Clearlight® Indoor or Outdoor Infrared Sauna – which one suits you best?

A sauna is a dedicated space for heat therapy, designed to promote relaxation, muscle recovery, and overall well-being. Among the different sauna types, infrared saunas stand out for their ability to deliver deep warmth at comfortable temperatures, making them a popular choice for home wellness.

When choosing between an indoor and an outdoor infrared sauna, key factors such as space, installation, maintenance, and user experience come into play.

Indoor infrared saunas are compact and easy to integrate into home gyms, bathrooms, or wellness spaces, offering a controlled environment with minimal maintenance.

Outdoor infrared saunas are built for open-air relaxation, featuring weather-resistant materials to withstand changing conditions while providing a more immersive experience in nature.

Both options deliver the signature Clearlight® quality and advanced infrared technology, but which one best fits your lifestyle? In this guide, we’ll compare the advantages of Clearlight® Sanctuary Indoor & Outdoor Models, focusing on their limitations and key differences to help you make the right decision.

Clearlight® Sanctuary Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna

What is an outdoor sauna?

An outdoor infrared sauna is built for open-air use, offering a relaxing sauna experience in a natural environment. Whether placed in a garden, terrace, or backyard, it provides a unique way to unwind while enjoying fresh air and outdoor surroundings.

Characteristics of an outdoor sauna:

• Constructed with moisture-resistant materials like Cedartec® cladding—rated IPX4 for protection against water splashes from all directions—the product is designed to resist light moisture and UV exposure.

• Requires a stable, level foundation, such as a concrete base or a wooden deck, for proper installation.

• Infrared saunas are splash-proof, but an additional weatherproof cover is included for extra protection.

• Offers a larger space and higher infrared output, ensuring optimal heating performance even in colder months.

• If temperatures drop below 0°C, the sauna may take longer to reach higher heat levels due to the nature of infrared heating, which warms the body directly rather than the surrounding air.

Clearlight® Outdoor Infrared Saunas come with enhanced insulation, thicker walls, and increased infrared output, ensuring a comfortable experience year-round. Their combination of outdoor relaxation and advanced sauna technology makes them an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy sauna sessions in nature while benefiting from premium Clearlight® quality.

Clearlight® Sanctuary 2-Person Infrared Sauna

What is an indoor sauna?

An indoor infrared sauna is designed for installation inside your home, offering a private, convenient, and weather-independent wellness experience. It is a great choice for those who want to incorporate regular sauna sessions into their daily routine without being affected by external conditions.

Characteristics of an indoor sauna:

• Typically built into your home’s infrastructure, such as a bathroom, basement, or dedicated wellness space.

• Operates in a controlled indoor environment, ensuring consistent temperatures and minimal maintenance.

• Temperature range: Can reach 80-90°C (175-195°F) with low humidity, providing a comfortable yet effective heat experience.

• Requires less energy to maintain heat, as it is not exposed to fluctuating outdoor temperatures.

Thanks to their compact design, Clearlight® Indoor Saunas fit well in smaller spaces, making them ideal for apartments, home gyms, or personal wellness rooms. Their easy installation and low maintenance requirements make them perfect for daily use.

What are the differences between indoor and outdoor saunas?

Indoor saunas are compact, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for smaller spaces like bathrooms or home gyms, while outdoor saunas are larger, built with weather-resistant materials, and require more upkeep due to exposure to the elements.

Outdoor saunas are more energy-efficient as they maintain consistent temperatures, whereas outdoor saunas may need more power to heat up, especially in colder climates.

While indoor saunas provide a controlled, private environment, outdoor saunas offer a more immersive experience in nature, but come with higher installation costs and the need for additional insulation and protection.

Let’s further explore the key differences between Clearlight® Sanctuary Indoor and Outdoor Infrared Saunas.

1. Difference in space requirements between indoor and outdoor saunas

The space requirements for indoor and outdoor saunas differ significantly due to their placement and construction. Indoor infrared saunas, like the Clearlight® 2-Person Full Spectrum Sauna, are designed to fit seamlessly into compact areas such as home gyms, bathrooms, or wellness rooms. Their sleek FSC-certified Okoume wood exterior, digital controls, and True Wave® Far Infrared and Full Spectrum Heaters make them perfect for private relaxation.

Outdoor infrared saunas, such as the Clearlight® 2-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna, require a stable, level surface like a concrete foundation, deck, or patio. These models, built with weather-resistant Cedartec® exteriors, are larger and need ample space to accommodate the 21cm roof cap overhang around all sides, as well as proper ventilation and protection from the elements. Outdoor models offer more spacious interiors but require additional considerations, such as positioning to prevent water accumulation and ensuring easy access to a power source.

2. Difference in maintenance between indoor and outdoor saunas

Indoor saunas are lower maintenance due to their protected placement inside the home. The eco-certified Okoume wood interior and exterior used in Clearlight® indoor models are designed to resist wear and require only occasional cleaning. Their sealed construction and lack of exposure to external moisture mean they do not need weatherproofing or seasonal maintenance. Additionally, True Wave® Low EMF/ELF Far Infrared and Full Spectrum Heaters require no special upkeep beyond regular dusting and filter checks.

Outdoor saunas, however, require additional maintenance due to exposure to rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations. Clearlight® outdoor models include a weather-resistant Cedartec® exterior and come with a protective cover, which must be used to preserve warranty coverage. Owners must regularly inspect seals, doors, and ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and ensure longevity. The 8mm tempered safety glass doors and windows should be cleaned to maintain visibility and insulation.

3. Difference in installation between indoor and outdoor saunas

Installing an indoor infrared sauna requires minimal clearance for ventilation. Clearlight® indoor models include an option for plug-and-play installation, with double-wall tongue and groove construction ensuring structural integrity. Placement near power outlets is essential for accessibility, as a hard reset option must be available.

Outdoor saunas, on the other hand, require more planning and preparation. They must be placed on a level, non-porous surface, such as a concrete slab or wooden deck, and need a waterproof outdoor power socket. Due to exposure to external elements, their placement must be strategic to avoid water pooling or extreme wind exposure. A pre-installation site inspection is often recommended to ensure correct placement and durability.

4. Difference in energy efficiency between indoor and outdoor saunas

Indoor saunas are more energy-efficient because they are located in climate-controlled environments that help maintain consistent temperatures. Models like the Clearlight® Sanctuary 2-Person Sauna use True Wave® Carbon/Ceramic Far Infrared Heaters, which distribute heat evenly on the back wall, side walls, under the bench, and floor, reducing energy waste. Since indoor models are insulated from external temperature fluctuations, they require less power to sustain optimal infrared therapy sessions.

Outdoor infrared saunas, by contrast, require higher energy consumption, especially in colder seasons. While Clearlight® outdoor models feature enhanced insulation, thicker walls, and increased infrared output, external temperatures impact efficiency. If temperatures drop below 0°C, the sauna will take longer to reach peak warmth, requiring more energy to compensate. Despite these factors, Clearlight®’s low EMF/ELF heating technology ensures efficient infrared heat penetration while minimising energy waste.

5. Difference in accessibility between indoor and outdoor saunas

Indoor saunas offer convenient and immediate access, allowing users to enjoy infrared therapy at any time without concern for external weather conditions. With digital touchpad controls, smartphone app connectivity, and built-in stereo speakers, Clearlight® indoor models are designed for a seamless wellness experience. Since they are installed indoors, there is no need for weatherproofing or additional setup adjustments beyond initial installation.

Outdoor saunas provide a unique, nature-immersed experience, but accessibility can be affected by external factors such as rain, snow, or extreme temperatures. To ensure usability year-round, Clearlight® outdoor models include high-quality tempered safety glass, weather-resistant exteriors, and protective covers. However, users may need to clear pathways of snow or water in colder seasons to ensure safe and comfortable access.

6. Difference in customisation between indoor and outdoor saunas

Both indoor and outdoor Clearlight® saunas offer extensive customisation options to enhance the user experience. Features such as chromotherapy LED lighting with 12 colours, Bluetooth/AUX connectivity, built-in smart device charging, and ergonomic backrests are available in both models. Indoor saunas are optimised for a controlled environment, making them ideal for those who prefer personal wellness spaces with minimal distractions.

Outdoor saunas, in contrast, combine advanced sauna technology with weather-resistant construction. Clearlight’s Cedartec® exterior ensures longevity, and additional insulation layers enhance comfort. While customisation remains similar to indoor models, outdoor saunas provide a more immersive experience, allowing users to enjoy fresh air and scenic surroundings while benefiting from deep infrared heat.

7. Difference in experience between indoor and outdoor saunas

The experience of an indoor sauna focuses on comfort, convenience, and privacy. With their sleek, space-efficient design, Clearlight® indoor models create a spa-like atmosphere, free from external disruptions. The True Wave® Full Spectrum Heaters deliver consistent infrared warmth while integrated sound systems and chromotherapy lighting enhance relaxation.

Outdoor saunas provide a completely different experience, emphasising nature immersion and open-air relaxation. The sensation of using an infrared sauna amidst natural surroundings—whether in a garden, terrace, or backyard—adds an element of serenity. The larger, more spacious design of outdoor models allows for group sauna sessions, making them ideal for families or social wellness routines.

8. Difference in cost between indoor and outdoor saunas

Indoor saunas are generally more affordable in terms of both installation and energy costs. A model like the Clearlight® Sanctuary 2-Person Infrared Sauna starts at approximately £8,999, offering lower long-term operational expenses due to efficient heat retention.

Outdoor saunas require a higher initial investment, with models like the Clearlight® Sanctuary Outdoor 2-Person Infrared Sauna starting at around £10,999. Additional weatherproofing and increased insulation contribute to higher costs, along with higher energy consumption in colder months.

9. Difference in size between indoor and outdoor saunas

Indoor saunas are compact and designed for smaller spaces, such as the Clearlight® 2-Person Infrared Sauna, which fits comfortably in most homes. They are optimised for individual or couple use and take up minimal floor space.

Outdoor saunas are larger and designed for spacious areas, making them suitable for gardens, patios, or backyards. The Clearlight® Sanctuary Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna is one of the most spacious models, offering room for multiple users while maintaining a comfortable, ergonomic design.

10. Difference in material between indoor and outdoor saunas

Clearlight® indoor saunas are constructed with eco-certified Okoume wood, known for its durability, lightweight properties, and non-toxic finish. This material enhances heat retention and aesthetic appeal, ensuring a luxurious, high-quality sauna experience.

Outdoor models, on the other hand, require weather-resistant materials such as Cedartec®, which is highly durable and resistant to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and UV exposure. This ensures the sauna maintains its integrity in harsh weather conditions, while the double-wall tongue and groove construction reinforces longevity and insulation.

What are the overall pros and cons of an outdoor sauna?

Indoor infrared sauna provides a controlled, low-maintenance environment that enhances relaxation, supports workout recovery, and promotes mental clarity, making them ideal for those who want a consistent wellness routine at home.

Outdoor infrared saunas offer a more immersive experience in nature, with spacious designs and weather-resistant materials, but require more upkeep and take longer to heat in colder conditions.

Pros:

• Muscle soreness relief

• Workout recovery support

• Deep relaxation

• Mental clarity and focus

• Comfortable, consistent heat experience

Cons:

• Requires more maintenance for outdoor models

• Longer heating time in colder outdoor conditions

What are the pros and cons of an indoor sauna?

Indoor infrared sauna offers a convenient, low-maintenance solution for relaxation, muscle recovery, and mental clarity, providing a consistent and comfortable sauna experience in a controlled home environment. They are energy-efficient and easy to install, making them ideal for those who want to integrate wellness into their daily routine without external disruptions.

Pros:

• Muscle soreness relief

• Workout recovery support

• Deep relaxation

• Mental clarity and focus

• Quick and efficient heating

Cons:

• Limited to indoor spaces

• Requires a dedicated room or area for installation

If you’re seeking an easy-to-maintain, energy-efficient sauna for indoor use, the Clearlight® Sanctuary Indoor Infrared Sauna is a practical choice. For those with outdoor space who want to blend wellness with nature, the Clearlight® Sanctuary Outdoor Infrared Sauna creates a serene retreat under the open sky.

To simplify your decision, here are our top Clearlight® recommendations for every need:

1. Best all-round: Clearlight® 4-Person Sanctuary Yoga Sauna – Combines infrared therapy with yoga space, perfect for groups.

2. Best home infrared saunas: Clearlight® 2-Person Sanctuary Sauna – Compact, efficient, and ideal for cosy home wellness.

3. Best outdoor sauna: Clearlight® 2-Person Outdoor Sauna – Built to withstand the elements while delivering rejuvenating sessions.