Indoor Vs Outdoor Sauna: What’s The Right Option For You?

When it comes to installing a sauna in our homes, we are all faced with this one big question:  Should I go with an indoor sauna or an outdoor one?

And let’s admit it, the choice is not easy at all. That’s because while indoor saunas are cozy and convenient, outdoor saunas feel like a peaceful escape. 

Also, both the saunas come with some trade-offs.

In this guide, I will walk you through all the differences between an indoor vs outdoor sauna. I will simplify all the technical talk and confusing details and help you figure out what works best for your space, your budget, and your lifestyle.

In the end, you’ll know exactly which sauna is right for you. 

So, let’s get started.
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Key takeaways

• Choosing between an indoor and outdoor sauna depends on your space, lifestyle, and budget.
  
  
• Indoor saunas are great for daily use, easy access, and smaller homes or apartments.
  
  
• Outdoor saunas create a peaceful, nature-inspired retreat and are perfect for hosting.
  
  
• Indoor saunas need ventilation and may require remodeling during installation.
  
  
• Outdoor saunas need weatherproofing, more maintenance, and higher setup costs.
  
  
• Indoor saunas are low-maintenance and work year-round regardless of weather.
  
  
• Outdoor saunas boost curb appeal and offer more design freedom and space.
  
  
• If you want the best of both worlds, consider creative setups like garage conversions or covered paths.
  
  
• Portable saunas are a flexible option for renters or seasonal use.
  
  
• Always consider your space, power access, and budget before deciding on a sauna type.

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Indoor vs outdoor sauna: What’s the difference?

In order to choose wisely between an indoor or outdoor sauna, it is essential you know how both the saunas are different. After all, although both offer great relaxation, they differ in vibe, setup, and use. 

For instance, while indoor saunas offer easy access and privacy, outdoor set-ups bring nature and a spa-like feel. 

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which suits you:
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Feature	Indoor Sauna ​	Outdoor Sauna
Convenience	Right inside your home, great for quick use	Feels like a getaway, but weather matters
Installation	Needs good ventilation & space inside	Needs power hookup and weather protection
Privacy	Total indoor privacy	May need fencing or covers
Vibe & Experience	Cozy and comfortable	Natural, peaceful, and scenic
Maintenance	Easier to clean, fewer bugs	Needs more upkeep (leaves, dirt, pests)
Cost	Usually cheaper to install	Can cost more up front
Space Needed	Great for smaller homes or apartments	Best if you have a backyard or garden
Weather Issues	Works year-round indoors	Could be less fun in rain or snow
Home Value Boost	Depends on design and finish	Often adds major curb appeal
Social Use	Best for solo or family use	Great for guests and backyard parties

Let’s have a closer look at both the saunas for better understanding.
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Indoor saunas

The best thing about having an indoor sauna is you don’t need to step outside into the cold, rain, snow, or scorching heat. Your sauna is always just a few steps away, warm and ready whenever you are.

Overall, here’s why indoor saunas are so popular, and why they’re good for you. Also, some disadvantages of indoor installations you should be aware of. 
 
The benefits of installing an indoor sauna

1. It offers unmatched convenience 
One of the biggest advantages of an indoor sauna is how easy it is to use. No matter whether it’s morning, evening, or even in the middle of a busy day, your sauna is right there. 
 
Plus, you can choose any location in your home to install the sauna. That’s because be it your bedroom, bathroom, or home gym, attic, or basement, indoor saunas can be just about anywhere. 

2. It is perfect for Daily Use
Since indoor saunas are easily accessible, they become a part of your daily routine. 
Maybe you want a quick sweat before workout to wake up your body or a heat session before bed to relax yourself, you can access the sauna anytime. 

3. It is perfect for small homes
Not everyone has a big backyard, and that’s okay. Indoor saunas work well in all homes, including those with tighter spaces. 

You see, these saunas are designed to fit into small and underused areas of your home. So, you can fit one in the basement, turn part of your bathroom into a mini spa, or even place it in a home gym corner.

4. It is easy to maintain
Having an indoor sauna clean is surprisingly simple. Here, you don’t have to deal with leaves, dirt, bugs, or weather-related wear and tear like you might with an outdoor sauna. 

All you need to do is give it a quick wipe-down every now and then, and you’re good to go. 

5. You can use it year-round 
With an indoor sauna, the seasons don’t matter. That’s because you’re completely unaffected from rain, snow, etc. 

Your sauna is inside, and, thus, dry, warm, and protected from the elements. And you can enjoy it any day of the year, no matter the weather.

The disadvantages of indoor sauna

1. It takes up indoor space
Installing an indoor sauna requires you to dedicate some indoor space to your sauna. This means giving up a portion of a room, converting part of your bathroom, or using valuable square footage in your home. 

And if your space is already tight, this could be a tricky situation; more so in smaller apartments or condos.

2. It needs good ventilation
An indoor sauna creates heat and moisture, and without proper ventilation, that can lead to problems like mold, mildew, or that damp smell nobody wants. 

So. you’ll need to install a good venting system, possibly with a dehumidifier or exhaust fan, to keep your sauna area, and your home, fresh and dry.

3. Installation takes a lot of planning
Setting up an indoor sauna isn’t always plug-and-play. Here’s why:

• You might need a licensed electrician to handle the wiring, especially for traditional saunas as they require more power. 
• You might also need minor remodeling, like sealing walls or upgrading floors, to make sure the sauna is installed safely and works efficiently.

​In short, here are the pros and cons of indoor saunas:

Pros	Cons
Super convenient and easy to access	Takes up indoor space`
Works year-round, no weather issues	Needs good ventilation
Low maintenance and fewer cleaning tasks	Installation needs planning and wiring
Fits in small homes or apartments	Might need remodeling or space trade-offs

All in all, indoor saunas are best for:

• People who want to use a sauna frequently or even daily. 
• Families with kids or older adults who prefer indoor access. 
• Homes without outdoor space or backyards. 
• Apartment and condo owners with limited installation options.

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Outdoor Saunas

If your ideal sauna experience is stepping into a hot and steamy enclosure while snowflakes fall outside, you’re thinking of an outdoor sauna, likely a traditional Finnish sauna. These saunas are about escaping the noise, unplugging from your routine, and soaking up nature. 

Think of it as a mini vacation that’s peaceful, rustic, and totally refreshing right in your own backyard.

Let’s see why outdoor saunas are so good (as well as their shortcomings).  

The benefits of installing an outdoor sauna

1. It feels like a getaway
There’s something magical about being surrounded by snow, trees, fresh air, and birdsong while you relax in a warm sauna. It feels like a private retreat, even if it’s just steps from your back door.

And for a lot of people, this quiet connection with nature is what makes the outdoor sauna experience stand out. So much so that some sauna enthusiasts even go on to build a sauna right in the middle of snow. 

2. No moisture worries in your home
Since all the heat and steam stay outside, there’s no risk of moisture building up indoors. Meaning you need not worry about mold, humidity, or extra ventilation systems in your home. 

3. It offers extra space
When building your sauna outdoors, you’re not limited by indoor walls or ceiling heights. 

Whether you want a larger sauna for the whole family, a cozy sauna cabin, or a space with cold plunge nearby, you have all the freedom to get creative.

4. It boosts curb appeal
A well-built outdoor sauna can become a standout feature in your yard. It can be anywhere from rustic wood to sleek modern design, or even a cabin-style setup. 

All of these designs add visual interest, charm, and value to your home, especially if you’re thinking of resale.

5. It is perfect for hosting people
Outdoor saunas are great for entertaining. You can invite friends to wind down in the heat and even make it a highlight of your home event. 

In fact, be it a casual hangout or a winter gathering, outdoor sauna makes your home the place people want to be.

The drawbacks of an outdoor sauna

1. You need to walk out in rain and snow
An outdoor sauna is exposed to the elements, which means getting to it might not always be fun. This is especially true during heavy rain, deep snow, or freezing winds. 

Now, although some people love the thrill of dashing through the cold in a robe, for others, it’s a deal-breaker.

2. It is exposed to outside weather and needs more maintenance
Outdoor saunas collect leaves, dirt, insects, and moisture. So, you’ll need to clean them more often and keep them protected from weather damage. 

Also, your sauna wood needs sealing, roofs need more frequent inspections, and the exterior needs more cleaning. This is way more hands-on maintenance than an indoor unit.

3. Setup costs are higher
Installing an outdoor sauna usually costs more up front. That’s because you need a concrete pad or deck, weatherproof materials, insulation, proper drainage, and outdoor electrical work. 

Also, if you want lighting, pathways, or extras like a changing area, the costs can rise even more.

4. There are security and safety concerns
Since the sauna is outside, you’ll want to think about locking it when not in use. More so if you live in a city or have a lot of foot traffic nearby. 

You’ll also want to keep an eye on power sources, wiring, and lighting to make sure everything stays safe and secure.

In short, here are the pros and cons of outdoor saunas:

Pros	Cons
Feels like a nature-inspired retreat	Exposed to weather – needs more maintenance
No indoor humidity or ventilation worries	Getting to it in bad weather can be inconvenient
Adds charm and curb appeal to your home	Setup is costlier and requires outdoor wiring
Great for social gatherings and relaxation	May raise security/safety concerns

Overall, outdoor saunas are best for: 

• People who love spending time outdoors and want to bring relaxation into that space
• Homeowners with a yard, garden, or patio that could use a peaceful focal point
• Sauna fans who want that “authentic Finnish” experience with nature all around
• Anyone dreaming of a backyard spa retreat that doubles as a showpiece

Want to get an outdoor sauna but not sure what’s the best option?

Go through my blog on best outdoor saunas for home where I have listed the best options on the market in all budget ranges. 

Bottom line: When it comes down to it, indoor and outdoor saunas each offer their own kind of magic. 

You see, while indoor saunas are about everyday comfort and convenience, outdoor saunas offer a special backyard retreat. 

​So the best choice is the one that fits your lifestyle.

3 Things to consider before choosing between indoor and outdoor sauna

Now that you know what to expect from an indoor vs outdoor sauna you might already be convinced about buying one. 

But wait, don’t rush it as yet. 

It's a big decision. And it’s not just about where it fits physically but also about your daily routine, your space, your preferences, and even your climate.

Here are a few things I suggest you think about before deciding.
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1. Do you have enough space

Indoor saunas are great if you’ve got a bit of extra room inside your home. That’s because they can be tucked into a basement corner, added to a large bathroom, or even built into a home gym. 

But if space is already tight indoors, it may be hard to squeeze one in without giving something up.

Outdoor saunas, at the same time, give you more breathing room. You just need a level area in your yard or patio, ideally near your house for convenience, and some clearance around it for safety and airflow.

If you’ve got a yard, this could be your chance to turn part of it into a relaxing retreat.
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2. Do you have the required power source

Most indoor saunas run on electricity and plug into your home’s existing power supply. However, you might need a dedicated line and possibly a higher voltage.

Outdoor saunas also run on electricity, but you’ll need to run a power line all the way to your sauna unless you’re planning to have a wood-burning heater.
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3. Do you have the required budget

In general, indoor saunas are more budget-friendly, especially if you already have the space for one and don’t need much remodeling. You’ll mainly be paying for the sauna unit, installation, and electrical work if needed.

On the other hand, the cost of installing a sauna outdoors is usually higher. That’s because
you need to build a platform, weatherproof the structure, and run outdoor wiring. 

Also, if you want a changing area, deck, or outdoor shower nearby, costs can go up quickly.
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In short, here are the factors you should consider:

Factor	Indoor Sauna	Outdoor Sauna
Space	Fits in small rooms like bathrooms or basements	Needs a flat area in the yard or patio
Power Access	Uses home’s power; may need a dedicated line	Needs outdoor wiring or a wood-burning option
Budget	More affordable if space is already available indoors	More expensive due to extra materials and weatherproofing

Bonus: Here’s an indoor vs outdoor sauna suitability checklist

Best For...	Indoor Sauna	Outdoor Sauna
Daily solo or family use	✅	❌
Small homes or apartments	✅	❌
Backyard entertainment and social gatherings	❌	✅
Nature-inspired, spa-like experience	❌	✅
Easy installation and low maintenance	✅	❌
Custom design and spacious layouts	❌	✅

Can you have the best of both worlds?

A lot of people are torn between the cozy convenience of an indoor sauna and the natural retreat of an outdoor one. 

And if you’re among them, here's good news for you: You need not choose just one. That’s because with a little creativity you can blend the best of both. 

Whether you own a home, rent, or simply love options, here are some ideas to help you create a sauna setup that’s just right for you.
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1. Covered outdoor sauna close to your home

One popular solution is to place your outdoor sauna just a few steps from your back door and build a small roof or awning over the path or entry. 
This way, you still enjoy the fresh-air feel and natural surroundings, but you’re not trekking across the yard in a snowstorm or heavy rain. It’s the perfect middle ground between total outdoor exposure and easy indoor access. 
Here, you get:

• Short and weather-protected walk up to the sauna
• Fresh air, natural views, and outdoor ambiance
• Year-round use without sacrificing comfort

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2. Garage sauna conversion

​Got a garage that's mostly just storage space? 

You can convert a part of it into a sauna and make it a smart hybrid option. 

This is more protected than a backyard setup, but not quite inside your main living space. So you don’t have to worry about steam or moisture affecting your home’s interior. 
Plus, garages often have easy access to power and ventilation. 

Overall, you get:

• Sheltered from harsh weather
• More privacy than an open yard sauna

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3. Portable outdoor saunas

Yes, portable saunas are a thing, and they’re surprisingly effective. 

These saunas come in different forms including pop-up tent saunas, inflatable versions, or even small barrel saunas on wheels. And they’re ideal if you rent your home, move often,
or just want to try the sauna lifestyle without committing to a permanent build. 
Moreover, some models pack down and store easily, so you canuse them seasonally or even take them on road trips.

Here’s why they’re great:

• Perfect for renters 
• Easy to set up, take down, or transport
• No major installation or long-term commitment

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In short, here’s how you can have the best of both worlds:

Option	What It Offers
Covered Outdoor Sauna	Combines outdoor vibe with protection from bad weather
Garage Sauna Conversion	Offers privacy and shelter without affecting indoor living areas
Portable Sauna	Great for renters or seasonal use; no permanent installation needed

Wrapping up the indoor vs outdoor sauna debate

Still not sure whether to install an indoor or outdoor sauna?

Think about how you want to feel when you use your sauna.

Do you want something quick, easy, and private? 

If yes, then an indoor sauna is the best fit as it becomes a part of your daily rhythm and is
always there when you need a reset.

On the other hand, if you want a quiet escape, an outdoor sauna is your go-to option.

Also, if you’re hoping to share the experience with family or friends, outdoor saunas usually have more space. And they offer a unique social atmosphere that’s great for hosting or unwinding together.

Got more questions or want to get an expertly crafted sauna on your property?

You can get in touch with us!

At Steam and Sauna Experts, we are South Florida’s most seasoned sauna installation experts with decades of hands-on experience. Also, our online storefront features top-of-the-line sauna equipment and accessories from industry-leading manufacturers.

In short, we’ve got all your home sauna needs covered on a budget.
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Frequently asked questions

Can I put an indoor sauna outside?

Not really. 
Indoor saunas aren’t built to handle rain, snow, or harsh sun. So, if you want to place one outside, it should be weatherproof or you’ll ruin it fast.
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How much does it cost to install each sauna type?

Here’s a price breakdown of both indoor and outdoor saunas:

• Indoor sauna: $2,000-$7,000 (depending on size and setup)
• Outdoor sauna: $4,000-$10,000+ (including base, wiring, weatherproofing)​

Note: Prices vary a lot based on location, size, materials, and labor.

What’s safer if I have kids?

Indoor saunas are easier to monitor and safer for small kids as there’s no wildlife, tripping hazards, or sharp outdoor corners.
However, be sure your kids meet the minimum sauna age limit for safe sessions before you let them use the sauna.
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Can I use an outdoor sauna in winter?

Absolutely, and it’s one of the best experiences. Just make sure it’s well-insulated and close enough to your home that you’re not running through snow barefoot.