"A sauna a day keeps the doctor away."
Okay, maybe that’s not exactly how the saying goes—but with studies linking regular sauna use to better cardiovascular health, improved mood, and even increased longevity, it’s not far off. The question is, where should that sauna live? Inside your home… or out in your backyard?
Choosing between an indoor sauna and an outdoor sauna isn’t just about where you have space. It’s about lifestyle. About how you want to use it. About the little details that make your sauna sessions something you look forward to every single day.
Let’s break it down.
Indoor Sauna: Pros
1. Year-Round Comfort
With an indoor sauna, bad weather is irrelevant. Whether it’s a snowstorm in January or a downpour in March, you can still enjoy a warm, steamy session without ever stepping outside.
2. Easy Access
Placing the sauna in a bathroom, basement, or spare room makes it part of your daily routine. No need to throw on boots or a coat—just step in and relax.
3. Integrated Design
Indoor saunas can blend seamlessly with your home’s style. Built-in lighting, matching wood tones, and subtle heating controls make it feel like a natural part of the space.
Indoor Sauna: Cons
1. Limited Space
If you’re working with smaller rooms or low ceilings, your design options may be restricted. That can affect bench layout, heater placement, and even the overall experience.
2. Ventilation Challenges
Moisture and heat need proper airflow to prevent damage. Without correct ventilation, you risk humidity issues in your home.
3. Less “Escape” Factor
Part of the magic of a sauna is disconnecting from the daily grind. Being just steps from your kitchen or office can make it harder to fully unplug.
Outdoor Sauna: Pros
1. Immersive Experience
There’s something powerful about stepping out of the heat into crisp evening air. Snowflakes falling. Rain pattering on the roof. Even a short walk to the sauna can feel like part of the ritual.
2. Flexible Size and Design
With fewer space constraints, you can go big—add a panoramic window, extra benches, or even a small changing room.
3. Natural Ventilation
Outdoor saunas are easier to vent naturally, which helps manage humidity and keep the interior fresh.
Outdoor Sauna: Cons
1. Weather Dependency
Yes, winter nights can be magical—but they can also make you think twice about heading outside.
2. Higher Installation Costs
Outdoor builds usually require more groundwork—literally. Foundations, electrical wiring, and weatherproofing can add to your budget.
3. Security and Maintenance
You’ll need to consider locks, possible pests, and extra maintenance to keep the exterior in great condition.
The Bottom Line
If your sauna will be part of your everyday wellness routine, an indoor sauna offers unmatched convenience. If you’re looking for a full sensory experience—the contrast of heat and cold, the quiet of nature—an outdoor sauna might be the better choice.
Either way, the real value isn’t just in the location. It’s in making sauna use a habit. Because at the end of the day, the best sauna is the one you’ll actually use.