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Sauna enthusiasts who take their bathing fairly seriously often bring up an old myth when sizing a sauna, namely ”the law of löyly”, which goes as follows:
”When you sit on the benches, make sure the sauna stones are level with your toes and the ceiling is just within reach of a sauna whisk.”
This is how the Finnish archaeologist, explorer and ethnologist summed up the importance of sauna sizing: Sakari Pälsi (1882-1965).
There is some truth in the law. But myths are made to be broken, and the law of löyly hasn't stood the test of time either, as sauna architecture and sauna heaters have developed.
So when sizing a sauna, there's no need to cling to the old ”law” too solemnly. After all, the main thing is good, soft löyly.
For example, Ehta's garden sauna uses a protective wall that circulates behind the sauna stove, as well as high-quality Harvia sauna stoves. The protective wall heats up as the sauna heater warms up thereby warming the air rising all the way from the floor. That is why your toes will certainly not get cold on the benches of an Ehta sauna, even if the benches don't quite reach the level of the heater in every garden sauna.
But what size of sauna is good for, say, a family of four? And how high should the sauna ceiling be?
We have put together a comprehensive guide to sauna sizing.
In this article:
What should you consider when sizing a sauna?
The best sauna size depends almost entirely on your goals and needs. If you only want a sauna for yourself or your family, a smaller sauna may be enough. But if you plan to hold sauna evenings for a large group, or may need the sauna to suit people with limited mobility, a larger sauna is essential.
Consider these 5 things when sizing a sauna
- Sauna size: Make sure there is enough space in the sauna to sit and move comfortably. Anyone who loves good löyly won't build a sauna that is too low, either. For example, a suitable target air volume for more than 4 people is 15 m3. NB! Volume is not the same as floor area.
- Sauna location: The location of the sauna affects how practical it is to use, among other things. The space available may to some extent determine the size of the sauna.
- Heating solution: Choose a suitable heating solution depending on the size of the sauna and your needs.
- Sauna equipment: Make sure the sauna's equipment is taken into account at the planning stage, so that everything needed fits and fire safety is considered (benches, sauna heater, lights, any water buckets, etc.)
- Safety: Make sure the sauna is safe to use. Read more about choosing a sauna heater and safety here >>
The right sauna height
The generally recommended sauna height is about 220-240 cm. This height gives enough space to sit and move comfortably and also allows good ventilation. It is also easier to breathe in a taller sauna, as the steam spreads better through the sauna room when there is height.
Between the ceiling and the upper bench there should be about 100-120 cm of space. When the sauna height is optimal, you don't heat unnecessary space and the sauna is neither too hot nor too cold.
Recommended seating area
For one person, the seat width on the benches should be about 60 cm. That leaves comfortable space around you.
The seat/bench depth should ideally be about 50-60 cm for comfortable bathing.
What size of sauna is right?
The right size of sauna for 1-2 people
For one or two people, a small sauna with a volume of about 3-5 m³ is usually enough. A sauna like this fits well in a bathroom or a separate sauna space, for example. The volume of a small sauna is comfortable for a couple of people and it is also an economically sensible option. However, if you want a sauna with room to move and sit, you will need a larger one.
See above for examples of floor dimensions for a sauna for 1-2 people.
The right size of sauna for a family
A family sauna needs more space than a sauna for one or two people. The recommended volume for a family sauna is about 6-10 m³. A sauna like this fits well in a separate sauna space, a basement, a garden or a holiday cottage, for example. A larger sauna has room to sit and move comfortably, and it also makes it possible to hold bigger sauna evenings. If there are children in the family, their safety should also be taken into account.
See above for examples of dimensions and floor plans for a sauna for 4-6 people.
A sauna for a large group
A larger sauna offers more space to sit, move and hold sauna evenings for a big family or group of friends. The recommended volume for a large group is at least 15 m³, so that everyone has enough space. A sauna like this suits a separate sauna space, a garden or a holiday cottage, for example. Bear in mind, however, that a larger sauna needs more heating power and costs more.
See above for examples of floor plans and dimensions for a sauna for 7-12 people.
How to start sizing your sauna:
Sizing a sauna can seem challenging, but the following steps can help you get started:
- Define your needs and goals: Think about how often you plan to use the sauna and how many people are usually in it.
- Find out how much space is available: Find out what size of sauna will fit in the space available.
- Choose a heating solution: Choose a suitable heating solution depending on the size of the sauna and your needs. Consider, for example, how long the sauna takes to heat up and the heating method.
- Choose the equipment: Choose the equipment the sauna needs, such as benches, lighting and a sauna heater. Also consider safety and how practical the sauna is to use.
- Design the sauna: Design the sauna taking all the above factors into account. Make sure the sauna is spacious, safe and practical.
- Consult a professional: If you are unsure about sizing your sauna, consult a professional who can help you design it.
- Ready-made or DIY: There are several sauna manufacturers who can supply you with a turnkey sauna. If you have the skills, you can also build the sauna yourself.
Interested in a garden sauna or sauna cabin?
Would you like a genuine sauna atmosphere in your garden or at your holiday cottage in the form of a garden sauna or sauna cabin?
Ehta delivers ready-made garden saunas and sauna cabins on a turnkey basis all over Finland. We hope every Finn gets to spend ’the best moments’ in a Finnish sanctuary designed with professional skill.
Ehta's collection includes saunas of all sizes. Explore our extensive range or get in touch – we’re happy to help!
