Is It Safe to Have an Indoor Sauna in Your House?

Indoor saunas offer a relaxing haven with health benefits within the comfort of your home. As an intuitive consumer, you may wonder: is it safe to have an indoor sauna in your house? In this article, we will look into the safety aspects of indoor saunas, the pros and cons, and maintenance tips.

Health Benefits of Sauna

There's more to wellness than just what we put into our bodies. One way you can take care of your mental and physical health is by utilizing the benefits of a sauna. Here are some of them:

• Improve cell generation (slow down aging)
• Reduce stress
• Lower inflammation
• Ease sore tense muscles
• Boost workout recovery

Is it safe to have an indoor sauna in your house?

Indoor saunas are generally safe. However, following safety guidelines such as maintaining a safe temperature, ensuring proper ventilation, staying hydrated, and limiting sauna sessions to 10-15 minutes is essential. If you have any underlying medical conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before using the sauna.

Safety Considerations Before Installing an Indoor Sauna

Sauna benefits are reasons enough to invest in an at-home sauna. But before you proceed, here are some safety precautions to look into.

Temperature regulation

Maintaining the appropriate temperature within your indoor sauna is crucial for comfort and safety. Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, overheating, and heatstroke. On the other hand, insufficient heat may not provide the desired benefits of the sauna experience. Find a balance.

Proper ventilation

Adequate ventilation is crucial for the circulation of fresh air within the sauna. Without it, the air inside can become stale and stuffy, potentially leading to discomfort and breathing difficulties. Look for saunas with built-in ventilation systems, or consider installing additional ventilation measures to maintain a healthy and refreshing environment.

Consult professionals

There are home saunas that are easy to install. But if you want to be sure everything works well, seeking the guidance of professionals or experts in sauna installation is highly recommended. Experts can provide valuable insights into the specific safety features of different indoor saunas, guaranteeing a secure and enjoyable sauna experience.

Potential Risks of Using Saunas and How to Mitigate Them

Be aware of possible hazards and implement appropriate precautions to guarantee a secure sauna session.

Dehydration and Overheating

The high temperatures in a sauna can cause excessive sweating, leading to dehydration if fluids are not replenished. Additionally, prolonged exposure to heat can result in overheating. Follow these tips to stay safe:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna session to replenish lost fluids.
• Limit session durations: Slowly build up your tolerance and start with shorter sauna sessions, gradually increasing the duration.
• Listen to your body: Pay attention to any signs of discomfort, dizziness, or lightheadedness. If you experience these symptoms, exit the sauna immediately and cool down.

Safe Sauna Usage

Practicing safe sauna usage is essential for avoiding accidents and maximizing your experience. Consider the following precautions:

• Follow manufacturer guidelines. Read and adhere to the instructions provided by the sauna manufacturer for proper usage and safety.
• Use appropriate seating. Use the benches or seating provided in the sauna that are stable and secure.
• Avoid alcohol and medications. Alcohol and certain drugs can affect your body's ability to regulate temperature. It's best to abstain from these substances before using a sauna.

Choosing an Indoor Home Sauna

Consider these factors in choosing the proper indoor sauna for your home:

Sauna type

There's a range of indoor saunas, including steam rooms, traditional saunas, and infrared saunas. Research each type and consider your preferences and specific health needs before deciding.

Available space

Measure the available space in your home to determine the size and design of the sauna that will fit comfortably. Consider whether you want a freestanding sauna or an enclosure that can be installed in an existing room.

Quality construction

Choose a home sauna made from durable materials that can withstand extreme temperatures. Look for features like solid wood construction and well-insulated walls.

Temperature control and settings

Check if the sauna offers precise temperature control and adjustable settings. This will allow you to customize your sauna experience based on your comfort level.

Ventilation and air circulation

Look for saunas with proper ventilation systems to maintain air quality and prevent stuffiness. Saunas with an oxygen ionization system can help purify the air.

Safety features

Choose saunas with safety features such as emergency shut-off switches, non-slip flooring, and tempered glass on doors. 

Energy efficiency

If you plan to use the sauna frequently, choose an energy-efficient one. Look for saunas with insulation features to minimize heat loss and energy consumption.

Read reviews and seek recommendations

Before making a final decision, read customer reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources. Hearing about others' experiences can offer valuable insights into the quality and performance of different sauna models.

Best Indoor Home Saunas

Looking for the best home sauna for sale to invest in? Here are our top picks:

SunRay Roslyn 4-Person Indoor Infrared Sauna HL400KS

With its spacious cabin and convenient side-by-side seating, you can comfortably enjoy the soothing infrared heat. 

Best Features:

• 10 Carbon-Nano FAR Infrared Heaters: Provides smooth, evenly dispersed heat with low EMF.
• Ergonomic Backrests: Best comfort during your sauna session.
• Oxygen Ionizer: Purifies the air, promoting a clean and refreshing sauna experience.

Why You Should Buy It

The Roslyn stands out with its exceptional heating efficiency and charming design. This product has convenient features such as recessed interior and exterior lighting, cup holders, and a Bluetooth speaker system. It is also easy to assemble.

SunRayAspen 3-Person Hemlock Infrared Sauna HL300K2

It is constructed of solid Canadian hemlock wood and combines durability with a pleasing aesthetic. 

Best Features:

• 8 Carbon-Nano Infrared Heaters: Provides evenly dispersed heat with no hot zones.
• Dual Digital Keypads: Offers convenient control of the sauna settings.
• Movable Ergonomic Backrests: For a comfortable sauna session.

Why You Should Buy It

The Aspen sauna combines the elegance of Canadian hemlock wood with advanced heating technology for an unparalleled sauna experience. It's easy to assemble and a perfect addition to your home.

SunRay Sierra 2-Person Cedar Indoor Infrared Sauna HL200K

The Sierra 2-person indoor infrared sauna offers a harmonious blend of beauty and functionality. 

Best Features:

• 7 Carbon-Nano Infrared Heaters: Provides evenly dispersed heat for a comfortable sauna experience.
• Dual LED Control Panels: Allows accessible settings adjustment from the sauna's interior and exterior.
• Advanced Air Filtration System: For clean and fresh air circulation for a pure and invigorating sauna session.

Why You Should Buy It: 

The Sierra sauna is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design. Its premium Canadian red cedar wood construction and advanced features like the dual LED control panels and air filtration system offer elegance and function. 

SunRay Aston 1-Person Indoor Traditional Sauna HL100TN

Its Canadian Hemlock construction and side bench seating offer ample space to unwind and enjoy the intense heat. 

Best Features:

• 4.5kW Harvia Heater: Delivers powerful heat up to 180 degrees for an authentic sauna experience.
• Side Bench Seating: Provides ample space to relax and enjoy the heat comfortably.
• Ventilation System: Ensures proper air circulation for a refreshing and invigorating sauna session.

Why You Should Buy It

The SunRay Aston sauna offers a truly authentic traditional sauna experience. Its premium Canadian Hemlock construction, powerful Harvia heater, and thoughtful features like the ergonomic backrest and ventilation system create the perfect ambiance for relaxation at home.

SunRay Westlake 3-Person Luxury Traditional Sauna 300LX

Enjoy the comfort of ergonomic seating with a lighted backrest, indulge in a stereo system with MP3 compatibility, and set the mood with LED overhead lighting. 

Best Features:

• Cultured Stone Interior: Enhances the sauna's aesthetic appeal, creating a luxurious ambiance.
• 4.5kW Electric Heater with Digital Controls: Provides precise temperature control and the power to generate invigorating steam.
• Ergonomic Backrest and LED Overhead Lighting: Offers comfort and sets the perfect mood for relaxation.

Why You Should Buy It

The Westlake sauna promises a luxurious and blissful escape with its rich hardwood construction, cultured stone accents, and advanced features. It's easy to assemble and backed by a 7-year manufacturer warranty. 

FAQs

Are saunas a lot of maintenance?

Maintaining saunas is a simple task that doesn't require much effort. You should vacuum the floors and brush the benches and backrests at least once a week, ideally after each session, to keep your sauna in good condition. Once a month, wash bars with water and mild soap and leave them to dry for 24 hours.

Can bacteria survive in the sauna?

Bacteria can survive in saunas but are not inherently dirty or unsanitary. Keep your saunas clean and well-maintained to avoid undesirable bacterial growth. Look for saunas with an Oxygen Ionizer feature for purifying the air.

Can I sauna every day?

It is generally safe to use saunas daily, but staying hydrated during your sessions and limiting your time in the sauna to 15-20 minutes to avoid overheating is essential. People with certain health conditions should not use a sauna or at least consult their physician before using it.

Can you sweat out a virus in a sauna?

The long-held notion that you can “sweat out a virus" is scientifically unsound. Extended exposure to high temperatures in saunas that cause sweating can lead to dehydration, worsening existing cold symptoms. There is no scientific evidence to support sweating out a cold.

Do indoor saunas smell?

Saunas may smell bad if they are not adequately cleaned. Sweat, bacteria, dirt, mold, expired essential oils, wearing your day clothes, or improper ventilation can cause foul odors. All these smells can be avoided with proper preventative measures and a thorough, consistent cleaning regimen. The wood type can also contribute to the scent inside the sauna. The therapeutic aroma and deep red color of red cedar wood make it famous for saunas. If you want an odorless sauna, choose one made from hemlock wood.

Is it better to have a sauna inside or outside?

Both indoor and outdoor saunas have their pros and cons. Indoor saunas offer more privacy and convenience, while outdoor saunas provide a more natural and scenic environment. The choice depends on personal preference, budget, and space availability.

Is it expensive to run a home sauna? 

The cost of running an indoor home sauna depends on the type of sauna, the sauna heater, the size, and how often it is used. Saunas can increase your electric bill, but the amount depends on the sauna size and how often it is used. 

Where is the best place to put a home sauna?

The best place to put indoor saunas for home is in a dry, well-ventilated area with easy access to a water source and a drain. Locate a suitable location that will not interfere with your daily activities. Learn how to build an indoor sauna home with our Comprehensive Guide to Building Your DIY Sauna.

What are the pros and cons of a home sauna?

Pros:

• Luxurious relaxation: Having a sauna for home allows you to have a luxurious spa-like retreat in the convenience of your home.
• Health benefits: Sauna can provide health benefits such as relaxation, increased circulation, and pain relief.
• Increased home value: Adding an in-home sauna can increase the value of your home.
• Customization: You can customize your indoor sauna to your style and lifestyle.
• Convenience: You have the privacy of your space, providing a relaxing, stress-free experience whenever needed.

Cons:

• Initial cost: At-home saunas can be expensive to install.
• Space requirement: In-home saunas take up valuable space in your home, whether in a bathroom, rec room, or outdoors.
• Mold and mildew risk: Saunas carry mold and mildew risks, so keeping them dry and clean is crucial.
• Dehydration: Sauna use can cause dehydration, so drinking plenty of water before and after is essential.

Can I put a sauna in my backyard?

Yes, you can put a sauna in your backyard. Outdoor saunas, such as barrel and cabin saunas, are specifically designed for outdoor use, providing a unique and enjoyable sauna experience in the comfort of your backyard.

Takeaway

Proper precautions and adherence to safety guidelines make an indoor sauna a safe and enjoyable addition to your home. So, if you've been considering investing in a traditional or infrared sauna near you or a portable sauna, rest assured that with the proper measures, you can reap the benefits of heat therapy without worrying about sauna risks. 

What’s your favorite way to relax and unwind at home? How often do you use a sauna? Let us know in the comments!

Questions about our home saunas? Contact our customer service team.