How to Build a Fire in the Firebox

Time to heat: It takes about 90 minutes from the time you start the fire before the sauna is hot enough to get inside to enjoy

And before you start, make sure the flue (inside of the sauna is set to open).

The handle should be vertical (not flat). If it's flat, the fire will not get air circulating, and it will not burn.

Open the Box of Wood

Use the wood supplied in the plastic bins (for best results). The small bin contains the smaller pieces of wood for starting the fire,

whereas the big bins typically contain bigger pieces which are better for longer, more sustained burns.

Start with two base logs

Place two medium logs parallel to each other on the ground or in the fire pit, leaving a small gap between them.
This gap is where the fire will start and breathe.

Add bunched up newspaper

in the middle of the logs

Loosely crumple paper or fire starter and place it between the two base logs.
Don’t pack it tight — air helps it ignite.

Build the first layer with pieces

Lay two or three smaller logs across the top, perpendicular to the base logs.
This creates a simple “log cabin” shape and leaves space for airflow.

Then the next layer

Place a few smaller split pieces upright on top of the crossed logs.
Keep them close together but not jammed — flames need oxygen.

Add one or two final top pieces

Lay one larger log across the very top to hold everything in place.
The structure should feel stable but still open.

Light the fire

Light the paper underneath, from one or two sides if possible.
The flame will rise, catch the smaller pieces first, and then ignite the larger logs.

You may need to add more newspaper if the fire doesn't take (relight as needed).

After the fire has been going for ~15 minutes, fill the box with wood

Once the fire is going strong, add more logs from the box one at a time.
Place them gently — don’t smother the flames. The fire needs to develop some hot coals so that it can take on more wood. Once you’ve filled the box with wood, you can shut the door to the firebox (but don't close it all the way).

A slow feed of oxygen allows the fire to get hot and burn slowly (instead of burning the wood very quickly). We want a nice slow burning but hot fire to heat up the sauna.

Tips for Best Results

• Always leave small gaps for airflow

• Start with small pieces (they'll burn faster), then build bigger after the coals are roaring

• If the fire struggles, add paper or a smaller split, not a big log

• Never leave a fire unattended