If you want to buy infrared sauna cabins for your home, start with three simple questions: how many people will use it, where will it stand and what is your budget? Everything else follows from there, such as the type of emitters, the wood and the power supply. This guide takes you through each point and ends with a short checklist.
How to buy infrared sauna models that really suit you
There is no single best infrared sauna for everyone. The best one is the sauna that fits your room, your habits and your budget. So take your time, measure your space and think about how often you will really use it.
An infrared sauna works differently from a classic hot sauna. It heats your body directly with infrared light, so the air stays milder, usually about 35 to 60 °C. Want to know more about the technique? Read how an infrared sauna works and how to use it.
Size and number of persons
Infrared saunas are sold as 1-person, 2-person and 3 to 4 person cabins. Choose the size for the way you will use it most of the time. Do you often sit alone? Then a 1-person cabin saves space and money. Do you want to use it together with your partner? A 2-person cabin is the most popular choice. Keep in mind that a bigger cabin also needs more room around it and often more power.
Also check the inside measurements. Can you sit with your back against the wall and your legs comfortably in front of you? Is the bench deep enough?
Types of emitters: carbon, ceramic and full spectrum
The emitters are the heart of the sauna. They decide how the heat feels. There are three main types:
- Carbon panels: large, flat panels that give a soft and even heat over a big surface. They are popular because the warmth feels gentle.
- Ceramic emitters: smaller elements that get hotter. The heat feels more intense and more focused.
- Full spectrum emitters: these give near, mid and far infrared. A full spectrum infrared sauna is usually more expensive, but it gives you the widest range of heat.
Some cabins combine panel types, for example carbon panels on the back wall and full spectrum emitters at the sides. Pay attention to where the emitters sit. Good cabins also place heat near your legs and calves, not only at your back.
Wood: red cedar, hemlock or spruce
The type of wood affects the look, the smell and the price.
- Red cedar: aromatic, durable and warm in colour. It is the more expensive option.
- Hemlock: calm, light in colour and odour-neutral. A good choice if you do not like a strong wood smell.
- Spruce: common and often cheaper, with a light, natural look.
Whatever wood you choose, look at the finish. Smooth benches, rounded edges and solid joints make a big difference in comfort and lifespan.
Power supply and socket
Most infrared cabins for 1 to 2 persons use about 1.5 to 2.5 kW. They can often run on a normal 230 V socket. Check the manual of the model you like, because some cabins advise their own group in the fuse box. Larger cabins can need more. If you are unsure, ask an electrician to look at your home installation before you order.
The warm-up time is short. Most cabins are ready in about 10 to 20 minutes, so you do not have to plan far ahead.
Space and placement
An infrared sauna can stand in many places: a bedroom, a spare room, an attic or a dry basement. Keep these points in mind:
- Choose a flat, firm and dry floor.
- Leave some space behind and above the cabin for air flow and for cables.
- Measure doors, stairs and corners. The parts must fit through on delivery day.
- Make sure there is a socket close by, so you do not need an extension cable.
Would you rather have a sauna in the garden? Then look at outdoor models, which are built to handle rain and frost.
What does an infrared sauna cost?
The infrared sauna cost depends mainly on size, emitter type and wood. These are typical ranges seen on SaunaSteamer. Prices are indicative and change over time.
| Type | Indicative price |
|---|---|
| 1-person infrared sauna | around €1,350 to €2,700 |
| 2-person infrared sauna | around €1,700 to €4,700 |
| 3 to 4 person infrared sauna | around €3,300 to €4,600 |
| Combination sauna (infrared plus Finnish heater) | around €3,600 to €7,900 |
A cheap cabin is not always a bad buy, and an expensive one is not always better. Compare what you get for the price: emitter type, wood, warranty and extras. On SaunaSteamer you can filter by number of persons, price, wood type and heating, and then buy directly from the retailer.
Extras: light, sound and controls
Many cabins come with extras. Think about what you will really use:
- Colour light or reading light
- A sound system or Bluetooth speakers
- A control panel inside and outside the cabin
- An app or timer to start the sauna in advance
- A backrest, extra bench or glass front
Warranty, delivery and assembly
Read the warranty terms before you buy. How long is the warranty on the cabin, and how long on the emitters and the electronics? Ask how delivery works. Does it go to the door, or into the room? Most infrared cabins come as a kit with panels that click or screw together. With two people, assembly is often possible in a few hours. Some retailers also offer assembly as an extra service.
Not sure yet whether infrared is right for you? Compare it with a classic sauna in our article on infrared vs traditional sauna.
Short checklist
Use this list when you buy infrared sauna cabins online or in a shop.
- How many people will use the sauna most of the time?
- Have you measured the room, the doors and the stairs?
- Which emitters do you prefer: carbon, ceramic or full spectrum?
- Which wood suits your taste and budget?
- Is there a suitable 230 V socket close by?
- Which extras do you really need?
- Have you checked the warranty, delivery and assembly?
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best infrared sauna for home use?
That depends on your space, the number of users and your budget. For most couples, a 2-person cabin with carbon or full spectrum emitters is a good balance.
Can I plug an infrared sauna into a normal socket?
Many 1 to 2 person cabins use about 1.5 to 2.5 kW and can run on a normal 230 V socket. Always check the manual, and ask an electrician if you are unsure.
Is a full spectrum infrared sauna worth the extra money?
It gives near, mid and far infrared, so you get a wider range of heat. Whether that is worth it depends on your wishes and budget.
Is an infrared sauna suitable for everyone?
Not always. If you are pregnant, have heart or blood pressure problems, have a fever, take medication or have been drinking alcohol, ask your doctor first.
