Beauty Body Care The Best Infrared Sauna Blankets and Their Benefits Here, experts break down the pros and cons of this hot product — plus, the best infrared sauna blankets for an at-home sweat session. By Kristen Geil Kristen Geil Instagram As the Senior Fitness Editor at Shape, Kristen oversees the Fitness category and covers workout trends, exercise tips, recovery, and more. Previously, Kristen was the Chief Content Officer at aSweatLife.com, where she led content and editorial strategy. She has experience in copywriting and digital marketing, and she's an award-winning freelancer who works with B2C clients in health and wellness. Shape's editorial guidelines Updated on April 13, 2023 Share Tweet Pin Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews How We Selected What to Know FAQ Why Trust Shape We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Shape / Reese Herrington Saunas aren’t exactly a new health and wellness trend; credit goes to the Finnish people for making saunas a part of their everyday lives since at least the 1100s. But aside from being a key way to escape the doldrums of dark, cold winters, saunas have been shown to pack a ton of health benefits (think: reduced inflammation, increased blood flow, and improved heart function, to name a few). Traditional saunas work by heating the air around you, which then raises your body’s temperature. Translation: You’ll sweat a ton. However, infrared saunas are on the scene as a new, sweat-less option (trust, you’ll still sweat — just not quite as much). Infrared saunas emit a certain wavelength of light that your body absorbs without heating the air around you. Even better? The benefits of infrared saunas are similar to the benefits of traditional saunas, including improved blood circulation, increased metabolism, and more. Not everyone has the space (or the budget) to add an at-home infrared sauna. Luckily, there’s an alternative way to get those rays: infrared sauna blankets, which look like high-tech sleeping bags and use electric power to heat the body from within. The best infrared sauna blankets are portable, easy to clean, quick to heat, and offer a variety of temperature options. Learn more about the best sauna blankets and what, exactly, to look for when buying them. Our Top Picks Best Overall: HigherDose Sauna Blanket at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: LifePro Sauna Blanket at Amazon Jump to Review Best With Arm Sleeves: Surnuo Sauna Blanket at Amazon Jump to Review Best Multi-Zone: Gizmo Infrared Sauna Blanket at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Pain Relief: Sharper Image Calming Infrared Heat Sauna Wrap at Amazon Jump to Review Best Portable: REVIIV Infrared Sauna Blanket at Buyboxclub.com Jump to Review Best for Small Spaces: MiHIGH Infrared Sauna Blanket by Gravity at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Higherdose.com Why We Like It: The latest model has a side zipper, making it even easier to get in and out of the blanket.It’s Worth Noting: The blanket tops out at 158 degrees Fahrenheit, which is lower than other models. The HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket is one of the simplest options — but it doesn’t sacrifice on quality, making it our choice for the best infrared sauna blanket. A double-sided zipper closure makes getting in as easy as slipping into a sleeping bag, and the sauna blanket boasts layers of amethyst, charcoal, clay, and magnetic strips to enhance the wellness-boosting effects (improved blood flow and circulation and fighting free radicals, according to the brand). The infrared sauna blanket has eight temperature settings and one heating zone, and the automatic timer shuts off after an hour. The non-toxic polyurethane leather body is easy to wipe down and clean after your sweat session, and the blanket folds nearly flat for easy storage or in case you want to travel with it. Note that the temperature range of the HigherDOSE blanket is lower than other options we researched (such as the LifePro Sauna Blanket), ranging from 68 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. We also wish the towel insert was included, since you need a layer between your body and the blanket (and at nearly $600, a free towel doesn’t seem like a lot to ask). Also, keep in mind that taller users may stick out of the top a bit; the length of the blanket it just under six feet. Temperature range: 68 to 158° F | Heating zones: 1 | Automatic timer: 1 hour | Dimensions: 36” x 71” unfolded, with a maximum interior circumference of 65” when in use | Material: Polyurethane | Weight: 16.45 lbs Best Budget LifePro BioRemedy Infrared Sauna Blanket Amazon View On Amazon Why We Like It: The optional arm holes give you the flexibility to free your arms.It’s Worth Noting: The blanket comes with two single-use wraps, which you’ll have to keep purchasing if you enjoy using. For a relatively cheap infrared sauna blanket, the LifePro Sauna Blanket offers a few different benefits from the HigherDOSE option at less than a third of the price. Most notably, the LifePro blanket has optional arm holes with double- zipper closures, so you can free your arms to read a book, use a phone, or play on a tablet while losining minimal amounts of heat. If you want max heat, no problem — just keep them zipped shut. This sauna blanket is also longer than the HigherDOSE model (76” compared to 71”) so may be a more comfortable fit for tall people. The temperatures range from 113°F to 176°F, and the blanket requires just five minutes of preheating. For a budget infrared sauna blanket, the LifePro is a solid option. The model comes with two disposable thermal wraps that look like aluminum foil or Mylar blankets. These are supposed to improve heat retention and maximize benefits. If you find that the single-use wraps improve your sweat, you can buy more on Amazon. Temperature range: 113° to 176° F | Heating zones: 1 | Automatic timer: 1 hour | Dimensions: 36” x 76”, with a maximum interior circumference of 55” when in use | Material: Oxford fabric | Weight: 8.36 lb Best With Arm Sleeves Surnuo Sauna Blanket Amazon View On Amazon Why We Like It: The arm sleeves give you more freedom to move without letting heat escape.It’s Worth Noting: The operating module is clunky. If the LifePro Sauna Blanket seem too airy for you, the Surnuo Sauna Blanket offers another option for freedom of movement: arm sleeves. The sleeves extend from the main body of the infrared sauna blanket, and the cuffs keep hot air from escaping (the sleeves themselves don’t actually heat up; they just prevent heat loss). The sauna blanket itself reaches temps up to 176° F, and the automatic timer can be set to turn off at intervals from 15 minutes to 60 minutes. The design of the Surnuo Sauna Blanket isn’t as chic as the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket, and the operating machine is clunky and cumbersome to use. This sauna blanket is also thinner than other options we researched, at 32” wide. The instructions also warn against using the blanket while lying on a sofa or a bed — leaving the floor as your only option, which doesn’t seem very relaxing. Temperature range: Up to 176° F | Heating zones: 1 | Automatic timer: 1 hour | Dimensions: 32” x 71”, with a maximum interior circumference of 64” when in use | Material: Oxford fabric | Weight: 11.18 lbs Best Multi-Zone Gizmo Infrared Sauna Blanket Amazon View On Amazon Why We Like It: You can choose different temperatures for three different areas of your body.It’s Worth Noting: The Velcro closure isn’t as convenient as a zipper. For a more customized infrared sauna blanket experience, the Gizmo sauna blanket features three different heating zones (upper body, waist, and lower body), each of which can be adjusted independently. This infrared sauna blanket also gets hotter than most of the other models we analyzed, with a temperature range of 86°F to 194°F. And long-legged people, rejoice: The regular Gizmo blanket is 75” long, and the large version is 88” long, so you’ll have plenty of room to relax. The Gizmo infrared sauna blanket uses an old-fashioned Velcro closure, which isn’t as quick or convenient as the zippers that most other models have (it also doesn’t retain heat as well). We also wish this model came with a remote control, especially considering how bulky the operating machine is. The controller also only displays degrees in Celsius, so brush up on your conversion math. Temperature range: 86°F to 194°F | Heating zones: 3 | Automatic timer: 1 hour | Dimensions: 34" x 75" (regular), 39" x 88" (large) | Material: PU, a combination of leather and polyurethane | Weight: 22.2 lbs Best for Pain Relief Sharper Image Calming Infrared Heat Sauna Wrap Bed Bath & Beyond View On Amazon View On Home Depot View On Hsn.com Why We Like It: This sauna blanket has 3 vibration settings to soothe aches and pains.It’s Worth Noting: The temperature maxes out at 150°F. Vibration and percussive technology (see: massage guns) are major trends in pain relief and athletic recovery right now, and the Sharper Image Infrared Sauna Blanket combines that with infrared heat for the ultimate relaxation experience. The blanket has 8 temperature settings and 3 vibration settings to offer plenty of options for comfort, and we also like that it’s a little heavier for a calming effect (a la weighted blankets). On the downside, we were confused that the controls for this infrared sauna blanket don’t offer specific temperature ranges, so you have no idea whether Zone 1 is 70° or 90°. The brand does note that the temperature range ends at 150°F, which is much lower than the other options we considered. Temperature range: Up to 150°F | Heating zones: 1 | Automatic timer: 30 minutes | Dimensions: 35" x 70" | Material: Polyurethane | Weight: 14.48 lbs The Best Weighted Blankets for People Who Are Always Cold Best Portable REVIIV Infrared Sauna Blanket Amazon View On Buyboxclub.com Why We Like It: It easily folds up into a carrying case with handles.It’s Worth Noting: The attached controller sits halfway down the blanket, making it difficult to adjust without getting fully out of the wrap. If you want to be able to take your infrared sauna blanket on the go, the Reviiv infrared sauna blanket is best. It easily folds up into a self-contained carrying case with a handle that fits over your shoulders. At under 20 pounds, it’s not ultra-light, but it’s manageable. The Reviiv also has one of the most precise temperature controls we saw; you’re able to choose the exact temperature you want, whereas most other options only allow you to choose a general temperature range. The remote control is attached to the sauna blanket via a cable, and the cable is a little too short to reach easily while still in the blanket — so you have to partially sit up for any adjustments, resulting in heat loss. At $460, it’s also one of the more expensive sauna blankets we tested (only the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket is more expensive), but it’s frequently on sale for 25% off. Temperature range: 77°F to 176°F | Heating zones: 1 | Automatic timer: Not listed | Dimensions: 36" x 71" | Material: Polyurethane | Weight: 19.1 lbs Best for Small Spaces MiHIGH Infrared Sauna Blanket by Gravity Gravity Blankets View On Amazon View On Gravityblankets.com View On Urban Outfitters Why We Like It: It’s slightly narrower than other options, so it’s easier to fold and store.It’s Worth Noting: The remote control attaches at the foot of the blanket, which is inconvenient. Infrared sauna blankets don’t generally take up much space, but the MiHigh Infrared Sauna Blanket is especially efficient. It’s narrower than most other options we researched (31” wide, compared to 36” for other models), which makes it easier to fold. It also lays more flat than other models, and it comes with its own carrying case for secure stowing. Plus, the MiHigh can be used on beds or sofas, whereas some infrared sauna blankets can only be used on the floor to avoid fabric damage. Of course, the narrower fit means this sauna wrap might not be comfortable for curvier body types. We also wish the remote control wasn’t attached so far down the blanket; it’s hard to reach and adjust while inside. Temperature range: 77°F to 167°F | Heating zones: 1 | Automatic timer: Not listed | Dimensions: 31" x 70" | Material: Polyurethane | Weight: 20.1 lbs How We Selected We chose the best at-home infrared sauna blankets through hours of research, analysis, and comparison. We began by understanding the differences between traditional saunas vs. infrared saunas, including the benefits of infrared saunas. Then, we researched infrared sauna blankets and the most important features to keep in mind while shopping. With that knowledge, we compared and contrasted dozens of options to understand which sauna blanket might be best for various individual needs. What to Know About Infrared Sauna Blankets An infrared sauna blanket is essentially an infrared sauna — which uses infrared rays to heat the body directly — but in blanket form. So instead of having four walls and a bench for sitting, an infrared sauna blanket wraps around your body as if it's a sleeping bag that plugs into a wall and heats up. Here’s what to know about infrared sauna blankets. Temperature Range While there are a variety of infrared sauna blankets on the market, they're all generally the same in that they offer a range of heat settings so you can ease into higher temperatures. So, if you're an infrared sauna (blanket, or otherwise) newbie, you can start at, say, 60 degrees Fahrenheit and gradually work your way up to the max (which is typically around 160 degrees Fahrenheit). Believe it or not, these temps aren't as high as those that you'd experience in a regular ole sauna — and that's the point. The more tolerable the temp, the more time you'll be able to spend sweating it out or the higher you might turn the dial, and, in turn, reap the supposed benefits. Zipper vs. Velcro While many older-model infrared sauna blankets use a Velcro closure to retain heat, newer models (such as the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket) use a double-sided zipper. The zipper is much easier to use when getting in and out of the infrared sauna wrap, so that’s what we’d recommend prioritizing. Remote Control vs. Operating Module While older infrared sauna blankets are operated from a clunky, computer-esque module, newer (and more expensive) models use a remote control for easier adjustments. Some remote controls are connected to the sauna blanket via a cable, so make sure before purchasing that the remote will be easy to reach while in the blanket. That way, you won’t have to get out of the blanket fully (and lose all the heat) when you want to change the temperature. We recommend a model with a wireless remote for ultimate convenience. Benefits of Infrared Sauna Blankets Infrared sauna blankets boast an ability to do seemingly everything, from "detox" your body to reduce inflammation and body aches to boost blood flow and mood. And infrared sauna blanket groupies on the 'gram are quick to second these supposed benefits. But, as with everything on social media, what you see in pics and read in captions might be a little, err, exaggerated. And while the potential pros of these infrared blankets definitely sound promising, science doesn't entirely back them up. As of now, there's little to no research on infrared sauna blankets in particular, just on infrared saunas in general, says Brent Bauer, M.D., director of the Mayo Clinic's Integrative Medicine Department. That said, research on infrared saunas does point to a few potential advantages. For starters, evidence suggests that when used frequently (we're talking, five times a week), these sweat-inducing treatments may help with heart function. This may result from a reduction in blood pressure, as well as in oxidative stress and inflammation. One small study on male athletes also found that it may help with post-workout recovery. Evidence also suggests infrared saunas may also alleviate chronic pain, including aches for those with rheumatoid arthritis. (In fact, Lady Gaga swears by infrared saunas for managing her own chronic pain.) Where the science lacks: anything having to do with weight loss and the idea that sitting in a blanket is just as good for you as breaking a sweat in a workout. It's important to keep in mind that while infrared saunas may offer these health advantages, that doesn't necessarily mean the blanket version will do the same — though it could. "Until a manufacturer takes the time and discipline to do such scientific work on their product, I would be cautious about accepting claims for one product (i.e. blankets) that are based on data from another product (i.e.saunas) and trying to claim equivalency between the two," says Dr. Bauer. "This is not to say that there may not be benefits from blankets, it is just that from a medical perspective, we can only respond to data that has been made available to other doctors and researchers in a peer-reviewed scientific journal." Frequently Asked Questions Are infrared sauna blankets worth it? If you're not a fan of heat and find it hard to breathe in rising temps, an infrared sauna blanket might not be worth trying. As for everyone else? If you're okay with giving a new gadget backed by minimal research a try, then just proceed with caution, and be sure to follow the instructions.Thurman suggests looking for an infrared sauna blanket that's labeled with a low electromagnetic field (EMF) rating, such as the MiHigh Infrared Sauna Blanket. While the research goes back and forth on this, some science has linked higher EMF's (i.e. x-rays) to cell damage and potentially cancer, according to the National Institutes of Health Cancer Institue.Most blankets cost well over $100 and many are even closer to $500, so it is somewhat of an investment. And while again, it may help improve your health, science doesn't say it's a definite do-gooder. So, weigh the cost with what you're looking to improve. Are infrared sauna blankets safe? While science lays out potential benefits to infrared saunas, it doesn't offer much in terms of potential risks — other than a potential lack of efficacy. In fact, several of the infrared sauna studies say there were no adverse effects — at least in the short-term. As for the long-term? That's another TBD, according to Dr. Bauer, who says that the scientific community still doesn't know much about the long-term risks nor benefits of infrared saunas (and therefore, blankets).Still, if you do decide to try out one of these sweat-inducing sleeping bags, it's important that you start small and listen to your body. "Most users will start with a couple of times a week at 15 minutes up until 60 minutes," says Joey Thurman, C.P.T. "Remember the point of these blankets is to get your body to sweat. Use your body as your guide." Why Trust Shape Kristen Geil is a senior commerce editor at Shape, where she focuses on reviewing and analyzing tested wellness products to help readers feel their best. She personally researched and analyzed dozens of infrared sauna blankets to choose these finalists, and she has tested the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket herself several times. She’s a NASM-certified personal trainer who has written about wellness and health for nearly 10 years. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit