We curated this collection of 1-person saunas to be the most space-efficient way to bring a consistent routine into your home without sacrificing performance. We build these compact cabins to warm quickly and fit naturally into apartments, spare rooms, and home gyms. Whether you choose a traditional heater or a plug-and-play infrared model, our goal is to provide dependable heat sessions in a footprint that makes daily use realistic.
- Compact Comfort: We design these units to deliver a full session in a minimal footprint, making them practical for tight indoor layouts.
- Heat-Type Flexibility: Choose traditional high-heat sessions with an electric heater, or infrared warmth at lower air temperatures for longer routines.
- Electrical Clarity: Many of our infrared models run on standard 120V outlets, while traditional heaters commonly require a dedicated 240V circuit.
- Material Stability: We select woods like ThermoWood, spruce, cedar, and hemlock for comfort and durability under repeated heat cycles.
- Efficient Daily Use: Smaller cabins heat faster and cost less per session than multi-person rooms.
- Consideration: Always confirm doorway access and ceiling height before delivery—compact design still requires proper assembly clearance.
Most Common Questions About One Person Saunas
These are the most common planning questions for a 1-person sauna—space, cost, wiring, and what to expect from infrared vs traditional heat in real daily use.
How much space does a 1-person sauna actually require?
Most fit in a 3x3 or 3x4 foot footprint. However, you must plan for 6–12 inches of overhead clearance for assembly and ensuring the door can swing fully open without hitting furniture.
How much does a 1-person infrared sauna cost?
Infrared models typically range from $1,500 to $3,500. Traditional units often cost more due to the requirement for a high-temperature electric heater and the licensed electrician needed for 240V wiring.
Do 1-person saunas require special wiring?
Infrared models often use standard 120V household outlets (though some require a 20-amp NEMA 5-20 socket). Traditional cabins almost always require a dedicated 240V circuit installed by a licensed electrician.
Is a 1-person infrared sauna better than a traditional one?
It depends on the experience you want. Infrared offers instant-on convenience and deep, sweat-inducing heat at lower air temperatures (120°F-140°F). Traditional saunas provide the intense air heat (170°F+) and "löyly" (steam) experience.
What is Low EMF in a 1-person infrared sauna?
Low EMF means the heating panels are shielded to minimize electromagnetic field output. We recommend looking for brands that provide third-party testing data (from Intertek or similar labs) to verify safety.
Can we lose weight using a 1-person sauna?
It causes temporary water weight loss through intense sweating. While it burns calories by raising your heart rate, the primary benefits are relaxation, recovery, and circulation, not permanent fat loss.
How long should we sit in a 1-person sauna?
Infrared sessions typically last 30–45 minutes because the heat is gentler. Traditional sessions are usually shorter (10–15 minute intervals) due to the intense air heat, followed by a cooling break.
Do 1-person saunas require a 240V dedicated circuit?
Traditional heaters (like Harvia) usually require a dedicated 240V circuit. Most 1-person infrared units run on standard 120V power, but we strongly recommend a dedicated breaker so you don't trip the lights or vacuum while using it.
Can we plug a 1-person infrared sauna into a regular outlet?
Yes, most are plug-and-play on a standard 120V/15A outlet. However, never use an extension cord; plug the unit directly into the wall to prevent voltage drop and fire hazards.
How hard is it to assemble a 1-person sauna kit?
Prefab kits typically take 1–3 hours. Infrared units often use "buckle" or latch systems that snap together easily without tools, while traditional kits may require a drill to screw panels together.
Which type of 1-person sauna is cheaper to run?
Infrared is generally cheaper due to lower power draw and no "warm-up" time—you get in as soon as you turn it on. Traditional units consume energy for 30-45 minutes just to heat the rocks before you enter.