Having your own sauna opens up a world of possibilities for improving your health, from improved circulation to better skin, detoxification, faster recovery, and more. 

But, the process of actually choosing a sauna can be stressful and overwhelming. Even just narrowing down whether you want an indoor vs outdoor sauna can be a huge source of contention. 

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you perfect the placement of your sauna. An indoor sauna is great for convenience and year-round accessibility, while an outdoor sauna offers a unique experience with natural surroundings and flexible space options.

While there are pros and cons to each, choosing between an indoor sauna for sale and outdoor sauna for sale comes down to considering your unique property/home, your budget, and your preferences.

Regardless of the decision you make, you can count on Nordica Sauna to provide you with a luxury sauna from a trusted brand. We even have an intuitive quiz you can take for a personalized recommendation, or get in touch with our customer service team today!

What’s the Difference Between an Indoor and Outdoor Sauna?

So, what’s the difference between an indoor and outdoor sauna, if any? 

Overview of Indoor Saunas

Indoor saunas are installed within the home, making them a convenient option for year-round use regardless of the weather outside. Trust us - this is a huge advantage come wintertime in certain climates.

They typically require less durable materials since they are protected from the elements, allowing for a broader range of wood types and finishes that can seamlessly blend with your home’s interior design. This means they can be more affordable.

They usually come equipped with essential features such as proper ventilation systems to handle the moisture and heat generated during use, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. 

However, the installation of an indoor sauna requires sufficient space and might involve modifications to existing rooms, as well as considerations for proper ventilation to prevent moisture damage to your home.

You’ll typically choose between an indoor infrared sauna or an indoor traditional sauna, both of which we have in store for you here at Nordica Sauna. You can narrow your search based on the size of your ideal sauna below:

• 2 person indoor sauna
• 3 person indoor sauna
• 4 person indoor sauna
• 5 person indoor sauna
• 6 person indoor sauna
• 8 person indoor sauna

Overview of Outdoor Saunas

On the other hand, an outdoor sauna offers a unique and immersive experience by placing you in the midst of natural surroundings. These saunas are constructed from weather-resistant materials like cedar to withstand various climatic conditions.

This style provides greater flexibility in terms of size and design since it’s not constrained by indoor space limitations. They can be placed in gardens, near pools, or on decks, offering a serene retreat that complements outdoor relaxation areas. 

The benefits of an outdoor sauna include enjoying the fresh air and natural views during your session, enhancing the experience for unparalleled relaxation. 

However, outdoor saunas require more maintenance to protect against weather damage and might need additional security measures to ensure safety. 

Additionally, the usability of outdoor saunas can be influenced by extreme weather conditions, potentially limiting access during certain times of the year. It’ll take a long time to heat your sauna in freezing temperatures, and this will run your energy bill up.

You can also choose between an outdoor infrared sauna or an outdoor traditional sauna, but you also have access to an outdoor barrel sauna - a unique style that you will rarely be able to use indoors. Here are some of the most common sizes available:

• 1 person outdoor sauna
• 2 person outdoor sauna
• 3 person outdoor sauna
• 4 person outdoor sauna
• 5 person outdoor sauna
• 6 person outdoor sauna
• 8 person outdoor sauna

Indoor vs Outdoor Sauna: Tips on Choosing the Right Placement for Your New Sauna

If you still aren’t sure whether an outdoor vs indoor sauna is right for you, don’t sweat it. We’ll help you make the right choice below by walking you through the most important considerations.

Assessing Your Available Space

Indoor saunas can be placed in a spare room, basement, or bathroom. You need to make sure the chosen space can accommodate the sauna's dimensions and allow for proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. 

Outdoor saunas, on the other hand, offer more flexibility in placement since they can be installed in a backyard, garden, or near a pool. Consider the size of your outdoor space and the proximity to utilities like electricity and water, which are necessary for sauna operation.

Privacy Needs

If you have a sprawling property without any neighbors that could see your backyard, this isn’t a concern. But those in more condensed residential areas need to think about privacy, which is compromised with an outdoor sauna.

As we discuss in our guide on what to wear in the sauna, minimal clothing is ideal. Many choose to go au natural and simply sit on a towel. This may necessitate installing a privacy fence, putting up a screen, or using strategic landscaping to protect yourself from peeping toms. 

None of this is a concern with an indoor sauna, as you’re protected by your walls and the blinds covering your windows. So, think about your comfort level and the level of seclusion you desire when deciding between an indoor and outdoor sauna.

Initial Setup Costs

Indoor saunas may cost more to set up ventilation, electrical work, and potential modifications to your home. These costs can add up, especially if you need to remodel a space to fit the sauna. 

In contrast, outdoor saunas typically require a more robust construction to withstand the elements, which can increase the initial cost. They might save you money on home modifications and ventilation, though. 

Consider your budget and the long-term value of each option when making your decision. You may find that this ends up being a wash, or you may discover one option to be more cost-effective.

Climate Suitability

For those living in climates that experience harsh winters, an outdoor sauna may not be feasible. Beyond the comfort side of things, you need to consider the practicality of heating a sauna in freezing temperatures. You may find yourself waiting hours just for the sauna to reach the right temperature in some settings - this can be really expensive.

In these cases, you may be better off with an indoor sauna. Not only will your sauna be safeguarded from frigid temperatures, but you won’t have to worry about snow and rain degrading your sauna.

Aesthetic Integration

Finally, consider how the sauna will integrate with your existing living space. Indoor saunas can be designed to match the interior decor of your home, blending seamlessly with your existing style. This can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home and add to its value. 

Outdoor saunas can complement your garden or backyard with natural wood finishes and unique designs, creating a picturesque retreat. There’s nothing like the rustic look of a barrel sauna set against a backdrop of beautiful landscaping.

So, think about how the sauna will fit with your current aesthetic and how it can enhance the appeal of your home or outdoor space.

So, is an Indoor vs Outdoor Sauna Right For You?

Hopefully you have a solid grasp on whether an indoor vs outdoor sauna is right for you after reading along thus far. Here’s a quick summary:

• Indoor Sauna: Ideal for those who want the convenience of year-round use and easy access within the home. Perfect for frequent sauna users who prioritize privacy and controlled environments.
• Outdoor Sauna: Best suited for individuals who have ample outdoor space and enjoy the natural ambiance. They offer a unique experience with flexible placement options and a picturesque retreat in their garden or backyard.

Remember, a personalized recommendation is just a few clicks away at Nordica Sauna. Whether you want a barrel sauna for sale, infrared sauna for sale, or traditional sauna for sale, we’ve got what you need!

Whether You Want an Indoor or Outdoor Sauna, We’ve Got the Top Models From the Most Trusted Brands!

Nordica Sauna is your trusted choice for all things sauna, whether you’re looking for an indoor or outdoor model. We source our products from the top brands in the industry, including Almost Heaven sauna, Sunray sauna, Auroom sauna, and more.

With customizable options, including LED control panels and chromotherapy lighting, you can tailor your sauna to meet your exact needs. You have access to a range of sizes as well to fit any preferences.

You’ll also get free shipping on orders over $75, excellent customer support, and comprehensive warranties. We guarantee our prices to be the lowest, too.

But if you still aren’t sure which style is right for you between an indoor or outdoor sauna, don’t hesitate to reach out for a personalized recommendation. After all, we’re passionate about helping you elevate your wellness and your home through sauna therapy. You can also take our intuitive quiz below:

Wrapping Up Our Outdoor vs Indoor Sauna Guide

Figuring out whether you need an indoor vs outdoor sauna is an important first step in picking the perfect style for your home. While each has its place, it’s just a matter of considering factors like available space, frequency of use, privacy needs, setup costs, and climate suitability.

Indoor saunas offer convenience and year-round use, while outdoor saunas provide a unique natural ambiance and flexible placement. Both options enhance your health and well-being, offering benefits tailored to different preferences and lifestyles. Truthfully, you can’t go wrong either way.

Why not take the guesswork out of choosing between an outdoor vs indoor sauna with personalized guidance? You can get in touch with our team or simply take our sauna quiz and feel confident investing in your health and happiness today!