The 9 Best Home Saunas Reviewed by Experts to Step Up Your Wellness Routine

With a home sauna, you can take advantage of all the potential health benefits of heat therapy — 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, we researched the best home saunas on the market and spoke to six medical experts to get their take on the different types of sauna out there. 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

When to Consult Your Doctor

People with certain heart conditions, those older than 65 and younger than 16, pregnant people, those taking medication, or people who have other health concerns should speak to their doctor before using a sauna. Dehydration can be a concern when using a sauna, so drinking plenty of water before and after a sauna session is recommended.

Sauna

Best Splurge

Sunlighten mPulse Discover Smart Sauna

Pros

  • Touchscreen control panel, LED light panels
  • Chromotherapy lighting
  • Six wellness program options
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Mobile app
  • HSA, FSA-eligible

Cons

  • Priciest on our list
  • Requires a large space
  • Requires dedicated circuit and outlet

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 140 degrees F
  • Capacity: 4 people
  • Dimensions: 70.6 x 78.5 x 70.6 inches (width by height by depth)
  • Warranty: 7 years on cabinetry and heaters; 3 years on controls; 1 year on glass doors and audio

Sunlighten, a reputable sauna brand and a staple on multiple best home-sauna lists, is a top recommendation from Lauren Thayer, RN, of the RN Writer, and Mindy Pelz, a doctor of chiropractic and the author of The Reset Factor. The four-person mPulse Discover in particular has garnered rave reviews from wellness bloggers. While it’s one of the priciest options in its product line, the bells and whistles make it a standout.

Made from fragrant basswood or eucalyptus, the mPulse Discover offers full-spectrum infrared heating along with chromotherapy (color therapy) lighting and an integrated Blaupunkt sound system. Customized presets let you select specific blends of infrared and red light therapy. 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
  • Quality craftsmanship
  • User-friendly design 

Cons

  • Requires a lot of space
  • Energy consumption may be higher because of powerful heaters
  • Dedicated electrical setup for optimal performance

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 165 degrees F
  • Capacity: 2 people
  • Dimensions: 45.4 x 70.3 x 39.9 inches (width by height by depth)
  • 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 decor, 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.

Sauna

Best Dry Sauna

Radiant Health Saunas Elite Series EC-4H

Pros

  • Large Carbon Flow far-infrared 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
  • Pricey
  • Lack of financing options
  • Dedicated electrical setup for optimal performance

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 140 degrees F
  • Capacity: 4 people
  • Dimensions: 60 x 77 x 60 inches (width by height by depth)
  • Warranty: Limited 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,” says Mike Silverman, a certified personal trainer in Bethesda, Maryland. “This can enhance the feeling of heat on the skin and promote sweating.” Radiant Health saunas are his top pick for the best dry sauna because of its 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.

Sauna

Best Sauna at Costco

Dynamic Bergamo 4-Person Indoor Low EMF FAR Infrared Sauna

Pros

  • Low EMF emissions
  • Eight heating panels
  • Music system with two speakers and Bluetooth capability
  • User-friendly features
  • Quick heating time, 30 percent faster than saunas with ceramic panels

Cons

  • Limited information on testing and certifications
  • Heat distribution could be less satisfying than traditional saunas

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 140 degrees F
  • Capacity: 4 people
  • Dimensions: 70 x 75 (with additional 4.4-inch overhang) x 42 inches (width by height by depth)
  • 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.

Made from reforested Canadian hemlock, the Bergamo 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.

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 four people. If you’re not quite ready to drop a few mortgage payments on a home sauna, this is a solid (slightly) budget-friendlier option.

Best Steam Sauna

Redwood Outdoors Barrel Sauna

Pros

  • Barrel design for even heat distribution
  • Can choose from three different heater types
  • High max temperature
  • Durable Thermowood construction

Cons

  • Thermowood may release an odor and change color when heated
  • Requires specific maintenance to prevent mold and mildew growth
Redwood Outdoors offers a monthly payment plan for qualified customers through affirm.

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 190 degrees F
  • Capacity: 6 people
  • Dimensions: 71 x 76.5 x 72.75 inches (width by height by depth)
  • Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

Designed for outdoor sauna bathing, this sauna features a traditional 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 two different Harvia heaters. The KIP is a traditional Finnish wall-mounted electric heater; the Cilindro is a cylindrical electric heater that holds 200 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.

Sauna

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 7 far infrared 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
SunRay offers a monthly payment plan for qualified customers through Bread Pay.

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 140 degrees F
  • Capacity: 3 people
  • Dimensions: 72 x 87 x 47 inches (width by height by depth)
  • Warranty: 7 years on structure; 1 year on heaters and electronics

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 Plus

$1428 at Amazon

Pros

  • Portable compact design
  • Carrying case included
  • Reaches high temperatures
  • Offers full-spectrum infrared radiation
  • Includes red light therapy, grounding, and negative ions
  • Made from VOC-free materials 

Cons

  • Space limited to one person
  • Takes up indoor floor space unless folded after use

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 170 degrees F
  • Capacity: 1 person
  • Exterior dimensions: 33 x 46 x 33 inches (width by height by depth)
  • Warranty: 2-year full manufacturer's warranty

Portable saunas are inexpensive, but reviews are often riddled with complaints about cheap materials and off-gassing odors. The Thera360 Plus, 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 relief of 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 at Vibrant Health in Greenland, New Hampshire. “One of the main reasons I prefer this brand is its 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 Thera360Plus leaves your head 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.

Sauna

Best Sauna for Multiple People

Renu Therapy Rusticus 4–6 Person Indoor Sauna

Pros

  • Accommodates up to 6 people with multiple seat levels
  • Durable cedar or fir construction
  • Includes both dry and steam heat
  • Reaches 185 degrees F in about one hour
  • Built-in wall controls 

Cons

  • Requires significant space
  • Dedicated electrical setup for optimal performance
Renu Therapy offers a monthly payment plan for qualified customers through affirm.

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 185 degrees F
  • Capacity: 6 people
  • Exterior dimensions: 83¼ x 79⅜ x 72¼ inches (width by height by depth)
  • 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 185 degrees F in about 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.

It comes in either aromatic cedar or fir, and 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 40 amp service, so you may also need to enlist the help of an electrician.

Sauna

Best Affordable Sauna

SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro

Pros

  • Made with nontoxic polyester, silicone, and stainless steel
  • Includes biohacking consultation for optimal use
  • Portable foot panel enhances spa-like experience

Cons

  • Space limited to one person only
  • Heat distribution may be less satisfying than traditional saunas
  • Requires specific maintenance and cleaning 

Key Specs

  • Max temperature: 130 degrees F
  • Capacity: 1 person
  • Dimensions: 35 x 74 x 35 inches (width by height by depth)
  • Warranty: 1-year full warranty

The SaunaBox is a unique sauna unit crafted from non-toxic polyester, silicone, and stainless steel, 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 review of research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2018 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 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.

Comparison Table

Best For
Max Temp
Capacity
Dimensions
Splurge
140 degrees F
4 people
70.6 x 78.5 x 70.6 inches
Infrared
165 degrees F
2 people
45.4 x 70.3 x 39.9 inches
Dry
140 degrees F
4 people
60 x 77 x 60 inches
at Costco
140 degrees F
3 people
60 x 75 x 45 inches
Steam
190 degrees F
6 people
71 x 72.75 x 76.5 inches
Outdoor
140 degrees F
3 people
72 x 87 x 47 inches
Portable
170 degrees F
1 person
33 x 46 x 33 inches
Multiple People
185 degrees F
6 people
83¼ x 79⅜ x 72¼ inches
Affordable
130 degrees F
1 person
35 x 74 x 35 inches

How We Chose the Best Home Saunas

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 maintain and keep clean at home?
  • How durable is the sauna?
  • Are the dimensions reasonable for home use?

Here are the experts we consulted:

  • Lauren Thayer, RN, owner of the RN Writer
  • Mindy Pelz, DC, author of The Reset Factor
  • Mike Silverman, certified personal trainer
  • Morgan Lucas, ND, naturopathic doctor
  • Maggie Berghoff, functional medicine nurse practitioner
  • Tom Ingegno, doctor of acupuncture and Chinese medicine

What to Look for When Buying 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

  • 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 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,” says Tom Ingegno, a doctor of acupuncture and Chinese medicine practicing in Baltimore. “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 of a durable, insulating fabric. “You want to ensure that the sauna you’re looking to purchase is made with materials that are nontoxic,” says Thayer. “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.”

What Are 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.

 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 may reduce all-cause mortality, says Ingegno.

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 effects on mortality risk than cardiorespiratory fitness or frequent sauna bathing alone.

FAQs

What’s the difference between dry or wet saunas and infrared saunas?
Both dry and wet saunas heat the air around you to high temperatures, while infrared saunas use infrared light to warm your body directly at lower temperatures.
The good news is that you don’t have to spend a lot of time sweating it out in a sauna to reap potential benefits — anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes is the average time frame. If you’ve never used a sauna before, start with 5 to 10 minutes, then build up to 20 minutes.
People with heart issues, such as heart disease or a recent heart attack or stroke, anyone over 65 and under 16, pregnant people, those taking medication or who have breathing conditions, such as asthma, should speak to a doctor before using a sauna.

Why Trust Everyday Health

We independently investigate and recommend products and services we believe will enrich the lives of our readers and meet their specific needs. You can trust our reviews because we do the legwork for you. Read more about why you can trust us.

Kara Wahlgren

Author
Kara Wahlgren is a New Jersey-based health and lifestyle writer whose work has appeared in Prevention, Good Housekeeping, Seventeen, Beachbody On Demand, Woman's World, and more. When she's not writing, she enjoys volleyball, traveling, photography, live music, and running half marathons (slowly).
grant-chu-bio

Grant Chu, MD

Medical Reviewer

Grant Chu, MD, is an assistant clinical professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dr. Chu is also the associate director of education at the UCLA Center for East-West Medicine, using technology to further medical education.

He is board-certified in internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is a diplomate of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

He received a bachelor's degree in neuroscience from Brown University, where he also earned his medical degree. He has a master's in acupuncture and oriental medicine from South Baylo University and a master's in business administration from the University of Illinois. He completed his residency in internal medicine at the University of California in Los Angeles and a fellowship at the Center for East-West Medicine at UCLA.

He has held academic appointments at the University of California in Irvine and the University of Queensland in Australia.

Daniel Oakley

Fact-Checker

Daniel Oakley is a journalist, editor, and fact-checker. He has written, edited, taught, and produced media for Dow Jones, S&P Global, IHS Markit, Third Coast Studios Magazine, and 826 National.

Oakley's path has always been a health-and-wellness-focused one. A competitive triathlete and racing fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he also spends summer weekends as an ISA-certified surf instructor and Red Cross professional water rescuer with Laru Beya Collective in Rockaway Beach, which helps kids master and delight in their own backyard — the ocean. It has taught Oakley that “optimizing body and mind” flourishes precisely at the wellspring of community.

EDITORIAL SOURCES
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
  1. Electromagnetic Fields and Cancer. American Cancer Society.
  2. Lazzam D et al. Passive Heat Therapy: The Next Hot Thing for Cardiovascular Health. The Journal of Physiology. December 14, 2016.
  3. Laukkanen JA et al. Cardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing: A Review of the Evidence. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. August 2018.
  4. Ahokas EK 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.
  5. Hussain J et al. Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. April 24, 2018.
  6. Hussain JN et al. A Hot Topic for Health: Results of the Global Sauna Survey. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. June 2019.
  7. Laukkanen T et al. Association Between Sauna Bathing and Fatal Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality Events. JAMA Internal Medicine. April 2015.
  8. Kunutsor SK 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.