If you have made the decision to become a sauna owner (congrats!) and you have moved into the logistics phase of planning, we are guessing these are your top next questions:

We will give you a complete sauna size guide in a moment, but first, do you know exactly what type of sauna you are shopping for? If you weren’t aware, there are two different sauna types.  Let’s start here first!

Traditional vs. Infrared Saunas

We have a comprehensive side-by-side comparison illustrating all the many differences between traditional and infrared saunas, but we’ll give you the top line right here:

If you enjoy steam in the sauna, higher temperatures, and a more social environment, then a traditional sauna may be the best sauna for you.

These saunas can be indoor or outdoor. Here are some other quick facts about traditional saunas:

• The median temperature is between 185-190 degrees Fahrenheit
• Traditional saunas heat the air to heat the body
• Heat and humidity: Very dry until water is sprinkled over hot rocks. Both temperature and humidity are adjustable (by adding water to rocks); you can also incorporate essential oils into the water for aromatherapy.
• It requires 30-40 minutes to preheat rocks before use
• Proper ventilation will be required
• Bathers enjoy 10-15 minutes optimal time for use

If you prefer lower temperatures but with body-penetrating heat, an infrared sauna may be your best sauna choice.

These saunas are designed for indoor use only. Here are some other quick facts about infrared saunas:

• Optimum temperature is between 125-130 degrees Fahrenheit
• Infrared saunas directly heat your body. The infrared energy penetrates the body and raises the core temperature – activating a more pronounced sweating. The EMR (electromagnetic radiation) and EF (electrical field) on some models that utilize certain technology are lower than the ambient in your home. The EMR and EF levels are far below even Sweden’s toughest radiation standards.
• Heat and humidity: Relatively dry with average humidity. Temperature is controllable; humidity is not.
• No pre-heat time required
• Since water isn’t used with an infrared sauna, there’s no concern about ventilation. It’s a completely dry heat that maxes out at 150 degrees. 
• 10-15 minutes is optimal time for use, but bathers often stay 25-30 minutes (due to lower temperatures).

General Sauna Size Dimensions

We’re going to give you specific sauna size dimensions on this page, but here are some very general sauna size notes first:

• The typical traditional sauna is 6 feet by 5 feet, with upper and lower benches, easily enough room for a family of four. Traditional saunas tend to be larger than infrared sauna sizes which require sitting in close proximity to emitters. As a general rule of thumb, traditional saunas tend to be more social, and accommodate bigger groups.
• The minimum permitted ceiling height of any given sauna is 77 inches. Most often, however, an average sauna ceiling height is 84 inches and a maximum safe ceiling height is 96 inches – but be sure to check the numbers for your specific make and model.
• If you plan on laying down in sauna: You’ll need at least 6 feet in one direction, while ceiling space above 7 feet is typically wasted.
• Bench configuration: The goal is always to minimize wasted floor space and maximize bench space for efficiency. Typically, there should be space for both a lower bench and an upper bench. An upper bench area can be used as the main calculation in terms of how many users you’d like to accommodate and it’s smart to factor in about 2’ of bench space per individual sauna bather.
• Space around your sauna: Make sure to leave plenty of room to get in and out of the sauna and to have access behind it for maintenance.
• Indoor saunas: Use a smaller heater, smaller circuit breakers, and provide more efficient heating.
• Outdoor, traditional saunas: You can select the roofing type (i.e. plywood or metal roofing) that compliments your housing style and they’re perfect on an outdoor patio or near your outdoor swim spa.
• Custom-sized saunas: There are options for custom-cut saunas that can easily fit beneath a stairwell, or in a tiny home.
• Indoor placement options: You can create a personal spa in a wide-open basement, transform the “extra room” (i.e., if your kiddo just went off to college) into a sauna room, or even renovate an existing closet space into a sauna oasis.

Your Specific Sauna Size Guide!

Since you are looking for specific size numbers, we listed some actual dimensions below. Just be sure to discuss these options with your local sauna dealer before finalizing your decision:

• Wood options: Saunas can come with high-quality wood options including Nordic Spruce with Abachi benches & accents, clear Western Red Cedar, or Canadian Hemlock. With these options, your sauna keeps its high-end appearance looking brand new, and these wood options are all easy to maintain.
• Door options: Whether you are looking for a bronze-tinted door to match accents in your home, an all-glass door to capture more light, or a Canadian Hemlock door to create more privacy, there are several options in a variety of sizes to create the sauna that looks exactly how you want.
• Traditional sauna accessories: Buckets, ladles, and linens are available to help you create desired steam and humidity level during your experience while protecting your sauna from stains from perspiration.

Now here are the dimensions across both traditional saunas and infrared saunas in standard sizes and designs:

Ready to Explore Sauna Ownership Further?

Come and talk with us! At Mainely Tubs, we are here for you throughout the entire process – from initial consideration, to sauna comparisons, to delivery day. First, check out our helpful 10 key tips for buying a home sauna guide. Then, when you are ready, give us a call, email us, or pop by our showrooms in Scarborough, Maine or Rye, New Hampshire. We’re always happy to help you make the first steps to becoming a new sauna owner!

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