Outdoor Vs. Indoor Saunas: Which One Is Better For Your Home?

Which is better, an outdoor sauna or an indoor one? Which is better for you? Both provide amazing well-being, relaxation, and health advantages. Outdoor saunas provide a rustic haven in the outdoors, while indoor saunas offer elegance and convenience. Learn the main distinctions, benefits, and drawbacks to help you choose the ideal sauna for your house!

What is Sauna?

A sauna is a little room or enclosed area that generates heat and steam to create a warm atmosphere that promotes relaxation, perspiration, and health advantages. Wood-burning stoves, electric heaters, infrared panels, and steam generators are some ways that saunas can be heated.

Types of Saunas:

There are various sorts of saunas depending on the user’s preferences, humidity levels, and heating methods. The most prevalent kinds are listed below:

1. Traditional (Dry) Sauna:

• A sauna in this Finnish type warms the air inside a wooden room using hot stones. Steam can be produced by pouring water over the stones.

Features:

• • Heat Source: Gas heater, electric heater or wood-burning stove.
  • Temperature range: 65–90°C (150–195°F).
  • Humidity: Low (5–20%) humidity that can be raised by placing water on stones.
  • Materials: Wood (spruce, hemlock, or cedar).

Pros:

• • Offers a genuine sauna experience. 
  •  Comes in indoor and outdoor models.
  • Has the ability to convert between dry and humid heat.

Cons:

• • Preheating takes 30 to 60 minutes. 

• • It uses more energy than infrared saunas. 

• • Need enough ventilation

2. Steam Sauna (Steam Room):

In contrast to a dry sauna, a steam generator creates high humidity in a steam room. In order to withstand wetness, the space is typically tiled or composed of glass.

Features:

• • Warmth Source: Steam generator.
  • Temperature range: 38–49°C (100–120°F).
  • Humidity: High (100%).
  • Materials: acrylic, glass, and ceramic tiles (wood is not used).

Pros:

• • Excellent for hydration and skin health. 
  • Perfect for respiratory conditions (helps with asthma and congestion),
  • Feels less intense because of lower temperatures,

Cons:

• • Needs a waterproof, sealed area, 
  • If not maintained, high moisture levels might encourage the growth of mould. 
  • Heats up more slowly.

3. Infrared Sauna:

Instead of warming the surrounding air, infrared saunas heat the body directly using infrared light waves. This makes it possible to penetrate deep tissue at lower temperatures.

Features:

• • Heat Source: Near-, mid-, or far-infrared infrared panels.
  • Temperature range: 49–65°C (120–150°F).
  • Humidity: Extremely low humidity (0–10%).
  • Materials: Wood (basswood, hemlock, or cedar).

 Pros:

• • Fast heating (10–15 minutes) 
  • Higher energy efficiency compared to conventional saunas 
  • Deep tissue penetration at lower temperatures

Cons: 

• • Does not offer the traditional steam sauna experience. 
  • Usually smaller and made for one or two persons.
  • Regular maintenance is necessary for infrared panels.

4. Wood-Burning Sauna:

A traditional log cabin-style sauna that uses a wood stove to heat stones. This is the oldest and most rustic form of sauna.

Features:

• • Heat Source: Wood-burning stove.
  • Temperature: 150–200°F (65–93°C).
  • Humidity: Adjustable (by pouring water to stones).
  • Materials: Wooden cabin or structure.

Pros:

• • Off-grid compatible (no electricity required).
  • Offers a rich, organic heat.
  • Ideal for outdoor configurations.

Cons: 

• • Manual heating and firewood are needed. 
  • Installation of a chimney and ventilation are required. 
  • Extended heating period (up to an hour).

5. Electric Sauna:

An electric heater is used in place of wood in an electric dry sauna, which functions similarly to a conventional sauna.

Features:

• • Heat Source: Electric sauna heater as the heat source.
  • Temperature range: 65–90°C (150–195°F).
  • Humidity: Low humidity (5–20%).
  • Materials: Interior wood.

Pros:

• • Simple thermostat control.
  • Fast heating (30–40 minutes). 
  • Less maintenance than wood-burning saunas.

Cons:

• • Increased electricity expense.
  • Absence of a wood-burning sauna’s organic atmosphere.

6. Smoke Sauna (Savusauna):

A classic Finnish sauna that has no chimney to heat up and lets smoke fill the space before it is expelled.

Features:

• • Heat Source: Big stove that burns wood.
  • Temperature range: 70–93°C (160–200°F).
  • Humidity: Adjustable.
  • Materials: cottage made of wood.

Pros:

• • Genuine Finnish sauna experience
  • Generates a gentle, enduring heat 
  • Has a distinct Smokey scent

Cons: 

• • Needs lengthy heating periods (four or more hours) 
  • Before used, adequate ventilation is required. 
  • Smoke makes it unsuitable for urban environments.

7. Barrel Sauna:

• • An outdoor sauna in the shape of a barrel that is small, fashionable, and has effective heating.

Features:

• • Heat Source: electric heater or wood-burning stove.
  • Temperature range: 65–90°C (150–195°F).
  • Humidity: Adjustable.
  • Materials: Pine or cedar wood.

Pros:

• • Compact and perfect for outdoor use. 
  • Effective heat circulation because of the circular form.
  • Enhances garden visual appeal.

Cons: 

• • Not as insulated as saunas that are square.
  • Limited interior area; ideal for two to four individuals.

 

What Makes an Indoor Sauna Different from an Outdoor Sauna?

Depending on available space, individual preferences, and lifestyle requirements, saunas can be constructed indoors or outside. Though they differ in terms of setup, cost, and upkeep, both choices provide health and relaxation benefits.

A. Indoor Sauna:

 An indoor sauna is a standalone heating area that can be found in a house, spa, fitness facility, or wellness centre. It offers a safe, comfortable, and insulated setting for sauna bathing away from the elements.

How an Indoor Sauna Works:

Indoor saunas create a high-temperature environment that encourages perspiration and relaxation by using heaters to warm the air inside a wood-lined enclosure. There are several possible heat sources, including:

• Electric Heater Sauna: The air and sauna stones are heated by an electric stove.
• Infrared Sauna: An infrared sauna heats the body directly rather than through the use of infrared light.
• Steam Sauna (Steam Room): A steam generator is used to create a warm, humid atmosphere in a steam sauna, also known as a steam room.

Key Features of an Indoor Sauna

1. Location & Space Requirements:

• • Usually seen in wellness rooms, home gyms, basements, and restrooms.
  • It can be a little sauna for one or two people or a larger one for four or six.
  • Installation is quick and simple using prefabricated sauna kits.

2. Humidity and Heat Levels

• • Conventional indoor sauna: low humidity (5–20%) and high temperature (150–195°F/65–90°C).
  • Steam Sauna: High humidity (100%), but lower temperature (100–120°F/38–49°C).
  • Infrared Sauna: Very low humidity and a moderate temperature (between 120 and 150°F/49 and 65°C).

3. Construction & Materials

• • Constructed with wood that can withstand moisture, such as spruce, hemlock, or cedar.
  • For a more contemporary look, some include glass doors.
  • Typically, floors are composed of heat-resistant wood or tile.

4. Options for Power and Heating

• • Due to their ease of use and speedy heating, electric heaters are the most popular.
  • Infrared models use less power and are more energy-efficient.
  • For mould prevention, steam saunas require ventilation and a water source.

Benefits of an Indoor Sauna

• Accessibility & Convenience: Regardless of the weather, it can be used at any time.
• Fast Heating: It takes 10 to 30 minutes for electric and infrared saunas to warm up.
• Space-saving: Small spaces, basements, and even spacious bathrooms can accommodate compact designs.
• Energy-Efficient: Infrared indoor saunas in particular use less electricity.
• Low Maintenance: It requires less upkeep because it is shielded from weather conditions including wind, rain, and snow.

Potential Drawbacks of an Indoor Sauna

• Needs Indoor Space: You must set aside a particular space in your house.
• Ventilation May Be Needed: To avoid humidity accumulation, proper air circulation is necessary.
• Electricity Costs: Energy consumption rises while using an electric heater or steam generator.
• Not the Best for Big Groups: Most indoor saunas are just big enough to fit one or two individuals.

Best Locations for an Indoor Sauna

• Bathroom: Capable of integrating a steam bath or shower.
• Basement: Ideal for bigger sauna setups.
• Home gym: Excellent for recuperating after a workout.
• Wellness Room: Perfect for spa-like experiences, meditation, and relaxation.

B. Outdoor Sauna:

An outdoor sauna is a stand-alone building intended for relaxation and well-being that can be positioned in a garden, backyard or next to a swimming pool. Outdoor saunas, which typically use electric heaters or wood-burning stoves to create heat, provide a more genuine and natural sauna experience than indoor ones.

How an Outdoor Sauna Works:

Similar in operation to an indoor sauna, an outdoor sauna needs to be built waterproof and frequently has a higher capacity. Heat is produced by:

• Wood-burning stoves: Stoves that burn wood offer a traditional, rustic feel.
• Electric heaters: Electric heaters provide reliable temperature control and convenience.
• Infrared panels: Energy-efficient but less frequently found in outdoor saunas are infrared panels.

Key Features of an Outdoor Sauna:

1. Space and Location Needs:

• • Placed in natural retreats, gardens, backyards, and areas close to swimming pools.
  • Need a sturdy footing, such as a gravel base, hardwood deck, or concrete slab.
  • For social occasions, it might be modest (two individuals) or large (six or more).

2. Heat & Humidity Levels:

• • Traditional Wood-Burning Sauna: High temperature (150–200°F/65–93°C) and changeable humidity are features of a traditional wood-burning sauna.
  • Electric sauna: low humidity (5–20%) and high temperature (150–195°F/65–90°C).
  • Infrared Sauna: Very low humidity and a moderate temperature (between 120 and 150°F/49 and 65°C).

3. Construction & Materials:

• • Constructed with weather-resistant wood, such as thermally treated wood, pine, redwood, or cedar.
  • Frequently has shingled roofs, insulated walls, and protective coatings to endure weather conditions.
  • The circular shape of barrel saunas promotes effective heat circulation.

4. Options for Power and Heating:

• • Manual heating and firewood are necessary for wood-burning stoves.
  • Electric heaters need power connections, but they produce heat quickly and reliably.
  • Energy-efficient infrared panels are uncommon in outdoor variants.

Benefits of an Outdoor Sauna:

• Authentic Sauna Experience: with a wood-burning stove, it seems more rustic and traditional.
• No Space Restrictions: Perfect for larger saunas and social groups.
• Can Be Placed in Nature:  It might be situated in nature, where you can unwind and take in beautiful views.
• Less Impact on the Interior of the Home: No changes to the ventilation or indoor space are required.

Potential Drawbacks of an Outdoor Sauna:

• Weather-Dependent: Use may be impacted by severe weather conditions including rain, snow, or heat.
• Lengthier Heating Time: Wood-burning devices require more than half an hour to reach optimal temperature.
• Higher Maintenance: Needs sealing, weatherproofing, and sporadic repairs.
• Requires Foundation & Power (for electric models): Increases installation expenses because it requires foundation and power (for electric variants).

Best Locations for an Outdoor Sauna:

• Backyard: A personal haven near home.
• Garden: A tranquil setting surrounded by nature.
• Poolside: Adds to the spa-like atmosphere.
• Lakeside/Cabin: Ideal for cold plunges and winter sauna sessions.

 

Comparing Indoor and Outdoor Saunas: Which Is Better?

Your space, lifestyle, financial situation, and personal preferences will all play a role in your decision between an indoor and outdoor sauna. Though they differ in terms of installation, pricing, upkeep, and overall experience, both provide amazing health advantages, including as relaxation, detoxification, and enhanced circulation.

Select an Indoor Sauna if:

• You lack an outdoor sauna place. 
• You desire rapid heating and minimal upkeep. 
• You would rather be accessible all year round without worrying about the weather.
• You require a small, space-efficient solution.

Ideal for:  People who want a sauna for everyday use, apartments, or homeowners with limited space.

Select an outdoor sauna if:

You need to install anything in your garden, lawn, or pool area. 

• For a real, rustic experience, you want a sauna that burns wood.
• You intend to relax in nature or host social events in the sauna. 
• You are prepared to spend money on upkeep, weatherproofing, and the foundation.

Ideal for: Families, nature enthusiasts, and anybody seeking a traditional or communal sauna experience.

 

Conclusion

LÜTSAUNA specializes in high-end indoor and outdoor saunas, assisting you in creating the ideal setting for your well-being. The weatherproof materials, high-quality insulation, and long-lasting construction of outdoor saunas allow them to endure extreme climates. Conversely, indoor saunas offer a spa-like escape right in your house, emphasizing comfort, luxury, and seamless integration. You may choose the ideal sauna for your space, lifestyle, and wellness objectives by being aware of these important differences, whether your goal is to upgrade your home with a high-end sauna or turn your backyard into a tranquil retreat.