Adding a sauna to your home is a fantastic way to enhance relaxation, improve health, and elevate your wellness space. Yet, one important decision remains: should you choose a barrel sauna or an insulated (traditional) sauna? Each has its own unique advantages, from heating efficiency to aesthetic appeal. At Lito Leisure, we specialise in both barrel and insulated saunas, offering high-quality models to fit your lifestyle. Discover your ideal sauna and explore our collection here.


1. Design and Structure
Barrel Saunas
Barrel saunas are known for their iconic rounded, barrel-like shape, which offers both functional and aesthetic benefits. The unique cylindrical design helps heat circulate more effectively, allowing for efficient heating within a compact space. Because of their shape, barrel saunas are usually installed outdoors, bringing a natural, rustic charm to gardens, patios, or other open spaces.

Insulated Saunas
Insulated saunas, often square or rectangular, feature insulated walls that help trap and retain heat longer. This design is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor spaces, making them highly versatile. Insulated saunas are a great choice if you’re interested in extended sessions or if you live in colder climates where retaining warmth is essential.

2. Heating Efficiency and Temperature Control
Barrel Saunas
Thanks to their rounded shape, barrel saunas heat up quickly. Their smaller interior space allows for faster heating, which can make them more energy-efficient for shorter sauna sessions. However, since they lack additional insulation, barrel saunas may lose heat a bit faster once the heater is turned off.
Insulated Saunas
Insulated saunas maintain temperature more consistently due to their insulated walls. This makes them an ideal choice for longer sessions, as they keep heat steady for an extended period. If you prefer a sauna that you can enjoy without constant re-heating, an insulated model may be the best option.
Both sauna styles are available at Lito Leisure, ensuring you find the best fit for your relaxation goals and comfort preferences.
3. Installation and Maintenance
Barrel saunas
Barrel saunas are typically easier and quicker to install due to their simpler construction and compact design. They come in kits that can be assembled in a few hours, and many customers appreciate the straightforward setup process. Maintenance is also relatively low-key—simply ensure the wood stays dry when not in use and apply protective coatings as recommended to keep the exterior in top condition.
INSULATED SAUNAS
Insulated saunas require more careful installation, especially if they’ll be placed indoors. Proper ventilation is key to prevent moisture buildup, and they may take a little longer to assemble. However, their sturdy, insulated construction makes them highly durable with minimal upkeep. Routine maintenance is primarily focused on cleaning and occasional inspection of the heater and insulation materials.
Lito Leisure’s saunas are designed for longevity, with easy-to-follow installation guides and durable materials. Learn more about installation tips and recommended maintenance by visiting our product page.
4. Ideal Placement: Indoors vs. Outdoors
Barrel saunas
Barrel saunas are specifically designed for outdoor settings. Their robust, weather-resistant materials allow them to handle various climates while maintaining structural integrity. Many homeowners love the natural, rustic look of a barrel sauna nestled in their garden or backyard space.
INSULATED SAUNAS
Insulated saunas are highly adaptable and can be placed indoors or outdoors. Their heat retention abilities make them especially suited for colder climates, but they also fit perfectly into indoor spaces like home gyms or basements, providing year-round convenience.
At Lito Leisure, our insulated saunas can be tailored for both indoor and outdoor use, providing flexibility for any space.
5. Cost Considerations
Barrel saunas
Barrel saunas tend to be more affordable than insulated models, as they use fewer materials and require simpler assembly. If you’re looking for a high-quality, cost-effective option with efficient heating and easy setup, a barrel sauna is a fantastic choice.
INSULATED SAUNAS
Insulated saunas may come with a higher price tag, but they deliver additional comfort and efficiency. The added insulation ensures a more consistent temperature, especially beneficial for those who enjoy longer sessions or live in regions with cooler climates.
Explore our competitively priced saunas at Lito Leisure for the best options to suit your budget.
Which Sauna Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on what you’re looking for in a sauna experience:
- If you want a sauna that heats quickly, has a distinctive look, and is ideal for outdoor spaces, a barrel sauna is an excellent choice.
- For those who prefer longer, consistent heat sessions and need the option of indoor placement, an insulated sauna may be the perfect fit.
With Lito Leisure’s expertly crafted barrel and insulated saunas, you can create your ideal home spa experience. Visit our website to explore models that blend quality, comfort, and functionality.
Choosing the right sauna style can make a world of difference in your relaxation journey. Barrel and insulated saunas each bring unique benefits, helping you unwind and improve wellness at home. Lito Leisure is here to provide premium options for every preference, so you can enjoy a soothing, spa-like experience whenever you need it. Embrace wellness with a barrel or insulated sauna from Lito Leisure—your path to relaxation starts here.