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Australian traditional saunas are growing in popularity, which is why you see so many sauna brands coming to play but only a few of them actually bring practical value to customers. The best traditional saunas combine solid heat, real wood, and simple, reliable performance. If you’re after that proper hot stone experience—whether it’s for recovery, relaxation, or daily wellness—this guide covers the top options available in Australia right now.
We’ve focused on full-featured models built with quality timber, proper heaters, and enough comfort to make regular use enjoyable. No portable tents or infrared hybrids—just real, heat-driven saunas that deliver what you expect. And of course, this is intended for those with a budget range between 5,000 – 10,000 AUD (with a few thousand more for the most luxurious version).
Some of these picks are great for smaller homes or indoor setups. Others are made for backyard spaces with room to stretch out and share. Each one has something that makes it a standout—whether that’s value, craftsmanship, or thoughtful design.
If you’re looking to buy a traditional sauna that’s actually worth the money, this list gives you a strong place to start.
Top Traditional Sauna Picks to Buy 2025
Note: The tables below give you a quick overview of what to expect from each sauna on this list. If you want more details, we’ve shared hands-on reviews for every model to help you figure out which one fits your budget and needs best.
| Sauna | Highlight | Bottomline |
|---|---|---|
| Demfin Traditional Sauna | Best Overall | A premium pick with great performance, comfort, and design. Built to last and made for both dry and steam sessions. |
| Legion Traditional Sauna | Best Value | Strong heat and durable cedar at a budget-friendly price. Simple, solid, and gets the job done. |
| Revel Recovery Edenview Barrel Sauna | Best Barrel Sauna | Spacious and social with even heat distribution. Great if you love traditional sessions with others. |
| Malta Sauna | Best for Space-Saving | Compact but full-featured indoor sauna with cedar and chromotherapy. A real sauna experience that fits small homes. |
| Kylin (QD-EA3) Sauna | Most Popular | Reliable, affordable, and perfect for beginners. It’s no-frills, but delivers consistent heat and comfort. |
| Blackwater Cube Sauna | Most Luxurious | Sleek, spacious, and built like a high-end retreat. Premium materials and powerful heat for top-tier sessions. |
Sauna Specifications for Nerds
| Feature | Demfin | Legion | Revel Edenview | Malta | Kylin (QD-EA3) | Blackwater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 2 people | 2 people | 4 people | 2 people | 2 people | 4–6 people |
| Heater | Harvia 4.5kW | Harvia 4.5kW | Traditional stone heater | Harvia 3.5kW | Harvia 4.5kW | Harvia 9kW, 220V, 40A |
| Materials | Western Red Cedar (interior), Composite Wood (exterior) | Japanese Cedar | Cedar | FSC® Canadian Red Cedar | Canadian Hemlock | Certified Western Red Cedar (35mm) |
| Glass | Explosion-proof + LED headrest strip | 8mm tempered glass | Tempered glass door & windows | 8mm tinted tempered glass | 8mm tinted tempered glass | Tempered glass |
| Lighting | Explosion-proof LED + headrest lighting | Safe Lamp | Natural light + optional lantern | ZenGlow™ Chromotherapy | 15W IP65 light w/ switch | Interior LED |
| Dimensions | 150×110×200 cm | 131×146×206 cm | Barrel style (fits 4) | 130×130×200 cm | 150×120×190 cm | 213×180×215 cm |
| Weight | Not specified | 190 kg | Not specified | 175 kg | 440 kg | Not specified |
| Use | Outdoor | Indoor/Outdoor | Outdoor | Indoor | Indoor | Indoor/Outdoor |
| Warranty | 5 years (heater, cabin, electrical) | 3 years (cabin + heater) | Not specified | 5 yrs cabinetry, 5 yrs heater, 2 yrs components | 5 years heater, cabin, electrical | Lifetime (cabin), 2 years (heater) |
How We Rated the Best Traditional Saunas
We looked closely at what each sauna was made of. Thicker wood panels, natural moisture resistance, and durable finishes all played a role. Premium materials like Canadian cedar and Japanese timber earned extra points.
We checked how fast the sauna heated up, how well it retained heat, and how easy it was to adjust temperature. Strong heaters (like Harvia units) with good stone capacity scored highest.
We actually sat in these saunas—sometimes alone, sometimes with others. We rated how comfortable the benches were and whether the layout felt cramped or spacious, especially during longer sessions.
Looks matter when something’s sitting in your home or backyard. We gave points for saunas that balanced style with function—modern frames, clean lines, and smart lighting all helped a sauna stand out.
We considered how straightforward the setup was. Some required just clicking panels together, others needed professional wiring. We mentioned this clearly so you know what to expect.
Some saunas surprised us with great features at lower prices, while others felt overpriced for what they offered. We gave honest ratings based on overall value—not just the price tag.
Best Overall - Demfin Traditional Sauna 2 Person
Brand: Inner Light Australia
Bottomline: A premium traditional sauna that balances performance, comfort, and design. It’s well-built, weather-resistant, and delivers both dry and steam sessions effortlessly.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 150 cm (W) x 110 cm (D) x 200 cm (H) |
| Interior Material | Premium Western Red Cedar |
| Exterior Material | Black Composite Wood with Wood Grain Finish |
| Lighting | Explosion-Proof Lighting System with LED Headrest Strip |
| Heater | Harvia 4.5kW Hot Stone Stove |
| Capacity | 2 Persons |
| Power Requirements | 4,500W Single Phase (requires hardwiring by a licensed electrician) |
Why the Demfin Sauna is the best traditional sauna right now in Australia
The Demfin Traditional Sauna stands out straight away. Everything about it feels high-end—from the build to the materials to the little finishing touches. It’s made for people who want a proper traditional sauna experience, but with modern design and outdoor durability baked in.
It’s a 2-person sauna, and while that sounds small, the interior feels spacious enough to stretch out and relax without feeling cramped. The inside is lined with Western red cedar, which gives off that clean, natural scent once the heat kicks in. The seating and walls feel solid, and the wood doesn’t overheat or feel rough on the skin like cheaper saunas can.
On the outside, it’s finished with black composite wood that looks sharp and modern. It also holds up well outdoors and doesn’t need much maintenance. I’ve had it set up in an open backyard with no cover, and even after some wild weather, it still looks brand new.
The heater is a Harvia 4.5kW hot stone stove, which is right in that sweet spot of power. It heats up quickly and holds temperature well, but more importantly, it gives you the option to enjoy both dry and steam sauna sessions. Just toss some water on the stones, and it instantly shifts the atmosphere. I like having that flexibility depending on my mood or the time of day.
One of the parts I didn’t expect to appreciate as much was the lighting. It comes with explosion-proof lighting and an LED strip built into the headrest area. It’s subtle but adds a relaxing glow at night. Whether I’m in there at sunset or winding down after dinner, the lighting helps set a calm vibe.
Installing it wasn’t complicated, but it does need to be hardwired by a licensed electrician—it runs on a single-phase 4,500W connection. Once it’s hooked up, though, it’s basically plug-and-play from there.
The size is compact—150cm wide, 110cm deep, and 200cm tall—so it doesn’t take over your outdoor space, but still gives you a full, immersive sauna feel. I use it almost daily after workouts or long days at the desk. It’s become part of my wind-down routine, and honestly, I look forward to it just as much as the workout itself.
There are cheaper options out there, but none I’ve tried come close to how refined this one feels. The Demfin checks all the boxes for heat performance, comfort, durability, and design. It’s not just functional—it actually feels enjoyable to use every time.
Best Value – Legion Traditional Sauna 2 Person
Brand: Ritual Recovery Australia
Bottomline: Strong heat, durable cedar, and straightforward setup make this a great choice for the price. It’s simple, the newest player in the sauna industry, but reliable—exactly what a traditional sauna should be.
Use code RECOVERYGURU to get $250 off.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 2 people |
| External Dimensions | 131cm (W) x 146cm (D) x 206cm (H) |
| Weight | 190kg |
| Timber Construction | 30mm thick Japanese Cedar |
| Cedar Benefits | Naturally moisture-resistant, excellent insulation, highly durable |
| Glass Door | 8mm thick tempered glass |
| Heater Model | Harvia The Wall 4.5kW Black Steel Electric Heater |
| Heater Output | 4.5kW |
| Stone Capacity | Holds up to 20kg of sauna stones |
| Seating Style | Stadium-style elevated seating |
| Ventilation System | Dual vents for optimal airflow and fresh circulation |
| Power Requirements | 4.5kW; 20A dedicated circuit; 2.5mm² cable (must be hardwired by electrician) |
| Indoor/Outdoor Use | Yes – built for both environments |
| Maintenance | Easy-care design |
| Warranty | 3 years on both sauna cabin and Harvia heater |
What we think of the newest player Ritual Recovery
If you’re after a traditional sauna that’s so good for its price, heats up fast, and just works the way it should, the Legion Traditional Sauna is my second top pick. It’s one of those things you start looking forward to at the end of a long day.
It fits two people comfortably, but I mostly use it on my own. The cedar wood looks and smells great, and the thick 30mm walls help keep the heat in. It feels warm and solid—not flimsy or thin like some cheaper saunas I’ve tried before.
The heater is a strong point. It’s a 4.5kW Harvia model, which is more powerful than most compact saunas that only come with 3kW. That means it heats up quickly and stays hot without needing to keep checking or adjusting. I usually let it preheat for about 20 minutes while I’m getting ready, and by the time I step in, it’s good to go.
One thing I noticed right away is the seating. It’s stadium-style, so you’re sitting a little higher up. That might sound like a small detail, but it really helps keep the heat even. No cold feet, no weird pockets of cool air—just consistent warmth from top to bottom.
There’s also a fluted tempered glass door, which adds a nice look and a bit of privacy if you're using it in a shared space like a garage. It’s 8mm thick, so it feels sturdy and safe.
Installation-wise, it’s pretty straightforward, but you’ll need a licensed electrician to hardwire the heater. It needs a 20A dedicated circuit and the right type of cable (2.5mm² or whatever your electrician recommends). Once that’s done, the rest is just putting the panels together and connecting the parts. I set mine up in an enclosed patio area, and it’s handled the outdoor weather fine so far since it’s made with weather-resistant materials.
Maintenance has been easy. I give it a quick wipe-down after every few uses, and the wood still looks fresh. Haven’t had to do much else except check on the sauna stones once in a while.
Best Barrel Sauna – Edenview 4 Person Barrel Sauna
Brand: Revel Recovery
Bottomline: Spacious and great for groups, this barrel sauna offers even heat and solid airflow. The cedar build and traditional heater give it that classic outdoor sauna feel.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Canadian Western Red Cedar |
| Glass | 8mm Fully Tempered Glass |
| Heater | Harvia Wall 6KW |
| Handle | Wooden |
| Accessories |
Hygro-Thermometer Bucket Ladle Backrest with Logo |
| Inclusions |
Bitumen Shingle Tiles 20KG Harvia Sauna Stones |
| Temperature Range | 70°C - 90°C |
| Voltage | 220-240 Volts |
| Power | 6000 Watts |
| Power Supply Info | 32A |
| Socket | N/A |
| Lighting | Safe Lamp |
| Product Weight | 440 kgs / 970 lbs |
| Assembled Dimensions |
150 cm x 180 cm (L x W) 59" x 70.8" |
| Bench Dimensions |
137 cm x 42 cm (L x W) 53.9" x 16.5" |
| Warranty |
Heater: 5 Years Cabin: 5 Years Electrical: 5 Years Stereo: N/A |
The best barrel sauna for outdoor use
The Revel Recovery Edenview Barrel Sauna is ideal for people who want a traditional outdoor sauna that’s roomy, easy to enjoy with others, and still gives that classic wood-fired feeling. I ranked this in the top 3 because it blends design, function, and comfort really well—especially if you're someone who enjoys group sauna sessions or just wants more space to stretch out.
The first thing that stands out is the barrel design. It’s not just for looks—the shape helps with heat circulation, so the warm air moves naturally and evenly throughout the space. Even with four people inside, it never feels like one side is hotter than the other. Plus, it just looks cool. I have mine set up in the backyard and it’s turned into a bit of a conversation starter.
It’s made from quality cedar, which adds that familiar clean wood smell and keeps things feeling natural. The scent becomes more noticeable once the heat kicks in, but it’s not overpowering. I usually bring a towel in, relax on the bench, and let it run for about 30–40 minutes. The heat builds nicely and holds steady.
The sauna is powered by a traditional heater, so you get that proper hot stone experience. You can pour water over the stones to control the humidity and shift between a dry or steam-style session. That flexibility is something I really enjoy, especially after cold plunges or long days when I just want a heavy sweat.
It comes with a tempered glass door and windows, which let in a bit of natural light during the day. It makes the space feel more open without losing that sense of privacy. At night, I sometimes bring in a small LED lantern or battery-powered candle for extra mood lighting—it’s a nice setup for winding down before bed.
Installation wasn’t too complicated. You’ll still want a licensed electrician to wire the heater safely, but the actual assembly is fairly straightforward if you’ve got a few helping hands and a level space to place it.
It’s made for outdoor use, and the cedar holds up well in all kinds of weather. I’ve had it running through rainy days and cold evenings without any issues. It feels sturdy, and the build quality holds up.
What makes this sauna a top 3 choice is that it gives you space, comfort, and a solid traditional experience without being overcomplicated. You get the group sauna vibe, or you can just enjoy it solo with extra legroom. It’s a great pick if you’ve got the space and want something built to last.
Most Popular – Kylin Traditional Steam Sauna Room 2 Person QD-EA3
Brand: Kylin Saunas Australia
Bottomline: Affordable and easy to use, this sauna is a go-to for first-time buyers. It’s simple, functional, and reliable—exactly why so many people choose it.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | QD-EA3 |
| Capacity | 2 people |
| Material | Canadian Hemlock wood |
| Glass | 8mm thick tinted glass, sleek design |
| Temperature | Up to more than 80°C |
| Preset | 4 hours |
| Timer | 8 hours |
| Accessories |
Backrest Sauna Stones Bucket & Ladle Hourglass Thermometer 15W IP65 Light Light Switch Lamp Cover |
| Product External Dimensions | 150cm x 120cm x 190cm (W x D x H) |
| Packaging Dimensions (cm) |
Box 1: 197×157×20 – 95kg Box 2: 197×124×17 – 32kg Box 3: 150×117×24 – 36kg Box 4 (Accessories): 40×30×27 – 3kg Box 5 (Heater): 50×47×32 – 12kg Box 6 (Stones): 38×28×18 – 20kg |
| Power and Plug | Sauna Stove: Harvia Electric Heater 4.5KW |
What makes Kylin so popular?
The Kylin Traditional Steam Sauna Room is one of the most popular picks on the market right now—and for good reason. It’s affordable, reliable, and gets the job done without overcomplicating things. If you're just getting into traditional saunas and want something that fits neatly indoors, this one’s a solid entry point.
It’s a 2-person setup, and the size is just right for an apartment or smaller home. Even with two people inside, it doesn’t feel cramped. The design is clean, with Canadian Hemlock wood panels that not only look good but also feel smooth and solid. The build quality doesn’t feel cheap at all, especially considering the price.
The 4500W Harvia heater is where it really earns points. It heats up quickly and holds the temperature well. You can use it for a dry heat session or throw a little water on the stones for steam—it handles both just fine. Most people I’ve talked to (and based on the reviews too) mention how fast it gets going and how consistent the heat stays once it's up.
Setup is fairly simple. You will need an electrician to hardwire the heater, but the rest of the assembly is straightforward. A lot of buyers mentioned that everything fits together well and the instructions are clear, which isn’t always the case with sauna kits.
The tinted glass door adds a nice visual touch and gives the whole unit a more finished, premium feel. Lighting is decent, and the sauna also comes with some accessories to get you started.
Now, while it’s definitely a great buy, it doesn’t quite hit the same premium level as something like the Legion sauna. The materials and finish are good, but not top-tier. That said, for the price, it still offers excellent value—especially for those who don’t need outdoor installation or aren’t chasing the ultra-luxury build.
The Kylin brand also has a great rep. A lot of people stick with them for their first sauna and even upgrade within the brand down the track. It’s easy to see why—it’s dependable, looks good, and works like it’s supposed to.
This one deserves its spot as the most popular pick. It might not be the most premium sauna on the list, but it’s the one people keep going back to—and that says a lot.
Best for Space-Saving – Malta Sauna 2 Person
Brand: Alpine Spas
Bottomline: Compact but full-featured, this indoor sauna fits tight spaces without compromising the experience. It’s the smallest proper cedar sauna with real heat and chromotherapy lighting.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Seats | 2 Seater |
| Heater | Premium 3.5kW Harvia™ Heater |
| Stones | Impurity Free Olivine Sauna Stones |
| Dimensions | 130(W) x 200(H) x 130(D) cm |
| Lighting | ZenGlow™ Medical Grade Chromotherapy |
| Construction | FSC® Certified Canadian Red Cedar |
| Power (Heater) | 15 Amps |
| Power (Lights) | 10 Amps |
| Weight | 175kg |
| Warranty | 5 Year Cabinetry, 5 Year Heater, 2 Year Componentry |
The Malta is a space-saver yet full-featured
The Malta Sauna is one of the smallest full-featured traditional saunas you’ll find in Australia, and that’s exactly why it earns the “Best for Space-Saving” spot. It’s only 130cm wide and deep, which means it fits comfortably into tight spaces—like an apartment corner, spare room, or even a bigger bathroom. You still get the full sauna experience without needing a lot of room to make it happen.
Despite the small footprint, the inside doesn’t feel cramped. It’s designed for two people, and I’ve used it both solo and with someone else without feeling boxed in. The build uses FSC® Certified Canadian Red Cedar, so it not only looks good but smells amazing once it heats up. The natural scent is clean and relaxing, and the wood feels smooth and warm against the skin.
It comes with a 3.5kW Harvia heater, which is a reliable brand in the sauna world. It heats up fast and stays consistent. You can use it dry or add water to the stones for steam—either way, it delivers the kind of heat you expect from a proper Finnish-style sauna.
One thing that surprised me is how many thoughtful features are packed into this compact design. There’s a built-in ZenGlow™ chromotherapy light system with color options to match your mood, plus a classic sand timer, thermometer, and hygrometer so you can monitor your sessions easily. You also get a ladle and bucket set included, which is a nice touch that saves you from having to buy extras.
Setting it up didn’t take long either. It comes with a click-in-place system, and with two people, it took under an hour to build. It’s made for indoor use, and since it runs on a 3.5kW heater, you’ll still need a licensed electrician to hardwire it properly.
What makes the Malta Sauna shine is how efficiently it uses space. It’s compact enough to suit small homes, but still gives that real, satisfying sauna feel. You’re not stuck with a bulky unit or cheap portable option—this is a full cedar sauna with proper heat, proper stones, and a well-built design.
If you’re working with limited room but don’t want to compromise on quality, this sauna makes a lot of sense. It’s simple, clean, and fits almost anywhere.
Most Luxurious – Blackwater Cube Sauna
Brand: Almost Heaven Saunas
Bottomline: Designed for those who want a showpiece, this sauna blends high-end materials with spa-like comfort. It’s bold, roomy, and built to impress inside and out.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Holds four–six people |
| Heater | 9kW, 220V, 40-amp, hardwire connection required |
| Assembled Dimensions | 213cm (W) x 180cm (D) x 215cm (H) |
| Interior Room Size | 200cm (W) x 160cm (D) x 200cm (H) |
| Origin | Made in the USA – since 1977 |
| Timber Material | Certified Western Red Cedar, 35mm thick for insulation |
| Glass | Tempered glass features |
| Hardware | Stainless steel bands, hinges, and fasteners |
| Lighting | Interior LED light for nighttime use |
| Seating | High and low bench seating |
| Installation | Suitable for indoor or outdoor use |
| Construction | Hand-crafted lumber profiles and end sections |
| Warranty | Lifetime on sauna room, 2 years on heater |
What makes it the most luxurious sauna
The Blackwater Cube Sauna is on a different level. It’s easily the most premium sauna on this list—and it looks the part too. The design is bold and modern, with sharp black framing and large windows that let in tons of natural light. It feels more like a spa retreat than a regular backyard sauna.
This one’s made for people who want a high-end experience and are ready to pay for it. It costs around double the price of most of the other saunas listed here, but the quality, space, and design all reflect that price. It’s definitely an investment, but if you’re after something that stands out and delivers a top-tier experience, this is it.
Inside, there’s room for four to six people, which makes it great for social sessions or just stretching out solo with plenty of space. It’s roomy, bright, and comfortable. The layout doesn’t feel cramped, and the big windows give it a nice open feel, even when it’s heating up.
It runs on a powerful 9kW heater, so it heats up quickly and holds that heat well. Whether you like dry sauna sessions or want to add water to the stones for some steam, it handles both without any issues. You will need a licensed electrician for setup, as it runs on a 220V, 40-amp hardwired connection.
The materials and finish are premium through and through. Everything feels solid—from the benches to the walls to the door. It’s made to last, and you can tell when you step inside.
This sauna is for someone who wants the best of the best and doesn’t mind paying extra for a showpiece. It’s definitely not the most budget-friendly pick here, but it’s the one that makes the biggest impression in terms of both design and performance.
How to Choose The Perfect Traditional Sauna for You
Choosing the right traditional sauna comes down to knowing what fits your space, your needs, and your budget.
Here’s what you should really pay attention to before buying one:
1. Indoor vs Outdoor Use
First, decide where you want your sauna. Indoor saunas are better for controlled environments—like a spare room or bathroom—where you don’t have to worry about weather. Outdoor saunas, on the other hand, are great for backyards or patios but need weather-resistant materials and more planning around power setup.
2. Size and Capacity
Saunas come in all sizes. A compact 2-person sauna is perfect for individuals or couples, while larger 4- to 6-person models are better for families or social use. Always check the external dimensions, especially if you’re working with a tight space. Interior layout also matters—some models are more comfortable than others even with the same listed capacity.
3. Wood Quality and Construction
Traditional saunas are usually made from cedar, hemlock, or spruce. Cedar is the most popular—it’s naturally resistant to moisture and smells amazing when heated. Look for thick panels (like 30mm or more) if you want better insulation and longer-lasting performance.
4. Heater Type and Power
Most traditional saunas use an electric stove with sauna stones. The key number to look for is the kilowatt rating (kW). A 3.5kW heater is good for smaller saunas, while 4.5kW or more is better for quicker heat-up and larger space. Make sure the heater matches the sauna size. Also, check if it needs to be hardwired by an electrician—it usually does.
5. Features and Accessories
Some saunas come with extras like LED mood lighting, sand timers, thermometers, or even tinted glass doors. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they do add to the experience. Make a list of “nice to haves” vs “must-haves” to help narrow down your options.
6. Installation and Maintenance
Some saunas are easier to set up than others. Look for kits with click-in panels if you plan to do it yourself. For outdoor units or high-powered heaters, expect to hire an electrician. As for maintenance, choose saunas with easy-to-clean wood and simple stone access.
In short, think about your space, how many people will use it, and what kind of experience you want. Once you match those things to the right size, heater, and wood type, you’re set.
Types of Traditional Saunas You Should Know
Not all traditional saunas are built the same. While they all use heated stones for that classic hot, dry (or steam) environment, the design and setup can vary quite a bit. Here’s a breakdown of the main types—and examples from this list to help make things clearer.
Indoor vs Outdoor Saunas
Indoor saunas are made for enclosed spaces like a bathroom, spare room, or wellness corner. They’re usually more compact and fit neatly into a home setting. A good example is the Kylin Traditional Steam Sauna (QD-EA3)—a 2-person sauna that’s ideal for apartment use or a home gym setup. The Malta 2-Person Finnish Cedar Sauna is another great indoor pick, perfect for small spaces and fast sessions.
Outdoor saunas are built to handle weather and exposure. They’re made from more rugged, weather-resistant materials and often have a stronger visual presence. The Demfin Traditional Outdoor Sauna is a high-end, weatherproof option designed for patios or backyard setups. The Revel Recovery Edenview Barrel Sauna is another solid outdoor model, made for group use and built with durable cedar wood.
Read more: Indoor vs Outdoor Saunas: Which is Better?
Barrel vs Cabin Style
Barrel saunas have a curved, cylindrical shape that isn’t just for looks—it helps with natural heat flow and can reduce heat-up time. The Revel Recovery Edenview is a great example. Its round barrel body keeps the heat consistent and gives off that cozy, rustic vibe that’s perfect for outdoor spaces.
Cabin-style saunas are boxier and look more like small wooden rooms. They usually feel roomier inside and fit neatly against walls. The Demfin Sauna and the Kylin QD-EA3 both fall into this category, with a more structured, upright design that works well indoors or on a covered deck. For a larger, more luxurious version, the Blackwater Cube Sauna takes the cabin shape to another level with its sharp lines and glass-heavy aesthetic.
Electric vs Wood-Fired Heaters
Most saunas in this list use electric heaters, which are convenient and reliable. Units like the Malta, Demfin, and Kylin all use electric Harvia stoves in the 3.5kW to 4.5kW range. They’re easy to control, heat up fast, and work well in home settings.
Wood-fired saunas are less common in residential setups and weren’t featured in this list, but they’re still used in more remote, off-grid, or traditional installations. They offer a more raw, fire-heated experience but require more effort and space.
Choose the Best Traditional Saunas in Australia
Traditional saunas are one of the best home upgrades for both recovery and relaxation. Whether you’re going for a compact indoor unit like the Malta or Kylin, a luxury model like the Demfin or Blackwater Cube, or a spacious outdoor setup like the Edenview Barrel Sauna, there’s something here for every type of space and routine.
Choosing the right one comes down to what fits your home, how often you’ll use it, and even how long and how hot your sauna should be for your personal comfort. Some people prefer short, high-heat sessions, while others like to ease into the heat slowly over longer periods. The saunas we’ve included in this list all give you the flexibility to adjust those settings to match your preferences.
We’ve reviewed each one with practical use in mind, thinking about heat-up times, comfort, materials, and the overall experience. A few are ready to go right out of the box, while others may need a bit more setup, but all of them are built to last and easy to maintain with the right care.
If you’re new to saunas or upgrading from a portable model, take your time looking through the specs and setup requirements. A good sauna should fit not just your space but your lifestyle—and once it’s in place, it’ll quickly become a daily ritual you’ll actually look forward to.
That said, if traditional saunas feel like too much of a hassle to use or maintain, infrared saunas are a great alternative. They’re easier to install, heat up faster, and require less ongoing care—making them a more convenient option for everyday use. There are also portable infrared saunas that are much more convenient.
