How to Start a Sauna Club at Home

Picture this: the warm glow of cedar panels, a soft hum from the heater, and a group of friends gathered together in a calming environment. A sauna session doesn’t have to be a solo retreat — it can also be a shared experience that strengthens community and creates lasting traditions.

That’s where the idea of a sauna club comes in. More homeowners are finding joy in opening their space for regular group sessions, combining the wellness benefits of sauna time with the connection that comes from gathering. Here’s how to start your own sauna club, step by step.

The Idea of a Sauna Club

A sauna club is simply a group of people — friends, neighbors, or even colleagues — who meet regularly to share sauna sessions. Instead of heading to a spa or gym, the experience happens in a home or backyard setting.

Why it’s growing in popularity:

• Community: Brings people together in a calm, intentional environment.

• Routine: Encourages consistency, making sauna time a regular part of life.

• Accessibility: You don’t need memberships or travel — it’s right at home.

Whether it’s once a week or once a month, a sauna club creates a rhythm of gathering that combines relaxation with connection.

Planning the Space

Before starting your sauna club, think carefully about the setup:

• Capacity: How many people do you want to host? Smaller saunas may seat 2–3 comfortably, while larger units can handle 6 or more.

• Layout: Consider circulation space outside the sauna. People need room to cool down, change, or enjoy refreshments.

• Indoor vs outdoor: Indoor saunas (like those from Golden Designs) are great for basements or spare rooms. Outdoor saunas (like Dundalk LeisureCraft cedar cabins) are ideal if you want a backyard retreat.

Making these decisions early helps you set expectations for group size and logistics.

Setting Ground Rules

Like any shared activity, having a few clear rules makes everything smoother:

• Scheduling: Decide on regular times or use a sign-up system so no one feels left out.

• Cleanliness: Encourage everyone to bring towels, shower beforehand, and wipe benches after use.

• Etiquette: Keep conversations respectful, and agree on average session lengths (usually 10–15 minutes before a cooldown).

• Shared responsibility: Rotate light cleaning duties or snack contributions to make it feel collaborative.

Establishing etiquette early keeps the focus on relaxation and connection.

Solo Sauna Use vs Sauna Club Use

Here’s a quick comparison of what to expect:

Both approaches are valuable, and many sauna owners enjoy a mix of solo and group sessions.

Hosting Tips for a Sauna Club

A sauna club is more than just sitting in the heat together — the surrounding environment matters too.

• Lighting: Soft, dim lights in the sauna create a relaxing mood. For outdoor setups, string lights or lanterns add charm.

• Music: Light background playlists or calming sounds help set the tone. Silence is also an option — agree as a group.

• Refreshments: Provide water, sparkling water, or light snacks (fruit, nuts) for breaks. Stick with non-alcoholic drinks to keep things safe.

• Cooling area: Have a designated space for cooling down — a patio, backyard deck, or indoor lounge.

• Consistency: Stick to a regular rhythm so the club feels reliable and easy to attend.

Equipment Suggestions

Not all saunas are designed for group use, so choosing the right model matters.

• Dundalk LeisureCraft: Their cedar outdoor saunas are popular for group settings, offering roomy layouts and traditional designs that make them feel like a shared retreat.

• Golden Designs: Their indoor infrared saunas come in multi-person options, with features like digital controls and ergonomic seating that make group sessions comfortable.

Both brands provide durability, thoughtful design, and the kind of craftsmanship that works well when multiple people will be using the sauna regularly.

Quick Tips for Running a Smooth Sauna Club

• Create a sign-up system to avoid overcrowding.

• Rotate hosts if multiple members have saunas or want to share responsibilities.

• Keep a maintenance log (cleaning, heater checks, wood condition).

• Provide towels or seat covers as backups for guests.

• Decide on group session lengths to keep things flowing.

• Encourage hydration by keeping water readily available.

• Gather feedback after a few sessions to adjust and improve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can use a sauna at once?

It depends on the size. Compact saunas fit 2–3 comfortably, while larger units can seat 6–8. Always leave enough room for everyone to sit safely without crowding.

Do I need special ventilation for group use?

Most quality saunas already include proper ventilation systems. For larger groups, ensure there’s adequate airflow in the surrounding space, especially for indoor models.

How often should the sauna be cleaned?

For group use, wipe down benches and surfaces after each session. A deeper clean once a week (or depending on frequency) helps keep everything fresh.

Can kids or older adults participate in a sauna club?

Yes, but always consider comfort levels. Shorter sessions at lower temperatures are recommended, and participants should listen to their bodies.

Conclusion: Building Community Through Sauna Time

A sauna club is more than just a gathering — it’s a way to bring people together in an environment that encourages relaxation, connection, and consistency. By planning the space, setting ground rules, and choosing the right equipment, you can turn your home sauna into a hub for shared experiences.

Brands like Dundalk LeisureCraft and Golden Designs make it possible to host comfortably, whether you want a rustic outdoor retreat or a modern indoor setup.

At Primal Fitness, we believe saunas are about more than personal wellness — they’re about community. If you’re ready to explore both solo and group sauna experiences, check out our lineup of saunas designed to fit your home and your gatherings.