The Complete Home Sauna Guide - Infrared, Outdoor & Indoor

Welcome to Sauna Talk, a trusted resource for anyone researching a home sauna. Whether you’re looking at infrared models, traditional indoor or outdoor saunas, or thinking about building your own, we help you understand the options so you can choose what actually fits your home and lifestyle.

Our content focuses on real-world use, clear explanations, and recommendations based on experience — not marketing claims.

Infrared Saunas: Our Core Focus

Infrared saunas are one of the most popular choices for a home sauna, especially for first-time buyers. They’re easier to install, use less power than traditional saunas, and work well in a wide range of homes.

We cover:

• Carbon vs ceramic infrared heaters and full-spectrum configurations
• Low-EMF infrared sauna claims and real-world exposure levels
• Infrared emissivity and how efficiently heaters transfer heat
• Best woods for infrared saunas and why manufacturers choose them
• VOCs, adhesives, and finishes used in home infrared saunas
• Reviews of the top brands and recommendations

SEE OUR EXPERT'S TOP PICKS FOR INFRARED SAUNAS FOR 2026!

Traditional Home Saunas (Indoor & Outdoor)

A home sauna doesn’t have to be infrared.

We also provide in-depth guides on traditional home saunas, including indoor sauna kits and outdoor sauna setups, for those who prefer higher heat, steam, or a more classic sauna experience.

You’ll find guidance on:

• Indoor vs outdoor home sauna options
• Electric vs wood-burning sauna heaters
• Space, electrical, and ventilation planning
• Maintenance, durability, and long-term ownership

Build Your Own Home Sauna

If you’re interested in a custom setup, our build-your-own home sauna section walks through the major decisions before construction begins.

Topics include:

• Choosing infrared vs traditional for a DIY home sauna
• Wood selection and material considerations
• Insulation, vapor barriers, and airflow basics
• Heater placement and safety best practices

We also highlight components and materials that are commonly used in well-built home saunas.You can do your own sauna installation if you are the weekend carpenter type.

If you don’t want to go the pre-fab route using home sauna kits, you can read books on how to build a sauna, draw up your own sauna plans, buy your own building material and an electric heater, and start enjoying the rejuvenating löyly steam in your own custom design.

We also take a look at the pros and cons of building your own sauna from scratch vs. do-it-yourself home sauna kits, and see what types of heaters (wood fired, electric and infrared) are available, as well as other parts and accessories that are designed especially for home saunas.

Who Sauna Talk is For

• People researching their first home sauna
• Buyers comparing infrared vs traditional home saunas
• DIY builders planning a custom home sauna
• Existing home sauna owners looking to optimize their setup

If you want straightforward advice and practical recommendations for building or buying a home sauna, you’re in the right place.

A home sauna is a long-term investment in comfort and wellness. We’re here to help you understand the details, compare options, and confidently choose a home sauna — or the right components — for your space.

Explore the guides, read the comparisons, and take your time. Sauna Talk is built to help you get it right.

---