As the world places increasing emphasis on health, people are exploring various ways to improve their well-being, such as exercise, saunas, ice baths, and health products. For many, buying a sauna isn’t solely for specific health benefits but also for the enjoyment of the experience. If you want to avoid mistakes or potential issues when purchasing sauna products,be sure to read the Alphasauna professional team’s guide on some of the most common mistakes to help you avoid them.

There are significant price differences for sauna equipment in Google searches. Here’s how to avoid making mistakes!

When buying a product, we often search on Google, social media, or online shopping platforms, hoping to find the information we need. However, what often confuses people is the overwhelming number of choices and sponsored results that appear. While this provides more options, it can also lead to confusion and indecision, making it easier to overlook mistakes during the buying process. Here are some common issues you might encounter when purchasing sauna equipment.

1.No Budget Planning

Budgeting is crucial when making any purchase, and saunas are no exception. The final price of a sauna can vary depending on the type, material, size, and heating method. If you believe that home saunas are very expensive, there may be some misunderstandings. While DIY saunas can be an affordable option, this is only true if you have the necessary woodworking and construction skills. Hiring professionals to build it will significantly increase your costs. 

Custom home saunas offer designs, sizes, and personalized experiences tailored to your space, but they do come at a higher cost. Alternatively, you can opt for "prefabricated saunas" from suppliers, which are built to international standards for energy efficiency and are generally more affordable than custom saunas.

Tip: While budget is an important factor when buying a sauna, quality and durability are equally important. A lower price may lead to more trouble in the long run, so choose carefully.

2.Not Researching Supplier Information

While you may have researched home saunas online, don’t forget to investigate the sauna supplier itself! In addition to product details, it's crucial to review the company's customer feedback, background, experience, and the services they offer. This is one of the reasons many customers prefer well-known brands—they provide not only good service but also safe and reliable products. For example, Alphasauna, with over ten years of experience in sauna manufacturing, offers high-quality saunas alongside excellent customer service.

3.Poor Sauna Space Planning

One of the most common mistakes for first-time buyers is failing to plan for the correct sauna size and capacity. For 1-2 users, a small sauna is usually sufficient. However, if you plan to accommodate more people and don't consider the appropriate size, you could end up with a sauna that's either too small and uncomfortable or too large, wasting both space and money.

To ensure a relaxing sauna experience, start by selecting the right area for the sauna and measuring the available space. Factors to consider include ease of accessed, availability of power outlets (for electric saunas), ventilation, and drainage.

Tip: A major mistake is overlooking the power requirements for larger saunas. Before purchasing, consult with the supplier about power needs and get advice from a local electrician to ensure compatibility.

4.Not Reading the Fine Print

Whether purchasing online or in-store, always review the "return policy" and "warranty" details. Choosing a reliable sauna supplier not only protects your investment but also ensures a high-quality sauna experience. A solid return policy and warranty are crucial safeguards for your purchase.

Why are barrel saunas more popular than cabin saunas in today’s market?

Although some people view barrel saunas negatively due to their height, seating shape, and departure from traditional sauna designs, market analysis shows that barrel saunas are quite popular. Here’s why:

1.Unique Design

While the appearance and shape of barrel saunas may not appeal to everyone, they offer a visually striking and unique natural beauty compared to traditional rectangular saunas. Additionally, in some areas, they may not be considered permanent structures, allowing them to be placed closer to property lines and assembled without a building permit.

2.Cost-Effectiveness

Barrel saunas are more space-efficient than traditional cabin saunas. They occupy a smaller footprint, making them suitable for various outdoor spaces and easier to install, which is ideal for users looking for quick setup. Moreover, barrel saunas are simpler to disassemble, move, and reassemble compared to traditional cabins, which are permanently installed. Importantly, barrel saunas are also more affordable.

3.Heating Performance and Energy Consumption

Typically, cabin saunas have a larger area, requiring more time and energy to heat and often resulting in uneven temperature distribution. Hot air tends to accumulate at the top of the cabin, leading to inefficient heat diffusion. In contrast, the round shape and smaller area of barrel saunas allow for better distribution and circulation of hot air. This results in more stable temperatures, faster heating, and reduced energy consumption.

While barrel saunas may not be considered traditional in the classical sense, they maintain the core experience of a sauna and represent an evolution of traditional designs based on modern concepts.

Is it advisable to use a sauna in combination with a shower room or a cold-water bathtub?

In traditional Finnish sauna culture, taking a shower or an ice bath is a classic practice. However, in modern cities, where rolling in lakes, rivers, or snow isn’t feasible, shower rooms and ice baths have become popular alternatives. If you prefer to take a shower, we recommend installing or purchasing an outdoor shower room, as a cold plunge pool cannot replace a shower. Combining ice baths or cold plunge pools with sauna sessions not only supports physical health but also promotes mental relaxation and balance, embodying the "harmony of body and mind" emphasized by Finnish sauna culture.

Saunas may seem simple, but what other factors should you consider besides a few basic accessories?

Accessories in a sauna enhance both enjoyment and safety. For example, some people prefer leaning on a backrest, while others enjoy lying on a stool with a headrest. Regardless of your preference, these accessories are designed to increase comfort. However, the Alphasauna professional team advises that, whether you are sitting or lying down, it’s important to use a towel on the bench. This helps prevent sweat, grease, and other substances from soiling the bench, making it easier to clean.

Additionally, it’s crucial to listen to your body. If you experience dizziness or a dry mouth, make sure to leave the sauna to rest and hydrate.

Tip: As noted, selecting a high-quality sauna supplier is essential to avoid pitfalls and minimize mistakes. Even with a reputable brand, it’s important to thoroughly understand and review the purchase details.

Conclusion

Through this guide, we hope to help you avoid common mistakes when buying a sauna. If you have any questions, please contact us. At Alphasauna, we are committed to providing you with high-quality products such as saunas, ice baths, hot tubs, and sauna accessories. If you’re considering investing in a sauna, reach out to us for a one-on-one consultation with a professional. We will address all your questions and assist you in choosing the sauna that best suits your preferences and needs.