Portable Woodfired Saunas vs Steam Saunas: Which One’s Right For You?

Saunas are having a serious moment in Australia right now — and it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s about wellness, recovery, or just that blissful zen feeling after a good sweat, more Aussies are adding saunas to their lifestyle. But if you’re tossing up between a portable woodfired sauna and a traditional steam sauna, which one should you go for?

Let’s dig in and break it down, Aussie-style — no jargon, no sales pitch, just the real stuff.

What is a Portable Woodfired Sauna?

A portable woodfired sauna is a self-contained, movable sauna powered by — you guessed it — firewood. It’s built with timber, metal, and clever engineering to give you that authentic dry heat wherever you want: your backyard, a campsite, or even the back paddock.

They’re gaining popularity among outdoorsy types, health lovers, and people who want the full sauna experience without the need to build a spa room.

What is a Steam Sauna?

A steam sauna (also called a steam room or wet sauna) uses a generator to create hot steam, pumping moisture into an enclosed room. These are the kinds you might’ve seen at gyms, spas, or hotel wellness centres.

They're steamy, sweaty, and great for skin hydration — but the vibe is very different from a dry, woodfired sauna.

Let’s Compare: Portable Woodfired Sauna vs Steam Sauna

We’ll size them up across the things that matter most.

1. Heat Style & Experience

Portable Woodfired Sauna:

• Produces a dry, even heat (60°C–90°C)

• Deep, intense heat that penetrates muscles and joints

• You can splash water on the rocks for light steam, but it’s mainly dry

• Has a raw, natural vibe thanks to the firewood

Steam Sauna:

• Lower temperature but much higher humidity (100%)

• The air feels moist and thick

• Great for skin, breathing, and hydration

• Less intense heat; some people find it harder to breathe in steam

2. Setup and Installation

Portable Woodfired Sauna:

• Pre-built or flatpack kits — no building permits needed

• Towable or movable if you ever want to relocate it

• No power or plumbing required

• Set it up in your yard, at your holiday house, or take it bush

Steam Sauna:

• Needs a powerful steam generator and proper waterproofing

• Requires mains water and drainage

• Needs a sealed room (usually tiled or acrylic)

• Professional installation is a must

3. Portability

Portable Woodfired Sauna:

• Take it wherever you want — even camping or to a rural property

• Great for off-grid use

• Can be repositioned depending on the season

Steam Sauna:

• 100% fixed

• Once it’s installed, that’s it

• You’ll need a dedicated space indoors

4. Maintenance & Upkeep

Portable Woodfired Sauna:

• Clean out ash and wood regularly

• Let it dry out between uses

• Occasional timber oil or maintenance if exposed to the elements

Steam Sauna:

• Needs regular descaling (especially with hard water)

• Cleanliness is key — warm, wet spaces can attract mould

• Ongoing maintenance of steam generator, plumbing, and seals

5. Running Costs

Portable Woodfired Sauna:

• No electricity costs — just firewood

• If you’ve got access to wood, it’s nearly free to run

Steam Sauna:

• Uses significant electricity

• Ongoing water bills

• Generator repairs/replacements can be pricey

6. Health Benefits

Both types offer great wellness perks:

• Improved circulation

• Stress relief

• Muscle recovery

• Detoxification

• Mental clarity

But there are some differences:

Woodfired Sauna:

• Better for deep heat therapy and post-exercise recovery

• Ideal for people who enjoy breathing dry air

• No electronics — it’s all natural

Steam Sauna:

• Better for skin hydration and respiratory issues

• More accessible for those with joint issues who can’t handle extreme heat

• Great for congestion or sinus relief

7. Vibe & Atmosphere

Portable Woodfired Sauna:

• Rustic, primal, and beautifully simple

• The smell of burning wood, the glow of the firebox

• The kind of thing you’d find at a lakeside cabin in Scandinavia or Tasmania

Steam Sauna:

• Sleek, spa-like

• Bright lights, tiles, and often clinical feel

• Feels a bit more sterile, less earthy

Who’s a Portable Woodfired Sauna Perfect For?

• Outdoor lovers and bush campers

• Off-grid and tiny home owners

• People who want freedom without power bills

• Those chasing that primal, fire-powered vibe

Who Might Prefer a Steam Sauna?

• People with respiratory or skin issues

• Those looking for a spa-like indoor feel

• Homeowners renovating bathrooms or wellness rooms

The Aussie Take

Let’s be honest — in Australia, we’re all about practicality, flexibility, and the outdoors. And that’s why the portable woodfired sauna is taking off.

You don’t need a big budget, a fancy house, or a massive reno to enjoy the benefits of a proper sauna session. All you need is a little space, some wood, and the will to switch off and sweat it out under the stars.

It’s the perfect way to wind down after a surf, bushwalk, or tradie shift. And unlike a steam sauna, you’re not beholden to the power grid or council regulations.

Final Thoughts: Woodfired or Steam?

Both saunas have their place, no doubt. But if you’re keen on freedom, natural heat, and a bit of rugged luxury — there’s something seriously satisfying about stoking a fire and stepping into your own little timber retreat.

You get all the benefits of heat therapy, plus the joy of doing things the slow, grounded, Aussie way.

Ready to Feel the Heat?

Check out our handcrafted portable woodfired sauna — proudly built by Soulfire Australia, designed for Aussie conditions, and perfect for your home, bush block, or coastal getaway.

Ditch the screens. Stoke the fire. And start sweating your way to calm.

Soulfire Australia – Feel the fire, fuel the soul.