I Almost Built My Own Infrared Sauna: Here’s Why I’m Glad I Bought One Instead
I have a confession: I hate DIY kits. The idea of saving money by building a sauna from scratch was tempting at first, but once I saw what a DIY infrared sauna involves, I felt overwhelmed.
It turns out you need to cut lumber, install vapour barriers, and wire up heaters – a serious project that can quickly become a month-long headache. Ultimately, I decided to skip the DIY route and invest in a pre-made infrared sauna, and I’m so grateful I did. It may have been expensive upfront, but it proved to be a cost-effective and rewarding decision.
The DIY Sauna Temptation (and Reality Check)
Many people online brag about building their own sauna to save money, and I was tempted to try it too. With a typical sauna kit, you only get the interior cedar lining and heating components, so you have to construct the entire enclosure and handle all the electrical wiring yourself. That can work if you’re very handy, but any need to hire a contractor would quickly eat up the savings.
I also learned about hidden risks: one expert warned that DIY builders often overlook electrical codes or create heat imbalances, leading to underperformance or safety hazards.
The last thing I wanted was to spend weeks on a project only to worry if it was safe. Plus, as a renter, building a permanent sauna I couldn’t take with me didn’t make sense – whereas a prefab unit can be disassembled and moved if needed.
Why I Chose a Pre-Made Infrared Sauna
After that reality check, I shifted my focus to pre-fabricated infrared saunas. These come as modular units designed for quick setup: the panels lock together without special tools, and there’s no need for extra framing or insulation. The idea of assembling it all in an afternoon (instead of a major construction project) was appealing.
A modern pre-fabricated infrared sauna cabin set up in a home. I opted for a ready-made unit like this, which offered a sleek design and hassle-free installation compared to any DIY attempt. Not having to do construction or troubleshooting was a huge relief.
Another big factor was quality and features. I discovered Innerlight Sauna, which offers high-quality full-spectrum infrared saunas (a mix of near, mid, and far infrared). The unit I chose even came with Bluetooth speakers, chromotherapy lighting, and digital controls – plenty of bells and whistles to enhance the experience. Knowing everything was professionally assembled and safety-tested gave me peace of mind. I had it ready to use in no time.
Key reasons I went with a pre-built sauna:
- No Construction Hassle: Assembled in one afternoon.
- Safety: Professionally wired and built to code, avoiding DIY hazards.
- Luxury Features: Built-in audio, mood lighting, and full-spectrum heaters for a spa-like experience.
My Experience and Why It Was Worth It
When my sauna arrived, it felt like Christmas morning. It took about two hours (with a friend’s help) to get everything together. I powered it up and within minutes I was sweating and feeling my muscles unwind. Infrared saunas run at a more comfortable temperature than traditional steam saunas (around 110–135 °F instead of 180 °F+), while still delivering therapeutic heat. That means I can relax inside for 20–30 minutes without getting lightheaded from extreme heat.
I’ve been using my sauna several times a week after workouts, and I’m far less sore the next day, which makes sense, since infrared heat boosts circulation and speeds muscle recovery. It also melts away stress; studies suggest regular sauna sessions can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. That post-sauna bliss often leads to some of the best sleep I’ve ever had.
Yes, I spent a few thousand dollars on a home infrared sauna. That’s not a small amount, but I consider it an investment in my health and well-being – especially since I use it several times a week. By not going DIY, I also saved myself countless hours of labor and potential frustration. Instead of worrying about building, I’ve been able to enjoy my sauna from day one.
The Bottom Line
In hindsight, skipping the DIY kit was the right call. My pre-made Innerlight Sauna infrared sauna wasn’t cheap, but it has been worth every penny. I gained a personal wellness oasis with minimal hassle, and it’s now a favourite part of my daily routine.
For anyone on the fence, think about what your time and peace of mind are worth. Sure, you can build your sauna, but if you value convenience, safety and luxury, a ready-made infrared sauna can be a truly life-changing investment. I have zero regrets – except not getting one sooner!