Outdoor Sauna Buying Guide: Infrared vs. Traditional, Sizes & Costs
A backyard sauna is one of the most popular home upgrades in the US, and it is easy to see why: a warm, quiet place to unwind after work, recover after a workout or warm up on a cold night, a few steps from your back door. This guide walks you through the choices that matter before you buy an outdoor sauna.
1. Infrared or traditional sauna?
There are two main types of home sauna, and they feel different.
| Far infrared sauna | Traditional dry sauna | |
|---|---|---|
| How it heats | Infrared panels warm your body directly | An electric stove heats the air and stones |
| Feel | Gentle, lower air temperature | Classic high heat, Finnish style |
| Warm-up | Fast | Longer pre-heat |
| Best for | Frequent, relaxed sessions | People who love intense heat |
If you are new to sauna or want something you will use most days, infrared is an easy place to start. If you grew up with traditional saunas or want that intense, dry heat, choose a cabin with an electric stove such as our traditional dry sauna cabin with a 4.5kW heater.
2. What size outdoor sauna do you need?
- 2-person saunas fit most backyards and are the most popular size for couples. Compare our 2-person outdoor far infrared sauna and the red cedar far infrared sauna for 2.
- Larger cabins suit families or friends who sauna together.
- Portable sauna tents are the most affordable way to start, set up in minutes and pack away when you need the space. See our portable steam sauna tent for 4.
3. Wood type: red cedar vs. fir
Red cedar is prized for its natural aroma, rich color and resistance to moisture. Fir and spruce are lighter in tone and usually more affordable. Both are common, proven sauna woods.
4. Power and installation
Power requirements vary by model, so always check the product page before you order. As a rule of thumb, traditional saunas with a 4.5kW heater need a dedicated 240V circuit installed by a licensed electrician. Plan your electrical work before delivery day.
5. How much does an outdoor sauna cost?
At Ziteyla, outdoor saunas start at a few hundred dollars for a portable sauna tent and range to several thousand dollars for wooden infrared and traditional cabins. Running costs are modest: at average US electricity rates, a typical home session usually costs well under a dollar.
6. Where to place your sauna
- A flat, level and well-drained base: concrete pad, pavers or a solid deck
- Close to your power source and, ideally, the house
- Some privacy from neighbors and the street
7. Delivery and assembly
Wooden saunas ship by freight with curbside delivery. The carrier contacts you to schedule a delivery window, so add a phone number at checkout. Most cabins assemble with basic tools and two people.
Sauna safety tips
- Start with short sessions of 10 to 15 minutes and build up gradually.
- Drink water before and after each session.
- Talk to your doctor first if you are pregnant or have a heart condition or other health concerns.
Shop with confidence: free shipping from US warehouses, delivery in 3–7 business days after shipping, 30-day returns with no restocking fees. Questions? Email support@ziteyla.com.