The US home sauna market is growing at a rate of six percent a year, representing an increase of more than $126 million between now and 2027. Improved affordability through the availability of saunas in prebuilt kit form, a broader choice of designs, more energy-efficient heaters, and increased awareness of the wellness benefits are all contributing to the growing popularity of home saunas for American householders. Here, we will explore some of the very latest trends in the US residential sauna scene.
Diversity of Choice in Home Saunas
Compared to just a decade or so ago, American consumers have a vast range of sauna options to choose from at home if we look through the extensive range of The SaunaPlace sauna designs and all the features available. Traditional Finnish-style prefab cabin saunas are still the most popular design. These are typically square or rectangular and come in sizes ranging from four feet by four to eight by eight. But the biggest new trend is in barrel saunas.
As the name suggests, barrel saunas are barrel-shaped, with two circular ends joined using cedar planks. A barrel sauna looks fun and quirky, but it is also far more efficient. Its circular design makes better use of space, meaning 23 percent less volume is heated. It also promotes better air circulation.
Prebuilt Sauna Kits Improving Affordability
In years gone by, the design, planning and construction of a home sauna in the US could easily cost tens of thousands of pounds. It’s little wonder that home saunas were considered luxuries that were reserved for the very wealthy. However, saunas are now available on the US market in prebuilt kit form, designed to be quickly and easily assembled by the home DIY enthusiast using basic tools from an everyday toolkit.
This has slashed the cost by a factor of four to five, making it possible to buy and install even a sizeable home sauna for the backyard for $10,000 or less. It is an option that is taking Middle America by storm. Even if you are not confident about assembling the kit, it is a task that any competent handyman will be able to do in two to four hours depending on the size and type of the sauna.
Electric Sauna Heaters Are Simple and Efficient
There was a time 10 to 20 years ago when the authentic experience of a wood-fired sauna was all the rage in high-end health spas. There is still a following for these in the US home sauna market, and they are perfect for anyone living off grid.
However, the top trend in home sauna heaters is to go electric. The latest sauna heaters from market-leading brands like Finlandia, Saunacore, and Haria are highly efficient, making them cheaper to run than you might think. Costs will vary depending on electricity prices in your area of the US, but you can expect to spend only around $15 per month running a 4.5 kW heater in a sauna that is used four times per week.
An electric heater also brings more convenience, especially in this digital age. Not only does it heat the sauna faster than gas or wood, you can also preset it to come on to your preferred settings at a particular time, or even switch it on from a smartphone app. Ideal for commuters who might impulsively decide they want to go straight into the sauna when they get home.
Social Saunas Are the New Craze
Finland and other Northern European nations have a long tradition of sharing sauna space with family and friends. It’s as natural as going to a coffee shop or bar in the US. But American culture is different, and we find it unnatural to relax in a sauna, wrapped only in a towel, in mixed company. That’s partly why home saunas have become so popular – they provide the opportunity to enjoy a private sauna.
But a strange thing is happening. As we become more accustomed to saunas, many American families are becoming more social about them, too. Sauna parties could be the next big trend among younger generations. So, if you are considering a home sauna for your backyard, here’s a final piece of advice: Choose the biggest one you can, as you never know how many people you might want to fit inside it!
The Future Beckons: A Sauna for Every Home
As we glance toward the horizon of home wellness, it’s evident that residential saunas are more than a mere indulgence—they’re becoming a staple. The melding of innovative designs, cost-effective solutions, and tech-savvy amenities invites a broader audience to partake in the time-honored tradition of sauna bathing. This evolution enhances individual well-being and cultivates a newfound sense of community.
In a world increasingly driven by the pursuit of holistic health, a home sauna represents an investment in a better lifestyle. It’s not just about the physical benefits of improved circulation, detoxification, and relaxation. It’s about carving out a sanctuary within your own home where you can unwind after a long day, entertain friends in a unique setting, or simply find a moment of peace in a hectic world.
Bridging Tradition and Modernity
The adoption of advanced electric heaters demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and convenience, marrying ancient practices with modern technology. Features like remote control via smartphone apps and preset timers reflect our desire for seamless integration of health practices into daily routines.
Cultivating Connection
Meanwhile, the trend toward social saunas signals an intriguing cultural shift. By embracing communal sauna sessions, we’re breaking down old social barriers and forging new ones. These gatherings could become the modern-day equivalent of social clubs, fostering deeper connections in an era where genuine interactions are increasingly rare.
Embrace the Steam: Redefining Home Wellness and Connection
Ultimately, the question isn’t whether home saunas are worth it; instead, it’s about how they’ll redefine our lives. Will you discover a new way to bond with family and friends? Will you find a personal retreat that enhances your mental and physical health? The possibilities are boundless. The future of home saunas is bright, steamy, and incredibly promising. Embrace the trend, and let your home become a haven of health, warmth, and togetherness.
