Do you own a bed and breakfast? Youโre probably well aware of the benefits a sauna can bring to your property. From elevating the experiences of your guests to potential increases in revenue, a B&B sauna is an absolute game-changer.
With that said, the big question is what sauna is right for your B&B?
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To help you choose the perfect sauna for your boutique accommodation, we spoke with SDS Australiaโs sauna expert Suz Vulic. Suz shared with us her insights on the best bed and breakfast saunas, along with practical advice for making the most of these installations.

Hot Take: 5 reasons every Bed & Breakfast should have a sauna
1) A sauna can take a holiday to the next level by allowing guests the chance to relax and rejuvenate from the comfort of their accommodation. The flow-on effect of this from a marketing point of view is massive, with positive reviews likely to come.
2) Having a sauna will allow your B&B to stand out from other accommodation in the nearby area.
3) Guests are willing to pay more for properties with wellness facilities.
4) Saunas are particularly attractive to tourists seeking wellness experiences or those looking for a cosy winter retreat.
5) A beautifully designed commercial sauna can increase the visual appeal of your property. Again, the marketing benefits of this are huge, with images of the sauna and property likely to be shared on social media platforms such as Instagram.

What is the right sauna for a B&B?
For SDS Australiaโs sauna expert Suz, a barrel sauna is a standout option for every bed and breakfast accommodation. Fast becoming one of the most popular sauna choices for Australians, Suz sees barrels as offering both practicality and a unique charm that appeals to B&B guests.

Guests can socialise in the sauna
โFor B&B guests, barrel saunas are a great way to make friends with fellow travellers from all over the world. The layout of two benches facing each other makes it a good way to meet new people,โ says Suz. At the same time, the barrel design also ensures personal space. โWith only one bench on each side, no one sits directly behind you,โ she adds.
Allowing guests to socialise in a safe, comfortable space is, of course, highly important for everyone staying at your homestay.

Spacious sauna design for multiple guests
SDS Australiaโs barrel saunas are versatile when it comes to accommodating guests. Smaller barrel saunas can be an intimate option for couples, while spacious, larger models can comfortably host groups of people. This adaptability makes them an ideal bed and breakfast or Airbnb saunaโideal for properties with varied guest profiles and capacity numbers.
Barrel saunas complement B&B heritage aesthetic
Many B&Bs embrace a heritage aesthetic and barrel saunas complement this perfectly. Suz notes, โStepping inside a barrel sauna gives you that old-world feeling. Itโs like being transported back in time. Those staying at timeless B&B properties absolutely love this!โ
In addition to their nostalgic appeal, SDS Australiaโs Black and Natural Thermo Barrel Saunas are also durable and weather-resistant, making them a practical choice for outdoor installations at your boutique accommodation. Crafted from high-quality thermally modified Nordic spruce and specially fitted with roof shingles, these saunas not only look stunning but are also designed to withstand the elements.

Use your sauna to create an unforgettable B&B experience
SDS Australiaโs Thermo Barrels come in various sizes, with certain models featuring guest-pleasing additions such as terraces and change rooms.

Homestay owners can choose between panoramic windows to showcase scenic views or full timber walls for a more private, cosy feel.
Suz shared creative ideas on how you could take advantage of either option. โIf your property lacks a natural view, enhance it by placing pot plants or greenery outside the panoramic window. Alternatively, go for a full wall and place a beautiful mural on the exteriorโsomething thatโs immediately Instagram-worthy!โ These small touches can elevate the guest experience and make the sauna a standout feature.
For B&Bs located near the coast or in scenic rural areas, panoramic windows can transform the sauna into a breathtaking escape. Guests can unwind while enjoying sunsets, lush gardens, or hillside views, creating a serene and unforgettable experience.

Best Bed and Breakfast Sauna Heaters
Barrel saunas can be paired with electric or wood-fired heaters, depending on your propertyโs needs. โFor rural B&Bs with limited electricity, wood-fired sauna heaters like the Harvia Legend 150 are an excellent choice,โ Suz advises. These heaters align with the rustic charm of historical properties and can use on-site timber as a cost-effective fuel source.

For an electric B&B sauna heater, Suz recommends the Harvia Top Steel and Harvia Spirit ranges. โThe Top Steel is cost-effective, while the Spirit offers unbeatable aesthetics,โ she says.
A modern sauna for contemporary B&Bs
For B&B properties with a modern aesthetic, Suz recommends the โMiraโ Black or Natural Sauna as an exceptional commercial sauna alternative to a barrel design. Its sleek aesthetic and innovative features make it a popular option for contemporary properties.

Tiered benches for varying heat preferences
One key point of difference between the barrels and the โMiraโ, is that the latter features tiered benches, allowing guests to experience different heat levels. Suz highlights the importance of this feature: โThe level of heat thatโs comfortable will naturally differ for each guest. Tiered benches provide flexibility, ensuring everyone can enjoy their sauna experience.โ
This flexibility is particularly appealing for families or groups with varying preferences. For example, parents can relax on higher benches to enjoy more intense heat, while children can sit on lower levels for a gentler experience.
His & Her Saunas

Available in Black and Natural designs, the โMiraโ sauna adds a sleek, modern vibe to any B&B. Suz suggests that properties could install โhis and herโ saunas, offering an extra touch of luxury.
Maximise scenic homestay views
The โMiraโ features a full glass front, making it an ideal choice for properties with breathtaking views. โGuests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the world outside while experiencing the heat therapy,โ Suz says.
For urban B&Bs, the glass front can also create a unique ambiance by showcasing city lights or a well-curated courtyard. Adding subtle outdoor lighting can enhance the visual appeal during evening hours, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Flexible sauna sizing options
Like the barrel saunas, the โMiraโ comes in multiple sizes. The larger designs provide ample space for groups, making them ideal for B&Bs or Airbnbs catering to families or friends traveling together.
The small โMiraโ models, on the other hand, are perfect for boutique properties aiming to offer a private, intimate experience. Suz recommends consulting with SDS Australiaโs sauna experts to determine the best size and configuration for your specific needs.
Custom saunas for your B&B
For B&B owners looking to add a truly unique touch, SDS Australiaโs professional team can craft you a deluxe commercial custom sauna like the โNatalie Infrared Custom Sauna or the โNatalieโ Traditional Custom Sauna. These saunas can be tailored to suit the specific aesthetics and spatial needs of your property.

Bespoke sauna design for maximum impact
Custom saunas allow you to create a sauna that seamlessly integrates with your property’s architecture and ambiance. Whether your B&B embraces a rustic charm or a modern vibe, a custom sauna can be designed to match perfectly.
Personalised features, premium designs
With options such as infrared technology, unique seating arrangements, and bespoke sizes, these designs provide the ultimate in comfort and versatility, making them an ideal Airbnb sauna or dream wellness sanctuary for bed and breakfasts.

Crafted with high-quality materials, SDS Australia’s custom saunas are built to last while providing a visually striking addition to your property.
Sauna tips for B&B owners
To maximise the return on your commercial sauna investment, consider these additional tips from Suz Vulic:
- Maintenance Matters: Regular cleaning and upkeep ensure your sauna remains inviting and functional. Use non-toxic cleaning agents to maintain a safe environment for guests.
- Welcome Guides: Provide guests with a short guide on how to use the sauna, including safety tips and suggested session lengths. This adds a professional touch and ensures guests have a safe, enjoyable experience.
- Pair with Amenities: Pair your sauna with complementary features like outdoor showers, fire pits, or relaxation lounges to create a holistic experience.
- Promote Your Sauna: Highlight your sauna in marketing materials and on booking platforms. High-quality photos showcasing the saunaโs features can attract more bookings and set your property apart from competitors.
Learn more about B&B Saunas in Australia
Investing in a sauna can elevate your B&B, providing guests with a unique and memorable experience. Whether you choose the rustic charm of a barrel sauna, the sleek sophistication of the โMira’, or a custom sauna design, thereโs a perfect solution for every property.
For more advice on which sauna to purchase for your accommodation, reach out to Suz and the team at SDS Australia for guidance. โA sauna will work at any B&B property,โ says Suz. โWeโll help you find the ideal spot and design to make your vision come to life.โ