Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a Sauna
Why Buy a Sauna?
Saunas have been used for centuries to support both physical and mental wellbeing.
Benefits of regular sauna use may include:
- Relaxation and stress reduction
- Improved circulation
- Muscle recovery and pain relief
- Better sleep quality
- Detoxification through sweating
- Reduced muscle tension
- Cardiovascular support
- Enhanced overall wellbeing
Many customers combine their sauna with a hot tub, swim spa, ice bath, or outdoor living space to create a complete wellness retreat.
How to Choose the Right Sauna
1. Infrared vs Traditional Sauna
One of the first decisions is choosing between infrared and traditional heat.
Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to warm the body directly rather than heating the surrounding air.
Benefits include:
- Lower operating temperatures
- Faster warm-up times
- Lower running costs
- Comfortable for longer sessions
- Excellent for recovery and relaxation
Popular with: Wellness enthusiasts, Athletes, First-time sauna owners
Traditional saunas use an electric heater and sauna stones to heat the cabin air.
Benefits include:
- Authentic Finnish sauna experience
- Higher temperatures
- Ability to create steam by pouring water over stones
- Traditional sauna environment
Popular with: Sauna purists, Families, Outdoor wellness spaces
Indoor vs Outdoor Sauna
Indoor Saunas Ideal for:
- Home gyms
- Spare rooms
- Wellness rooms
- Garages
- Benefits: Protected from weather, Convenient access, Often easier installation
Outdoor Saunas Ideal for:
- Gardens
- Wellness retreats
- Outdoor living spaces
- Benefits: Creates a dedicated wellness area, Stunning garden feature, Traditional sauna experience
What Size Sauna Do I Need?
- 1-2 Person Saunas are Perfect for: Individuals, Couples, Smaller spaces
- 3-4 Person Saunas are Perfect for: Families, Regular entertaining, Shared wellness sessions
- 5+ Person Saunas are Perfect for: Larger households, Luxury garden installations, Commercial wellness spaces
Outdoor Sauna Styles
Barrel Sauna Benefits:
- Excellent heat circulation
- Distinctive appearance
- Traditional Scandinavian styling
- Popular garden feature
Cabin Sauna Benefits:
- Modern design
- Greater interior space
- Premium appearance
- Suitable for larger groups
Cube Sauna Benefits:
- Contemporary aesthetic
- Panoramic glazing options
- Luxury outdoor living appeal
Sauna Running Costs UK
One of the most common questions we receive is:
How much does a sauna cost to run?
Typical running costs:
Infrared Sauna Approximate cost: £0.30 - £1.00 per session
Traditional Sauna Approximate cost: £1.00 - £3.00 per session
Actual running costs depend on:
- Electricity tariff
- Heater size
- Session length
- Outdoor temperature
- Frequency of use
Sauna Delivery Guide
What Happens After Ordering?
Once your order is placed:
- Delivery arrangements are confirmed
- Access requirements are reviewed
- Delivery date is scheduled
- Installation options are discussed
- Sauna is delivered
- For larger outdoor saunas we may request photographs of the access route and installation area.
Sauna Base & Electrical Requirements
All saunas require a:
- Flat base
- Level base
- Solid base
Suitable bases include:
- Concrete pads
- Paving slabs
- Structural patios
- Engineered decking (subject to weight loading)
Unsuitable bases include:
- Grass
- Gravel
- Uneven ground
Electrical Requirements
Electrical requirements vary by model.
Infrared Saunas- Many smaller models use a standard 13A plug connection
Traditional Saunas often require: Dedicated electrical supply, Professional electrician installation
Always refer to the product specification before installation.
Sauna Installation Guide
Many saunas are supplied as flat-pack kits and assembled on site.
Installation options may include:
- Self-assembly
- Professional installation
- Supplier installation services
The Reviva Hub can help arrange installation on selected models.
Sauna Care & Maintenance Guide
Saunas require very little maintenance.
After Each Use
- Leave the door open briefly
- Allow the sauna to ventilate
- Wipe down benches if required-
Monthly
- Vacuum the floor
- Clean benches
- Check electrical connections
Annually
- Inspect timber
- Re-treat external wood if required
- Check heater operation
Looking After Sauna Timber
Natural timber will expand and contract with seasonal weather changes. This is completely normal. Outdoor saunas may benefit from: Wood treatment, Protective oils, Weatherproof coatings (Depending on the timber type and manufacturer recommendations).
Sauna Heater Guide
Infrared Heaters
Common types include: Carbon heaters, Ceramic heaters, Full-spectrum infrared heaters
Traditional Sauna Heaters
Common options include: Electric heaters, Premium electric heaters with sauna stones
Many traditional saunas require a heater to be purchased separately, while others include the heater as standard. Always check the individual product specification.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How hot do saunas get? Infrared saunas typically operate between 40°C and 65°C. Traditional saunas typically operate between 70°C and 100°C.
- How long should a sauna session last?Most users spend between 15 and 30 minutes per session.
- Can I use a sauna every day? Yes. Many people enjoy daily sauna sessions as part of their wellness routine.
- Are outdoor saunas weatherproof? Yes. Outdoor saunas are specifically designed for year-round outdoor use when installed correctly.
- How long do saunas last? A quality sauna can last decades when properly maintained.
- Do I need planning permission? Most domestic sauna installations do not require planning permission, but local regulations should always be checked.
- Can I install a sauna myself? Many models can be self-assembled, although professional installation is often recommended for larger outdoor saunas.
Why Buy From The Reviva Hub? When you purchase a sauna from The Reviva Hub, you're investing in more than just a product. You're choosing a specialist retailer focused on wellness, recovery, and outdoor living.
What Makes Us Different?
- UK-based specialist retailer
- Expert sauna advice
- Nationwide delivery
- Installation support available
- Carefully selected premium brands
- Flexible payment options
- Dedicated customer service
- Wellness-focused product range
Whether you're creating a garden wellness retreat, upgrading your recovery routine, or investing in your long-term wellbeing, we're here to help you choose the right sauna.