The garage is one of the best places you can install a sauna in your home. But not every garage can accommodate a sauna. So, can you put a sauna in the garage - or will you need to consider the backyard or a different room in your house? You’ve come to the right place.
We’ll show you what matters most in choosing a garage sauna, from size and layout to ventilation and local codes. You’ll also get tips on choosing a sauna for garage, including heat type, materials, and more.
Nordica Sauna is your trusted source, whether you’re looking for an infrared sauna or a traditional sauna for sale. We carry only the best sauna brands and their most popular models, and we have the lowest prices online, guaranteed.
With world-class service from A to Z and hassle-free financing, what more could you ask for? Find the best garage sauna today and start indulging in the ultimate self-care from the comfort of your own home.
Best Garage Sauna (Comparison Chart)
|
Sauna Model |
Type & Heating System |
Capacity |
Material |
Key Features |
Starting Price |
|
Traditional Sauna with 3.5–4.5 kW Electric Heater (Hardwired) |
2–4 People |
Thermo-Aspen Interior, Optional Glass or Wood Front |
Ergonomic wavy benches, luxury design, compact footprint |
$8,990+ |
|
|
Hybrid Infrared + Steam Sauna (Full Spectrum IR + Steam Generator, 120 V) |
2 People |
Thermo-Aspen Exterior, Western Red Cedar Interior |
Infrared + steam combo, dual heat control, premium craftsmanship |
$7,795+ |
|
|
Far Infrared Sauna with 6 Carbon Near-Zero EMF Panels (120 V Plug-In) |
2 People |
Canadian Hemlock Wood |
Bluetooth sound, chromotherapy lighting, easy assembly |
$3,199+ |
|
|
Traditional Sauna with 4.5 kW Harvia Heater (240 V Hardwired) |
3 People |
Canadian Hemlock Wood |
Double-tier benches, tempered glass door, indoor-friendly footprint |
$3,596+ |
|
|
Far Infrared Sauna with 6 Low-EMF Carbon Panels (120 V Plug-In) |
1–2 People |
Canadian Hemlock Wood |
Compact design, fast warm-up, minimal maintenance |
$2,099+ |
What Makes the Garage a Great Space for a Sauna?
A garage might not be the first place you imagine putting a sauna, but it’s actually one of the smartest and most versatile locations for it. Here’s why:
- Saves valuable indoor space: Turn an underused garage bay or corner into a dedicated wellness area without giving up rooms inside your home.
- Easy access to power and utilities: Garages usually have nearby electrical panels and open wall framing, simplifying wiring for 120V/240V sauna heaters and lighting.
- Naturally separated for privacy and noise control: Keep the heat, humidity, and sound isolated so you don’t disturb the household with early morning/late-night sessions.
- Better ventilation and moisture management: Garages can handle fluctuating air and temperature, so you don’t have to worry about air exchange and humidity control.
- Comfortable year-round environment: Sheltered from rain, snow, and direct sun. You get insulation benefits and avoid the exposure challenges of a fully outdoor setup.
- Pairs easily with fitness or recovery spaces: Combine your garage sauna with a home gym, cold plunge, or shower area for a seamless post-workout recovery routine.
If you don’t park your vehicles in the garage or you have a massive three-car garage, this is an excellent way to bring the benefits of sauna therapy into your home. Can YOU put a sauna in the garage, though?
Can You Put a Sauna in the Garage, Though? Key Considerations for a Garage Sauna
The short answer is yes, you can absolutely install a garage sauna. There are, however, a few key technical and safety factors to consider before you start.
Local Codes, Fire, and Safety
Check your local building and electrical codes before doing anything else. You’ll likely need a licensed electrician to connect an electric sauna heater (typically 240V for traditional models, 120V for infrared).
You might also need a simple building permit or inspection to ensure safe wiring, ventilation, and heater clearance if you’re converting a garage bay.
Every sauna manufacturer provides specific clearance requirements between the heater, walls, and ceiling to prevent overheating. Follow these exactly. Neverimprovise.
Ventilation and Moisture Management
Traditional saunas are great because they generate steam and high humidity, but this can be a problem in confined spaces. You need a way to circulate and exhaust warm air safely. A small intake vent near the floor and an exhaust vent near the ceiling can help with airflow.
Humidity isn’t as much of a concern if you're installing an infrared sauna, but temperature buildup still requires ventilation. Consider adding a small, quiet exhaust fan or cracked window to prevent trapped heat.
You might even want to line nearby walls with vapor barriers or moisture-resistant insulation. While you’re at it, seal gaps with caulk or silicone to keep condensation away from drywall and electrical conduits.
Wood-burning saunas are generally not recommended in attached garages because of the chimney, spark, and carbon monoxide risks. On that note, you will need a smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm nearby for peace of mind.
Keep cords and outlets away from heat sources and floor-level moisture. A GFCI breaker (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) adds extra protection in semi-humid environments like garages.
Floor, Walls, and Surrounds
Your sauna has to rest on a flat, level, and non-slip surface - so your garage slab should be the perfect place to install one. Don’t place it on bare concrete if moisture tends to pool, though. Use interlocking floor mats, a waterproof vinyl base, or a slightly raised platform with drainage.
Walls around the sauna should be heat-tolerant and moisture-resistant. Like we touched on above, you might want to use insulation and vapor barriers to stabilize temperature swings.
Keep combustible materials (paint cans, cardboard boxes, wood scraps) at least several feet away from the sauna. You can finish the surrounding area with tile, stone, or moisture-sealed wood for a cohesive spa look.
Choosing the Right Sauna for Your Garage

So can you put a sauna in the garage? Yes, but part of the process involves choosing the right sauna types. That’s where our sauna buying guide comes in! You can learn more below, take our sauna quiz, or get in touch with our experts for personalized support every step of the way.
Start With Sizing
The first thing you need to do is narrow it down among the many sauna sizes. Most garage saunas are two- to four-person units, since they balance comfort with footprint efficiency.
Remember to leave at least a few inches of clearance on all sides for ventilation and access to electrical components. We make it easy to narrow down the perfect sauna based on size:
- 1 person sauna
- 2 person sauna
- 3 person sauna
- 4 person sauna
- 5 person sauna
- 6 persons sauna
- 8 person sauna
A compact corner or infrared model can maximize space if your garage doubles as a home gym or storage area. You might be able to stretch out or host friends and family with a larger cabin-style sauna if you have an unused bay or open layout.
You’ll also want to account for ceiling height. Saunas work best with ceilings between 7 and 8 feet for proper heat circulation. We can help you navigate all this if you just reach out!
Heat Type (Electric or Infrared)
Don’t get us wrong, we love classic wood-burning saunas - but they aren’t the most practical choice for a garage sauna. Instead, you’ll probably want to choose between an electric vs infrared sauna:
- Electric saunas use heating elements and sauna stones for that classic high-heat, steamy environment (around 160-190°F). It’s an authentic Finnish experience with steam bursts when you pour water on the rocks. Just note you need a 240V circuit and professional wiring.
- Infrared saunas heat the body directly with radiant energy rather than heating the air, reaching 120-150°F in 10-20 minutes. They’re energy-efficient, easier to install (usually plug into 120V outlets), and great for smaller or less insulated garages.
Many homeowners choose infrared for convenience and quick use. They tend to be more affordable upfront and over time, too. Either way, Nordica Sauna stocks the best brands and models for you.
Materials and Build Quality
The best garage saunas are built from premium softwoods like Canadian Hemlock, Thermo-Aspen, or Nordic Spruce, all of which resist warping, cracking, and moisture damage. It costs more upfront, but you get what you pay for in terms of aesthetics and longevity.
It’s tempting to save money on the initial investment, but steer clear of untreated pine or plywood structures. These can absorb moisture and deteriorate quickly.
Thermally treated woods, in particular, hold up beautifully in semi-controlled spaces like garages, maintaining their integrity and aroma over time. Insulated walls and tight panel joints prevent heat loss and help your sauna warm up faster, which is a nice touch.
Controls, Lighting, and Comfort
Modern saunas often include digital or Wi-Fi controls that let you pre-heat your sauna remotely so it’s ready to enjoy whenever you are. This connectivity also gives you control over the ambiance with LED accent or chromotherapy lighting to create a calming environment.
Don’t overlook the interior details either - ergonomic benches, backrests, and proper ventilation make every session more enjoyable. Some saunas even have Bluetooth capabilities so you can play music or podcasts while you relax!
Budgeting For the Purchase
Garage saunas range widely in price - anywhere from $2,000 for compact infrared models to $10,000+ for larger, traditional units with luxury features. The total investment depends on:
- Sauna size and seating capacity
- Wood type and thermal treatment
- Heater type (infrared vs electric)
- Extras like lighting, glass fronts, or Wi-Fi controls
Keep in mind that professional wiring, moisture sealing, and ventilation upgrades may add a few hundred to a few thousand dollars to your setup.
But don’t stress about the budget side of things. Nordica Sauna not only offers a price-matching guarantee, but we can help you use HSA/FSA funds for the purchase - and we offer hassle-free financing, too! It’s time to discover the best sauna for garage.
The Best Sauna for Garage is Here at Nordica Sauna
Whether you’re looking for the best infrared sauna for home or you’re sold on an electric sauna heater, our team is eager to help connect you to the perfect brand and model based on your budget.
We only stock trusted European and North American brands known for precision craftsmanship, safety, and long-term reliability. These are some of the most popular picks for the best sauna for garage.
Golden Designs Maxxus 2-Person IR Sauna
- Capacity: 2 people
- Heating System: 6 Carbon Far Infrared Panels (near-zero EMF)
- Material: Canadian Hemlock
This is an excellent starting point for homeowners who want a reliable, low-maintenance infrared sauna that fits effortlessly in any garage corner. It’s crafted from elegant Canadian Hemlock so you know it’s durable, aromatic, and naturally resistant to moisture.
Its near-zero EMF infrared panels heat evenly and efficiently, reaching up to 140°F without overpowering your garage space. Setup takes less than an hour, and operation costs are minimal thanks to its energy-efficient design.
Bluetooth speakers, soft LED lighting, and tempered glass doors all add to the enjoyment of your garage sauna. It’s compact, convenient, and perfect for smaller garages.
Finnmark FD-4 Trinity Infra-Steam Sauna
- Capacity: 2-3 people
- Heating System: Combination of Infrared, Traditional Steam, and Red Light Therapy
- Material: Canadian Hemlock and Steel Construction
The FD-4 Trinity is built for enthusiasts who want it all. It’s the only sauna on this list offering infrared, steam, and red-light therapy in one unit. You can effortlessly switch between heat types or combine them for the ultimate session.
The stainless-steel heater and low-EMF carbon panels are built for longevity and precision control, while the pre-insulated cabin minimizes heat loss - great for garage installs.
The interior features LED chromotherapy, ergonomic seating, and an advanced control panel that fine-tunes temperature, humidity, and lighting. This is the most versatile sauna you can own!
Sunray Hampton 3-Person Indoor Traditional Sauna
- Capacity: 3 people
- Heating System: 4.5kW Harvia Electric Heater (Finland)
- Material: Solid Hemlock
The Hampton brings the timeless ritual of traditional sauna bathing to your garage. Its Harvia heater is the gold standard in sauna engineering, which is what makes this the best sauna for garage. It produces the authentic high heat (up to 180°F) and steam that Finnish-style enthusiasts crave.
The wide, tiered benches create a comfortable seating layout for up to three people. The tempered glass door looks open and inviting. Ventilation is well-balanced - the cabin can heat efficiently without stifling air circulation.
The solid Hemlock frame holds up beautifully in semi-controlled environments like garages. This is an exceptional blend of craftsmanship, affordability, and performance.
Golden Designs Dynamic “Barcelona” 1-2 Person IR Sauna
- Capacity: 1-2 people
- Heating System: 6 Low EMF Carbon Infrared Panels
- Material: Natural Reforested Canadian Hemlock
Compact, affordable, and efficient. What more could you ask for in the best sauna for garage? This is what awaits you in the Golden Designs Barcelona.
Its plug-and-play design calls for no special wiring, and it warms up in about 10 minutes. The low EMF carbon heaters provide consistent radiant warmth that penetrates deep into muscles. The tempered glass door and LED lighting bring a modern, spa-like touch to any garage.
You even gain access to an integrated sound system for a more immersive experience. Don’t let the small footprint fool you, either. The Barcelona feels surprisingly roomy inside thanks to its thoughtful bench design and full-length visibility.
Auroom Baia Traditional Sauna
- Capacity: 2-4 people
- Heating System: Electric Harvia Heater (up to 6kW)
- Material: Thermo-Aspen interior and exterior
Last but not least, we have one of the most sophisticated garage sauna designs on the market: the Baia by Auroom. This is what you get when Scandinavian craftsmanship meets home wellness.
It’s handcrafted from thermally treated Aspen, so you can rest assured it’s engineered for longevity and stunning aesthetics. The seamless joinery, curved benches, and soft-glow LED lighting create a luxurious feel that elevates any garage.
The powerful Harvia heater produces quick, even heat, while the optional glass front wall opens up the space visually. Its modular design makes it easy to assemble and fit into existing garage layouts, too, so you can start enjoying ASAP.
Quick Installation Tips for a Garage Sauna

Now that you’ve found the best sauna for garage, let’s get back to what brought you here today - can you put a sauna in the garage?Yes, but there are some things you should know while you get ready for installation. We covered some of this earlier, but it’s so important we want to cover it once more:
- Prepare a level, moisture-resistant base: Most garage slabs work fine, but interlocking floor mats or a waterproof underlay protect from condensation and improve footing.
- Plan electrical work early: Hire a licensed electrician for wiring, especially if your sauna requires a 240V circuit. Keep outlets, cords, and breakers rated for sauna-specific loads.
- Seal nearby surfaces: Use vapor barriers or silicone caulk around baseboards and walls to prevent steam or humidity from seeping into drywall or insulation.
- Check ceiling clearance: Your garage ceiling should be at least 7 feet tall (preferably 8) for air circulation and heater safety clearance.
- Ventilation considerations: Even infrared saunas benefit from airflow. A small vent or cracked window/door nearby lets heat and humidity out of the garage.
- Proper positioning: Place your sauna near existing electrical access and away from clutter, chemicals, or stored fuel. Keep a few inches of space around the unit for airflow and maintenance.
- Assembly: Follow the manufacturer’s manual closely. Pre-drill where required, tighten joints evenly, and double-check heater and control wiring before powering up. When in doubt, reach out!
Most of the garage saunas we’ve recommended above are simple kits, so you won’t have to stress about the actual installation process. We are always on standby to help if you run into any roadblocks, too. So, take the next step towards installing a sauna in garage today!
Wrapping Up Our Garage Sauna Guide
In closing, can you put a sauna in the garage? It’s so easy when you choose the right garage sauna from our lineup! Nordica Sauna is here to help you turn unused space into a personal wellness retreat.
Whether you prefer the gentle warmth of infrared or the tradition of steam, the right unit is just a few clicks away. Explore our indoor sauna collection today, reach out for a personalized recommendation, or take our sauna quiz below!