I bought a Zoki sauna nearly 20 years ago and still use it a couple of times a week. Never had any trouble with it. I have an electric infra red 3 space. As you say would be cosy if there were three in it but on my own I can stretch out.
At the time it wasn't the cheapest and the garden centres were full of cheap ones from china but I went and looked at a Zoki one in the factory. I could appreciate how much better the quality was.
It came with pretty coloured lights which I have never used as I think I paid to have a SAD blue light installed and I use this all the time.
I love the idea of a home sauna. My nephew lived in Helsinki for awhile and most homes had a built in sauna. Little wonder that Finland is one of the happiest countries.
I can't afford four grand, unfortunately. Instead, I've today ordered a 'pop-up' sauna that I can set up in my spare bedroom in 10 minutes, and take down easily if I need to. It's cost me £140 on Amazon, with excellent reviews:
CHILLZ® Steam Pod Portable Sauna Pod – Full Body Home Sauna Pod with Remote + Touchscreen 1000W 2.6 Litre Generator inc Chair, Dry Towel, Dry Matt – New 2024 Model https://amzn.eu/d/hbHqb9Y
Mate, I'm not sure of co2 levels. It takes about 15 mons to warm up to 70 degrees Celsius. It’s like having a two bar electric fire on in a very small room!
Peter, in the end, I went for an electric traditional sauna with hot stones on a filament. I considered an infra-red one but the research on the health benefits is based on the traditional type at a higher heat.
I rescued a 2008 Helo from a house sale 3 years ago. It had been mistreated and abused, but now it’s singularly the best £500 I ever spent. With a small 3kw heater I can run to 85degrees for about £0.78 an hour. The joy of this private haven is indescribable in a culture of incessant chatter and pub style saunas, overwhelmed with excessive new age monetisation.
Hey Rob - that looks amazing. Isn't a sauna wonderful for the body, mind and soul. Do you use any essential oils in yours? I'm trying to learn what's best and safe to use.
It really is soul fuel. And certainly not cost prohibitive to run for a couple of hours, every other day.
I use a few drops of bergamot, which I add to the ladle before I löyly; (not directly oil to rocks) Grapefruit or menthol, are also pleasant, all with varied aromatic results. Whisking fresh mint, and steaming the water also a favourite.
Chilled grapefruit segments are amazing in between sweats, too. (For your mouth, not the rocks.)
Tom I’m a fellow sauna fantasiser. I’ve been keen on the idea of infrared ones because of my joint pain and because I don’t sweat v much (sorry if that makes you think of Prince Andrew) and can’t do hot yoga for example. Also because I once went to a spa weekend and came down with a real doozie of a cold on the way there. Half an hour in the IR sauna the next day and I was a changed woman. Anyway, thanks for this. Maybe one day I too will own a tiny heated box. 🤞
The evidence base behind sauna usage is well documented. Im pleased to see your interest and construction of your own.
May I also draw your attention to "Therme Bucharest" in Bucharest, Romania that hosts Europe's largest Spa. An economical ticket price of £38 for a full day access all areas experience is a worthwhile treat. The range of Saunas both therapeutic and medicinal are impressive. I was fortunate enough to visit whilst my husband was presenting at a conference. Water massage beds, Infrared light therapy beds and a range of other wellness facilities are available. more information is available at this website but your little sauna haven looks equally as welcoming too! https://therme.ro/
Excellent, Tom! The Scandinavians know how to live and enjoy a peaceful, happy and healthy life! We should be more Scandi…. The world would be a better place!
Tom, agreed.
I bought a Zoki sauna nearly 20 years ago and still use it a couple of times a week. Never had any trouble with it. I have an electric infra red 3 space. As you say would be cosy if there were three in it but on my own I can stretch out.
At the time it wasn't the cheapest and the garden centres were full of cheap ones from china but I went and looked at a Zoki one in the factory. I could appreciate how much better the quality was.
It came with pretty coloured lights which I have never used as I think I paid to have a SAD blue light installed and I use this all the time.
It’s great to read that they last 20 years! I absolutely love it.
I love the idea of a home sauna. My nephew lived in Helsinki for awhile and most homes had a built in sauna. Little wonder that Finland is one of the happiest countries.
I can't afford four grand, unfortunately. Instead, I've today ordered a 'pop-up' sauna that I can set up in my spare bedroom in 10 minutes, and take down easily if I need to. It's cost me £140 on Amazon, with excellent reviews:
CHILLZ® Steam Pod Portable Sauna Pod – Full Body Home Sauna Pod with Remote + Touchscreen 1000W 2.6 Litre Generator inc Chair, Dry Towel, Dry Matt – New 2024 Model https://amzn.eu/d/hbHqb9Y
That's very cool!
Hi Tom. Looks/sounds amazing. Also interested in running costs but also what the co2 levels get down to while you are in a confined space?
Mate, I'm not sure of co2 levels. It takes about 15 mons to warm up to 70 degrees Celsius. It’s like having a two bar electric fire on in a very small room!
Very interesting, Tom. What’s the source of heat/power? Is that expensive? Sustainable? I’d be interested to know more!
Peter, in the end, I went for an electric traditional sauna with hot stones on a filament. I considered an infra-red one but the research on the health benefits is based on the traditional type at a higher heat.
Me too. Also - a picture of it from the outside with an indication of dimensions would be very helpful too.
I'll send it tomorrow!
I rescued a 2008 Helo from a house sale 3 years ago. It had been mistreated and abused, but now it’s singularly the best £500 I ever spent. With a small 3kw heater I can run to 85degrees for about £0.78 an hour. The joy of this private haven is indescribable in a culture of incessant chatter and pub style saunas, overwhelmed with excessive new age monetisation.
I wish you many happy hours in yours!
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cz11WU-KExX/?igsh=MThrdGkxbHlyNzMzNA==
Hey Rob - that looks amazing. Isn't a sauna wonderful for the body, mind and soul. Do you use any essential oils in yours? I'm trying to learn what's best and safe to use.
It really is soul fuel. And certainly not cost prohibitive to run for a couple of hours, every other day.
I use a few drops of bergamot, which I add to the ladle before I löyly; (not directly oil to rocks) Grapefruit or menthol, are also pleasant, all with varied aromatic results. Whisking fresh mint, and steaming the water also a favourite.
Chilled grapefruit segments are amazing in between sweats, too. (For your mouth, not the rocks.)
Embrace the ritual and enjoy!
Tom I’m a fellow sauna fantasiser. I’ve been keen on the idea of infrared ones because of my joint pain and because I don’t sweat v much (sorry if that makes you think of Prince Andrew) and can’t do hot yoga for example. Also because I once went to a spa weekend and came down with a real doozie of a cold on the way there. Half an hour in the IR sauna the next day and I was a changed woman. Anyway, thanks for this. Maybe one day I too will own a tiny heated box. 🤞
The evidence base behind sauna usage is well documented. Im pleased to see your interest and construction of your own.
May I also draw your attention to "Therme Bucharest" in Bucharest, Romania that hosts Europe's largest Spa. An economical ticket price of £38 for a full day access all areas experience is a worthwhile treat. The range of Saunas both therapeutic and medicinal are impressive. I was fortunate enough to visit whilst my husband was presenting at a conference. Water massage beds, Infrared light therapy beds and a range of other wellness facilities are available. more information is available at this website but your little sauna haven looks equally as welcoming too! https://therme.ro/
Excellent, Tom! The Scandinavians know how to live and enjoy a peaceful, happy and healthy life! We should be more Scandi…. The world would be a better place!