There’s something deeply restorative about having your own private wellness retreat just steps away from your living room or garden. A home sauna isn’t just a luxury — it’s an investment in health, relaxation, and the quality of your daily life.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s involved in installing a sauna at home, this guide walks you through every step — from planning and preparation to installation and maintenance — so you can move forward with confidence.
1. Decide on the Type of Sauna That Suits You
Before anything else, it’s important to decide which sauna best fits your space, lifestyle, and wellness goals.
The three main types of home saunas are:
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Traditional Finnish Saunas – Heat the air with a heater and stones, reaching 70–90°C. They offer an authentic experience with steam when water is poured over the stones.
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Infrared Saunas – Use infrared heaters to gently warm the body directly at lower temperatures (around 50–60°C). Ideal for those who prefer milder heat or quicker sessions.
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Hybrid Saunas – Combine both systems, letting you switch between traditional and infrared modes.
2. Choose Your Location: Indoors or Outdoors?
Saunas can be installed almost anywhere with the right preparation.
Indoor options:
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Spare room, home gym, or bathroom.
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Requires good ventilation and moisture-resistant surfaces.
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Electrical supply must meet the heater’s requirements.
Outdoor options:
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Garden saunas are increasingly popular in the UK — they create a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
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They’ll need a level base, power connection, and weather-proofing (all Iloa outdoor models are designed for UK climates).
3. Plan Your Space and Power Requirements
Most saunas only need a few square metres of space, but accurate measurements are crucial.
Checklist:
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Minimum ceiling height: 2 m (some models are slightly lower).
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Access to a dedicated power supply (16A or 32A circuit depending on model).
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Nearby ventilation or window for air circulation.
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Non-slip, heat-resistant flooring.
If you’re unsure about the electrical setup, consult a qualified electrician. Iloa’s team can help you understand the general requirements before your sauna arrives.
4. Prepare the Base or Flooring
Whether indoors or outdoors, a solid, level base is essential.
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Indoors: Tile, concrete, or vinyl flooring works best.
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Outdoors: A concrete slab or composite decking base is ideal.
Avoid carpeting or materials that can trap moisture.
5. Installation: DIY or Professional?
Most home saunas arrive as modular cabins designed for straightforward self-assembly with basic tools. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, you can usually complete installation within a few hours by following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
At Iloa, we typically provide delivery only, ensuring your sauna arrives safely and securely. However, if you’d prefer professional installation, with some models we can recommend trusted UK-based installers experienced with our models.
6. Finishing Touches and Accessories
Personalise your space with features that enhance your sauna ritual:
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Lighting: Soft LED lighting for ambience.
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Aromatherapy: Add essential oils or scent diffusers.
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Sound system: Bluetooth speakers for meditative playlists.
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Comfort: Headrests, backrests, or ergonomic benches.
Iloa’s sauna range includes a variety of optional accessories to elevate your experience.
7. Maintenance and Aftercare
Saunas are surprisingly low-maintenance, but regular care keeps them fresh and hygienic:
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Wipe benches and walls with a mild, natural cleaner after each use.
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Leave the door open for ventilation after sessions.
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Periodically check heater stones and replace them every 1–2 years if cracked or worn.
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For infrared models, gently dust heaters every few months.
8. Enjoy the Routine
Start with short sessions (10–15 minutes), then gradually increase to your comfort level.
Follow with a cool shower or plunge, and plenty of hydration.
The beauty of owning a sauna is that it becomes a daily habit — a space to unwind, reflect, and reset.
Ready to Create Your Home Sauna?
At Iloa, we help you find the ideal sauna for your home and lifestyle — whether that’s a compact infrared model for an apartment or a full-size outdoor sauna for your garden.
Explore our collection of traditional, infrared, and hybrid home saunas here or contact our team for tailored advice.