What is the difference between an Indoor Sauna and an Outdoor Sauna?

If you’re thinking about adding a sauna to your home, one of the first decisions to make is where you want it to go. Some people love the idea of stepping into a warm indoor sauna after a long day. Others want the fresh-air feeling that comes with an outdoor sauna setup.

The good news is that both options are great. It just depends on your space, your lifestyle, and the experience you want.

A lot more people are using saunas to improve health and wellness. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.

Quick Look | Indoor vs Outdoor Saunas

• Indoor saunas: Easy everyday access, quick heat-up, and a private space inside your home.

• Outdoor saunas: Natural, peaceful vibe with more room to create a spa-like space in your backyard.

The good news? Both options will still give you all the sauna health benefits you’re looking for.

Why Choose an Indoor Sauna?

Indoor saunas are a great choice if you want convenience. You can step inside any time you want without worrying about the weather. Most people place them in a spare room, garage, large bathroom, or home gym.

Indoor saunas heat quickly and hold their temperature well because they’re protected from wind and outdoor temperatures. They also tend to be quieter and more private, which makes the experience feel calm and peaceful.

If you want year-round sauna access without leaving the house, an indoor sauna is an easy yes.

Why Choose an Outdoor Sauna?

Outdoor saunas offer a completely different feel. The heat is the same, but the experience feels more earthy and relaxing. Many people love the idea of walking outside, breathing in cool air, and then stepping into warm cedar.

Outdoor models are also perfect if you don’t have extra indoor space. They become part of your backyard, deck, or garden. Almost like a little spa retreat at home. Because outdoor saunas are built to handle the weather, they often use thicker timber and stronger insulation. They’re ideal for those who enjoy nature, fresh air, and a more traditional sauna vibe.

Things to Think About Before You Decide

Choosing between indoor and outdoor comes down to a few simple questions:

1. Do you have space inside, or would it fit better outside?

2. Do you want quick, everyday access?

3. Or do you prefer a more peaceful, outdoorsy routine?

If you plan to use your sauna at night or during colder months, an indoor sauna might be more convenient. If you love the idea of turning your backyard into a relaxation area, outdoor is the way to go.

Once you know if you want an Indoor Sauna or an Outdoor Sauna, you need to decide if you prefer an Infrared Sauna or a Traditional Sauna as both are available as Indoor AND Outdoor versions at Alpine Spas

What is the difference between "Indoor Infrared Sauna", "Indoor Traditional Sauna", "Outdoor Infrared Sauna" and "Outdoor Traditional Sauna"?

Indoor Infrared Sauna

• Heat source: Infrared emitters/panels heat the body directly.​

• Temperature range: 40–60°C with mild, warm air.​

• Humidity level: Low humidity, dry air with no steam.​

• Warm-up time: Fast; 10–20 minutes.​

• Perceived intensity: Gentler, radiant warmth, easier for heat-sensitive users.​

• Installation complexity: Simple plug-in electrical installation, minimal ventilation needed.​

• Space/location needs: Compact, suited for spare rooms, garages, or indoor wellness spaces.​

• Structural impact: Low moisture load, easier to integrate into existing homes.​

• Running cost: Generally lower due to lower temps and shorter pre-heat times.​

• Session length: Often 25–45 minutes because mild air is comfortable.​

• User preference: Ideal for regular home wellness, lower heat tolerance, quick sessions, easy retrofitting.​

Indoor Traditional Sauna

• Heat source: Electric heater with rocks heating air and rocks.​

• Temperature range: 70–100°C or higher with very hot air.​

• Humidity level: Low to moderate; steam created by pouring water on rocks.​

• Warm-up time: Slower; 30–60 minutes needed.​

• Perceived intensity: Very intense heat and steam; classic Finnish sauna experience.​

• Installation complexity: Requires high-amp circuit, ventilation, moisture barriers, and drainage.​

• Space/location needs: Dedicated, well-ventilated room with proper linings and clearances.​

• Structural impact: High moisture risk; poor detailing can cause condensation/building damage.​

• Running cost: Higher due to larger heaters, higher temps, longer heat-up.​

• Session length: Commonly 10–20 minutes due to intensity.​

• User preference: For purists seeking authentic Finnish heat, sweat, and ritual pouring.​

Outdoor Infrared Sauna

• Heat source: Infrared panels with weather-resistant design.​

• Temperature range: 40–60°C, affected by outdoor ambient conditions.​

• Humidity level: Low humidity; cabin keeps rain/moisture out.​

• Warm-up time: Fast, but slightly longer in cold outdoor air.​

• Perceived intensity: Gentle radiant warmth with cold air contrast outdoors.​

• Installation complexity: Requires weatherproof cabin, electrical supply, and site prep like base and overhang.​

• Space/location needs: Needs backyard, garden, or deck space with exposure tolerance.​

• Structural impact: Separate cabin reduces risk to main building.​

• Running cost: Similar or slightly higher than indoor infrared due to outdoor heat loss.​

• Session length: Similar length to indoor infrared, often with outdoor cool-down breaks.​

• User preference: For users wanting infrared benefits with outdoor experience separated from house.​

Outdoor Traditional Sauna

• Heat source: Electric or wood-fired heater with rocks heating air.​

• Temperature range: 70–100°C, exterior cold increases heating demand.​

• Humidity level: Low to moderate; steam bursts common outdoors.​

• Warm-up time: Slowest due to thermal mass and weather conditions.​

• Perceived intensity: Intense heat contrast with cold air/plunge outdoors.​

• Installation complexity: Most complex; insulation, moisture control, chimney/flue, and drainage needed.​

• Space/location needs: Requires outdoor site with room for structure, access, venting, wood storage.​

• Structural impact: Heat and moisture kept separate from main dwelling.​

• Running cost: Highest; large heaters and heating loss in cold climates.​

• Session length: Often short rounds with outdoor or cold plunges.​

• User preference: For those wanting full traditional sauna rituals and intense outdoor experience.​

Explore the full range of Saunas at Alpine Spas and find the one that fits your lifestyle.

We also suggest checking out our sauna buying guide to learn more.

Please contact us or check out our Product Finder to find the right Sauna for you.

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