Choosing the Right Sauna

There’s something timeless about the heat.

A good sauna isn’t just a luxury — it’s a ritual. You step in, breathe deep, and leave the rest behind. The noise. The emails. The cold. It’s not about sweating for the sake of it. It’s about what happens when the distractions burn off and you’re left with a bit of stillness.

That’s the promise of a backyard sauna — but if you’re new to the world of wood slats and steam, you might be wondering: Where do I even start?

We’ve got you.

Barrel or Box: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with shape. You’ll mostly find two options:

🛢 Barrel Saunas

They heat up fast, have excellent airflow, and look good tucked into almost any setting. The curved roof naturally sheds water and snow, which makes them great for year-round use.

🧱 Cube or Box Saunas

These feel roomier, often come with larger windows, and offer more flexibility with interior layout (like multi-tiered benches). They're more architectural — think “backyard spa” rather than “forest hut.”

Both do the job. It’s just a matter of whether you want cozy or spacious.

Electric or Wood-Fired?

This one’s simple:

• Electric heaters plug in, heat evenly, and work with a timer.

• Wood-fired stoves take more time and care but give you that rustic crackle and pine-scented air.

Ask yourself: Do you want plug-and-play convenience? Or do you want to split logs, light a fire, and turn it into a whole process?

There’s no wrong answer. It’s just about what fits your rhythm.

Space, Flow, and Vibe

A sauna is only as good as where you put it.

Make sure you’ve got:

• A level surface (gravel or a small platform is fine)

• Privacy (shrubs, fences, or even sheer curtains can do wonders)

• A place nearby to cool off — whether it’s a plunge tub, outdoor shower, or just a clean towel and Adirondack chair in the shade

Bonus points for:

• String lights

• Cedar oil

• A small speaker with a good ambient playlist

It doesn’t need to be overbuilt. Just intentional.

Pro Tips From the (Sweaty) Field

• Don’t skip the backrest. You’ll thank us.

• A sauna with a view — even a little one — hits different.

• One towel to sit on, one towel to wrap in. Non-negotiable.

• You’ll start using it more than you think. Build like it’s staying.

Final Thought

There’s no rush. The whole point of this thing is to slow down.

Whether you’re in it for the recovery, the ritual, or just a reason to go outside when the temperature drops — a good sauna has a way of becoming the heartbeat of your space. Quiet. Steady. Human.

Welcome to the good heat.