Sauna Buying Guide (UK)

Sauna Buying Guide (UK)

Last updated: 1 February 2026

A sauna is the most reliable “mental reset machine” you can buy — but choosing the right one depends on type, heat source, space, and power requirements.

Step 1: Choose sauna type

Traditional sauna (electric heater + stones)

  • hot, dry-to-steamy depending on water on stones

  • classic sauna experience

  • typically faster “deep heat” feel

Infrared sauna

  • lower air temperature, more direct radiant heat

  • often feels gentler / more tolerable for some people

  • different “sweat experience” than traditional

If you want the classic Finnish-style heat and steam option, go traditional.

Step 2: Shape & style (barrel vs cabin)

Barrel saunas

  • look great outdoors

  • efficient airflow and heat circulation

  • strong “spa garden” vibe

Cabin saunas

  • easier to place flush against walls/fences depending on design

  • often more interior space per footprint

  • good for indoor or outdoor setups

Choose based on your space and how you want it to look from the house.

Step 3: Size & capacity

Don’t buy for “maximum people,” buy for comfort:

  • 2 person: couples / small gardens / fastest heat-up

  • 3–4 person: most common sweet spot

  • 6+ person: entertaining and shared sessions, but bigger footprint and power

Also think about bench layout:

  • sitting upright vs reclining

  • headroom and shoulder space matter more than seat count claims

Step 4: Heater sizing & power (UK reality)

Heater power should match the internal volume + how much glass is used. Too small = slow heat-up and disappointing peak temperature.

Power typically requires:

  • a dedicated supply

  • correct isolation and RCD protection

  • installation by a qualified electrician

If you’re choosing between two heater sizes, the safer choice is usually “slightly overpowered” rather than underpowered.

Step 5: Materials & build quality

Look for:

  • durable wood suited to outdoor use

  • quality staves/panels and tight construction

  • good door seal and hardware

  • thoughtful ventilation (hot saunas need airflow)

For outdoor saunas, weather resistance and roof design matter more than people expect.

Step 6: Indoor vs outdoor placement

Outdoor placement:

  • needs a stable, level base

  • needs planning for electrics and weather exposure

Indoor placement:

  • needs ventilation considerations

  • needs moisture/heat-safe surroundings

Either way, plan the base and cable route before you click buy.

Step 7: What’s included vs what you’ll need

Common “extras”:

  • protective floor/base

  • lighting upgrades

  • buckets/ladles, thermometers, accessories

  • heater guard / safety rails

  • weather cover (depending on model)

Common mistakes

  • buying too small (or too low power) and never reaching “real sauna” heat

  • ignoring electrics until after delivery

  • placing too close to obstacles without airflow/service space

  • assuming “outdoor” means “no maintenance” (everything outdoors needs some care)

Next steps

Browse saunas:
https://www.steamandoak.co.uk/collections/saunas-shop-all

Prepare your space (Site Prep Checklist):
https://www.steamandoak.co.uk/pages/site-prep-checklist-hot-tubs-saunas-cold-plunges

Delivery details:
https://www.steamandoak.co.uk/pages/delivery-installation

Questions? help@steamandoak.co.uk | 03330 1515 33