Types of Saunas: Your Guide to Indoor, Outdoor, Infrared, Steam & More
If you’re just starting your sauna journey or considering an upgrade, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. From traditional setups to high-tech portable solutions, there’s a sauna type for every space, budget, and lifestyle. This guide breaks down the most popular types of saunas, how they work, pros and cons, and who they’re best for—so you can choose with confidence.
1. Traditional Finnish Sauna (Dry Sauna)
This is the classic dry sauna most people picture. Heated with a wood-burning or electric sauna heater, it operates at high temperatures (150–220°F) with low humidity. Users can toss water on heated stones to create bursts of steam.
- ✅ Best for: Deep sweating, relaxation, and traditionalists
- ✅ Setup: Indoor or outdoor
- ✅ Popular brands: *Almost Heaven Saunas*
- ❌ Cons: Takes time to heat up; not ideal for small spaces
2. Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas use light waves to heat your body directly rather than heating the air. They operate at lower temperatures (120–140°F) but still promote intense sweating and detoxification. *Explore infrared sauna benefits →*
- ✅ Best for: Detox, joint/muscle pain relief, lower-heat preference
- ✅ Setup: Indoor
- ✅ Common in: Spas, wellness centers, home health rooms
- ❌ Cons: Lacks the traditional sauna feel; doesn’t allow for steam bursts
3. Steam Sauna (Steam Room)
Technically a steam room, this type floods the space with near-100% humidity using a steam generator. The temperature is usually lower (110–120°F), but the intense humidity creates a heavy sweat.
- ✅ Best for: Skin hydration, sinuses, respiratory support
- ✅ Setup: Indoor, tiled or acrylic enclosure required
- ⚠️ Caution: Requires rigorous cleaning to prevent mold
- ❌ Cons: Not ideal for wood surfaces; can feel claustrophobic
4. Outdoor Sauna
Outdoor saunas offer a rustic, nature-immersive experience. Popular in cabins, backyards, or lakeside retreats. They’re typically wood-fired or electric and built from cedar or spruce.
- ✅ Best for: Nature lovers, off-grid living, cabin owners
- ✅ Styles: Barrel, cube, shed-style
- ✅ Popular brand to explore: *Almost Heaven Sauna*
- ❌ Cons: Exposure to weather can lead to discoloration or exterior buildup from rain, dust, and pollen
5. Portable Sauna
Portable saunas are compact, foldable setups that use infrared panels or steam generators. They often look like zippered tents with head and arm holes—perfect for apartment dwellers or budget-conscious users.
- ✅ Best for: Small spaces, convenience, first-time users
- ✅ Types: Infrared tent, steam box, infrared sauna blanket
- ✅ Easy to store and travel with
- ❌ Cons: Limited heat distribution and durability; not as immersive
6. Sauna Blanket
A sauna blanket is a personal infrared wrap that lets you sweat while lying down. It's popular for post-workout recovery, weight loss, and detox routines. No installation required—just plug in and go.
- ✅ Best for: Portability, budget-friendly detox, fitness recovery
- ✅ Setup: Plug-in anywhere
- ✅ Used at home or in wellness studios
- ❌ Cons: May feel cramped or less sanitary without regular cleaning
7. Barrel Sauna
Shaped like a barrel, this charming outdoor sauna style is designed to heat quickly and circulate air efficiently. Made with thick wood staves and often fitted with glass doors for ambiance.
- ✅ Best for: Stylish outdoor sauna setups
- ✅ Setup: Outdoor, wood or electric heat
- ✅ Aesthetic and functional
- ❌ Cons: Heat rises and pools at the curved ceiling top, where no one sits—can lead to uneven heating
8. Custom Indoor Sauna
For those ready to invest, a custom-built indoor sauna lets you tailor the size, wood type, and heat source to your exact needs. You’ll often see these installed in luxury homes, gyms, or spas.
- ✅ Best for: Homeowners, long-term use, aesthetic control
- ✅ Can be dry, steam, or infrared
- ⚠️ Requires professional installation
- ❌ Cons: High upfront cost; permanent space commitment
Choosing the Right Sauna for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right sauna depends on your space, budget, and personal wellness goals. If you plan to sweat often, remember that any sauna—portable or premium—requires consistent sauna maintenance to stay clean and safe. *Learn how to clean your sauna properly →*
Looking to maintain your sauna with minimal effort? Our plant-based sauna cleaner keeps your space fresh and wood protected. *Shop the cleaner now →*