit electric and magnetic fields (EMFs), a type of radiation that also comes from power lines, microwaves, and computer screens. The American Cancer Society states that no link has been found between EMFs and cancer. But anyone concerned about EMF exposure may want to look for a low-EMF sauna or opt for a traditional sauna instead.

Extras

Some home saunas are outfitted with features like built-in speakers, mood lighting, aromatherapy, or chromotherapy. While these can enhance your sauna sessions, it’s up to you to decide whether they’re worth stretching your budget. “Users should be good to go as long as the unit is built well and the heating unit works,” Ingegno says. “Some may want fancy lighting or Bluetooth-enabled speakers. These are nice but add to the cost.”

FAQs

What are the benefits of saunas?
A mechanistic review published in February 2021 in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that sauna bathing is widely acknowledged as a safe practice and has become a practical method to enhance the overall well-being of individuals, particularly those in high stress occupations. Saunas may provide a range of health benefits, including improved heart health, stress reduction, muscle relaxation, better sleep quality, enhanced skin health, immune system support, potential weight loss aid, respiratory benefits, and even possible neurocognitive advantages. These benefits make saunas a valuable addition to a wellness routine, offering holistic well-being benefits for both the body and mind.
What is better: a dry sauna or infrared?
A review published in April 2018 in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that regular use of infrared or traditional Finnish saunas may offer a range of health benefits, particularly benefiting individuals with heart and joint issues, as well as athletes looking to boost their workout performance. Dry saunas heat the air around you to high temperatures, while infrared saunas use infrared light to warm your body directly at lower temperatures. Infrared saunas penetrate deeper, offering potential benefits like weight loss and detoxification, while dry saunas are traditional and may be preferred for their high heat. Both types have advantages, with infrared saunas being more efficient and comfortable for some users.
What are the benefits of a home sauna?
Having a home sauna offers a convenient way to boost health, improve skin, aid muscle recovery, and enhance mental well-being. It adds value to your property, promotes relaxation, and may provide various health benefits such as reduced inflammation, better sleep, improved cardiovascular health, better skin health, muscle recovery, mental health benefits, and overall well-being enhancement.

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.

Resources

  • Lazzam D et al. Passive Heat Therapy: The Next Hot Thing for Cardiovascular Health. Journal of Physiology. December 16, 2015.
  • Laukkanen J et al. Cardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing: A Review of the Evidence. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. August 2018.
  • Ahokas E et al. A Post-Exercise Infrared Sauna Session Improves Recovery of Neuromuscular Performance and Muscle Soreness After Resistance Exercise Training. Biology of Sport. July 2023.
  • Hussain J et al. Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. April 24, 2018.
  • Hussain J et al. A Hot Topic for Health: Results of the Global Sauna Survey. Complementary Therapeutic Medicine. June 2019.
  • Laukkanen T et al. Association Between Sauna Bathing and Fatal Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality Events. JAMA Internal Medicine. April 2015.
  • Kunutsor S et al. Joint Associations of Sauna Bathing and Cardiorespiratory Fitness on Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality Risk: A Long-Term Prospective Cohort Study. Annals of Medicine. March 2018.
  • Henderson et al. The Cardiometabolic Health Benefits of Sauna Exposure in Individuals with High-Stress Occupations. A Mechanistic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. February 2021.
Show Less