I love the health benefits of sweating (and I don’t just mean for working out at the gym). Regular sauna use has many health benefits, including pain relief1, muscle recovery after exercise2, and improved heart health.
As a city dweller with limited space and budget, I picked out the best infrared sauna blanket for detox. Similar to an infrared sauna, these blankets use heat rays to warm your body from the inside out and are about the size of a sleeping bag (albeit a very thick one).
While I love using infrared sauna blankets, I also know the dangers of poor design: electrical problems, electromagnetic fields, and even toxic chemicals. So I was determined to find the safest and most effective infrared sauna blanket on the market.
After reviewing more than 25 infrared sauna blankets, I found six models that met my strict criteria for low-EMF design and durable materials. I then worked with my editors to test at least a half-dozen different designs to find the sauna blanket that produced the most sweat.
Infrared light is an invisible wavelength that is longer than red light and has scientifically proven benefits.
Infrared light is emitted by all objects in the universe, including the sun, and humans can feel it as heat, which, according to board-certified naturopathic physician Lana Butner, “penetrates human tissue, cells, and organs more easily than traditional heat.”
What does this mean for you? These blankets don’t require extreme temperatures to make you sweat. In the long run, that may even be better for your health.
“People can be exposed to this heat for longer periods of time, which results in more sweating and longer-lasting detoxification,” Buettner added.
I’m already a big fan of Bon Charge’s science-backed wellness products, and their infrared sauna blanket is no exception. The quality of this non-toxic, vegan leather blanket is evident from the moment you unpack it.
The low electromagnetic field heating system heats the blanket up to 74 degrees Celsius (the highest on the market), and our business editor could feel that this blanket was much warmer than other models. I think the special temperature-regulating layer is able to detect temperature imbalances, which actually makes a big difference in how warm the blanket feels.
Although the design uses more power (600 watts), the velcro edges provide reliable heat retention. If you get too hot (and this is a real problem you can face with this design), the controls allow you to easily adjust the temperature and duration of your workout.
What I like most is that your order comes with a carrying case, making transportation and storage extremely convenient.
If you’re looking for another trusted brand in the biohacking space, New York-based HigherDose has released its best-selling infrared sauna blanket. Tested by an independent organization, the blanket reaches temperatures of 158 degrees Fahrenheit—enough to get your heart racing.
This design is an infrared heating plate that sits on top of a detox plate made of charcoal, clay and magnets to balance the heat and create negative ions. While I’m not a big fan of crystals, it’s worth mentioning that they are the core: amethyst and tourmaline, which have healing properties.
mindbodygreen co-founder Colin Wachob and business editor Carly Ferrante tested the design for our guide. They loved how easy the blanket was to use and noticed that it heated up quickly despite the low wattage.
Suffice it to say that while the blanket is made of waterproof polyurethane, Ferrante warns that a sauna towel liner should not be an optional extra. The blanket does not come with a separate storage case, making it difficult to store.
One of my biggest concerns with infrared sauna blankets is overexposure to electromagnetic fields3, so I was drawn to the Heat Healer Infrared Sauna Blanket. It uses a copper layer that shields against electromagnetic fields, which can reduce the risk.
I also completely agree that polyurethane should be abandoned in favor of high quality heat resistant amide fabrics (used in astronaut suits and firefighter uniforms) that are independently tested to ensure that the material is free of toxins.
Other features include a built-in timer, adjustable heat settings, and a water- and sweat-resistant headrest. It also has a special coating of 96 smooth jade and tourmaline stones to help distribute heat more evenly, but that didn’t work for me!
Not only does this blanket keep you warm to the same level as the Bon Charge, but it’s also a little longer at 76 inches, making it suitable for taller people like my sister. I also really like the brand’s lifetime exchange program (50% off on exchanges).
If you’re looking to save a little money, I recommend the Sun Home Saunas Infrared Blanket. While it hasn’t been third-party tested like some of the other products on this list, its electromagnetic field (EMF) properties make it low-radiation.
I also like that the controller allows you to choose the exact temperature you want, rather than forcing you to choose between preset temperatures. This is also great for people who are afraid of heat, as you can choose a lower temperature.
I took points off for the control unit. Our tester noted that the unit only displays Celsius instead of Fahrenheit and requires a slightly longer cord.
However, this more affordable option still has a lot of benefits—our testers compared it to luxury sleeping bags.
Still not sure which design is right for you? Here are some key factors I recommend you consider before buying:
If you want to take the blanket with you, you should consider its foldable design and portability. Some of the blankets in our catalog come with a carrying bag for easy storage and transportation. It is important to note that higher quality blankets are usually heavier.
FIRS blanket prices range from $130 to $600; this price may seem a little high, as high-end products often cost over $300, but if you plan to use the blanket for a long time and want a customer service guarantee or a solid warranty, it may be worth the extra money.
Decide which features are most important to you: Do you want a blanket with a zipper or Velcro? Is it easy to clean before storing? Are you interested in additional accessories like gemstones, crystals, or towels? What about certified or non-toxic materials? Knowing what you need will help you narrow down your choices.
An infrared sauna blanket increases your body temperature by briefly placing your body into a state of stress. While stress is often considered harmful to the body, certain types of strategic stressors can actually be beneficial, known as the “hormesis effect.” This short-term spike in stress triggers cellular responses that improve your ability to cope with stress and slow aging.
As functional medicine physician Amy Shah previously told mbg, “When we make small adjustments to our hormone levels, we get really good results in the long run. It’s a well-established concept in medicine.”
When it comes to far infrared rays (FIRS), the research is relatively limited. Studies have shown that far infrared light can help relieve pain4, improve cardiovascular health, and promote collagen production in the body5 (though experts disagree on whether infrared light is actually good for the skin). However, most studies have been small-scale and short-term experiments, and further research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Quality infrared sauna blankets are generally safe for everyday use, but there are a few things to consider before purchasing:
To ensure maximum safety when sweating, always wear light clothing or a towel to create a barrier between the blanket and your skin, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for temperature and time under the blanket.
Infrared sauna blankets and the best infrared saunas offer similar benefits, but the right choice depends on factors like your budget, intensity of use, and (most importantly) space.
A fully immersive infrared sauna will not allow the heat to escape as easily, and you will likely feel more comfortable since you can change positions and use your hands throughout the session.
Infrared sauna blankets can be folded up when not in use and are generally much more affordable. The sauna blankets we recommend (especially the Bon Charge Sauna Blanket) are hot enough to make you sweat as much as in an indoor sauna, but your head remains exposed.
Butner says infrared sauna blankets are a “great alternative” to closed, full-body saunas, but she also has a few tips to help you get the most out of them.
1. Start slow: She recommends starting with 10- to 15-minute sessions and warns that maximizing time is “not a race.”
2. Know when to stop: It’s also important to know when to stop, says Butner, who warns that “the blanket turns off after 50 minutes, both for safety (electrical shock hazard) and to avoid overloading the body with toxins.”
3. Rehydrate: “Rehydrate your body with alkaline electrolyte water,” she advises. “The key to detox is adequate nutrition and hydration so toxins can be effectively flushed out of the body, so staying hydrated is critical.”
3. Relax: Butner’s final words of wisdom: “Don’t run long or expect to stay focused after an intense workout. Give yourself some downtime after a sauna session to allow your parasympathetic nervous system to take over and provide the rest and digestion your body deserves and craves.”
It is recommended to gradually reduce use, but most people can safely use an infrared sauna blanket up to four days a week. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
If you like the feeling of an infrared sauna, investing in a quality home blanket up front could save you some money in the long run.
Results vary from person to person, but many users report that regular use of an infrared sauna blanket can reduce pain, lower anxiety levels, and even lead to weight loss.
Yes! These blankets will make you sweat like you’re in a sauna. After sweating profusely, you’ll need to shower to cleanse your skin. After all, sweating is one of the best ways to flush out toxins, and cleansing after a shower ensures that you’ve washed them away.
Infrared saunas require lower temperatures than traditional saunas. However, there are likely several factors at play. The most important thing is to allow the blanket to warm up sufficiently before use (at least ten minutes). The maximum temperature can also affect how much you sweat; some brands have a much narrower heat range. Finally, the amount of time you spend under the blanket can also affect how you feel the temperature. We recommend waiting at least 5 minutes before turning on the heat.
Infrared sauna blankets are a great way to easily experience sauna-like sweating in your own home, as long as you find a reputable vendor whose products are designed with low EMFs and non-toxic materials. For those who want maximum sweat control, I recommend the Bon Charge model, while the Heat Healer model is great for those over 6 feet tall. Ultimately, I stick with all of the recommendations on this list.
If you’re interested in red light therapy, stay tuned for our latest news on the best red light therapy devices for your skin.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.