Aside from offering relaxation, there are also many health benefits of using a sauna. Increasing blood circulation, managing stress, and promoting weight loss are just a few of the incredible health benefits you’ll receive with regular sauna use.
One of the main questions is what is the right size sauna to purchase. Traditional saunas that fit two people represent a very popular size. The reason is because the two person size provides adequate space while also providing flexibility to easily fit the sauna in many places around the house.
This article will explain a few of the important features of a 2 person home sauna and recommend a few options for your home.
What is a Traditional Sauna?
If you’ve used a sauna before, chances are that you used a traditional sauna. A traditional sauna is a box usually constructed out of wood that uses a combination of water and heated stones to increase the temperature to anywhere from 70˚ and 110˚ C (or, between 158˚ and 230˚F)
Typically dry and humid, a traditional sauna can comfortably fit up to four people, however, they can be customized to adapt to any size preference.
So, if you want to purchase a traditional sauna for just you and another person, there are options available to you such as a 2-person sauna.
Differences Between a Traditional Sauna and an Infrared Sauna
If you’re in the market for a new sauna to install at home, you may have a few questions about the differences between a traditional sauna and an infrared sauna.
As mentioned above, a traditional sauna, at minimum, is usually about 158 degrees.
Infrared saunas, on the other hand, are much cooler, usually between 110˚ And 140˚ F.
The biggest difference between these popular types of saunas is how they achieve their desired effect of creating heat. Whereas traditional saunas use a mix of water and heated stones to create humidity, an infrared sauna uses infrared light to heat your body rather than the entire temperature of the room.
Another big difference between the two sauna types is their size. While both saunas can be customized, most traditional saunas are roomier than infrared saunas, which require guests to sit close to the heat emitters.
What You Need to Know Before Buying a 2-Person Traditional Sauna
Before you head out to buy a new sauna, it is very important to understand the available types of saunas.
Sauna Size
As mentioned earlier, saunas can be customized to fit your preferences. So, the first thing you need to do is determine what kind of size you’re looking for.
Saunas can fit up to eight people, depending on the size. Knowing what size you want is the first feature you need to consider before buying to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth.
Type of Wood
Believe it or not, there are differences in the types of wood used to construct a sauna.
For example, saunas made out of Hemlock may trigger allergies, whereas wood that’s been previously air dried will be less susceptible to warping under the intense heat.
LED Lighting
Saunas don’t have to be boring. One way to elevate the style and vibe of your sauna is to invest in LED lighting.
There are options for colorful LED lights available at your local retailer, and if this is a part of your aesthetic, why not look for one that can handle it?
Thermometer Alarms
Sometimes the temperatures inside your sauna may be a little too hot for you to handle.
If you want to keep an eye on how high the temperature climbs, look for a sauna that comes with a thermometer. This can not only help keep you informed of heat levels but a thermometer can give you a better idea of what temperature you feel most comfortable keeping your sauna at.
Another key feature to look out for is an alarm that can let you know when it’s time to get out. Unfortunately, you can’t bring your smartphone into the sauna because the intense humidity will be too much for it.
An alarm lets you keep track of how long you’re spending inside the sauna so you can avoid getting overheated. Generally speaking, you should only spend about 15-20 minutes inside a sauna at one time.
Seating Options
You’re not going to stand up in your sauna, so choosing one with the right seating is crucial to staying comfortable and getting the most out of your sauna experience.
Most saunas have benches, but if you plan on laying down, you should look for one that is at least 6 feet long.
Keep in mind that if you go with a traditional sauna, you’ll have to preheat the rocks for about 30 minutes before using. Preheating isn’t required with an infrared sauna.
Where Should I Install My Sauna?
The answer? Completely up to you!
Saunas are generally placed outdoors, but many homeowners may opt to place one inside their homes, as well. There’s really no right or wrong place to put a sauna, however, some of the most common locations include:
- Backyard
- Bathroom
- Garage
- Basement
- Attic
Keep in mind that this isn’t an exhaustive list, as some homeowners may also opt to install one in their bedroom or a storage closet that offers ample space.
When installing a sauna either outside or in your bathroom, you may want to keep it in semi-close proximity to your shower or pool to cool off as soon as you get out in an effort to lower your body’s temperature.
Likewise, keep in mind that wherever you install it, higher moisture levels will follow. So, placing it somewhere near an area where all that extra water can drain is important.
Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Saunas
Whether you want a traditional sauna or an infrared one, the good news is that you can place them either indoors or outdoors. Just keep in mind that if choose an outdoor sauna, make sure you select a sauna that is designed with material treated to handle outdoor weather conditions.
An outdoor sauna is great for those who don’t have enough space inside their home to install one. However, one drawback is that they’re more susceptible to weather damage unless you get one made from a durable kind of wood like Hemlock.
Depending on where it’s located, your outdoor sauna may not be properly shielded from rain, snow, and other types of weather. This constant exposure to the elements may lead to damage over time. Plus, you have to consider braving the elements just to use it.
Indoor Saunas
As mentioned earlier, indoor saunas can be placed in a variety of areas around the house.
Plus, they're constantly shielded from the harsh, natural elements. A big benefit of installing a sauna inside the home is that you have access to electricity, which you may not easily have access to if you opted for an outdoor sauna.
In terms of use, outdoor saunas are typically more popular amongst homeowners looking to entertain guests. As such, these saunas tend to be a bit larger than the ones placed indoors.
Indoor saunas are much more intimate and offer better privacy. Ultimately, when deciding between an indoor and outdoor sauna, you have to consider space, drainage, electrical outlets, and who you intend on using it.
Sauna Options for Two People
We have included information on popular traditional saunas designed to fit up to two people. We have included both indoor and outdoor two person saunas.
For those people not sure whether they prefer an indoor or outdoor sauna, we recommend considering an outdoor sauna. This will give you flexibility to place the sauna either indoor or outdoors.
Baldwin 2 Person Indoor Traditional Sauna
Do you want to bring the enjoyment of a traditional spa to your home? You can do so with the stylish Baldwin 2 person indoor traditional sauna. This reaches temperatures up to 170 degrees while offering customization options to reach your desired humidity level.
It also comes with tempered glass and a high-quality ventilation system. Tempered glass is a great asset to a sauna because it is not only durable but keeps heat inside.
When looking for a traditional sauna, it’s important to look for one that has tempered glass for these reasons.
Bristow 2 Person Outdoor Traditional Sauna
Made out of durable Hemlock wood, the Bristow 2 person outdoor traditional sauna comes with a windowed front for additional light and a double-paneled wall that keeps the heat in.
Measuring 60 inches by 60 inches (or five feet), this outdoor sauna is extremely durable and can either be plugged in or hard-wired, depending on your preference and your backyard’s capability.
This sauna even has cup holders, so you can enjoy a nice, refreshing glass of water while inside.
- Check out more Sunray 2 person sauna options.
Rockledge 2 Person Indoor Traditional Sauna
If you’re looking for a sauna you and your spouse can relax in after a long day at work, then the Rockledge 2-person indoor traditional sauna is perfect!
This is an infrared sauna, which is perfect for those who like their sauna experience to be a bit on the cooler side.
This indoor infrared sauna comes with an ergonomic backrest and stereo system, so all you have to do is just sit back and enjoy.
Infrared saunas use less electricity than traditional saunas, so you can actually save money. In fact, homeowners that use their infrared sauna for an hour each day end up spending less than $5 a week on electricity.
- See more Sunray traditional sauna options.
Eagle 2 Person Outdoor Traditional Sauna
The Eagle 2 person outdoor traditional sauna is perfect if you’re craving both intimacy and durability. Constructed out of aged Canadian Hemlock wood, this sauna was designed to be able to withstand the natural elements.
The sauna reaches temperatures up to 170 degrees and includes a sand timer, Bluetooth speaker system, and hygrometer. The hygrometer is used to measure the air’s humidity levels.
Remember, when buying an outdoor traditional sauna, it’s important to get one that’s built to withstand any type of weather that gets thrown its way. The Eagles sauna includes a durable design that can withstand outdoor weather conditions.
For more information, browse our full line of home saunas for sale or learn about the Best Traditional Home Saunas.