Sauna Blanket Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know before buying a sauna blanket — how they work, what to look for, and which one to buy.
Sauna blankets have exploded in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason — they deliver real infrared heat therapy at a fraction of the cost of a cabin sauna, and they store in a closet. But not all blankets are created equal. Here's everything you need to know before buying one.
Sauna blankets use far infrared (FIR) heating elements sewn into insulated layers. When you zip yourself in, the infrared waves penetrate 1-2 inches into your tissue, raising your core temperature and triggering a deep sweat. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air, infrared blankets heat you directly — which is why they're effective at relatively lower temperatures (130-176°F).
When evaluating a sauna blanket, focus on five factors: maximum temperature (higher means more intense sessions), EMF levels (low EMF is safer for regular use), materials (non-toxic PU leather or amide fabric), heat-up time (10 minutes is standard, 20 minutes is slow), and warranty (1 year is standard, lifetime is best-in-class).
The HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket ($699) is our top pick overall. It offers the best build quality, low EMF design, and consistent heat distribution. The LifePro RejuvaWrap ($400) is the best value — it reaches higher temps (176°F vs 158°F), has a lifetime warranty, and costs $300 less. The Heat Healer ($698) is the premium option with jade and tourmaline stones for enhanced heat retention.
For your first session, start at a lower temperature setting and limit yourself to 20-30 minutes. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks inside the blanket to absorb sweat and protect the interior. Hydrate well before and after. Most users find their ideal routine is 3-4 sessions per week at 30-45 minutes.
The one downside of every sauna blanket: you're lying flat, which doesn't replicate the seated, enclosed feeling of a traditional sauna. If full immersion matters to you, consider a portable tent sauna or infrared cabin instead. But for convenience, price, and storage — blankets are hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, when used as directed. Look for low-EMF models (like HigherDOSE). Stay hydrated, limit sessions to 45 minutes max, and avoid use if you have heart conditions or are pregnant. Always consult a doctor if unsure.
Wear long sleeves, long pants or leggings, and socks. This absorbs sweat and protects the blanket interior. Some brands include disposable thermal wraps. Avoid jewelry or metal items that can heat up.
Most sauna blankets have a wipe-clean PU leather or vinyl interior. After each session, wipe down with a damp cloth and mild disinfectant. Let it air dry completely before folding. Some brands offer removable washable liners.
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