Table of Contents
- Sauna Type: Traditional or Infrared?
- Location: Indoor or Outdoor?
- Size and Capacity
- Timber Species and Quality
- Heater Type and Power
- Sauna Temperature Control and Monitoring
- Insulation and Build Quality
- Sauna Cleaning and Maintenance Routines
- Ventilation
- Sauna Flooring and Safety Considerations
- Sauna Soundproofing and Privacy
- Warranty and After-Sales Support
- Accessories and Extras
- Sauna Lighting and Ambience Options
- Installation Requirements
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
Buying a sauna is one of those decisions that requires a bit more thought than most home purchases. Done right, a quality sauna will serve your household for decades and genuinely transform your daily wellness routine. Done carelessly, you can end up with a unit that does not heat properly, deteriorates prematurely, or simply does not fit your lifestyle as you imagined.
This guide covers every meaningful factor to consider before you commit to a purchase.
1. Sauna Type: Traditional or Infrared?
The first decision is the most fundamental. Traditional saunas use heated rocks to create high temperatures and optional steam (Finnish-style). Infrared saunas use special emitters that heat the body directly through infrared radiation at lower air temperatures.
Traditional saunas offer the full cultural experience, higher heat, and the ritual of water on rocks. Infrared saunas are more accessible to people who find extreme heat challenging, more energy-efficient for small units, and particularly well-suited to recovery and skin health applications.
For a detailed, side-by-side comparison of both types, read our guide on infrared vs traditional saunas.
2. Location: Indoor or Outdoor?
Your intended location determines a great deal about what type and style of sauna you can consider. Indoor saunas require adequate ceiling height (typically 2.0m minimum), a dedicated electrical circuit, waterproof flooring, and good ventilation. Outdoor saunas require a prepared, flat base (typically a concrete slab), weather-appropriate timber treatment, and consideration for how the sauna will be connected to power.
Our article on indoor vs outdoor sauna covers the practical differences in detail.
3. Size and Capacity
Be honest about how many people will regularly use the sauna. If you plan to use it primarily alone or with a partner, a 2 to 4 person unit is more than adequate. For families or social use, consider 4 to 6 person models. Remember that manufacturer capacity ratings tend to be optimistic, factor in one to two fewer people than the stated maximum for genuine comfort.
4. Timber Species and Quality
The timber choice affects how the sauna looks, feels, smells, and performs over time. Western Red Cedar is the premium choice: naturally antibacterial, aromatic, dimensionally stable, and beautiful. Thermowood-treated spruce is a cost-effective alternative with good moisture resistance. Nordic Spruce and Hemlock are functional choices at lower price points. Avoid cheap softwoods or composite materials in the main structure.
5. Heater Type and Power
The heater is the heart of the sauna. Consider:
- Electric heaters: Convenient, precise, suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Available in ranges from 3kW (small indoor) to 18kW (large outdoor/commercial).
- Wood-fired heaters: Authentic traditional experience, no electricity cost for heating, but require firewood and more maintenance. Excellent for outdoor installations.
- Infrared heaters: Used exclusively in infrared saunas. Carbon, ceramic, or full-spectrum emitters. Look for low EMF specifications.
Ensure the heater output matches your sauna volume: roughly 1kW per cubic metre of interior space is a starting point.
Sauna Temperature Control and Monitoring
Effective temperature control is key to a consistent and enjoyable sauna session. Digital thermostats allow precise regulation of heat, while traditional analog controls offer a simpler, reliable approach. Built-in thermometers and hygrometers help users track both temperature and humidity levels, ensuring the environment stays within a safe and comfortable range.
For infrared and electric saunas, advanced controllers can program session durations, ramp-up times, and peak temperature limits, offering convenience and energy efficiency. Regular monitoring also safeguards the longevity of the heater and timber by preventing overheating and uneven wear, making temperature control both a comfort and maintenance consideration.
6. Insulation and Build Quality
Good insulation means faster heat-up times, consistent temperatures, and lower running costs. Check the wall thickness of any sauna you consider (40mm is a reasonable minimum for most applications; 60mm or more is preferable for outdoor year-round use in cooler climates). Quality joinery, tight seams, and solid bench construction are indicators of overall build quality.
Sauna Cleaning and Maintenance Routines
Keeping your sauna clean preserves both its appearance and function. After each use, benches and floors should be wiped down to remove sweat and moisture. Periodic deep cleaning with mild, non-toxic cleaners protects timber surfaces without damaging the wood or finishes. Inspect heater elements regularly, replacing worn stones or checking connections to maintain consistent performance.
Proper maintenance also extends to ventilation ducts and air intakes. Ensuring these remain unobstructed allows for even heating and prevents excessive condensation. Establishing a simple, regular maintenance routine reduces long-term repair costs and keeps your sauna a safe, hygienic retreat.
7. Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for comfort, safety, and the longevity of the sauna structure. Fresh air intake should be positioned near the heater, with exhaust positioned on the opposite wall near the ceiling. Our detailed article on sauna ventilation explains the principles and how to assess ventilation quality in any unit you consider.
Sauna Flooring and Safety Considerations
Selecting the right flooring for your sauna is essential for both comfort and safety. Non-slip, moisture-resistant materials such as treated timber, composite decking, or specialized sauna mats prevent accidents caused by wet surfaces while withstanding high heat and humidity. Flooring should also allow for proper drainage or ventilation to avoid water pooling, which can lead to mould growth and timber deterioration.
In addition to safety, flooring affects overall hygiene and ease of cleaning. Surfaces that are easy to wipe down and resistant to staining maintain a fresh environment, reducing maintenance effort over time. Choosing appropriate flooring ensures that your sauna remains a safe, comfortable, and long-lasting space for relaxation.
Sauna Soundproofing and Privacy
- Wall and ceiling insulation: Not only preserves heat but also reduces sound transmission.
- Door seals and closures: Tight-fitting doors prevent heat loss and contain sound.
- Location considerations: Placing the sauna away from living areas or using partitioning improves privacy and quiet.
- Acoustic accessories: Optional mats or panels can further dampen sound and enhance the serene environment.
Soundproofing enhances relaxation by keeping external noise out and minimizing disturbances from the sauna itself. Privacy and acoustic comfort are particularly valuable in shared homes or apartments, ensuring that each session is a tranquil, undisturbed experience.
8. Warranty and After-Sales Support
A sauna is a long-term asset. Look for a supplier who offers a minimum 2-year warranty on the structure and heater, and who has genuine Australian-based customer support. Ask specifically what the warranty covers, how spare parts are accessed, and how the supplier handles claims. Shym Saunas provides warranty and customer support for all products sold, with parts available locally.
9. Accessories and Extras
Factor in the cost of accessories you will need from day one: a bucket and ladle set, thermometer and hygrometer, sauna headrests, floor mats, and maintenance products. A basic accessory kit adds $100 to $300 to your setup cost but significantly enhances the experience from session one.
Sauna Lighting and Ambience Options
Lighting plays a significant role in creating a relaxing sauna environment. Soft, indirect LED lighting or warm-hued bulbs provide a calming atmosphere without being harsh on the eyes. Some saunas include chromotherapy (color therapy) lights, which subtly shift colors to support mood, relaxation, and wellness.
Beyond aesthetics, strategically placed lighting improves safety by illuminating steps, benches, and controls. Well-designed lighting adds both functional and sensory benefits, enhancing the overall sauna experience while maintaining a cozy, inviting ambiance.
10. Installation Requirements
Who will install the sauna? Many models are designed for self-assembly by two people in a day, but some outdoor cabin models and all custom builds require professional installation. Factor installation costs into your budget if you are not comfortable with DIY assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need council approval to install a backyard sauna in Australia?
This depends on your local council and the size and permanence of the structure. Most small outdoor saunas under 10sqm do not require building approval, but rules vary by state and council. Always check with your local council before installing.
How long does a quality sauna last?
A well-built sauna with quality timber and a reliable heater, properly maintained, can last 20 to 40 years. Regular cleaning, protective oiling of external timber, and prompt replacement of heater stones or elements when needed are the key maintenance tasks.
What is the most important factor when choosing a sauna?
Heater quality is arguably the single most important factor after size. A premium timber structure with a poor heater is a frustrating experience. Prioritise a reliable heater from an established brand, then choose the best timber structure your budget allows.
Can I install a sauna in a rental property?
Portable and freestanding saunas can be installed and removed without structural modification, making them suitable for rental properties. Always obtain written permission from the landlord before installation, particularly for outdoor models.
Final Thoughts
Buying a sauna well means thinking beyond the sticker price to the full picture of quality, location, running costs, and long-term use. Taking the time to work through these considerations pays off in years of enjoyable, trouble-free sessions. Browse the Shym Saunas range and speak with our team for personalised advice tailored to your specific situation.
