A Complete Guide To Build A DIY Sauna Tent From Scratch

There’s nothing better than stepping into a warm and soothing sauna right in your backyard after a long day. After all, where else do you feel your stress melt away and your body and mind rejuvenated as you relax in a warm ambiance. 

But let’s admit it: The sauna experience is often limited to luxury spas or expensive retreats. Moreover, even if you were to install a sauna in your home, it surely will not be cheap. 

However, there’s one hack that you can use to have your own personalized sauna on a budget.

I am talking about creating your own DIY sauna tent. And yes, you need not be a sauna expert to do so, as I’ve detailed the process of constructing your own portable tented sauna by following some rather straightforward steps. 

Read on, as I explain everything you need for a successful sauna tent DIY project from planning to procuring materials to installation steps, and more. 

Why build a DIY sauna tent in the first place?

Before I dive into the how-to of a DIY tent sauna, you might be curious why you need to DIY your heat therapy retreat and what makes it so appealing. 

And rightly so, as there are portable mini saunas available on the market. Take the SaunaLife Barrel Sauna, for instance, that’s not only portable but can also be assembled just about anywhere on your property.

But here’s the catch: A personal sauna tent’s major advantage is its cost-effectiveness. 
You see, traditional saunas can be expensive to install and maintain, including the portable ones. On the contrary, building your own sauna tent costs only a fraction of that. 

Furthermore, you can easily transport your sauna tent, something that’s not feasible with even regular portable saunas. So, whether you're renting a home or going camping, you can take your sauna wherever you go. 

Not to mention, you can customize everything from size to shape and even the type of heat source on a DIY tent sauna. 

Sounds appealing, doesn’t it? 

How to make a DIY sauna tent?

Now that you know the perks of building a sauna tent, let me get started with how you can DIY this sauna.  

For starters, the DIY process involves sourcing a durable and heat-resistant tent structure while also equipping it with a reliable heat source. 

At the same time, you’ll need to build proper insulation to maintain warmth and ventilate the tent to ensure air circulation and prevent overheating. 

Also, you’ve got to set up a stable seating using either traditional wooden benches or foldable chairs. 

I am sure all of this would sound quite complicated. But let me tell you that it is simpler than it seems, all you’ve got to do is follow the right steps. 

Below, I’ve divided the process of building your DIY tent sauna into three stages, namely planning, material procurement, and assembly. And here’s what each stage looks like: 

Stage 1. Planning 

The first stage in building a DIY tent sauna involves detailed planning about the location and size of your sauna. Also, it is in this very stage that you’ll determine the total budget for your project. 

This stage is essential to ensure the safety, functionality, and durability of your sauna tent and involves: 

A. Selecting the location

When it comes to choosing a location for your sauna tent, I suggest you go for a flat and stable area with sufficient space. This should ideally have access to electricity and water and be at a safe distance from flammable materials. 

For those who are installing their tent saunas in the wilderness, my advice is to consider proximity to water sources and ensure the site is sheltered from strong winds.

B. Deciding sauna size and capacity

Next up you go to determine the size of your tented sauna. And this is straightforward, just take into account how many people will use the sauna simultaneously. 

For instance, if you want a two-person tent, this will need less space and materials. However, if you’re going in for a family-sized tent, you’ll have to make sure there's enough room for seating and movement without feeling cramped.

C. Finalizing your budget

The last step in the planning stage, you’ve to outline your total budget for the project. And you’ll do so after accounting for materials, tools, and any extra features you want in the tent.

Now, although building a DIY sauna tent is more affordable compared to traditional installations, a clearly outlined budget is essential for you to prevent overspending. 

Stage 2. Materials and construction

Having planned everything to the last detail, it’s time to procure materials and begin the construction process. 

This is the first time you’ll be going beyond the blueprint and work to bring your sauna tent to life. And here’s how it will look like: 

A. Frame construction

To start with, you’ll construct the frame of your sauna. Think of it as the skeleton of your sauna tent that will provide both structure and support.

I’ve divided the framing step into two, where you first get materials and then work on the design. 

Materials: When procuring materials for your sauna tent, the common choices include PVC pipes, metal poles, or sturdy wooden beams. Now, each have their own share of merits and demerits, something you should know before purchasing:

PVC pipes: Lightweight and easy to assemble but less heat-resistant.

• Metal poles: Durable and heat-resistant but heavier and may require tools for assembly.
• Wooden beams: Aesthetic and sturdy but can be bulky and may need treatment to withstand heat and moisture.

Design: Once you’ve the materials, you can begin to construct a frame that supports the tent material securely. Here, I suggest you design either dome or A-frame structure to ensure both stability and efficient heat distribution.

B. Tent material 

A sauna tent is different from any regular tent. And to that end, the covering of your sauna tent should be one that retains heat effectively. 

Also, the material should be safe and durable since it will withstand extreme heat. 
Here are two parameters on which you can select the tent material:

• Fabric: You can go for heat-resistant canvas or heavy-duty nylon. These materials can withstand high temperatures without degrading.
• Insulation: You can make use of insulating materials like mineral wool or reflective foil to prevent heat loss and improve efficiency.

C. Source of heat 

Heat source is at the heart of any sauna. That’s because no matter how well-constructed your sauna is overall, ignore the best sauna heaters and it will ruin your experience. 

Talking about the type of sauna heaters suitable for tent saunas, your options include:

• Wood-burning heater: It offers a traditional experience with high heat and steam potential. However, you’ll need proper ventilation and added safety measures to handle smoke and fire hazards.

 

• Electric sauna heater: This is something I recommend to all first time DIYers as it is easier to control and maintain. Nonetheless, you’ll need electricity access plus it should be suitable for the tent environment and have safety certifications.

 

• Infrared lamps: These provide deep heat penetration with lower ambient temperatures. They are energy-efficient and portable but offer a different experience compared and require you to know about infrared sauna risks to avoid health issues. 

D. Ventilation and safety 

Just as in any other sauna, proper ventilation is crucial to prevent overheating and maintain a supply of fresh air in the sauna tent. 

Similarly, you’ll need to have safety features in place to prevent potential hazards. 

And do so, you’ll need: 

• Air vents: Install adjustable vents near the base and top of the tent to facilitate airflow.
• Chimney (for wood stoves): Install a chimney to direct smoke outside safely. Also, seal it properly to prevent leaks.
• Fire-resistant materials: Use fire-resistant fabrics and maintain clearances around the heater to prevent accidental fires.

Stage 3. Assembly​

With materials procurement and construction processes out of sight, it’s time you start with the last stage of DIY tent sauna, i.e., assembly. 

Now, complicated as it might seem, take it from me this is the easiest of all stages. In fact, to make it easier, I’ve detailed all the steps you need to follow to assemble your sauna tent hassle-free. 

A. Build the frame

• Cut the materials: Measure and cut your chosen frame materials to the desired dimensions.
• Assemble the structure: Connect the pieces to form the base and walls for stability. Here, you can use connectors that are appropriate for your tent materials (e.g., PVC elbows, metal brackets).
• Reinforce the joints: Secure all joints with screws or adhesive to enhance durability.

B. Attach the tent material

• Drape the fabric: Lay the tent material over the frame, ensuring it covers all sides adequately.
• Secure the edges: Fasten the fabric to the frame using ties, Velcro, or clips while making sure it's taut to prevent heat escape.
• Seal the seams: Make use of a heat-resistant tape or sewing techniques to seal any gaps or seams.

C. Install the sauna heater 

• Position the heater: Place the stove or heater in a central, stable location and away from the tent walls.
• Set up ventilation: For wood stoves, I suggest you install the chimney through a designated exit point and ensure all connections are tight and secure.
• Perform safety checks: Make sure all combustible materials are at a safe distance and have a fire extinguisher handy for emergencies.

D. Get your DIY sauna tent ready for use

• Add seats: Here, you can either install benches or chairs made from heat-resistant materials. Go for comfortable options and position them safely away from the heater.
• Install lighting: Install waterproof and preferably battery-operated LED lights for visibility inside the sauna tent.
• Get accessories handy: Purchase sauna rocks, a bucket and ladle for water, and a thermometer to monitor temperature.

Expert tips for an optimal DIY tent sauna experience

When it comes to sauna tent DIY, your to-do list doesn’t stop with the completion of the project. That’s because you also want a high-quality sauna experience out of it. 

And to that end, here are expert tips to maximize comfort, efficiency, and safety: 

1. Preheat efficiently

One of the most important steps to enjoying a great sauna session is preheating your tent properly. 

To do so, you can start heating your sauna at least 30 to 60 minutes before your sauna session to allow the temperature to rise gradually and distribute evenly. This will ensure you have a more comfortable and effective steam experience. 

Also, if you're using a wood stove, make sure to manage airflow properly to maintain consistent heat levels without excessive smoke buildup.

2. Use proper wood (for wood-burning stoves)

If your sauna tent uses a wood-burning stove, the type of wood you burn will make a significant difference in both heat output and air quality. 

So, I suggest you go for seasoned hardwoods like oak, birch, or maple, as they burn cleaner and produce less creosote buildup. 

At the same time you should avoid softwoods like pine or fir, which releases excessive smoke and sticky sap. 

3. Test for leaks

Before you use your sauna for the first time, my advice is you conduct a thorough inspection for any potential heat or smoke leaks. 

You see, there can be gaps in the tent fabric, improper stove connections, or even loose seams. And these will allow heat to escape, reduce sauna heater efficiency and make your sauna experience less enjoyable. 

Note: Use high-temperature tape or additional insulation materials to seal any weak spots. Also, test the sauna out with a short heating session before a long sauna session. 

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to build a DIY tent sauna?

Based on your level of experience and the materials you use, building a sauna tent can take anywhere from a few hours to a weekend.

Can a grow tent be a sauna? 

You can have a grow tent function as a makeshift sauna if you modify it properly. That’s because grow tents are designed to retain heat and humidity, which are key components of a sauna.

However, the materials in a typical grow tent aren't built for the extreme temperatures of a sauna. So, you’ll need to make modifications including installing heat-resistant materials and properly ventilating it.  

Can you use your sauna tent in winter?

Absolutely! All you need to do is make sure your tent is well-insulated and your heating source is powerful enough to maintain warmth.

What is the best heating option for beginners?

An electric heater or an infrared setup is the easiest for beginners, as they require less maintenance and ventilation compared to a wood stove.

Conclusion

By now, you already know how to build a DIY sauna tent from start to finish. Also, you know which materials to procure and what safety measures to follow both during and after sauna installation. 

You see, a functional and enjoyable tent sauna experience is feasible, that too without breaking the bank. 

Need more assistance to build your tent sauna or looking to install a conventional home sauna instead? 

You can get in touch with us!

At Steam and Sauna Experts, we are seasoned sauna installation experts and our online storefront features top-of-the-line sauna materials shipped across the country for free. 
Simply put, we’ve got all your home sauna requirements covered on a budget.