Thinking about adding an infrared or traditional dry sauna to your home? There are plenty of easy-to-assemble kits available—but the big question is: where should you put a sauna in your house? Here are some practical tips to help you choose the best spot.
When planning the ideal location for a personal sauna at home, keep these key factors in mind:
- Adjacent to Bathroom:
- Why: Easy access to a shower before and after your session makes the whole routine smoother.
- How: Position the sauna close to an existing bathroom so you can quickly rinse off and cool down.
- Privacy:
- Why: A quiet, private spot makes it easier to relax and enjoy the experience.
- How: Look for tucked-away areas, such as a basement corner, spare room or low-traffic space.
- Proximity to Ventilation:
- Why: Good airflow helps with comfort, temperature control and fresh air inside and around the sauna.
- How: If possible, place the sauna near a window, vent or area where air can circulate more easily.
- Adequate Space:
- Why: You’ll need room not only for the footprint of the sauna, but also for safe clearance and airflow.
- How: Measure the area carefully to make sure the width, depth and height meet your sauna kit’s requirements.
- Avoiding High-Traffic Areas:
- Why: Less foot traffic means fewer interruptions and a more peaceful spa-like feel.
- How: Steer clear of main thoroughfares such as the kitchen, living room or busy hallway.
- Consideration for Electrical Requirements:
- Why: Your sauna needs reliable power without overloading your existing circuits.
- How: Choose a location near an appropriate power source that meets the voltage and amperage specified by the manufacturer.
How Much Space Do You Need for a Home Sauna?
Most 2-person home sauna kits fall within a fairly standard size range:
- Width: Commonly about 4 to 5 feet.
- Depth: Typically around 4 to 5 feet.
- Height: Usually between 6 and 7 feet.
So, for a 1–2 person sauna, plan on reserving an area roughly 4–5 feet wide, 4–5 feet deep and 6–7 feet tall. Double-check your kit’s spec sheet and allow a bit of extra room for ventilation and comfortable access.
What are the Electrical Requirements for a Personal Sauna?
For many indoor infrared models, popular brands like Maxxus and Dynamic generally recommend a dedicated 110V/120V 15AMP circuit. In some cases, a “quasi-dedicated” circuit may be acceptable—meaning other outlets are on the same line, but nothing else is drawing power while the sauna is running.
Why Type of Flooring Should You Have Around Your Sauna?
Under and around your sauna, you’ll want flooring that can handle heat and occasional moisture. Great options include ceramic tile, porcelain tile or properly sealed natural stone.
These materials are durable, long-lasting and easier to keep clean, giving you a worry-free surface beneath your sauna. As always, proper installation and sealing are important for safety and longevity.
Are Permits Required to Install a Sauna Kit?
Before you begin, reach out to your local building department for details about any codes, zoning rules and permits related to indoor sauna installations. In some areas, you may only need an electrical permit if you’re adding or modifying wiring.
Be specific when you ask about permits for a home sauna kit. These pre-fabricated units are usually designed for straightforward assembly and often have simpler requirements than a fully custom built-in sauna.
Examples of 1-2 Person Sauna Kits that Plug into a Wall Outlet:
1. Put a Sauna in Your Garage
One of the most popular choices is the garage. This keeps your sauna out of your main living areas and often gives you a bit more elbow room. Garages typically already have a hard, level floor, decent ventilation and accessible outlets, which makes them a natural fit.
If you choose a compact 1–2 person model, you won’t need much floor space. For example, the Barcelona personal sauna is only about 3 feet wide by 3 feet deep. With good garage storage and organization, a small footprint like this often blends in nicely without sacrificing valuable workspace.
2. Set Up a Sauna in Your Basement
Basements are another smart option, provided you have adequate ventilation and a suitable floor. This tucked-away location lets you turn unused space into a cozy wellness zone without crowding more frequently used rooms.
Because basements tend to stay cooler and insulated, they may help your sauna operate more efficiently, which can be helpful for energy costs. And since most sauna kits arrive in panels, you can carry the pieces downstairs and assemble the unit right in place.
3. Place a Sauna in an Attic
With proper structure, ventilation and access, an attic can also work as a sauna location. Many attics sit underused aside from storage, so converting part of that space into a mini home spa can be a creative upgrade.
While stairs or ladders can make access slightly less convenient, an attic sauna may feel more secluded and tranquil. Whether this is a good choice depends heavily on your home’s layout, headroom and structural considerations.
4. Using a Sauna in a Spare Bedroom
If you have a spare bedroom that doubles as a home office, workout room or guest space, that can be another ideal location. Personal home saunas often tuck nicely into a corner, staying out of the way yet easy to access.
Most indoor saunas are built with attractive wood exteriors that add warmth and character. Instead of clashing with your decor, the wood siding usually complements many interior styles, so the sauna can feel like a natural part of the room rather than an eyesore.
Having the sauna closer to your main living areas also makes it easier to use it regularly. You don’t have to step outside in bad weather, and you’re more likely to hop in for a quick session when it’s just a few steps away.
Other indoor options include larger spaces such as a primary bathroom, laundry room or mudroom, as long as you have enough square footage and ventilation. These locations offer privacy, access to plumbing and a natural place to integrate a relaxing heat routine into your daily flow.
Placing a dry sauna next to a shower is especially convenient. After your session, you can cool off and rinse away sweat right away, creating a smooth transition from hot to cold and making your routine feel like a mini spa circuit.
Indoor Saunas VS Outdoor Saunas:
When browsing home sauna kits, remember that most models are clearly labeled for indoor or outdoor use. All of the units featured on GarageSauna.com are intended for indoor installation only.
It’s true that outdoor spaces—like a backyard or garden—can make room for larger cabins or barrel saunas. But indoor units come with several advantages worth considering.
- Privacy: Indoor saunas offer a more discreet experience, which many people find calming and comfortable.
- Year-Round Accessibility: You can enjoy heat therapy regardless of weather—no rain, snow or wind to contend with.
- Controlled Environment: Indoors, your sauna benefits from a stable room temperature, which can make it cheaper to run and cozier to use.
- Safety: Indoor units are sheltered from the elements, which often simplifies maintenance and can reduce wear and tear.
- Convenience: Being close to bathrooms, showers and living spaces makes the entire sauna ritual more enjoyable and easy to integrate into your routine.
That said, outdoor saunas bring their own kind of magic—views of nature, fresh air and a more rustic feel that many people love. In the end, the “best” sauna location is the one that fits your home, your climate and how you plan to use it most often.
