The Best 9 Infrared Sauna Blankets to Sweat It Out At Home

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THE SAUNA experience mirrors the effects of moderate cardio exercise more than most might realize, jacking your heart rate up thanks to a concept known as 'heat stress'. Before you dismiss stress outright, remember that not all stress is created equal. Stressing the body through good stress, also known as eustress, is good—As your body adapts and thrives under the pressure, it activates physiologic mechanisms that can pave the way for a stronger, more resilient, more enduring you.

Saunas are a secret weapon that a ton of cultures have used for centuries—but not everyone can have a full blown standing sauna at home. In fact, most people can't. That's where infrared sauna blankets come in.

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In fact, a Finnish study showed a dose-dependent decrease between sauna use and all-cause mortality (meaning the chance of dying from cancer, cardiovascular disease—you name it). The study followed middle-aged men (42-60 years old) for 20 years, and found that men who used a sauna for 11-19 minutes 2-3 times per week showed a 24% reduction in disease-related mortality. Men who engaged in 4-7 sauna sessions per week decreased their risk of dying from disease by 40%, which is pretty astounding.

Traditional saunas heat the air to high temperatures (176 to over 200 degrees F), gradually raising your body's temperature. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use invisible infrared light to directly heat your body, operating at lower temperatures (113 to 140 degrees F) than traditional saunas. That being said, it's important to remember that results from studies looking at traditional saunas may not translate to infrared saunas. However, current research does suggest infrared light can offer additional benefits in terms of skin appearance.

For those of us who don't have the luxury of conventional sauna access on a daily basis, sauna blankets are the next-best thing. We've broken a sweat (corny, we know) researching and testing dozens of the best infrared sauna blankets on the market to bring you a list of only the very best. Below, the top 9 infrared sauna blankets to reap the benefits of heat stress at home.

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I've used this blanket for over 3 years and can confirm the rumors are true: it's just so good. It has 8 heat settings, though I'm a fiend for a sweaty sesh, so I only ever use at its max temp. It takes about 15 minutes for things to warm up, but I typically preheat it for ~25 minutes to be sure it's really hot. I aim for about 30 minutes in the blanket, but if you aim for longer (or preheat it for longer), beware that the 1-hour safety timer will shut the heat off promptly.

I purchased the additional infrared sauna blanket inserts ($89) separately when I got sick of turning a pair of pants and sweatshirt into a pile of sweat every time I used the blanket. The insert is not only super soft and machine washable, but protects your skin from coming in direct contact with the heated internal surface of the blanket (which gets seriously hot). But keep in mind, this blanket may run short for folks 6-foot and up.

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Infrared Sauna Blanket

$699.00

higherdose.com

While most sauna blankets are big and clunky when rolled or folded, the MiHIGH Infrared Sauna Blanket lends itself well to use on the go. Similar to the HigherDOSE blanket, it's designed to be folded and fit neatly into a complimentary travel bag, except the MiHigh folds more compact, flatter, and is lighter.

The controller is detachable, which is convenient when you're laying in the blanket or preheating it from the couch. Its temperature can reach an impressive 167˚F, too (which is higher than most competitors).

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Infrared Sauna Blanket V2

$499.00

mihigh.com

The problem with most sauna blankets comes down to cleaning them. With a design that unfolds complete flat, the Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket presents a smart solution to the cleaning conundrum. Unlike traditional designs, this innovative blanket is equipped with Velcro lining along its sides and bottom, which means easy access to every nook and cranny for a thorough wipe-down after use.

This blanket comes in three appealing colors, and with temperatures spanning 95 to 167 degrees F, boasts one of the highest minimum temperatures available. However, despite the practicality when it comes to cleaning, the velcro design does contribute to slightly more heat loss during sessions. Compared to zippered alternatives, this leads to less energy efficiency and maintained heat during use.

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Infrared Sauna Blanket

$499.00

sunhomesaunas.com

In addition to 8 heat settings, this blanket stands out with its added vibration features that provide a massage-like sensation. The wrap offers a total of 24 customizable settings by combining its diverse heat options with vibration modes. A built-in timer, adjustable from 15 to 60 minutes, enhances convenience and safety (so you can doze off without worrying).

Though it only reaches a maximum temperature of 150 degrees F (which slightly lower than others on our list), the wrap's added vibrational element compensates for this limitation. Hook-and-loop fasteners on the side of the blanket are easy to use, but likely allow more heat to escape compared to conventional zippered models.

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Calming Heat Sauna Wrap

$249.00

walmart.com

This blanket from REVIIV is a standout in terms of customization, thanks to the ability to select your desired temperature from its full 100-degree range. The expansive 85-185° F temperature range is impressive at face value (as it's much wider than what's offered by competitors), and the ability to increase or decease heat by a single degree is the cherry on top. Though the wealth of options might feel excessive to some, the option to fine-tune the heat is more realistic to a traditional sauna experience than vague "1-8" settings.

The blanket's built-in remote allows you to manage both temperature and timer settings with ease. A cotton towel liner is included to protect your skin from direct heat and make clean up a breeze, although we do wish the fabric was a bit softer.

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Far Infrared Sauna Blanket

$259.00

amazon.com

While many infrared sauna blankets emit electromagnetic fields (EMF), often associated with radiation, the HYDRAGUN HeatPod employs zero-EMF infrared heating coils. Despite potential concerns and marketing ploys, the majority of EMF is not actually harmful. However, if your main focus is avoiding any form of radiation exposure, this blanket is a worry-free option.

We found its zipper closure retains heat well, while the 86°F to 176°F temperature range can be customized precisely and quickly via a remote control. The straightforward timer, adjustable between 5 and 60 minutes, adds an extra layer of convenience and safety, too.

For $549, the blanket comes with a cotton liner included. But you can also purchase it for $499 without the liner, just be sure to find your own cotton blanket to use with it.

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HeatPod Sauna Blanket

$549.00

hydragun.com

Though the Heat Healer blanket has a few unique design features, the best of all is its generous size. With a length of 75" (compared to an average 71") and an internal circumference of 69" (compared to an average 64"), it can accommodate users up to 6’6” tall and 300 pounds. However, while the extra height and width is a perk for bigger guys, this spacious design can make for a less ideal user experience for petite individuals.

Unlike most designs, which are made from polyurethane or vegan leather, this blanket is constructed with Aramid, a non-toxic, durable, and heat-proof material historically used in firefighter and astronaut suits.

Another unique touch is the incorporation of 96 jade and tourmaline stones, which help to evenly disperse heat. Crystals may also facilitate the body's release of negative ions, contributing to stress relief, though more research is needed in that field.

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Infrared Sauna Blanket

$478.40

heathealer.com

This sauna blanket from LifePro won't break the bank, and it won't make you feel like you're stuck in a straight jacket, either. In addition to a zipper closure on the side of the blanket, it boasts two arm openings with zipper closures on the top of the blanket so users can slip their arms out to send a text, hold a book, or simply regulate their temperature. Especially for those who prioritize longer sauna sessions, the ability to keep your hands free is a huge plus.

It offers fewer heat settings compared to higher-end models, but it still reaches up to a standard 176° F at its highest temperature. Users can choose from two sizes: regular (71 x 31 inches) and large (76 x 36 inches), making it an ideal choice for various body types and sizes.

There is one drawback: Some users note occasional uneven heat distribution. But for under $300, this blanket is still hard to beat.

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BioRemedy Infrared Sauna Blanket

$179.99

lifeprofitness.com

While not technically an infrared sauna in design, it's similar in function, but with a twist. The mat integrates Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) technology, which sends restorative electromagnetic waves through your body. Ranging from lower, soothing frequencies to higher, invigorating ones, users can choose from four distinct settings to cater to their needs.

The mat incorporates infrared technology via a layer of infrared lights underneath the body. Its usability is a highlight; simply plug it in, allow 15 minutes for warming up, and select your preferred setting.

While it won't elicit the same benefits of heat stress as an infrared sauna blanket, this mat offers a similar yet multi-faceted approach to relaxation and restoration for those who may not prefer extreme heat.

Roughly the size of a standard yoga mat, many users even practice yoga on this mat to reap its benefits.

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Infrared PEMF Mat

$1295.00

higherdose.com

Acquiring an infrared sauna blanket for at-home use can involve a serious investment. Consider these key factors to ensure you make an informed and satisfying purchase:

Temperature settings and range: Look for a sauna blanket that offers adjustable heat settings and a suitable temperature range (113-140 F is a widely accepted range). This flexibility allows you to tailor the experience to your comfort level and specific wellness goals.

Infrared technology: Opt for a blanket with advanced infrared technology, preferably featuring both near-infrared and far-infrared wavelengths on the front and back of the blanket. This dual-technology approach ensures deeper penetration into your body tissues, enhancing the therapeutic benefits.

Material: High-quality, durable fabrics with heat-resistant properties are essential for safety and longevity. Look for options with multiple layers for added insulation and comfort. A removable, washable lining is a huge plus.

Safety features: Prioritize safety features such as automatic shut-off timers. These timers are crucial in case you accidentally fall asleep or forget to turn off the blanket.

Size: Consider the size of the blanket and whether it provides adequate coverage for your body. A larger blanket allows for a more comprehensive sauna experience, while a compact design may be more suitable for portability and storage.

Additional features: Some blankets are made with crystals such as quartz and jade within their lining. Crystals are believed to offer potential benefits such as enhanced detoxification, balanced energy, and a deeper sense of relaxation, though the current research is inconsistent.

Ease of use: Choose a sauna blanket with a user-friendly control panel or remote. Intuitive controls make it convenient to adjust settings and monitor your session without any hassle.

Storage: If you plan to use the blanket in different locations or need to store it when not in use, consider its portability and how easy it is to fold or roll up for storage.

Customer reviews: Research reputable brands known for producing high-quality sauna blankets. Reading customer reviews and testimonials can provide insights into real-world experiences and help you gauge the blanket's effectiveness and durability.

Warranty: A reliable warranty and responsive customer support are crucial when you're shelling out your hard-earned green for any product. Ensure the sauna blanket comes with a reasonable warranty period to protect your investment and address any potential issues.

Price: While cost is a factor, prioritize value over the lowest price. Investing in a well-designed, feature-rich sauna blanket may offer better long-term benefits and satisfaction.

Using an infrared sauna blanket offers a range of full-body benefits, closely resembling the positive effects of exercise. When exposed to heat, your heart responds by beating harder and faster, inducing a racing sensation that might seem counterintuitive but is, in fact, advantageous.

The result? Heightened plasma flow and increased blood circulation lessen your heart's workload, resulting in a more efficient heart in the long run. (It is a muscle after all, and muscles need to be conditioned.) The amplified bloodflow extends to other muscles, too, contributing to reduced muscle atrophy across the entire body. While not a replacement for regular exercise that elevates your heart rate, sauna blankets serve as a valuable tool, especially for those facing physical limitations due to age, disability, or other constraints.

Infrared heat may help to improve the overall appearance of the skin, too. "By helping to reduce puffiness and swelling while simultaneously boosting circulation, which can help to give the skin an overall glow," explains Dr. Marisa Garshick, board-certified dermatologist of MDCS dermatology. "It is also thought to help reduce inflammation as well as improve overall mood by helping to promote relaxation."

But, above all, relaxation and stress reduction remained a primary incentive for using a sauna in this study. "When it comes to pain science, we know stress levels can have a direct impact on how severe pain is," explains Dr. Malek. "So if the sauna blanket provides an outlet for relaxation and time focusing on your breath and stress management, it may help with pain, which can be a huge thing for people dealing with an injury." Studies have also noted people experienced improved sleep 1-2 days following the use, which may also be linked to increased relaxation.

Infrared sauna blankets are generally very safe to use, however there are some things to be aware of, functional medicine nurse practitioner Marylee Marre, FNP-BC, of New York Center for Integrative Health, told us.

EMF exposure, exposure to the various materials used to manufacture these sauna blankets, dehydration from lack of water intake, lightheadedness and/or faintness can all be concerns, she says.

"Please ensure that you are adequately hydrated with mineral rich water before, during and after your session. Please be sure to eat nutrient-dense meals the day of sauna, too."

Other possible side effects include increased skin redness and heat discomfort, according to Dr. Malek. "Alcohol consumption is also not recommended during sauna use," she reminds.

Anyone with blood pressure problems, peripheral neuropathy, sensory issues should be especially mindful as heat therapy may pose additional risks.

As always, we highly recommend speaking with your medical provider to ensure that infrared sauna blanket use is safe for you depending on your medical history.

"Sauna bathing studies seem to point to an average use frequency of 3-4 times per week (with 4-7 times per week being the upper range) to show benefits," explains Dr. Malek.

While most brands suggest daily use is safe, Dr. Malek recommends starting out with a lesser frequency and assessing how your body feels before increasing.

At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations.

Our writers and editors are also experts in their own right, using their informed opinions as certified trainers and fitness experts to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality. Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage, which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

For the past two years, Men's Health's Fitness and Commerce Editor Talene Appleton, NASM, has been testing and researching the best infrared sauna blankets on the market. We also looped in experts, including board-certified doctor of sports physical therapy Leada Malek, PT, DPT, SCS, board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, and functional medicine nurse practitioner Marylee Marre, FNP-BC, to compare notes on the top infrared sauna blankets and gain perspectives on what sets some products above the rest.

When evaluating each device, we looked at factors like durability, size, temperature, and portability. We also considered price point, as some infrared sauna blankets offer a better overall value than others.

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