Why Home Saunas Are Trending in 2025

As wellness takes center stage in modern living, home saunas are enjoying a golden era in 2025. With people prioritizing relaxation, detoxification, and immune support, installing a sauna at home has become more than a luxury—it’s a lifestyle choice.

The shift to remote work, increased awareness of holistic health, and affordable sauna options have contributed to this upward trend. From rustic traditional cabins to sleek infrared pods and compact portable units, there’s a solution for every lifestyle and budget.

Overview of Home Sauna Types

Understanding the differences between the main types of saunas helps you make an informed choice. Each type offers unique benefits and caters to different user needs.

What is a Traditional Sauna?

Traditional saunas rely on wood-burning stoves or electric heaters to warm up a room, often lined with cedar or spruce. Water poured on hot stones creates steam, pushing temperatures up to 195°F. This old-world method offers a deep sweat experience.

What is an Infrared Sauna?

Infrared saunas use radiant heaters to emit infrared light, penetrating the skin and heating the body directly, not the air. This results in lower ambient temperatures (110–140°F) but deeper muscle heating. They are popular for their energy efficiency and quick setup.

What is a Portable Sauna?

Portable saunas are compact, foldable, and typically powered by steam generators or infrared panels. Ideal for apartment dwellers or frequent travelers, they provide a personal wellness retreat that fits into a closet when not in use.

Traditional Saunas: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Authentic sauna experience

• Deep, thorough sweating

• Can be used by multiple people

• Aesthetic appeal with natural materials

Cons:

• Longer warm-up time (30–60 mins)

• Requires proper ventilation and space

• Higher energy consumption

• Installation is often complex

Infrared Saunas: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Quick heat-up (10–15 mins)

• Lower operating temperatures

• More energy-efficient

• Easier installation

Cons:

• Not as much ambient heat/steam

• Some users miss the “sweat lodge” feel

• Requires EMF safety awareness

Portable Saunas: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Very affordable

• Easy to set up and move

• Compact and space-saving

• Great for solo sessions

Cons:

• Limited heat capacity

• May feel less immersive

• Shorter lifespan than built-in units

Best Use Cases for Each Sauna Type

For Detoxification and Relaxation

Infrared saunas excel due to their deep-penetrating heat and ability to induce detoxifying sweats at lower temperatures. Ideal for regular users focused on cleansing and stress relief.

For Space-Saving Urban Homes

Portable saunas are the go-to option. Their foldable nature means no permanent space is required, making them perfect for small apartments or shared living.

For Traditional Heat Lovers

The classic experience—high temperatures, steam, and aromatic wood—is best enjoyed in a traditional sauna. It’s suited for those who value ritual and intensity.

Key Features to Look for in a Home Sauna in 2025

• Material Quality: Look for FSC-certified wood in traditional units.

• EMF Shielding: Especially for infrared models—look for low EMF ratings.

• Timers and Temperature Controls: For safety and convenience.

• Bluetooth Speakers and Lighting: Mood-enhancing extras are popular.

• Ease of Maintenance: Removable panels, drainage, and mold resistance.

Top Brands and Models to Consider

Best Traditional Saunas

• Almost Heaven Barrel Sauna

• Finlandia Outdoor Wood-Burning Sauna

Best Infrared Saunas

• Sunlighten mPulse 3-in-1

• Clearlight Sanctuary Series

Best Portable Saunas

• SereneLife Full-Size Steam Sauna

• Ridgeyard Foldable Infrared Sauna

These models stand out in 2025 for durability, safety features, customer satisfaction, and design aesthetics.

Cost Comparison: Traditional vs. Infrared vs. Portable