How to Choose a Garden Sauna in the UK: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

How to Choose a Garden Sauna in the UK: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

Buying a garden sauna is one of those purchases where the details matter. Two saunas can look similar in photos — but feel completely different to own.

This guide is written for UK buyers who want a sauna that’s enjoyable, durable, and realistically suited to their space.

1) Start with your space (not the marketing)

Before you pick a model, answer these three questions:

A) Where will it go?
Measure the footprint and confirm the ground is stable and level (a proper base matters more than people think).

B) How will it get there?
Check access width from kerbside to final position: gates, steps, tight corners, gravel/soft ground. Large items are typically delivered by specialist delivery, so access planning prevents failed deliveries.

C) How many people will use it at the same time?
Be honest. Most “4 person” saunas are comfortable for 2–3 adults. If you want a real social sauna, size up.

2) Materials: Thermowood vs standard timber (why it matters)

For outdoor saunas, the biggest long-term difference is wood stability.

Thermowood (thermally treated timber) is popular because it’s designed to be more resistant to moisture movement, warping, and decay compared to untreated wood. In plain English: it tends to stay “straight and solid” longer in a UK garden environment.

If you’re choosing between two similar models and one has higher-grade timber and better construction details, that usually wins over cosmetic extras.

3) Barrel vs cabin vs cube: choose the style that matches your routine

Barrel saunas

  • Great heat circulation and iconic look

  • Efficient for smaller gardens

  • Usually best for 2–4 people realistically

Cabin / cube saunas

  • More usable interior space and bench layout options

  • Often easier to plan for headroom and seating comfort

  • Better if you want a more “room-like” feel

Glass-front designs

  • Amazing vibe and openness

  • Just remember: more glass can mean different heat behaviour, so heater sizing and insulation become even more important

4) Heater choice: electric vs wood-fired (what to consider)

Most UK buyers choose electric for convenience: consistent heat, simple control, easy routine.

Wood-fired is a vibe — but it requires more effort, more planning, and appropriate clearance/ventilation. If you know you’ll use a sauna more often with electric, that’s usually the smarter long-term choice.

Whatever you choose, always check:

  • power requirements

  • what’s included (stones, controller, etc.)

  • whether installation requires a qualified electrician

5) The boring stuff that determines happiness

These are the things that decide whether you love your sauna after the honeymoon phase:

  • Bench layout: comfort beats “capacity”

  • Door and sealing: a well-built door improves heat retention

  • Ventilation: a good sauna breathes properly

  • What’s included: heater, controller, stones, lighting, accessories

  • Warranty and support: ownership matters more than unboxing

6) A simple way to choose the right model

If you want a safe shortcut, use this:

If you want a low-effort routine:
Choose an electric sauna with clear specs, simple controls, and a realistic size for your household.

If you want the best “feel” inside:
Choose the layout/bench comfort first, then choose the style.

If you’re buying for social use:
Size up. Most people regret going too small.

Shop Garden Saunas

If you’re ready to browse, start here:
Garden Saunas: https://www.withinwellness.co.uk/collections/garden-saunas

If you want help choosing, email support@withinwellness.co.uk with:

  • your rough location (UK),

  • where it will go,

  • access notes (gates/steps),

  • and your budget range.

We’ll point you to the best fit and confirm practical delivery considerations.

Back to blog