I Tested The HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket For 6 Months & It's Worth The Hype

You know that dripping wet, endorphin-boosting sweat that leaves you with a relaxed-yet-revitalized glow? This feeling alone is what led to my first sauna session five years ago, and ultimately down a sauna blanket rabbit hole (for a space- and money-saving option).

Six months of testing later and I'm a total sauna blanket fiend. I use the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket at least three times per week for 20 to 40 minutes per session—and I have the glowy skin, soothed muscles, and better sleep to show for it.

Even if you're new to the sauna blanket scene, you're likely familiar with HigherDose. The brand aims to make ancient modalities, such as hot therapy, more accessible by offering a lineup of at-home products, like this low-EMF Infrared Sauna Blanket.

The sleek sleeping-bag-like design contains a combination of charcoal, magnets, clay, and amethyst and tourmaline stones to balance heat levels and increase circulation. 

Using far infrared technology, which is a bit different from a traditional sauna, the HigherDose blanket heats the body internally with less extreme temperatures. This particular blanket heats up (quite quickly, I might add) to a maximum of 158 degrees Fahrenheit.

On its own, the blanket costs $699. You can also choose to purchase the blanket with one insert for $788 or three inserts for $912.

The insert is essentially a super-luxurious towel that serves two purposes: to keep you comfortable during your session and to make cleanup even easier. It's made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton and can be thrown directly into the washing machine. 

The blanket arrives in a fairly compact box, considering its size. When unboxing, you'll first want to take it out of the plastic and roll it out. Make sure you're setting the blanket up on a surface that's heat-resistant and, of course, not flammable. 

Operating the blanket is simple, with an attached remote control that allows you to turn the device on and off and choose from eight temperatures. 

The brand recommends using a nontoxic disinfectant spray or wipe after each use. Just make sure the blanket is fully cooled down before folding it back up, which I've found takes about 30 minutes.

I received the HigherDose sauna blanket six months ago and I still use it at least three times per week, with the same routine each time.

I tend to crave my self-care time in the evening, once my workout is complete and I've finished the workday. Instead of opting for couch time, this is when I slid into my HigherDose blanket.

Some like to use the sauna blanket in bed, on the couch, or on a yoga mat, but I prefer a firm surface. I lay mine out directly on the wood floor, slide in, and enjoy 20 to 40 minutes of relaxation on the maximum heat setting.

This is not my first sauna blanket rodeo, so beginners might want a lower temperature or shorter session. The blanket heats up incredibly quickly, which I love! I've tried others that left me underwhelmed from a heat standpoint.

I've tested three of the best infrared sauna blankets over the past year—and off the bat I could tell this one is incredibly high-quality.

The materials feel durable, but the blanket itself is actually quite a bit lighter than others I've tried, which I appreciate for storage, setup, and transportation. Most are in the 20-pound range, while this one is just 15 pounds.

While the maximum temperature is a bit lower than some (158 degrees Fahrenheit compared to another blanket I own that heats up to 176), I still find myself in a deep sweat each time. 

The restorative sweat I mentioned earlier? That's exactly what the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket gives. I end my sessions feeling relaxed yet rejuvenated.

I don't know if it's the act of getting still and quiet or the infrared technology, but I feel incredibly calm when I'm in the blanket—and that's saying a lot since my mind tends to race at the end of the day.

What's more, my Oura ring shows data-backed proof that these sessions improve my sleep (pictured below). On nights when I use the sauna blanket, I spend more time in a deep sleep and felt refreshed in the morning. Plus, my readiness scores are higher.

There's not a lot I'd change about the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket itself. That said, I do wish it came with a bag or case.

Yes, the blanket comes at a fairly high cost—but, when compared to the amount of money I'd alternatively spend booking sauna appointments at a local spa or wellness center, my blanket will quickly pay for itself. Plus, you can save 15% (over $100!) with code MINDBODYGREEN.