How to buy a sauna
A checklist for spending $1,000-$15,000 without regrets. Work through it in order; each step narrows the next.
Pick the type
Traditional, infrared, full-spectrum, wood-fired or portable. This decides your heat, your wiring and your price range. If you're unsure, read What's the best sauna? first.
Measure your space and your people
Buy for the number of people who'll actually use it at once, plus one if you like to lie down. Measure floor space, ceiling height and the path from the delivery truck to the spot: some cabins arrive as panels that won't fit through narrow stairwells.
Check your electrical supply
This is the step that surprises most buyers. Many 1-2 person infrared saunas plug into a normal 120V outlet, but larger infrared cabins and most traditional heaters need a dedicated 240V circuit (often 30A or more). Ask an electrician for a quote before you order. Wood-fired saunas and tents need no power at all.
Look at the wood
Western red cedar resists rot and smells great but costs the most. Canadian hemlock is cheaper and has almost no smell, which some people with sensitivities prefer. Basswood is hypoallergenic. Thermowood (heat-treated spruce or pine) holds up well outdoors. Avoid unfinished softwoods outside unless you'll seal them.
Compare heaters
For traditional saunas, Harvia and HUUM are the two names you'll see most; both are well regarded. For infrared, compare carbon versus ceramic emitters, whether the sauna includes near and mid infrared (full spectrum) and the published top temperature. Brands that publish third-party EMF test results deserve extra credit.
Read the warranty, not the headline
"Lifetime" often means lifetime on heaters only, or a lifetime warranty capped at a set number of years in the fine print. Check what's covered (wood, heaters, controls, glass), whether labor and freight are included, and whether there's in-home service. Our rankings list each brand's terms.
Add up the full cost
Sauna price + shipping (some brands charge $900+) + electrician + foundation or pad for outdoor models + accessories. Ask whether assembly is included or how long it takes; many infrared cabins go together in an hour, while barrels can take a weekend.
Check HSA/FSA eligibility
Some saunas can be bought with HSA or FSA funds, usually with a letter of medical necessity from your doctor. Ask the brand before you order; it can save you 20-35% depending on your tax bracket.
Time the purchase
Black Friday, Memorial Day and Labor Day bring the biggest sauna sales of the year. Many brands run "sales" year-round, so compare against several weeks of prices rather than the strikethrough number.
Ready to compare? See every brand ranked or read where to buy.