In the modern hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding moments of genuine connection and community can sometimes feel like a rare luxury. However, in cultures across the globe, there exists a timeless tradition that not only promotes health and relaxation but also fosters deep communal bonds: the sauna. While saunas are often associated with health benefits such as detoxification and stress relief, their potential for building stronger communities should not be underestimated. This year, some of our team took a trip from Minnesota to join in on “Sauna days” with Glenn Auerbach from Saunatimes at the beautiful Larsmont Cottages. The experience of seeing over 200 people come together for 3 days of Sauna was inspiring and a reminder that Sauna should be much more than just a health fad.

A Historical Tradition of Togetherness

Saunas have been a cornerstone of community life in many cultures for centuries. Originating in Finland, where there are more saunas than cars, these heated rooms have served as social hubs where people come together to relax, converse, and bond. In Finnish culture, the sauna is not just a place to sweat; it’s a sacred space for communal gatherings, discussions, and even important decision-making. Many other cultures around the globe have incorporated sauna bathing as a very integral part of bringing people together.

Breaking Down Barriers

One of the unique aspects of the sauna experience is its ability to break down barriers between people. Saunas possess a unique ability to dissolve barriers and foster a sense of openness among individuals. Stepping into a sauna, enveloped by soothing heat, cultivates an atmosphere that encourages relaxation and introspection. As sweat beads form and tensions melt away, the shared experience of physical warmth often transcends cultural or social divides. Conversations flow more freely, facilitated by the absence of distractions and the mutual understanding of a common purpose: to unwind and rejuvenate. In this tranquil environment, stripped of pretense and formality, people find themselves more willing to connect on a human level, exchanging stories and perspectives that bridge gaps of familiarity or difference. Ultimately, the sauna becomes a sanctuary where barriers of apprehension or reservation dissolve, leaving behind a space where genuine connections can flourish.

Encouraging Authentic Communication

In today’s digital age, face-to-face interaction is becoming increasingly rare, and meaningful conversations can be hard to come by. However, the sauna provides a space free from distractions where people can engage in authentic, unfiltered communication. Stripped of the usual social cues and status symbols, sauna-goers are more likely to open up and share their thoughts and feelings honestly, leading to deeper connections and a greater sense of belonging.

Promoting Health but also…

Of course, the health benefits of sauna bathing should not be overlooked. Regular sauna sessions have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. By prioritizing their own well-being, individuals are better able to contribute to their communities, creating a positive ripple effect that benefits everyone but we firmly believe that the health benefits are secondary to the main goal of sauna which is far more then just investing in ones physical health.

Cultural shifts have left us more isolated

Western society and culture have stripped away many of the communal bonds and times of connection that were once enjoyed in the past. As we live more isolated lives, we have lost what it is to “rub shoulders” with others, share common experiences together, and be open. More and more people have lost areas of community as we live in a culture of screens and alone time. At Homecraft, we believe that sauna needs to be more than just a private or quiet routine (although there are times for that) to invest in your “health” but should become a time that you can enjoy with others.

Conclusion

In an increasingly fragmented and disconnected world, the sauna offers a powerful antidote—a place where people can come together, relax, and connect on a deeper level. By embracing the communal aspects of sauna culture, we can not only improve our own health and well-being but also strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together. What excites us here at Homecraft is seeing a bigger

So let’s turn up the heat, sweat it out, and build a better community—one sauna session at a time.

In recent years, there has been a significant cultural shift in North America towards embracing the sauna experience. What was once considered a niche indulgence or a tradition exclusive to certain cultures has now become a mainstream wellness trend. The North American sauna revolution is not just about sweating; it’s about redefining self-care, relaxation, and communal bonding. Let’s delve into the phenomenon that’s heating up the continent.

The Rise of Sauna Culture: Saunas have long been an integral part of various cultures worldwide, from the traditional Finnish saunas to the Russian Banyas and the Native American sweat lodges. However, it’s only in the past decade or so that North America has witnessed a surge in sauna culture. True Sauna enthusiasts are leading the charge with more and more public events captivating sauna interest.

Wellness Trend: In an era marked by high stress levels and a growing awareness of mental health, people are turning to holistic wellness practices. Saunas offer a sanctuary for relaxation, detoxification, and stress relief. The heat promotes sweating, which helps flush out toxins, improves circulation, and induces a sense of calmness.

Health Benefits: Beyond relaxation, sauna sessions are touted for their potential health benefits. Studies suggest that regular sauna use may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, improve skin health, alleviate muscle soreness, and even boost mood. As people become more health-conscious, they are increasingly drawn to activities that offer tangible benefits, making saunas an attractive option.

Social Experience: Saunas are not just solitary retreats; they’re also social hubs. The communal aspect of sauna culture fosters connections and camaraderie. Whether it’s a family gathering, a friends’ night out, or a wellness retreat, saunas provide a space for people to unwind, bond, and share experiences. This social dimension adds depth to the sauna revolution, transforming it into a lifestyle choice rather than a mere indulgence.

Innovation and Accessibility: Another driving force behind the North American sauna revolution is innovation and accessibility. Gone are the days when saunas were confined to luxury spas or private residences. Today, saunas come in various forms and settings, catering to diverse preferences and budgets.

Cultural Exchange and Appreciation: The North American sauna revolution is also a story of cultural exchange and appreciation. While sauna culture has its roots in Nordic and Indigenous traditions, it has evolved into a melting pot of influences, reflecting the diverse tapestry of North American society. As people embrace sauna culture, they also honor its origins and pay homage to the communities that have preserved and shared this ancient practice.

The North American sauna revolution is more than just a trend; it’s a reflection of shifting attitudes towards well-being, community, and cultural exchange. At Homecraft we are proud of our longstanding commitment to growing proper sauna culture and as saunas continue to proliferate across the continent, they serve as sanctuaries of self-care, spaces for social connection, and symbols of cultural appreciation. Whether you’re sweating it out in a public sauna, unwinding in a mobile sauna, or enjoying a sauna session at home, the sauna revolution invites everyone to embrace the heat and experience its transformative power. So, why not join the movement and embark on your journey towards relaxation, rejuvenation, and cultural enrichment?

In the realm of relaxation and wellness, few experiences compare to the rejuvenating power of a sauna session. Steeped in tradition and celebrated for its numerous health benefits, sauna use is an art that, when mastered, can enhance your physical and mental well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key elements of good sauna use to help you maximize the therapeutic potential of this ancient practice.

1. Know Your Limits:

While the sauna induces a delightful sense of warmth and relaxation, it’s essential to know your personal limits. Start with shorter sessions, typically around 10-15 minutes, and gradually increase the duration as your body acclimates. Listen to your body and exit the sauna if you start feeling dizzy or uncomfortable. It is important to note that a well built sauna should never produce the feelings of being uncomfortable or dizziness

2. Stay Hydrated:

The intense heat of the sauna promotes sweating, which is an excellent way to detoxify the body. However, it’s crucial to replenish the fluids you lose through perspiration. Keep a water bottle handy and hydrate before, during, and after your sauna session to ensure you stay refreshed and maintain optimal bodily functions.

3. Choose the Right Temperature:

Saunas come in various styles and temperatures, and finding what works for you is key. Traditional saunas in North America will reach a max temperature of 90C or 194F but the style of sauna heater will also drastically effect the sauna experience. Experiment with use of water on the rocks, different settings and find the temperature that offers the perfect balance of comfort and therapeutic effect for your preferences.

4. Practice Sauna Etiquette:

In Public settings respect for others in the sauna is paramount. Keep conversations at a low volume to maintain a serene atmosphere, and always use a towel to sit on to maintain cleanliness. If you’re sharing the sauna with others, be mindful of their comfort and space.

5. Embrace Cooling Breaks:

A well-rounded sauna experience often involves cooling breaks between sessions. Whether it’s a cool shower, a plunge into a cold pool, or simply stepping outside for fresh air, these breaks enhance circulation and invigorate the body. They also prevent overheating, allowing you to extend your sauna time.

6. Post-Sauna Self-Care:

After leaving the sauna, treat your body to some post-heat care. A cool shower or a quick dip in a cold pool can help regulate your body temperature. Follow up with a refreshing drink or a time of relaxation in nature. Saunas are about connection and disconnecting so properly plan your sauna use around time to relax post sauna to really enjoy the experience.

7. Make Sauna Use a Habit:

To fully enjoy the benefits of sauna use (7 health benefits of sauna use), consider making it a regular part of your wellness routine. Whether it’s a weekly indulgence or a daily ritual, consistent sauna sessions can contribute to stress relief, improved circulation, and enhanced overall health.

In conclusion, good sauna use is not just about the heat; it’s about creating a mindful and enjoyable experience that promotes well-being. By understanding your body, respecting sauna etiquette, and incorporating cooling breaks, you can unlock the full potential of this honoured practice. So, go ahead, step into the sauna, and let the soothing warmth guide you on a journey to relaxation and rejuvenation. Your body and mind will thank you.

In the world of wellness and relaxation, innovation, along with adaptation, is key, and our commitment to providing the best sauna experience remains unwavering. We are thrilled to announce the release (Late January 2024) of our latest sauna heater, the Revive Slim Sauna Heater – a compact version of our very popular deep rock Revive Heater. This new addition to our sauna heater family is designed to fit smaller saunas without compromising on user experience, power, or quality.

Compact Design, Powerful Performance: The Revive Slim Sauna Heater is a game-changer for those with limited space. Its sleek, tall, and compact design allows it to seamlessly integrate into smaller sauna setups, making it the perfect choice for home use or small spa environments. Despite its smaller size (13.5’’x 8’’x 36’’), this heater packs a punch in terms of performance, delivering the same powerful and consistent heat that our customers have come to expect from the Revive Heater series.

Quality Standards Unmatched: At Homecraft, we take pride in our commitment to quality, and the Revive Slim Sauna Heater is no exception. Built with the same standards as our Revive Heater, this 100% stainless steel compact version is a testament to our desire to continue to offer high-functioning, safe, and powerful sauna heaters for every sauna user. The materials used in its construction are of the highest quality, ensuring durability and longevity.

Key Features:

1. Compact Size: Tailored for smaller saunas, the slim design allows for easy installation without sacrificing performance.
2. Powerful Experience: Despite its smaller footprint, the Revive Slim has the capability of holding 100 lbs of rocks to ensure blasts of “lowly” when users apply water to the hot rocks.
3. ETL Certified: Certified to CSA and UL standards, our lineup of heaters offers the end user the assurance of quality, safety, and security in using our products, and the Revive Slim is no different.
4. Quality Engineering: 100% stainless steel construction along with protected elements and element positioning for heat distribution, the Revive Slim is built and designed with longevity, performance, and reliability in mind. Protected elements are engineered for optimum performance, creating heaters that get the heat to the rocks and into the room, with longevity and performance in mind.

Versatility for Every Setting: Whether you are a homeowner looking to create a personal oasis or a spa owner seeking a space-efficient solution, the Revive Slim Sauna Heater caters to a wide range of needs. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for various settings, allowing more people to enjoy the benefits of a rejuvenating sauna experience.

Elevate Your Sauna Experience with the Revive Slim Sauna Heater The release of the Revive Slim Sauna Heater marks our continued commitment at Homecraft to produce an ever-growing and robust lineup of high-quality sauna heaters. Available in late January 2024 now is the perfect time to upgrade your sauna experience today with the Revive Slim Sauna Heater from Homecraft. Your journey to relaxation and well-being starts here.

A sauna heater is the heart of any sauna, responsible for creating the soothing heat that promotes relaxation, rejuvenation, and various health benefits. At Homecraft we understand that the most important decision you make in regards to your sauna is the heater and so it is important to be as best informed as possible. Choosing the right sauna heater is crucial for achieving an enjoyable and effective sauna experience. In this blog post, we will delve into the essential factors that contribute to a good sauna heater, helping you make an informed decision when selecting one for your sauna.

Heating Capacity and Efficiency:

One of the primary considerations when choosing a sauna heater is its heating capacity and efficiency. The heater should be able to generate sufficient heat to warm up the sauna space effectively. North American rated heaters should reach a max temperature of 90C or 194F. The size of the sauna and insulation levels will impact the heater’s capacity requirements. Nowadays many people opt for a heater with larger rock capacities as they are able to reach higher temperatures because of the added thermo heat that radiates from the rocks and ability to bring humidity levels higher with more water use on the rocks. Take your time to research the difference between dry and wet sauna heaters to better understand which option is best for you.

Heating Technology:

Sauna heaters are available in different types, each utilizing a specific heating technology. Electric heaters are the most common and convenient, offering precise temperature control, fast heating times, and ease of use. Wood-burning heaters deliver a traditional and authentic sauna experience, but they require regular maintenance and attention.

Consider your preferences, the desired sauna experience, and the specific benefits associated with each heating technology when making a choice.

Quality and Durability:

Investing in a high-quality sauna heater is essential for its longevity and reliable performance. Look for heaters made from durable materials, such as stainless steel or high-grade aluminum, which can withstand the high temperatures and humid conditions inside the sauna. Homecraft is proud to stand behind the products we make because we know what quality is.

Safety:

It might be surprising to find out that many of the sauna heaters being sold in North America have not been properly certified to be sold in Canada or the United States. While we recognize reasons why people may choose a heater that has been imported from Europe or Asia it is important to be informed on the risks or potential risks one is assuming in deciding for a heater that is not Certified through UL or CSA. Potential safety hazards, the potential loss of Home insurance, and potential failure of home inspections are all reasons to ensure your heater is fully certified.

Control Options:

A good sauna heater should provide easy and convenient control options. This includes temperature controls, timers, and the ability to adjust heat settings according to personal preferences. Digital control panels make it simple to set and monitor the desired temperature, while built-in timers ensure that the sauna heater turns off automatically after a set duration.

Warranty and Customer Support:

Lastly, choose a sauna heater that comes with a warranty to protect against potential defects or malfunctions. A reliable manufacturer will stand behind their product and offer prompt customer support in case any issues arise. Check customer reviews and the reputation of the manufacturer to ensure their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Our Conclusion:

Selecting a good sauna heater involves considering all of these factors which narrows down the options substantially. At Homecraft we believe in the products we make and our proud of our outstanding record of offering high-quality sauna heaters that stand up to the test of time. At Homecraft “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Reach out to us with confidence and we will help answer any questions you have.

Revive by Homecraft: Body, Soul & Spirit

Grow in Excellence: 

Homecraft has been very dedicated to making high quality sauna products for many years. We take pride in the quality of our saunas products that we make in-house and we are careful to source high quality materials to ensure our products function excellently and will stand up to the rigors of daily sauna use. One area of needed growth though was to increase our sauna line to offer more options to our dealers and customers. In 2022 we began to work towards a new sauna heater that would perform amazingly well and can give the sauna bather a wonderful sauna experience creating lots of “Loyly” over long periods of time. As a Canadian company it is the first step to hopefully changing the landscape here in North America to offer more and more options for Sauna heaters made locally. This is important because when it comes to customer service, warranty issues, replacement parts or quick shipping our locality is a huge advantage but the range of sauna heaters offered sometimes didn’t match those positives and so the Revive Sauna line is one of many more to come as we reshape the perception and reputation of what being a North American sauna manufacturer means. 

Grow in Reach: 

For all of you in the sauna industry here in North America you well understand that there are far more limitations placed on us then what our European counterparts have to endure. We can probably agree that some of the certification restrictions are more burdensome them blessings and yet I fully believe that we have a responsibility as an industry for the things we sell, especially when it puts the sauna user in danger of huge liability risks. A heater might look great, be popular or be easy to sell but ultimately we have a responsibility to our customers to offer products that protect them (not just physically but financially as well) and not products that can cause them more harm. As more uncertified sauna heaters from Europe or Asia are being sold I believe it is imperative to give our customers the confidence of fully certified and safe products which we at Homecraft are proud to offer. 

Grow in Impact: 

It is amazing to see the positive impact in peoples lives as they embrace sauna culture and regular sauna bathing as a part of their lifestyle. As we began conceptualizing and designing a new sauna heater we also found a way to make a positive impact in the lives of some individuals who live far away from us here in Canada. It was an email sent to a Ukrainian engineer named Volodymry living in the Western city of Rivne, Ukraine which opened the door to allow a husband and loving father of 3 work with us in the design and drawings of our sauna heater. I am very proud of this new heater not only for the way it performs but most of all for bringing a man who has been living in the midst of war into our process and providing him meaningful employment. Volodymry has been integral in conceptualizing, designing and engineering our new “REVIVE” sauna heater. It is perhaps a small gesture but for myself one that was very important as it brought to reality the desire to positively impact others even in the small ways we chose to make this heater. 

So with all of that I present to you the REVIVE Sauna line available soon by Homecraft

The Revive Sauna Line:

Size: 14”w x 14”w x 36”H

Available in 6kw, 7.5kw & 9kw models

100% stainless steel components

180-200 pounds of deep rock capacity

Integrated air flow chamber isolating the heating elements  

Fully certified CSA & UL approved 

100% Canadian Made & Manufactured

Do your sauna research:

What’s the best sauna company out there? Is an infrared sauna really a sauna? Can I just plug it into my wall? Should I do a indoor home sauna or an outdoor sauna? Whats the big difference with a “traditional” sauna? Okay we get it and we hear these questions all the time. We understand that there are so many options (and opinions) when it comes to what makes a great sauna and there are also so many “facts” that get thrown around that seem to good to be true. So our recommendation is do your own research to figure out what best fits your needs. Our recommendation is that you understand what a true & traditional sauna is and move towards that. There are so many great sauna blogs available like Sauna times https://www.saunatimes.com/authentic-sauna-blog/ that offer great advice on so many different topics. The more research you do the safer you will be with the end product.  

Understand what you really want:

Since there are so many options it should always come down to what you actually want and that is why spending a small amount of time to do some research is always helpful. Is it a Home Sauna Kit in an already pre-framed space that you have in your home (https://homecraftsaunas.com/product-category/cedar-sauna-kits/) or a prefabricated unit. Do you want a local company or manufacturer to supply you your sauna or a sauna from overseas? It is important to understand the differences between a dry or wet sauna (high humidity to lower humidity) rock density, venting type of build…. Did I just loose you? There are so many options but what fits best for you? It is important to know that you have the freedom of choice because there are so many options available and depending on your circumstances, finances and location can very well change the direction of your final choice. 

Define your Budget:

Saunas used to be looked at as a true luxury item in North America but over the past decade things have changed considerable as more options have become available and more companies are offering a range of services from custom installations to installing pre-fabricated kits and much more. Here is our recommendation when it comes to your budget. Understand that a good sauna will cost you money and typically a DIY sauna kit starts at $4500 – $9500 while an outdoor sauna usually begins at $8500 up to $15,000 but don’t just look at the dollar amount. Quality and money go hand in hand and ensure (especially with online stores and vendors) where they are sourcing there saunas from. Not all saunas are built equally so if you can find a company that fits your budget and builds things locally then your usually in for a win-win situation!

Go to a recommended company for help :

Depending where you live there is most likely many sauna experts and companies that can offer advice or their services to help you. Reaching out a local or company that can actually walk you through the process and offer helpful advice is invaluable and will give you the confidence you are making the right choice. Make sure the company is knowledgable about every aspect of the sauna from the heater to the actual build or sauna room. We at Homecraft have been offering Sauna related services to the greater Vancouver area for the past 3 decades. A good company should be flexible to make sure you get exactly what you want in a sauna and should also be able to offer technical support to make sure your sauna build goes smoothly. If you are looking to do build your own home sauna then you can find different online threads and group chats with all sorts of helpful recommendations for self builds and sauna related advice. We would always recommend asking for some advice to gather the most amount of information possible to give you the confidence that you are making the right choice. 

Don’t hesitate and move forward:

Its always a “great day for a sauna” but if your on the fence or waiting for a better time then you are missing out on many “great days”. For that reason start moving forward with your plans and take the next steps in your sauna build. Here at Homecraft Saunas we would be happy to assist you in making this happen so feel free to reach out to us with any questions and we will be happy to work with you to achieve your sauna goals. 

We are firm believers here at Homecraft that using a sauna on a regular basis is a great way to invest in your health. For centuries, many different cultures and societies have appreciated the benefits of sauna use as part of a healthy lifestyle. Saunas are associated with unwinding and relaxing and that in itself is an important routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle, but research is increasingly showing that regular sauna use can majorly benefit your physical and mental health as well. We’ve listed 7 health benefits you can enjoy by having a sauna in your home and making it a part of your regular routine.

They help relieve stress: 

Let’s start with the most obvious, saunas help you relax and relieve stress. They are known to be a place where you unwind, relax and refocus but there’s a reason why this happens. As the heat in a sauna improves your circulation, this automatically starts to promote relaxation which will regulate the level of cortisol (stress hormone) in your body. Most of us are aware that high levels of stress can wreak havoc on our bodies but don’t know to manage it. An intentional sauna routine in your life is a great way to take control of your health and manage your stress levels.

They can increase your metabolism: 

Regular Sauna usage helps speed up metabolism in a way that has proven to be similar to exercise. When you’re exposed to the high heat a sauna provides, your heart rate can increase up to 30%. Some studies show that this can increase your metabolic rate up to 25-33%. The higher your metabolic rate, the more calories you burn. The benefits continue even after you have left the sauna room as the hot temperatures will keep your body burning calories for several hours after.

They can help with joint and/or arthritic pain: 

Dry humid heat has proven to be a help for those who experience pain in their joints and muscles. When your blood vessels relax and dilate in the heat, blood flow is increased and this can help reduce tension in your joints. If you suffer from arthritis or joint pain, adding a regular sauna routine to your life can help you soothe aching joints naturally.

They relax tired muscles: 

For a long time, athletes have used saunas to improve their range of motion and to help loosen tight muscles after a hard workout. Now that saunas are more and more accessible to the average person, they can be used to help promote your own fitness goals whether big or small. Relaxing in a sauna after a workout sounds great in and of itself, but knowing it will also maximize your efforts makes it a great addition to your exercise routine.

They improve your immune system: 

Studies have shown that regular sauna use can reduce the frequency, duration and severity of the common cold and improve your immune system overall. We’ve already touched on how saunas help you reduce stress and lower cortisol in your body. This is important because when cortisol levels are balanced, your immune system is able to function at its best. One study showed that single sauna session can increase your white blood cell count. This means that making regular sauna use a part of your lifestyle can be an important way to support your immune system.

They improve your skin:

For many, sauna use is an integral part of their beauty regime. The heat in a sauna opens pores which allows toxins in your skin to be released. When your blood flow is also increased by the heat, this promotes cellular growth and development which brings important nutrients to the your skin and enhances your collagen production. This not only helps improve the overall look of your skin by improving your complexion, but it also helps fight against aging.

They help you detox:

There is no shortage of products out that promise to detox your body, but do they work? Saunas facilitate the most traditional and age old method to help release toxins: they make you sweat. When you perspire in the high heat a sauna provides, your pores will naturally expel the impurities and toxins found in your body making saunas an incredible way to detox.

Having access to your own personal sauna and making it a part of your lifestyle is a wonderful, natural way to take care of your physical and mental health. In a world where it is hard to escape from the demands, pressures and distractions around us, having a personal sauna can allow us to have a sanctuary within our own homes. With so many key health benefits like the one listed above, having a sauna is a one time investment that your body will thank you for for years to come. Please feel free to reach out to us if you want more information on how you can invest in a Sauna and we would be happy to walk you through the steps.

“The sauna was a place to cleanse the body and was considered a sterile environment.”

For most people today the purchase of these types of luxury items is between one or the other. Oftentimes the financial investment alone makes these types of purchases a one time “splurge” not a regular thing. Traditionally the North American market has a bigger affinity towards the hot tub but there is growing awareness and popularity with Saunas that is seeing sales increase year after year. Since the hot tub traditionally has been the “go-to” for most people we want to highlight some of the reasons why you might want to consider an outdoor sauna for your home.

Personal Preference or Persona Prejudice?

How can you not enter a decision with an already preconceived idea or preference in mind? Most people have spent some time in a hot tub and have a certain memory or experience that comes to mind. Maybe it connects your memory with a vacation or spending time with friends or family. When it comes to sauna use in Canada (Or North America in general) the majority of people haven’t had those same experience or memories. Oftentimes the addition of a hot tub is the automatic response because of the lack of awareness into the amazing benefits, affordability and culture a sauna can bring to your home.

Initial costs vs your long term costs

A decent brand new hot tub for 4 people will cost you around $8000 – $12000 dollars and so when it comes to cost comparable’s you will find that the price of a prefabricated outdoor unit will cost within the same range and so pricing between a hot tub and sauna are relatively equal. The major differences comes down to the consistent monthly costs that begin to accumulate with hot tub use over sauna use. A general rule of thumb for maintenance is between $20-$40 a month depending on the type and style of the hot tub so a fair estimate is about $360 in maintenance a year which is not a huge amount begins to accumulate over time especially when compared to the fact that a sauna does not require a monthly investment. 

The Maintenance Question

Hot tub: Water levels, chemicals, water pumps, switching out the water, winter prep etc etc. 

Sauna: Sit, Sweat, cold plunge, repeat, enjoy!! 

Just to be fair, there are some minor things that saunas may need. An initial investment in a wood sauna sealant to better protect the wood nor is a once a year sauna clean a bad idea but other then that, Enjoy!

Weighing the Health Benefits

Over the past several years more and more studies are showing the real health benefits of consistent sauna use. From Cardiovascular improvements to skin care the benefits of consistent sauna use is becoming widely accepted and known. Beyond the health benefits there probably is a reason the Finns are the happiest people in the world! Creating a culture of sauna use is also tremendously centring and relaxing. Hot tub use often brings a certain amount of relaxation and can help a person sleep but there are no studies that show that it actually is beneficial to your overall health. Once again it just goes to show you the tremendous benefits of investing in an outdoor sauna over a hot tub. 

Which holds it’s value more?

Like most items we have there is usually some depreciation over time from the original value. Since hot tubs are such a common item the resale value is oftentimes less then what you would get in selling a used outdoor sauna. The fact that a quality built outdoor sauna (like our cottage sauna) should outlast a hot tub in lifespan gives added value when it comes to every deciding to part with it (which we don’t ever suggest).

The Homecraft Conclusion

So… Yes we are a biased group over here at Homecraft but we also can see that the investment into an outdoor sauna far outweighs what you will get in a hot tub so if you are on the fence maybe these few thoughts will help you solidify a decision.