Don’t have $2000 to spend on sauna? Guess what, you don’t have to. Gather your tools and put on your DIY gear, because we have some DIY sauna ideas that won’t just intrigue you but also save you a few bucks.
From indoor to outdoor and luxurious to cost-friendly, there’s a sauna for everyone to keep the stress out and enjoy a relaxing weekend without leaving the comfort of your home.
Let’s dig into it.
10 DIY Sauna Plans
1. The Shipping Container Sauna
Did you know that you can convert a shipping container into a personal sauna? Yup, when I came across it, I was just as amazed and amused as you. And it isn’t an ordinary sauna.
You can also add some fancy frills into the mix with an iPod stereo, magnetic truck light, wool toque, and guitar hooks that add to the comfort and keep you entertained.
Oh, and you play your part in protecting the environment as well since the whole unit is solar-powered (and that’s how you kill two birds with a stone).
2. The Indoor Bathroom Sauna
If you do not want to have space for a shipping container, we have you covered. This sauna idea can be built right in your bathroom, thus giving you the freedom to use it any time of the day.
This can either be a wood-fired sauna or an infrared sauna but make sure you choose a corner of the bathroom that’s well insulated. You also want to ensure there are no lights or other fixtures nearby.
I’d recommend you go with Cedar for a traditional look and feel as it has a higher heat tolerance level and thus works well with the sauna bulbs.
3. Near-Infrared Sauna
Did you know near-infrared saunas might be healthier than far-infrared saunas like that in the gym since they have lesser EMFs?
Now, I haven’t done my research on it, but if you have and prefer a near-infrared sauna over others, this idea is for you.
It is one of the easiest to build saunas, making it a great idea for anyone with a little DIY experience. That’s because the only main component here is the 250 W red heat bulbs.
Plus, you don’t need a lot of room for it. In fact, small, enclosed spaces are just what this sauna needs to be effective.
Check other benefits of a Near Infrared Sauna and the detailed plan.
4. The Modular Sauna
If you have a large backyard and want to keep your sauna out of the house and get some quiet away from everyone, this is just the sauna you need (all the mom’s out there, I hear you).
It comes with pre-made panels along with a door, benches, heater, and rocks, so installing it is a breeze and can be done without professional help. Plus, it is pretty compact at 4’8″ x 5’8 while maintaining ample space on the inside for a comfortable time.
To top it all, it is made of Cedarwood, guaranteeing you a premium quality build that will last you for years. Also, all the nuts, bolts, etc., needed for the assembly are provided in the package. A screw gun can speed up things but isn’t a must.
5. The Home Sauna
Not the bedroom or the backyard, this sauna idea can be built in your bedroom, living room, or any spare room you might have. Plus, it is fairly easy to set up and requires little experience as the wood is pre-cut.
The wood used is Cedar which means long-lasting usage, so you get the best bang for your buck. The sauna is about 4’x6,’ and the best part is that you can move it around easily from one room to another.
You get all the accessories needed with this sauna as well, and with a screw gun, it should not take you more than a couple of hours to complete the setup.
6. The Portable Cycle Sauna
Yes, you read that ride. One of the craziest and out-of-the-box ideas on the list is this portable sauna that is built behind a cycle. This isn’t a DIY which means you will need to put on your thinking caps, but the idea simply cannot be ignored.
Czech innovators designed this model, and this article should give you a brief idea of how they went about it.
You’ll need knowledge about both saunas and woodworking, electrical skills, so leave this idea for the professionals.
7. The Barn Sauna
Have a barn that you don’t use often? Well, turn into a sauna. And if your barn is big enough, it should be able to fit 2-3 people so you never get bored either.
This is one of the few plans that come with detailed pictures as well along with instructions. Yes, you’ll need to be accustomed to various tools and machines for this, and it is time-consuming, but the result is worth the effort.
Just keep in mind you’ll need special sauna rocks for this one as standard rocks won’t last long against the heat.
8. The Barrel Sauna
You can buy a barrel sauna, but that again is too expensive. Thankfully, there’s a detailed plan on how to build it as well. Though you will need to know woodworking to build this one correctly.
In this sauna guide, the creator has put it near a picturesque background which adds to the look, feels, and comfort.
If you too live near the mountains, this eye-catching piece of comfort and relaxation is something you don’t want to miss out on.
9. The Budget Sauna
Did you know you build a sauna for less than $150? Yes, all you need are some infrared lights, lamp clamps, a stand, a power strip, and eye protection.
In case you want more effective results you can also get a canopy as it will keep the heat inside. This is more important if you build the sauna in a larger room.
When purchasing materials, make sure you only opt for quality lights. Avoid cheap materials available on Craiglist or eBay.
Find the full list of materials needed in the step-by-step guide.
10. The Bathtub Sauna
Here’s how you can build a simple sauna for your backyard.
The tub is made out of a galvanized steel stock tank. To make sure that the tank remains in place, a fast-setting concrete mix is used to create two footings.
With the help of a copper wire, a five-gallon bucket, and steel bars, you can create the coil.
Don’t forget to build a lid as well to ensure that the tub retains its warmth and remains clean when not in use.
Also, this being a wood-fired sauna has the tendency to overheat, and unless you want to boil something, you want to keep a check on that.
Conclusion
Well, that’s all from my end. These were some of my favorite ideas that I came across on indoor and outdoor DIY saunas.
In case you run into trouble with any of these saunas, drop your questions in the comments below, and experts from ProToolGuide will provide you with all the needed help.
If you have built a sauna and would like to feature it on the site, do write to me about it via the contact form along with 2-3 images of it and a link to the step-by-step instructions.
Till Then, Happy DIYing.
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