The Ultimate Sauna Setup Guide: From Unboxing to First Steam

TLDR: Buying a North Shore Sauna is simple: the stove only requires a one-time assembly (under 20 minutes!), after which your entire setup takes minimal effort. Just unpack the pre-assembled stove, pop up the integrated tent structure, insert the chimney pipe through the jack, and start your fire to reach 200°F in minutes. Our durable tents are designed for both rapid setup and the option of year-round outdoor use (just store them during severe weather). The easiest way to achieve authentic wood-fired wellness is here. Set up in 20 minutes — shop now.

Get Authentic Heat in Minutes: Why Setting Up Your North Shore Sauna Is Easier Than Pitching a Tent

So, you’ve decided to bring the power of wood-fired heat home with a North Shore Sauna tent. Congratulations! You're one step closer to year-round wellness.

But maybe you're picturing complicated instructions, confusing parts, or an afternoon lost to a frustrating assembly. We get it. That's a deal-breaker.

Good news: North Shore Saunas are designed for maximum heat and minimal setup frustration. As the original U.S.-based sauna tent company, we engineered our portable saunas to go from bag to blazing in as little as 20 minutes.

This ultimate guide breaks down the simple, four-step process for your first sweat session. Forget the complex diagrams—this is the fast track to Finnish-grade heat.

Step 1: The Initial Stove Assembly (One-Time Setup)

Unlike the tent, your stove requires a one-time, minimal assembly straight out of the box. Think of it like connecting a few essential, high-quality components.

Once this initial assembly is done, no further setup is required for the stove. You only need to disassemble it for long-term storage or deep cleaning. It's ready for instant use every time you set up your tent.

🎥 Watch the Video: For a clear, step-by-step visual, check out our North Shore Sauna Stove Assembly Video [link to video].

Site Prep Checklist

Location: Choose a level, non-flammable area. A backyard, deck, campsite, or lakeshore all work great.

Clearance: Ensure there are no low-hanging branches or flammable materials above the chimney location.

Unpack: Simply take the folded tent, the pre-assembled stove, and the modular chimney sections out of their bags.

Pro Tip: We recommend laying down a fireproof mat (available on our shop!) under the stove area for extra protection and peace of mind, especially on a wooden deck or grass.

Crucial First Step: The Stove Curing (Burn-Off)

Your stove is built with a durable, high-temperature finish that must be "cured" before its first operational use. When exposed to heat for the first time, this manufacturing protective oils will off-gas a strong, temporary odor. This is normal and necessary! To ensure a clean-smelling, enjoyable sauna experience from day one, you must perform a curing burn-off first. Set the fully assembled stove (including the chimney) up in a safe, well-ventilated outdoor area (outside the tent is ideal). Build a small, hot fire for 30-60 minutes, ensuring maximum airflow to dissipate the fumes. Once the initial odor is gone and the stove is cool, your North Shore unit is officially seasoned and ready for years of clean, wood-fired heat.

Step 2: Pop-Up Tent Assembly (2 Minutes)

This is where the North Shore Sauna design truly removes the "work" from "workout." Our thermal tents feature a robust, integrated frame system.

Lay Flat: Lay the folded tent flat on your chosen spot.

Lift and Lock: Grab the center metal hub (like an umbrella handle) and lift the tent. The attached fiberglass rod frame will fan out and pop into shape instantly.

Secure the Base: Anchor the tent corners with the included ground stakes. This is especially important for stability in windy conditions.

That’s it! Your insulated, high-heat tent structure is complete.

Step 3: Stove, Chimney, & Interior Install (8 Minutes)

Now that your stove is permanently assembled, setting up the interior is quick and intuitive.

Stove Placement: Place the assembled stove inside the tent near the designated stove jack opening (usually offset for maximum interior space).

Chimney Setup: Piece the modular chimney sections together and insert the full pipe through the stove jack ring in the tent ceiling. 

Benches & Rocks: Put your benches in place and ensure your sauna stones are in the rock basket on top of the stove.

At this point, you are ready to start a fire. You've gone from bag to fully functional sauna structure in minutes, thanks to the one-time stove assembly!

Step 4: The First Fire & Steam (5 Minutes to Light)

With your structure ready and your stove set, it's time for the moment of truth: the first burn!

Fuel Up: Open the stove door and place small pieces of dry firewood inside. Start with kindling and a fire starter (tinder) to establish a strong base fire.

Ignite: Light your fire! Keep the door slightly ajar until the fire is stable, then close it. Control the heat by using the air intake damper, ensuring a steady, efficient burn.

Heat Up: Depending on the ambient temperature, your North Shore Sauna will reach those coveted 180∘F−220∘F temperatures in approximately 15-30 minutes.

Add Löyly: Once the rocks are hot (you’ll feel the intense, dry heat), it’s time for steam. Slowly ladle a small amount of water onto the stones for a perfect wave of warm vapor.

🔥 Stove Mastery: Want the best heat in the fastest time? Check out our guide to Stove Tips & Tricks: Getting Your Sauna Fire Started [link to video] for pro advice on fire management.

The Longevity of Your Portable Sauna

Your North Shore Sauna tent is built with high-quality, durable materials designed to withstand the elements. You have the freedom to choose your style of use:

Year-Round Station: The sauna is built to stay up indefinitely in your backyard as a semi-permanent wellness station.

Pop-Up & Put Away: The quick setup and takedown mean you can easily pack it up after each use or for travel.

For the longest lifespan, we recommend taking down and storing your sauna tent during severe weather events, such as heavy snow accumulation (which can stress the frame) and high windstorms.

The setup is complete, the fire is roaring, and your authentic sauna experience has officially begun. You’ve just created a portable wellness retreat with minimal effort. Like Lindsay said:

“Setup was way easier than I expected. I had never owned a sauna before and was a little nervous about the assembly — but the North Shore Sauna tent truly popped up in minutes. The stove assembly was simple, the chimney lined up perfectly, and I was in my first full steam session in under 30 minutes. I love that I can take it down, move it around the yard, and set it back up again without stress. This is hands-down the most accessible way to get real wood-fired sauna heat at home.”

Ready to Sweat?? Set up in 20 minutes — shop now!

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is based on our own experience, research, and community feedback. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new sauna routine or heat-based wellness practice—especially if you have existing health conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medication. Sauna use should always be done safely and responsibly.