Sauna in the bathroom
Pure relaxation
What types are there?
Saunas can take many different forms. This is because the practice, which likely originated in Asia thousands of years ago, has evolved differently in various cultures over time. Generally speaking, the differences can be attributed to variations in temperature and humidity and can be broadly divided into the following categories:
High heat with low humidity
This is similar to a Finnish sauna and is therefore the “classic” version—the word “sauna” actually comes from Finnish. With temperatures exceeding 100 °C and humidity around 10%, this sauna really heats things up in the bathroom.
Moderate temperature with high humidity
In addition to the Finnish-style sauna, the so-called Turkish sauna—or hamam—is also particularly well known. This type of sauna focuses primarily on hot steam and the resulting humidity of nearly 100% to help the body relax.
Moderate temperature with normal humidity
The most modern type of sauna for the bathroom is made possible by new technologies. An infrared cabin in the bathroom can reach temperatures of up to 50 °C, promoting both skin health and circulation.
What types of stoves are available?
The choice of the right sauna heater or heating method is also directly related to the type of sauna. The following options are common:
Wood-burning stove
A wood-burning stove is a must in a traditional Finnish sauna. The crackling of the burning logs creates a very special atmosphere and ensures the characteristic dry heat. However, a connection to the chimney is required, and legal regulations for fireplaces must be followed. Therefore, a sauna with a wood-burning stove should ideally be planned for during the construction of the house.
Gas oven
A sauna in the bathroom equipped with a gas heater heats up particularly quickly. However, for safety reasons, proper ventilation must be ensured, among other things. Likewise, a sauna with a gas heater naturally requires a connection to a gas line.
Electric oven
For many bathrooms, the simplest solution is often a sauna with an electric heater, as installation is relatively easy and cost-effective. Unlike wood-burning and gas heaters, there are also fewer safety risks associated with ventilation or fire hazards. All that is needed is a high-voltage power connection.
Infrared sauna
While an infrared cabin in the bathroom isn’t a true sauna heater, it serves a very similar purpose as a relaxing “sweat cabin.” Unlike an electric heater, a standard electrical outlet is all that’s needed here.
Shower-sauna
Modern steam showers are relatively easy to install yet highly adaptable. The 2-in-1 design also helps to alleviate space constraints, at least to some extent. While they aren’t saunas in the traditional sense, with the right equipment and the use of infusions, they can certainly make you forget about a “real” sauna in the bathroom.
What are the benefits?
A sauna in the bathroom creates a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. A sauna can also be beneficial to your health. For example, regular sauna sessions can strengthen the immune system and cleanse the skin. Your circulation and heart can also benefit from sauna sessions in general.
However, it’s important to note that a sauna alone isn’t a miracle cure. Even long sauna sessions don’t necessarily have positive effects, as they can lead to dehydration. You should also avoid using the sauna if you have an infection or pre-existing medical conditions.
What requirements must be met?
The requirements you need to meet if you want to install a sauna in your bathroom depend on the specific type you choose. In general, you need to ensure that you have the appropriate connections, sufficient space, and enough power.
Connections
The connections required for a sauna in the bathroom depend on the heating method you choose. Traditional saunas, in particular, require connections to exhaust vents, such as a chimney. A sauna with an electric heater, on the other hand, requires a high-voltage power connection. It is therefore essential to find out about the necessary connections in advance.
Place
Although a sauna in the bathroom is often associated with needing a lot of space, this isn’t necessarily the case. A mini-sauna in the bathroom is entirely possible. For use by a single person, just over one square meter is sufficient. For each additional person who will be using the bathroom sauna at the same time, an extra square meter should be planned for. It should also be noted that, depending on the type of sauna, a minimum distance from the walls must be maintained.
Performance
While you can simply add more logs to a wood-burning stove if needed, it’s especially important to consider the stove’s power output when choosing an electric model. For a small bathroom sauna measuring no more than 6 m², a power output of 4.5 kilowatts is sufficient. For larger saunas, you should choose models with a higher power output.
Tips and tricks for setting up
Whether you have a traditional or modern bathroom with a sauna, the goal is definitely relaxation. To ensure this, don’t forget about the decor around the sauna. After all, the right aesthetic and atmosphere also play a key role in your well-being.
Shower
If you haven't opted for a shower-sauna combination, you should of course still have a shower located right next to the sauna in the bathroom. That way, you can cool off and continue relaxing immediately after your sauna session.
Seating and reclining options
People rarely limit themselves to just one sauna session; for the sake of circulation, it’s generally recommended to take several short sessions. However, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice relaxation in between. Comfortable seating or loungers are ideal for this purpose—and they should also be moisture-resistant.
Aesthetics
Saunas in the bathroom are traditionally associated with wood—and rightly so, as the classic look immediately promotes relaxation. Accordingly, a sauna fits well into a natural-style bathroom and pairs particularly well with other wooden furniture and natural stone. Newer styles, such as infrared cabins or shower saunas, on the other hand, complement the futuristic, minimalist aesthetic of modern bathrooms.
