The 11 Best Infrared Sauna Blankets of 2023 for Relaxation and Recovery

What to Keep in Mind 

Material

Infrared sauna blankets are typically constructed of synthetic materials, like polyurethane, or a blend of vegan and standard leathers. It’s important to look for materials that are free of solvents and other toxins, which have the potential to release gas. 

The best infrared sauna blankets will provide proof that their materials have been independently tested by an accredited lab. These tests demonstrate whether their materials meet FCC standards for radiated emissions, SGS Labs for toxins and international safety standards, says Heat Healer founder, Lauren Dovey.     

Temperature Range

Infrared, according to all of our experts, allows sauna blankets to operate at a lower temperature range while maintaining all of the expected benefits of the sauna experience. That means, according to Ominsky, you should be looking for a minimum temperature of 68˚F and a maximum of around 158˚F. 

Personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist, Samantha Altan reminds us that a traditional sauna reaches temperatures of 150-195˚F. The lower temperatures offered by infrared sauna is one of the primary appeals. "Infrared sauna blankets can be much more tolerable for those who are sensitive to heat,” says Dr. Alexiades.   

“A full-size infrared sauna generally is heated to between 110˚F and 135˚F,” Altan says. “So you’ll definitely want your blanket to achieve those temperatures as well.”  

Settings

All infrared sauna blankets offer temperature settings, but some offer more specificity and customization than others. If you want to know exactly what temperature your blanket is heating to, look for models with more settings. 

You’ll also likely want a model with a built-in timer, as recommended by board certified naturopath, Dr. Lana Butner. She and all our experts caution against the risk of dehydration when utilizing a sauna. Ensuring that your infrared sauna blanket sessions are long enough to allow you to reap the full benefits, but not overdoing it and risking dehydration is crucial. 

Some models offer multiple heating zones, allowing you to more precisely control the temperature in different areas of the blanket. If, for example, you know you’d like your feet to stay cooler than your torso, this might be an appealing feature for you.   

Size

Every body is different, says Dovey, so it’s important to make sure your individual body dimensions and preferences can be accommodated by the model you are purchasing.

"Some people can tend to feel a bit claustrophobic if the blanket is too tight or heavy,” warns Ominsky. If that sounds like you, make sure to look for roomier models. 

Closure Style

The best infrared sauna blankets generally utilize either a zip or a velcro closure. Zippers not only provide ease of accessibility, but they trap heat better, making them more energy efficient as well.

That said, for those who might experience claustrophobia, a velcro closure may be a better option. A velcro closure would allow them to exit the blanket more quickly than a zipper would, potentially alleviating any anxiety. Velcro closures also allow the blanket to open completely flat, which can make cleaning a bit easier.   

Your Questions, Answered

How do infrared sauna blankets work? 

Despite the scientific sounding name, the concept behind infrared sauna blankets is pretty simple, according to Dr. Alexiades. “Infrared saunas are just a newer spin on the traditional sauna experience,” she explains. “They focus on the infrared delivery of heat rather than other forms of heat production. Infrared rays heat up the body with less impact on the temperature of the room, but still induce the intense sweating that characterizes a sauna experience.” 

An infrared sauna blanket delivers heat to your body through the air, similar to what you would experience in a cabin, just in a much smaller space. According to Dovey, this is what makes infrared sauna blankets so great. “A sauna blanket actually heats up quicker and is more energy efficient and space saving than a traditional cabin,” she says. 

What are the benefits of an infrared sauna blanket? 

The benefits of infrared sauna mirror and even improve upon those of traditional sauna, according to all of our experts. Dr. Alexiades calls out that sauna has been shown to improve cardiovascular function and lower blood pressure. Ominsky says that many of her clients seek out sauna because it can reduce high blood pressure, increase metabolism and release toxins from the body. 

Dr. Butner is particularly keen to highlight the detoxifying benefits. She says that internal organs, including the kidney, bowels, lymph nodes and lungs, reap major benefits from infrared therapy.

Dr. Alexiades agrees: "On the skin level, sauna use has been reported to not only flush out toxins, but also to remove dead skin cells, purge clogged pores, deliver fresh nutrient supplies to the epidermis, and help reduce the prevalence of stress-related skin breakouts.” 

Altan is a particular fan of sauna for the pain relief and muscle relaxation it can offer after a tough workout. “The heat of a sauna helps promote muscle relaxation by reducing muscle tension and eliminating lactic acid and other toxins that may be present,” she says. “Under the high-heat provided by a sauna, the body releases endorphins which can also help to minimize pain. As the body temperature rises in the heat of the sauna, blood vessels dilate allowing for increased blood circulation, which in turn speeds the body’s natural healing process.” 

Beyond the health benefits, the most obvious benefit of an infrared sauna blanket is that it allows you to sweat it out in your own home. And some, like Ominsky, even would argue that the blanket experience is, in some ways, an enhancement on the relaxation of traditional sauna rooms. “One of the best attributes of the blankets,” Ominsky says, “is that when you are lying down it allows the blood to circulate and that contributes to a deeper relaxation while receiving all the benefits.” 

How do you clean an infrared sauna blanket? 

Cleaning an infrared sauna blanket is simpler than you'd probably think. Just wipe it down with a paper towel after a sweat session and then follow that up by using a non-toxic disinfectant wipe or spray. Ominsky uses Citrus II, which is a gentle citrus spray that will kill any bacteria. Before packing it up and stashing it away, Altan says you should first make sure that the blanket has dried completely, especially in the tight corners, otherwise you could end up with mold.

Placing an additional cotton blanket inside will also reduce clean up time by helping to absorb your sweat. 

What should I wear under an infrared sauna blanket? 

You should fully cover your body with all-natural materials while using an infrared sauna blanket. Long-sleeves, pants, and socks are all recommended for two reasons. First, it will help protect both your skin and the blanket itself by avoiding any direct contact. Second, the layer of fabric will help to absorb excess sweat, making clean up easier. 

How often can you use an infrared sauna blanket? 

Our experts all agree that it is safe for most people to use an infrared sauna blanket daily, as long as you are properly hydrating before and after your sessions. 

Dovey offers that consistency of use is key for seeing the full benefits. “We would suggest three to four times per week for 30 to 60 minutes for at least six weeks,” she says. “15 minutes helps to relax you and provide muscle relief, whereas 30 to 60 minutes works to get a good sweat on, increase circulation, burn calories and improve cardiovascular function.” 

For athletes or anyone looking to maximize their recovery, Altan recommends using an infrared sauna blanket one to two times per week in order to see the most impact. 

However, pregnant women should avoid both sauna blankets as well as traditional saunas for the duration of their pregnancy. Additionally, anyone with a medical condition should pay particular attention to their usage, says Dr. Butner. She creates specific schedules and programs for patients who have PMS/PCOS or Lyme Disease. If you have a medical condition, it is best to consult your physician to determine the frequency of use that is right for you.      

Why Shop with Us 

Peter Tittiger is a contributing writer at InStyle as well as Byrdie. He has over ten years of experience researching and producing content programs for top luxury and lifestyle brands including TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Lexus, and Best Made Co. While writing this article he consulted board certified dermatologist Dr. Macrene Alexiades, board certified naturopath Dr. Lana Butner, Shana Ominsky, Executive Director of the top-rated Lake Austin Spa Resort, personal trainer Samantha Altan, and Lauren Dovey, the founder of Heat Healer.