Infrared saunas have been shown to have a number of therapeutic benefits, including physical benefits like improved circulation and detoxification and mental benefits like the reduction of cortisol. Do infrared sauna blankets and bags result in the same benefits?
Infrared sauna blanket benefits are similar to a traditional sauna- improved circulation, better sleep, and enhanced healing. Wear loose sweats and use your blanket 3x per week for 30 minutes at a time to achieve the best results. The HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket V3 is the best option; it costs $500 and comes with state-of-the-art features.
Keep reading to learn more about what an infrared sauna blanket is, what the benefits are, and the best blankets or bags on the market!
What is an infrared sauna blanket?
Infrared sauna blankets and bags are essentially the same thing- both provide a heated compartment (looks like a sleeping bag) that’s easy to slip into. For the remainder of the article, I’ll refer to them solely as blankets for simplicity purposes.
These blankets are the stowaway version of an infrared sauna- perfect for a vacation or quick sauna session in your home. They’re typically made out of polyurethane cotton, which is both water and fireproof. Each one comes equipped with remote control, a singular heating zone, and about 400 watts of power capability.
Infrared sauna blankets work by heating your body from the inside out using far-infrared heat settings ranging from 1-8. Some can even reach 160 °F.
How does a sauna blanket compare to a regular infrared sauna?
While they both use the same technology, it’s important to note that your head will be exposed while using a sauna blanket as opposed to a regular infrared sauna.
An infrared sauna blanket provides the same benefits of increased circulation, reduction of cortisol, muscle relation, and detoxification. It just may not be as effective as immersing your entire body in a structured sauna.
If you are just looking for a quick recommendation, I personally own and can highly recommend the sauna blanket from HigherDOSE – you will be sweating up a storm by the end of your session and I have also tested it extensively to ensure that it is a truly low EMF option. Use coupon code “saunahelper” for 15% your purchase!!
HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
The HigherDOSE sauna blanket increases the body’s thermal energy and promotes a temporary increase in blood flow that can produce sweat and help burn calories.
Use coupon code "saunahelper" at HigherDOSE.com for 15% off!!
What are the benefits of an infrared sauna blanket?
The benefits of an infrared sauna blanket are just as impressive as the benefits of a stand-alone sauna.
Wearing an infrared sauna blank for 15 minutes can:
- Lower inflammation
- Boost brain function
- Improve blood circulation
- Speed up your metabolism
- Strengthen skin health
- Enhance sleep quality
- Quicken healing times
Because an infrared sauna is able to heat your body faster than a traditional or steam sauna, the blanket version exhibits the same results.
One study from 2016 showed that 1-4 sessions a week can reduce a man’s chance of getting Alzheimer’s and Dementia by 65% and 66%, respectively. The cognitive benefits of a sauna blanket are significant.
Additionally, infrared therapy does a great job of dilating your blood vessels, allowing for more blood circulation and quicker healing properties. Stretching immediately after using the blanket will help with next-day muscle pain.
The most notable benefit of extra sweating from an infrared blanket is the dispelling of toxins like heavy metals and BPA (or bisphenol A). BPA is found in everyday plastic and is known to cause cancer.
Lastly, infrared exposure from a sauna blanket can increase the amount of REM sleep we get each night. Sleep deprivation can be severely detrimental. More quality sleep patterns will lead to improvements in all other areas of life.
Do infrared sauna blankets work for weight loss?
Like regular infrared saunas, using an infrared sauna blanket can help in our weightless journey.
While using a sauna blanket alone won’t help you lose weight, pairing your 3x a week sessions with a healthy diet and plenty of hydration can speed up results. Infrared heat has the ability to lower cortisol (which, in excess, leads to weight gain) and signal the production of heat shock proteins, our cell’s first line of defense against danger.
Don’t forget that it helps your muscles heal more quickly- enabling you to get back in the gym faster and burn more calories per week.
Are infrared sauna blankets safe?
Like infrared saunas, blanket saunas are safe to use for various reasons, the most important being how it heats the body.
Infrared sauna blankets create infrared rays to warm up our bodies instead of the surrounding air. If you feel yourself getting too hot, simply hit the ‘Off’ button. Infrared sauna blankets can even be used over IVs and catheters to provide therapeutic benefits without any electrical or burn risks.
Some even come with an alarm that sounds once the temperature has reached 85 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, the blanket will power down. Some additional layers of comfort are the water and fireproof material each infrared blanket is made of.
All of these properties make this item perfectly safe to use! As a safety precaution, avoid using your sauna blanket if you have a fever or an open wound. Excessive heat can worsen such conditions.
How many times a week should you use an infrared sauna blanket?
Now that you’ve purchased your very own infrared sauna blanket, you might be wondering how often it should be used.
The maximum frequency is 3 times per week for around 30 minutes for an infrared sauna blanket. Never use it on back-to-back days, and always stop the session if you become too hot. The most recommended schedule is 2x per week for maximum benefits.
Sometimes less is more- you don’t want your body to get used to the heat, or else it may plateau are your experienced benefits will taper off.
How to use an infrared sauna blanket
There are a few best practices when it comes to using an infrared sauna blanket.
The steps are as follows to use your blanket:
Step 1: Find the location where you’re going to sweat- you can do so on the couch, in bed, or on the floor.
Step 2: Always lay a towel and pillow down first.
Step 3: Plug in your sauna, and turn it on.
Step 4: You can allow the sauna to warm for 5 minutes or hop right inside (personal preference).
Step 5: Start at Level 4 for your first time and work your way up.
Step 6: Once you’re inside, velcro yourself in and enjoy for 30 minutes!
Once you’re finished, unzip the blanket, climb out, and allow for it to cool down after powering it off. If you sweat excessively, it might be a good idea to change your clothes!
This video is a great visual of how to use your new infrared sauna blanket.
What do you wear in an infrared sauna blanket?
What you wear is just as important as how you use your infrared sauna blanket.
It is recommended to cover yourself completely in long sleeves, pants, and socks. Opt for loose-fitting clothing to increase comfort and help soak up your sweat. Breathable cotton is the most popular material.
How to choose an infrared sauna blanket
With a few different kinds on the market, how are you to choose just one infrared sauna blanket?
There are five different factors to consider when buying one for yourself. These include:
- Price
- Availability
- Performance
- Features
- Heating Zones
Price of an Infrared Sauna Blanket
The average price of an infrared sauna blanket is $400, making it a wonderful option for a cost-conscious individual. Even the smallest stand-alone infrared sauna is upwards of $2,000.
Amazon offers a cheaper version at around $130.
Availability of an Infrared Sauna Blanket
Supply chain can be an issue for consumer goods, especially as of recently.
Infrared sauna blankets will ship out in 2-5 business days. All of the websites offer free or discounted shipping, and most models seem to be in stock.
ShaperImage offers a sauna heating pad, but otherwise, the majority of options must be ordered online instead of purchased in person.
Performance of an Infrared Sauna Blanket
Performance is always important- sauna blankets are no exception.
The average temperature range of an infrared sauna blanket is between 60 °F and 170 °F. Make sure your sauna has the ability to at least reach 112 °F. At these heat levels, infrared rays are able to penetrate your skin’s barriers properly.
The amount you use your sauna will also contribute to its performance. Aim to squeeze a session in 2x a week for 30 minutes at a time for optimal results.
Features of an Infrared Sauna Blanket
Each model comes with its own set of unique features. All are equipped with flexible water and fireproof material.
The most coveted elements are an emergency alarm, hand-held remote, 8-levels of control, and a 60-minute timer. Some even come with a carrying case or towel.
Decide which features are important to you when selecting your infrared sauna blanket.
Heating Zones of an Infrared Sauna Blanket
The more heating zones, the more independent control you have over your infrared sauna blanket.
The most intricate options come with 3 different Carbon fiber heating panels- an upper, middle, and lower zone. This gives you the ability to control the temperature of each area with the click of a button.
The best infrared sauna blankets you can buy right now
While there are a few different options, the most popular infrared sauna blankets on the market right now are the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket V3 and the SurmountWay Sauna Blanket.
HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket V3
This is a great option for those who want the best.
The HigherDOSE infrared blanket costs upwards of $500 but comes with free shipping and is considered a premium option. Its features include 8 heating levels, a 1-hour timer, a limited one-year warranty, and 220 volts of power.
Check it out below and use the coupon code “saunahelper” for 15% off of your purchase!
HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
The HigherDOSE sauna blanket increases the body’s thermal energy and promotes a temporary increase in blood flow that can produce sweat and help burn calories.
Use coupon code "saunahelper" at HigherDOSE.com for 15% off!!
This blanket can be easily folded and stored for ease of use.
SurmountWay Sauna Blanket
This blanket is cost-friendly and can be ordered from Amazon directly to your doorstep.
This model costs $133, has slots for your arms, and comes with a display console for controlling your infrared sauna. It reaches 176°F and comes with two independently operated heating zones.
The SurmountWay blanket is a surprisingly comprehensive option for the cost.
If you are looking to improve your sleep, circulation, and overall health through sauna therapy without the hassle of a bulky traditional sauna room, then try using an infrared sauna blanket or bag. They offer the same results at a fraction of the cost.
The HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket V3 comes with top-notch features, including high-quality construction that will last for many years.
Check out our buyer’s guide above for more tips on purchasing the right sauna blanket for your lifestyle!