Benefits of an Infrared Sauna Blanket

What Does an Infrared Sauna Blanket Do?

A sauna blanket, just like a spa infrared sauna, harnesses the power of infrared light to help boost the body’s natural healing process.

Infrared light is a natural source of light emitted by the sun, which has been shown to enhance energy production on a cellular level in plants, animals, and humans.

The sun’s infrared light can also be near or far, depending on its position on the electromagnetic radiation field. However, the sun also releases UV rays, which give off more energy than infrared rays and are thus also the rays linked to skin cancer and more.

Hence, infrared sauna blankets, as well as various other infrared heat therapy products, are designed to help rejuvenate the body using the sun’s low energy heat for maximum results without skin-damaging UV rays.

In fact, the benefits of infrared sauna blankets run far and wide, including it helps the body rid itself of toxins, wakes up your skin, reduces inflammation, soothes pain, and boosts collagen.

It also increases the heart rate, which helps burn calories and boost oxygen and blood flow to the organs for improved heart health, immune health, and more.

The gentle heat emitted from the blanket is also shown to help bring about calm, reduce stress, improve mood, and improve sleep similar to massage.

A sauna blanket can also be used anywhere there is a heat-resistant surface, including your bed, couch, floor, and more for spa-like results while enjoying your favorite binge-series and more.

Who Should Use It?

An infrared sauna blanket’s many benefits make it suitable for a variety of people, including:

• Those looking to improve their overall wellness and health.
• Those with muscle soreness, joint pain, or headaches.
• Those who want to help strengthen their immune system.
• Those with sleep issues.
• Those looking to improve their brain health.
• Those looking to firm and rejuvenate their skin.
• Those looking to burn calories and shed water weight.
• Athletes in training

How to Choose an Infrared Sauna Blanket

Non-Toxic, Waterproof, and Fireproof Materials

Because a sauna blanket contains a heating element in its core, which can reach as high as 160 degrees Fahrenheit, it is important to choose one made of fireproof materials to help it from igniting while in use.

Your body will also produce lots of sweat while using the blanket; therefore, it is important to ensure the materials are also waterproof to help prevent damaging its components.

Finally, to keep unwanted toxins and chemicals from being absorbed into your skin via your sweat glands, your chosen blanket should also be made of premium, certified, non-toxic materials, such as PU leather, for yet another level of safety.

Heat Settings/Temperature

Sauna blankets typically have a low, medium, and high-temperature setting, and they also range in heat between 60 degrees Fahrenheit to 174 degrees Fahrenheit or more.

Blankets on the lower heat end are good for encouraging detoxification, while higher temperature products stimulate more sweating for maximum benefits.

Dimensions

Sauna blankets also range in dimensions to suit various users, so be sure to check the product’s dimensions to ensure it fits your size and weight.

You should also consider the weight of the blanket if you plan to travel with it or you want it to be easy to store and set up in your home.

Warranty/Special Offers

Purchasing a product that includes special offers, such as a warranty or a money-back guarantee, helps you make a more confident purchase, knowing you are protected against defects or if you are just simply not satisfied with the product.

Some manufacturers also include free shipping for added value, so be sure to check the product site for free shipping to help sweeten the deal.

What to Avoid

Infrared blankets use heaters that generate electromagnetic field radiation (EMF) similar to the radiation emitted by microwave ovens and smartphones, etc., hence it is too low to cause significant damage to the body.

However, EMF at high levels has been shown to increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as brain cancer, leukemia, and more. So be sure to stick with high-quality products from reputable manufacturers that specifically state low EMF on the package to help ensure your safety.

Experts warn that you should also stick to the product’s recommended time sessions to avoid excessive exposure to EMF.

Top Rated Infrared Sauna Blankets

Best Infrared Sauna Blanket Overall – HigherDose

The HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket is the first at-home infrared sauna blanket to be endorsed by celebrities.

It is also used by many health experts across the globe, which the manufacturers accredit to the many years they spent perfecting the technology for professional, spa-quality results.

Pros:

• It delivers far infrared therapy via a premium, non-toxic, water-resistant, fire resistant, PU leather blanket.
• It also includes thin inner layers of detox charcoal, heat balancing clay, amethyst crystals, tourmaline crystals, and magnetic therapy for added benefits.
• It carefully designed by spa professionals.
• It’s low EMF.
• It’s lightweight design makes it easy to clean and store away.
• The handheld controller has 8 heat settings and up to a 1-hour timer.
• It also includes instructions, power supply cord, and connecting cord.
• Users can choose between a green or black blanket.
• It accommodates users up to 5’9″.
• It has a 5-star customer rating.
• It enables you to pay in 4 interest free installments.
• It also includes free shipping.
• It also includes a 14-day return policy.

Cons:

• It only has 1-year warranty.
• It only has one heating zone.

Best Infrared Sauna Blanket For 3-Zone Heating

The Heat Healer infrared sauna blanket includes 3-zone heating, which enables you to individually heat your upper body, waist section, and lower body for spot treatments where needed.

Pros:

• It provides all the benefits of far infrared therapy but in a certified non-toxic, amide fabric shell, which is the same lightweight, durable, and heat resistant materials used by NASA to make astronaut suits.
• It includes a smooth layer of natural jade and tourmaline stones, which are good conductors of infrared heat, so they feel great to lay on for added pampering and benefits.
• It also includes low EMF blocking technology and a layer of PVC for water resistance.
• The heater is also wrapped in a layer of soft insulating cotton for added comfort.
• It has a high temp of 176 f/80c for maximum infrared emissivity.
• It enables you to enjoy up to 60 minutes of therapy at a time.
• It is easy to clean and store away.
• It accommodates users up to 6’6″ inches tall and 300 pounds.
• It was also featured in Shape, Daily Mail, and more.
• It includes free and fast shipping.
• It includes a 2-year warranty.
• Users can pay in 4 interest free payments.

Cons:

• It is a bit expensive compared to other blankets.
• It does not state what’s all included.

Best Sauna Blanket For Taller Users and Budget-Friendly Cost

The Vortix infrared sauna blanket is 71″ x 83″, which makes it one of the only sauna blankets suitable for taller users up to 6’9″ tall.

Pros:

• Users receive all the benefits of far-infrared heat but in a larger blanket and at a budget-friendly cost.
• It is also designed with non toxic PU leather.
• It is FDA approved.
• It weighs just 19.2 pounds for easy use and carrying.
• Its heat settings range from 86F to 167F.
• It has a time range between 5 minutes to 60 minutes.
• It also includes a carrying bag and a charger/remote charger
• Users can choose between a black or green blanket.
• It’s easy to clean.
• It is designed in the USA.
• It also includes free shipping.
• It includes a 30-day money back guarantee.
• Users can pay in 4 interest free payments.

Cons

• Its heat setting only reaches up to 167F.
• It only has 1 heating zone.

Best Infrared Sauna Blanket for Medical-Grade Materials and Zero EMF Exposure

The Healix Far Infrared Sauna Blanket is the only blanket comprised of medical-grade materials, including the inner liner, which is SGS, REACH, and RoHS certified.

Pros:

• Delivers far infrared heat via a fireproof and waterproof shell and interior.
• It also provides zero EMF exposure.
• Its wavelength is tuned at 9 – 16 micrometers for max effectiveness.
• It accommodates users up to 6’2″ and 250 pounds+.
• Its waterproof materials and lightweight design make it easy to clean and store away.
• It includes a 45-day risk free trial.
• It also includes a 24-month warranty.
• Users also have access to a fitness, psych and nutrition staff for increased results.

Cons:

• It doesn’t state what’s all included.
• It only has 1 heating zone.
• It doesn’t include free shipping.

Best Sauna Blanket For CE Approved Electrical Certification

The MiHigh Infrared Sauna Blanket is CE approved, which means it is guaranteed to meet EU regulations for safety.

Pros:

• It delivers far infrared therapy via a PU leather blanket that fits users up to 6’4″ and 150 kg.
• It is also waterproof inside and contains non toxic materials.
• It’s easy to clean and store away.
• It provides low EMF heating.
• It takes just 30 minutes to receive benefits.
• It also includes a fold-out box to store the blanket as well as a carrying bag to easily tote it on the go.
• It includes a simple to use controller to set the time, temperature, and more
• it includes a 30-day risk free trail
• It includes a 24-month warranty.
• it has a 5-star customer rating and is also endorsed by Daily Mail, InStyle, and more.
• Users can pay in 4 interest free installments.

Cons:

• It does not include free shipping.
• It only has 1 heating zone.

Common Questions About Infrared Sauna Blankets

How Long Should You Stay in a Sauna?

As stated earlier, sauna blankets are a popular choice for many people because they provide many of the same benefits as a traditional sauna inside your body but in a portable, more convenient way.

It also does so at a lower heat setting, which makes them more bearable for people with heat sensitivity.

However, according to health experts, though they emit lower heat than a sauna, it may still take your body time to get used to it.

Therefore, they recommend, if you are a beginner, to start with just a 10 to 15 minute session to allow your body to ease into it.

And then, once you get used to it, you can then select your sessions from the controller’s preset timers, which typically range from about 5 minutes up to 60 minutes.

What Should You Wear in a Sauna?

Unlike a sauna, which heats the surrounding air, thus causing your body to sweat, when using a sauna blanket, it warms your body from the inside out, causing you to sweat.

Your body is also positioned closer to the heater while wrapped in the device, so manufacturers recommend you wear loose, breathable clothing, such as a long sleeve cotton tee, long cotton pants, and cotton socks to help protect your skin from irritation.

They also recommend keeping a full water bottle nearby to sip on as your body begins to sweat, which will help prevent you from becoming dehydrated.

You should avoid eating before using the blanket, though, because it can affect your digestion and make you sick.

Are There Any Dangers of Infrared Saunas?

Overheating

While sauna blankets are generally considered safe, experts warn there are some risks associated with using them, including the chance of overheating, which can range from mild to moderate symptoms, such as dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and more.

In more extreme cases, it can also cause heat stroke, fainting, and more.

Therefore, should your body become too hot while using the product, immediately stop your session and allow your internal temperature to cool down.

Experts add you can also drink plenty of water before your infrared heat therapy to help prevent your body from overheating.

Dehydration

Another common risk associated with sauna blankets is dehydration, which can be due to excessive sweating caused by the heat.

In fact, experts state that it is not uncommon for your thirst to increase while using the device.

However, if you start to get drowsy, your head begins to ache, or your mouth becomes dry, it can be a sign that you are becoming dehydrated, in which case they recommend your end the session and then drink plenty of fluids to rehydrate yourself.

Again, they stress that drinking lots of water before your session can help prevent you from becoming dehydrated.

You should also sip water throughout your time using the blanket and then drink plenty of water afterward to help keep yourself hydrated.

However, avoid sugary drinks, coffee, and alcohol before your session because they can increase the risk of dehydration.

Skin Irritation

Sauna blankets can also increase skin irritation in those with eczema and other types of dermatitis.

Therefore, it is recommended they avoid using them because the excessive sweating caused by the device can make the condition worse and increase itching.

Skin Discoloration

Some reports show that the heat inside the sauna can also cause dark patches or hyperpigmentation in some people because the heat increases melanin in the skin, which can cause melasma.

Medical Condition Interactions

Those with certain medical conditions, including diabetes, lupus, brain tumors, angina pectoris, kidney disease, low blood pressure, and more, should consult their doctor before using an infrared sauna blanket because it can worsen their symptoms.

Likewise, the high heat and excessive sweating caused by the device can also interact with certain medications, especially skin-based, transdermal, and insulin medications, diuretics, and more.

So you should also be sure to get your doctor’s permission before using an infrared sauna blanket.

The sweating caused by the blanket may also release medication residue, which can stain your clothes.

In some cases, the medicine residue can then be reabsorbed into the bloodstream, which can cause side effects.

Though it is not a medical condition, those with silicone implants should also get the

okay from their doctor before using a sauna blanket because the heat can melt the implants and cause them to become deformed.

Lastly, if you are pregnant, have a weak or compromised immune system, have unhealed wounds, or have a nerve or motor condition, it is also important to first talk with your doctor before engaging in infrared heat therapy to ensure it’s safe for you.

How Often Should You Use a Sauna?

Experts advise that you use an infrared sauna blanket no more than 3-days per week and on alternating days to allow your body time to adjust and release fat and toxins.

On the other hand, everyday use of the blanket leads to constant detoxification, which can cause your body to also lose vital minerals and nutrients, especially if you are not getting the proper nutrition.

This, in turn, can cause various conditions, such as tiredness, confusion, muscle cramps, and more.

Hence, you should also consider adapting your diet when using an infrared blanket to help ensure your body retains its nutrients during your detox.

Can I Use an Infrared Sauna Blanket When I’m Sick?

The answer to this question depends on your sickness; however, if you are sick with a common cold, an infrared sauna can help eliminate the virus quickly, and in some cases, even quicker than over-the-counter medications.

Some research shows that sauna blankets may even help prevent the onset of colds in the first place.

They have also been shown to help relieve swelling and congestion associated with sinus infections, which can cause pressure around your forehead, eyes, and more, thus making it unbearable to perform certain day-to-day activities.

Furthermore, the blanket’s heat helps you relax, which also aids the body in healing.

However, again, if you have a health condition, such as heart issues, circulation issues, or are pregnant, you should consult with your doctor to see if it is recommended for you to use a sauna blanket when sick.

If you have a fever, you should also avoid using an infrared sauna blanket because the heat also increases your body temperature, which can be dangerous.

Meanwhile, if you are using a sauna blanket while you are sick with a cold, flu, allergies, or sinus infection, experts suggest limiting your time to just 30 minutes per session to avoid adverse effects.

Can a Sauna Blanket Help With Asthma and Other Respiratory Conditions?

Some reports show that infrared heat is also good for alleviating the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis.

An article published by the University of Rochester Medical Center shows that one way it does so is by relaxing tense muscles in the respiratory tract, which helps open the airways and improve breathing.

A sauna blanket also helps strengthen the respiratory system by increasing circulation to the heart and lungs, which helps improve their function, thus making it easier to breathe.

Several studies show that it also helps build the immune system in those with asthma and other respiratory diseases, which makes them less susceptible to infection.

The heat also helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, so your body can better handle the underlying cause of the respiratory condition more effectively.

Finally, sauna blankets also help reduce toxins in the body, which helps prevent the lungs from tightening up and restricting your breathing.

Since sauna blankets have such low heat settings, it also helps prevent asthma users from becoming short of breath while using the device, so they are free to receive its wide range of benefits and improve their health.

Will Using a Sauna Blanket Interfere With Other Electronics While in Use?

Remote interference can occur with some electronic devices, but usually only if they happen to share a similar IR code.

Should you experience IR interference while using your sauna blanket, experts recommend simply powering off the device that’s causing the issue and then keeping it separate from the blanket until you are done.

However, if it is a television remote that is causing the interference, they suggest you can also switch to a Bluetooth remote to help eliminate the problem.

If you have a pacemaker, you should also consult with your doctor before using a sauna blanket because it could also inhibit its output.

Some reports show that direct sunlight may also interfere with infrared sauna blankets by overloading or desensitizing the sensor on the device, which can cause it to miss signals sent by the controller.

So you should also avoid using your blanket in direct sunlight to help preserve its components and thus its function.

Is It Okay to Wear Jewelry While Using an Infrared Sauna Blanket?

Experts state that when using a sauna blanket, you should first remove any metal jewelry because the heat from the sauna can heat the jewelry and cause it to burn your skin.

It could also become damaged from the heat, especially if it’s synthetic jewelry,

which is why it is also recommended you avoid wearing synthetic clothing while using the sauna.

They stress that you should also remove any creams or lotions from your skin before using the sauna blanket because it can clog your pores and thus prevent you from achieving the beneficial sweating that infrared therapy provides.

As you sweat, the creams or lotions can also seep inside the blanket, which can stain the blanket and your clothes and make them harder to clean.

However, wearing deodorant is okay, but you may consider using a clear-colored product to avoid stains.

How Do I Maximize a Sauna Blanket?

There are a few things you can do to help maximize a sauna blanket. For instance, if you are a beginner or you are just a bit more sensitive to heat, set the blanket to about 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which will enable you to use the device longer and receive the full benefits.

Some brands also recommend placing a towel inside the blanket to help collect your sweat and then wrapping yourself in the soft contraption for added comfort. It also helps make clean up a cinch.

Once you are done with your session, experts recommend taking a warm shower to help remove any lingering toxins and impurities from the skin.

It also helps keep your pores open, which enables your skin to better absorb your soaps, creams, and lotions, thus enhancing the healthy, radiant glow produced from the blanket.

You should also be sure to thoroughly wipe down your sauna blanket using a sanitizer or mild cleanser after each use to prevent bacteria build-up, which can make it unsanitary and cause it to smell. It can also make you ill.

To prevent mold and mildew growth in the blanket, be sure to also let the blanket fully dry before folding it up and storing it away.

When using the blanket, it is also important to ensure it is completely open and laid flat before getting into it, which allows the components to be fully exposed so you can receive the full benefits.

What is the Best Time of Day to Use a Sauna Blanket?

Experts advise that the best time to use a sauna blanket is in the morning to help jump-start your body’s processes and get you ready for the day or in the evening right before bedtime to help prepare for a good night’s sleep.

But any time of the day you use an infrared sauna blanket is good.

However, it is not recommended that you use the blanket after consuming a meal, so be sure to wait at least 1 to 2 hours after eating breakfast, dinner, lunch, or a snack to use the portable sauna.

Or you could use the blanket before meals to help boost your metabolism, which will help you burn more calories when you do eat.

Since sauna blankets help with muscle recovery post-exercise, you can also schedule your infrared heat therapy immediately following your workouts for maximum benefits.