Where To Put A Sauna In Your House?

So, you’re thinking of adding a home sauna but not sure where exactly it should go?

Been there, seen it. 

And let me tell you it is not as simple as installing a faucet or shower. 

After all, the location you choose affects everything from comfort and safety, cost, long-term maintenance, and how often you’ll actually use it

This is exactly why I’ve detailed the best places to put a sauna in your house. From basement and bathroom to garage and backyard, I’ll walk you through all the areas that might be on your mind for installing a sauna. 

Let’s get started.
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Key takeaways

• Basements are private, quiet, and naturally insulated, perfect for larger, traditional saunas. Just be sure to address moisture and ventilation.
  
  
• Bathrooms are ideal for convenience, especially with existing plumbing and drainage. They're great for infrared units but need strong ventilation.
  
  
• Garages offer lots of space and flexibility for multi-use wellness zones. Insulation and proper electrical setup are key.
  
  
• Spare rooms, attics, and closets work well for compact saunas if the space is structurally sound, climate-controlled, and safely wired.
  
  
• Outdoor saunas provide a serene, spa-like escape and support larger or wood-burning models. But they require weatherproofing, privacy, and power planning.
  
  
• Choose your sauna type (traditional vs. infrared) based on space, heat preferences, and power availability.
  
  
• Pay close attention to ventilation, electrical needs, and clearance to ensure a safe and efficient installation.
  
  
• If space is tight, modular or infrared saunas offer a flexible, lower-maintenance solution for indoor setups.
  
  
• Outdoor setups are perfect for pairing with a cold plunge tub or shower for ultimate wellness contrast therapy.

1. Basement

Got a basement that’s mostly collecting dust or doubling as storage for things you don’t need anymore?
Well, it might just be the perfect spot for your home sauna.
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Here’s why basement is perfect for sauna installation

• Naturally insulation: Basements are typically cooler and more temperature-stable. This means your sauna doesn’t have to work as hard to retain heat, resulting in better energy efficiency.
• Privacy and peace: Installing a sauna in the basement gives you that sense of escape and privacy. After all, it is tucked away from the main living areas, and acts like a little hideaway to relax, sweat, and recharge.
• Spacious: Most basements have the square footage to accommodate bigger saunas. So much so that you can have a full wellness retreat built into that space.  ​

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A few things you should watch out for when installing a basement sauna

• Moisture and humidity: Basements are notorious for being a bit damp. So, you’ll want to make sure yours is properly waterproofed and well-ventilated before installing a basement sauna. Also, you’ll need a good dehumidifier if you’re going for a traditional dry Finnish sauna here.
• Slow warm-ups: Some saunas may take longer to heat up since basements are cooler, especially in the winter months. 
• Access and airflow: Make sure there’s a convenient path in and out. And if your basement is fully enclosed, do plan for an exhaust fan or proper air exchange so things don’t get stuffy.

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Expert tips to make the most out of your basement sauna:

• Choose a corner: Place your sauna against two exterior walls as it helps insulate it even more and reduces heat loss.
• Go modular if the space is tight: Many modern sauna kits are designed to fit through standard doorways and can be assembled in place. This is ideal if your basement has narrow stairs or limited clearance.
• Add ambient lighting and comfy finishes: Don’t just drop a sauna in a dark basement and call it a day. Add a few LED strips and a bench with towels to turn it into a true retreat.

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2. Bathroom

One of the most popular and practical spots to install a home sauna is right next to your shower.

​You see, your bathroom is already built to handle moisture, heat, and water flow. So turning it into a full-blown wellness sanctuary with a bathroom sauna installation makes complete sense. 

When converting a bathroom into a sauna, proper preparation is key and that often starts with bathroom demolition. This involves removing existing fixtures such as vanities, toilets, and tubs, while carefully shutting off and managing water and electricity supplies to ensure safety. According to this bathroom demolition guide, using tools like adjustable wrenches, reciprocating saws and utility knives can help efficiently clear the space and prepare it for your sauna installation.
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Here’s why bathrooms are great for sauna installation

• Built-in plumbing and drainage: There’s no need to reroute pipes or create special runoff systems as your shower area already handles humidity and water. This makes it a perfect neighbor for a sauna.
• Easy cool-down access: You can step straight from a hot sauna into a refreshing cold shower. This is apt for a hot-cold therapy combo, and it makes post-sauna cleanup a breeze.
• Natural spa vibes: Adding a sauna to your bathroom instantly upgrades the space. In fact, add candles, eucalyptus, soft towels, etc., and you have a luxury retreat right in your home.

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A few things you should watch out for

• Ventilation is a must: Bathrooms already carry a lot of moisture. Meaning add a sauna, and you risk mold or mildew if you don’t have proper airflow. So, make sure your bathroom fan is powerful enough, or better yet, install a dedicated vent system.
• Space constraints: Your bathroom might not be sauna-sized. And for tighter layouts like this, compact 1-person infrared saunas or corner saunas are a great solution.
• Electrical upgrades: You might need a separate 240V power line, especially if you’re going with a traditional sauna. I suggest you consult a licensed electrician before wiring anything.

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Expert tips to make your bathroom sauna work optimally

• Use water-resistant finishes: Tile, stone, vinyl, or sealed wood floors are your best options. But avoid carpet or porous materials.
• Create zones: Try to visually separate your sauna area from the rest of the bathroom with lighting, flooring, or a small divider wall. This will create a true “spa within a spa” feeling.
• Go infrared if your space is tight: Infrared saunas take up less space, generate less steam, and plug into standard outlets in many cases, making them perfect for bathroom installations.

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3. Garage

Wondering whether or not can you put a sauna in the garage? 

The short answer is, yes. 

In fact, if your garage is just housing a few dusty tools, some old bikes, and boxes labeled “holiday stuff,” it might be the best spot for your home sauna. 

Believe it or not, the garage is quickly becoming one of the most popular places to install a home sauna. And for good reasons.
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Here’s why garage works so well for the sauna

• There’s plenty of space: Unlike other spaces, you’re not restricted by narrow hallways or awkward corners here. So, whether you want a small infrared model or a large multi-person traditional sauna, your garage can handle it all. 
• Easy access to exterior walls: This makes installing proper ventilation and wiring simpler. Moreover, if you want an outdoor sauna feel without braving the elements, this is a great middle ground.
• Flexible setup: Want a sauna, a cold plunge, a workout corner, and a chill-out zone, all in one place? Your garage has the square footage to make it happen.

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Things you should watch out for in the garage

• Temperature fluctuations: Garage sauna installations can get super cold in winter and blazing hot in summer. Make sure your sauna is well-insulated, or consider adding a mini-split HVAC system to regulate ambient temperature. 
  
• Moisture control: If your garage floor isn’t sealed or gets damp, you should consider adding a vapor barrier and upgrading flooring. After all, you want to keep the space dry and mold-free.
  
• Power: Some garages share circuits with power-hungry tools or appliances. You might need a dedicated electrical line for the sauna to function safely and efficiently.

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Some pro tips to make your garage sauna work

• Use a wall-mounted or modular unit: These can free up floor space while still delivering powerful heat and a great sauna experience.
• Seal the place: Insulate the walls, add weatherstripping around doors, and install a vapor barrier under your sauna to protect it from moisture and air leaks.
• Design it like a home gym: Add soft lighting, floor mats, a small bench, and even a towel warmer. This will feel like a purpose-built wellness zone and not just another garage sauna.

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4. Spare room, closet, or attic

You might not have a big garage or basement to install a sauna in, and that’s totally fine. 
The beauty of modern home saunas is that they can fit into surprisingly small or underused spaces.
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So, if you’ve got a spare bedroom, walk-in closet, or even an attic corner, you can install a sauna in these.
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Here’s why these spaces are ideal for home sauna

• They’re already part of your living zone: These spots are inside the thermal envelope of your house, which means they’re already insulated and climate-controlled. This helps your sauna run more efficiently.
• Great for compact or modular saunas: Today’s infrared and prefab sauna kits are designed to fit tight nooks and small footprints, without sacrificing comfort or quality.
• Perfect if you’re remodeling: If you're redoing a guest room, converting an office, or finishing an attic, it’s a great time to plan a sauna install while the walls are open and wiring is accessible.

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But you should be watchful for a few things like

• Clearance and ventilation: Attics, in particular, can have low ceilings or sloped walls. Be sure your sauna fits with room to spare above the bench for comfortable sitting and has optimum airflow. 
• Structural integrity: Saunas aren’t insanely heavy, but they do put weight on the floor, especially traditional ones. Make sure the floor can support it, more so in attics or raised closets.
• Fire safety & heat protection: You want to use fire-safe materials around the sauna (no curtains, rugs, or exposed wiring) and allow adequate space between the unit and surrounding walls.

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Here are some expert tips for an optimum sauna setup

• Leave breathing room: Plan at least 6-12 inches of clearance around the sauna to allow for proper air circulation and easy maintenance.
• Install a dedicated circuit: Even a small infrared unit should have its own power line to avoid overloading nearby sockets.
• Make it cozy: Add dimmable lighting, calming wall paint, a small bench, and towel hooks to give it a spa-like feel, even if it’s tucked in a corner.

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5. Backyard (or anywhere outdoors)

If you’ve ever seen a traditional Finnish sauna nestled beside a snowy forest or by the pool, you know how magical an outdoor sauna can feel. This is rustic, serene, and gives you that back-to-nature vibe that indoor setups just can’t replicate.
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Here’s why outdoor saunas are so appealing for homeowners

• Immersive experience: There’s something deeply therapeutic about stepping out into fresh air after a hot session. You’re surrounded by nature, the sky, the breeze; and you experience an instant mood reset.
• No indoor humidity worries: With outdoor sauna installation, you don't have to stress about indoor moisture buildup or mold risks. That’s because steam, heat, and condensation stay outside.
• Great for larger units or traditional wood-burning saunas: When installing a sauna outdoors, you’re not limited by room size or ceiling height. Meaning you can go big, build custom, or even add a cold plunge tub nearby.

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But there are a few things you should be watchful of, such as

• Weatherproofing: Your sauna will face rain, sun, snow, and humidity. So, you’ll need weather-resistant materials (think Western Red Cedar, thermowood, or specially treated lumber) and a solid roof system.
• Power and plumbing challenges: Running electrical lines or plumbing outdoors might require trenching or hiring professionals. Although it’s totally doable, it adds to the installation time and budget.
• Privacy and aesthetics: If you have neighbors nearby, consider fencing, hedges, or a pergola. You want your sauna time to feel tranquil and not like you're on display.

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Here are some outdoor sauna tips for you

• Pick a level and stable surface: A concrete pad, paver foundation, or raised wooden platform is ideal. Avoid grass or dirt, which can shift or trap moisture.
• Protect it from wind and direct sun: While saunas are made to handle heat, constant exposure to harsh elements can wear them down over time. Place your sauna near a wall, under a canopy, or beside a natural windbreak as it helps extend its lifespan.
• Plan your pathway: If you're using the sauna in colder months, make sure there’s a safe and non-slip walkway from your house. Heated walkways or stepping stones work great here. ​

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Bonus: Add a cold plunge alongside your outdoor sauna

Outdoor setups are perfect for building wellness combos like sauna and cold plunge.

Meaning you can add anything from a tub of icy water to a plunge barrel or even a nearby pool and get contrast therapy which has incredible health benefits.
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Here are some pros and cons of each sauna location:

Location	Pros	Cons	Best For
Basement	Private, insulated, quiet, energy-efficient	May need waterproofing, slower warm-up times in colder climates	Personal retreat, larger traditional saunas
Bathroom/Spa Room	Close to shower, easy plumbing/venting setup, spa-like experience	Space can be tight, needs strong ventilation and waterproofing	Daily use, infrared saunas, wellness lovers
Garage	Lots of space, flexible setup, good for custom builds	Temperature swings, may need insulation and separate power	Large builds, gym-style setups, hybrid use spaces
Spare Room/Closet	Easy access, climate-controlled, good for compact saunas	Limited space, requires safe ventilation and structural planning	Small infrared units, modern remodels
Attic	Quiet, tucked away, great for creative installs	Needs structural reinforcement, ceiling clearance, access planning	Light-use saunas, private wellness zones
Outdoor/Backyard	Natural setting, no indoor moisture issues, scenic and peaceful	Weatherproofing required, possible power/plumbing challenges	Traditional saunas, wood-burning, cold plunge pair

3 Things to consider before finalizing where to put a sauna in your house

Before you settle on where your sauna will go, you’ve got to answer a few key questions. These are the choices that can make or break your home sauna experience. 

So, let me break them down for you.
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1. Your sauna type

First thing first, you’ve got to choose between a traditional and infrared sauna. This is important because your sauna enclosure’s size, power requirements, and location will all depend on which type you choose.

Here’s a closer look at these two sauna types:

Traditional (Finnish-style) sauna

• Heats the air using electric or wood-fired heaters.
• Can reach very high temperatures (160-200°F).
• Offers steam by pouring water on hot rocks.
• Creates that classic “deep sweat” experience.

Best for: Basement, garage, outdoor installations.

What you need to know:

• Requires more power (usually 240V).
• Needs good ventilation and moisture-proofing.
• Can take 30-45 minutes to preheat.

Infrared sauna

• Uses infrared light to warm your body directly and not the air around you.
• Operates at lower temps (110-140°F), but still promotes deep sweating.
• Heats up in just 10-15 minutes.
• No steam, no humidity, just dry heat.

Best for: Spare rooms, closets, bathrooms, apartments.

What you need to know:

• Typically plugs into a standard outlet (110-120V).
• Easier to install and more energy-efficient.
• Doesn’t require ventilation since there's no steam.

Here’s how traditional and infrared saunas compare:
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Feature	Traditional Sauna	Infrared Sauna
Heating Method	Heats the air using electric or wood-fired unit	Directly heats the body using infrared panels
Temperature Range	160–200°F	110–140°F
Heat-Up Time	30–45 minutes	10–15 minutes
Humidity / Steam	High – allows for steam (pour water on rocks)	Dry – no humidity
Power Requirements	240V, usually needs a dedicated line	Often 110–120V; plugs into standard outlet
Best Locations	Basement, garage, backyard	Bathroom, closet, spare room
Ideal For	Deep sweating, traditional sauna experience	Quick sessions, compact spaces, low maintenance

2. Electrical requirements

​This part is super crucial because saunas draw a lot of power. So, your setup has to be safe and code-compliant.

Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

• Traditional saunas usually need a dedicated 240V line, 30-60 amps, and GFCI protection.
• Infrared saunas often work with standard household outlets, but still benefit from being on a dedicated circuit.
• Don’t guess, always hire a licensed electrician to handle the wiring and panel upgrades if needed.

Pro tip: If you’re placing your sauna far from your main breaker (like in the backyard), do factor in the cost of extended wiring or trenching.
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3. Layout and clearance

Every sauna, no matter how compact, needs room around it to operate safely and comfortably.

Here are some general layout guidelines you can follow: 

• Ceiling height: Ideal height is 7-8 feet for saunas. Don’t build it too high as heat will start to rise away from you.
• Bench space: Allow at least 24 inches per person for comfortable seating.
• Clearance: Leave 4-6 inches between sauna walls and adjacent surfaces (especially if placing near drywall or furniture).
• Flooring: Avoid carpet. Go with tile, sealed concrete, vinyl, or a treated wood platform.

Pro tip: If you're building into a tight space, check the manufacturer’s specs for ventilation requirements and service access. ​
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Bonus: A quick checklist to make your home sauna installation seamless

Requirement	Why It Matters	Notes
Ventilation	Prevents mold, ensures air quality	Essential for both traditional and infrared setups
Electrical Access	Ensures safety and compliance	Traditional saunas often require 240V + GFCI
Flooring Type	Avoids heat damage and moisture buildup	Use tile, sealed concrete, vinyl, or sauna-grade wood
Wall Clearance	Prevents overheating or fire hazard	Leave 4–6 inches around sauna unit
Ceiling Height	Impacts heat retention and comfort	Ideal is 7–8 feet
Moisture Control	Protects against long-term water damage	Especially important in basements, garages, bathrooms

Final words

By now, you’ve got a full picture of the most popular places to install a sauna in your house, along with all the pros, cons, and important considerations. 

But if you can still not decide where to put a sauna in your house, consider what’s more important for you. 

For instance, if you:

• Love convenience, go with a bathroom, spare room, or closet for quick access after workouts or before bed.
• Want total privacy and quiet, choose the basement, attic, or even a secluded garage corner.
• Crave that nature retreat vibe, build an outdoor barrel sauna. 
• Dream of big heat and steam, traditional sauna, best placed in a basement, garage, or backyard.
• Are short on space or new to saunas, go for a compact infrared unit in a closet, spare room, or even a sectioned-off bathroom.

Got more questions or need to install a sauna in your home?

You can get in touch with us!

At Steam and Sauna Experts, we are seasoned sauna installation experts with over a decade of expertise installing top-of-the-line saunas in South Florida and beyond. 

​Also, we’ve got the sauna equipment and accessories from leading manufacturers like Steamist, Mr Steam, Delta, Amerec, and more, at the best prices online and free country-wide shipping. 

Simply put, we’ve got all your home sauna needs covered!
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Frequently asked questions

Can you put a sauna anywhere in your house?

Not exactly. 
While saunas are versatile, they still need the right conditions like proper ventilation, electrical access, and heat-safe surroundings. 

The best spots are basements, bathrooms, garages, or spare rooms that are climate-controlled and easy to access. You can also go outdoors if you want more space and natural ambiance.​
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Do I need a permit to install a sauna at home?

In many cases, yes, especially for outdoor saunas or traditional models that require electrical or plumbing work. 

Permit requirements vary by city and state, so check with your local building authority. 

But that said, you typically won’t need a permit for small plug-and-play infrared saunas installed indoors.
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Which rooms in the house are not suitable for a sauna?

You should avoid placing saunas in:

• Carpeted rooms (because there is risk of moisture buildup)
• Poorly ventilated closets without airflow
• Rooms near flammable materials or curtains
• Spaces with weak structural flooring (like certain attic corners)

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Also, always prioritize fire safety, moisture protection, and power access when deciding.
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What’s the best location for a traditional Finnish sauna?

Traditional saunas work best in:

• Basements (naturally cool and private)
• Garages (spacious and ventilated)
• Backyards (if you want a wood-burning or cabin-style sauna)

​However, they usually need 240V wiring and more clearance for ventilation, so avoid tight indoor spots unless specially designed for it.
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Is it safe to install a sauna in a bathroom?

Yes, but with care. 
Bathrooms are naturally moisture-rich, so you’ll need a well-ventilated setup and water-resistant materials.
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Can I put a sauna in a small space like a closet or hallway?

You can, but only if:

• The space has enough ceiling height (at least 7 ft recommended)
• You leave some clearance (typically 4-6 inches on all sides)
• You have adequate airflow or a fan installed
• The floor is heat and moisture-safe

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What are the ventilation requirements for a home sauna?

Good sauna venting with optimum airflow prevents mold, heat buildup, and electrical issues. And to that end, your sauna should have:

• A fresh air intake near the heater or base
  
• An exhaust vent on the opposite wall, near the ceiling
  
• Space around the sauna walls for circulation