So you’re thinking about adding a sauna to your home. Good call. A sauna isn’t just a luxury item—it’s a place to unwind, ease sore muscles, and steal a little quiet time from a busy week. At Sauna Shop, we’ve spent years helping people turn spare corners and empty garages into personal recovery rooms. This guide will walk you through the main types of saunas, what to consider before buying, and a few questions we hear every day.
Why Choose Our Sauna Shop?
We’re not a faceless warehouse. We’re a small team that actually uses the equipment we sell. We test every brand we carry, and we’re picky about what makes the cut. That means you get honest advice, not a sales pitch.
Science-Backed Designs & Low-EMF Technology
One of the first things people ask us about is EMF—electromagnetic fields. Every electrical device emits some level of EMF, and saunas are no exception. We choose low-EMF models because we believe in being cautious, even if the science is still evolving. The EPA notes that while high-level radiation is harmful, everyday low-level exposure is a topic of ongoing research. So we go the extra mile.
Our infrared saunas use carbon fiber panels that emit under 3 milligauss at the surface. We verify this with independent lab reports, and we’re happy to share them. You can read more about EMF and health from the EPA if you want the full picture. But the short version is: we design for peace of mind.
Fast Shipping & White-Glove Assembly Support
Nothing kills a purchase like a two-month wait. Most of our saunas ship within 5–7 business days, and we’ll send you tracking the moment it leaves the warehouse. If you’re in the continental U.S., you’ll usually have your sauna within a week.
Assembly can be tricky, especially for larger units. That’s why we offer white-glove service. Our team will unbox the sauna, carry it to your chosen room, assemble it, and level it. You don’t need to lift a finger. We also include step-by-step video guides if you prefer the DIY route. Either way, we’re a phone call away if you get stuck.
Shop by Sauna Type
There’s no single “best” sauna—it depends on your space, your budget, and how you like to sweat. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories.
Infrared Saunas (Full-Spectrum & Carbon)
Infrared saunas use heaters that emit infrared light, which warms your body directly rather than heating the air around you. The temperature typically sits between 120–140°F, which feels gentler than a traditional sauna. Many people find they can stay in longer and sweat just as much.
Full-spectrum models include near, mid, and far infrared wavelengths. Carbon heaters are a type of far-infrared emitter that spreads heat evenly across the panels. Both are efficient and run on a standard 110V outlet, so you can put one in a bedroom, home gym, or even a finished basement. A 2-person infrared sauna takes up about 4×4 feet of floor space—roughly the size of a large armchair.
Traditional Wood-Burning & Electric Saunas
If you love the dry heat of a classic Finnish sauna, traditional is the way to go. These units heat the air to 150–195°F, and you can pour water over the rocks to create steam and raise the humidity. Wood-burning stoves give you that authentic campfire feel, but they need proper venting and a fireproof base. Electric heaters are easier to install and more common in homes.
The trade-off is power. Most electric saunas need a dedicated 220V circuit, which means hiring an electrician unless you already have one in place. But if you’ve got the space and the wiring, nothing beats that intense, dry heat.
Cold Plunge Tubs & Contrast Therapy Kits
Cold plunging has exploded in popularity, and for good reason. Alternating between hot and cold—contrast therapy—can help with muscle soreness and circulation. ACE Fitness has a solid overview of contrast therapy if you want the research. We carry inflatable and fixed cold plunge tubs that keep the water between 45–55°F. Some of our kits pair a sauna with a plunge tub, so you can go hot to cold without leaving the room.
How to Choose the Right Sauna for Your Space
Before you buy, measure your space and think about how you’ll use the sauna. Here’s a quick guide.
Size & Capacity Guide
Saunas come in sizes from compact 1-person units to roomy 6-person cabins. A 1-person infrared sauna is about 36×36 inches—tight but workable. A 2-person is the most popular choice for couples or solo users who want to stretch out. If you plan to lie down, look for a model with a full-length bench. For families or serious entertainers, a 4-person or larger unit is worth the extra square footage.
Don’t forget ceiling height. Most saunas are around 75 inches tall, so they fit under standard 8-foot ceilings. But if you’re installing in a basement with low ductwork, measure twice.
Power Requirements & Installation Tips
This is the least glamorous but most important step. Plug-and-play infrared saunas just need a regular 110V outlet. That’s it. You can move them from room to room if you want.
Traditional electric saunas need 220V, which is the same as an electric dryer. You’ll need a dedicated circuit and a licensed electrician to run the wiring. Wood-burning stoves require a chimney or vent pipe, plus a heat shield on the wall. We always ask about your electrical setup before recommending a model, so you don’t end up with a surprise installation bill.
Customer Favorites & Best Sellers
We’ve seen a lot of saunas come and go. These are the ones our customers keep coming back for.
- The 2-Person Low-EMF Infrared Sauna – Our best seller. Fits in a corner, runs on 110V, and has dual benches plus a Bluetooth speaker. Perfect for small spaces.
- The 4-Person Full-Spectrum Cabin – A step up in size and features. Includes chromotherapy lighting and a built-in sound system. Great for families.
- The 3-Person Wood-Burning Barrel Sauna – For the purists. Made from cedar, heats up in about 30 minutes, and looks great in a backyard.
- The Inflatable Cold Plunge Tub – Easy to set up and break down. Keeps water cold for days and fits through a standard doorway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between infrared and traditional saunas?
A: Traditional saunas heat the air to 150–195°F using wood or electric heaters. Infrared saunas use low-heat panels (120–140°F) to warm your body directly. Both can help you relax and recover. Infrared is often preferred for lower energy use and easier installation, while traditional saunas offer a more intense, humid heat.
Q: Do I need professional installation for a home sauna?
A: Most of our infrared saunas arrive pre-wired and only need a standard 110V outlet. Traditional electric saunas require a dedicated 220V circuit, which usually means hiring an electrician. We include step-by-step guides and video tutorials with every order. Optional white-glove assembly is available at checkout.
Q: How much electricity does a sauna use per month?
A: It depends on how often you use it and how well your space is insulated. Most people see an increase of $15–$40 per month. Our low-EMF, dual-zone heating models are designed to be efficient, so you can warm up the bench before you step in without heating the whole room.
Q: Are your saunas low-EMF and safe for long-term use?
A: Yes. All infrared models feature certified low-EMF (<3 mG) carbon fiber panels and grounded shielding. We publish third-party EMF test results and comply with FCC and CE safety standards. If you have specific health concerns, we recommend talking to your doctor—but we’re confident in the safety of our products.
Q: What warranty and customer support do you offer?
A: Every sauna includes a 5-year structural warranty, 2-year electronics coverage, and lifetime technical support. We also offer hassle-free returns within 30 days and dedicated post-purchase onboarding. If you have a question after the sale, we’re here.
Start Your Home Wellness Journey Today
You don’t need a dedicated home gym or a huge budget to enjoy a sauna. You just need the right setup for your space. Whether you’re leaning toward a compact infrared cabin or a full-size traditional sauna, we’re happy to help you figure it out.
Tell us about your room size, electrical setup, and how you plan to use it. We’ll recommend a few options that actually fit your life—and your budget. No pressure, no pushy sales tactics.
[Request a quote today] and we’ll get back to you within one business day. Your future self will thank you.
Sources
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/sauna-use-and-heart-health
https://www.epa.gov/radtown/radiofrequency-and-microwave-radiation-health-effects
https://www.acefitness.org/resources/pros/expert-articles/contrast-therapy/
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heaters
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