We Tested The Best Infrared Sauna Blankets — These Actually Make You Sweat

Infrared sauna blankets are a cost-effective way to unlock the health benefits of infrared saunas, including pain relief1, post-exercise muscle recovery2, and improved heart function.

We'll also be the first to say that not all infrared sauna blankets are the same. After spending almost a year researching and testing different designs, we've seen firsthand how quality and performance can vary by model. Fun fact: Many competitors actually whitelist the exact same product under different names.

New York–based company HigherDose not only operates two infrared sauna locations, but it also sells a lineup of infrared products. The brand's bestseller is the Infrared Sauna Blanket, which uses a combination of charcoal, clay, and magnets to balance heat levels and increase circulation.

Along with an automatic 60-minute shutoff, the blanket boasts a layer of healing amethyst and tourmaline crystals—if that's your thing. 

When you're ready to use, simply set your desired temperature and slide into the blanket for a 30- to 40-minute session. You'll rest easy knowing the polyurethane cotton material is waterproof and the design itself is low-EMF. Plus, the brand sells an optional Sauna Blanket Towel Insert, which we highly recommend for a faster clean-up after your sweat session.

Lower heat tolerance? This low-EMF pick offers an adjustable thermostat that allows you to find the right settings to induce a sweat without feeling like you’re scorching. The durable design features industrial-grade velcro to better lock in heat and comes in a handful of fun colorways. 

When you’re ready to use, simply set the timer for up to 60 minutes (the brand suggests starting small and working your way up). The portable pick is easy to wipe down post-use and easily fold for speedy storage. 

This sauna blanket is made from a durable PU leather, cotton, and waterproof PVC. The quality is clear from the moment you open the package. Our commerce editor is a huge fan of this product, noting that the blanket heats up much quicker than others she’s tested.

The temperature can be adjusted using the attached remote control, which also includes timer settings from five to 60 minutes. With the highest maximum temperature on our list (tied with a few others) of 176 degrees Fahrenheit, this blanket heats up quickly and works up an undeniable sweat.

The blanket is on the heavier side, but comes with a carrying case that makes it easy to transport and store. When you're ready to use it, simply lay the blanket out, plug it into the wall, and slide on in before setting the temperature and timer to your preferences.

If you're concerned about the potential adverse effects of electromagnetic fields3, Heat Healer's Infrared Sauna Blanket should be your top pick. It incorporates a layer of EMF blocking fabric that eliminates any risk of exposure. The design also skips PU in favor of a premium heat-resistant amide fabric (used in astronauts' spacesuits and firefighters' uniforms), which is tested by a third party to ensure the materials don't contain toxins.

Other standout elements include a built-in timer, adjustable heat settings, and a waterproof head pillow that won't absorb sweat. There's also a special layer of 96 smooth jade and tourmaline stones added to help more evenly disperse heat across the body.

Infrared sauna blankets elevate your internal temperatures, which briefly puts your body into a state of stress. While typically stress is considered bad for the body, certain types of strategic stressors could prove beneficial in a concept known as hormesis. This brief stint of stress triggers a cellular response that may improve how you manage stress and slow down aging.

As functional medicine doctor Amy Shah, M.D., previously told mbg, "When we stress our hormones out a little bit, we get great results in the long term. It's a concept written extensively in medicine." 

Infrared sauna blankets and the best infrared saunas have similar benefits, but the right choice depends on factors like your budget, use-case, and (most importantly) space.

Fully-immersive infrared saunas don't allow heat to scape as easily, and you'll likely be more comfortable, as you can change positions throughout your session and use your arms.