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Some people practice self care by taking baths, others practice it by cuddling up with a good book. For some, sweating it out in the infrared sauna at the local wellness center does the trick—or now, in their own homes. Thanks to innovations in at-home wellness-tech, infrared saunas are no longer just a fancy treatment provided at solely at spas and gyms. Now, with an increased interest in bringing wellness into the home, there are at-home infrared saunas aplenty, allowing anyone who wants to sweat it out in the comfort of their own homes to do so. If you’ve ever played with the idea of adding an infrared sauna into your home, we’ve done the research for you. From benefits to cost and an explainer on how infrared saunas actually work, we tapped the experts to get all the information you need to make a well-informed purchase. Not ready to commit to a full-blown sauna? We’ve also done the research on infrared blankets, a smaller and more convenient option to take your self-care journey to the next level.
Experts in This Article
cardiologist and CEO of Palm Health
neurologist and chief medical officer of Palm Health
Best infrared saunas at a glance
- Best portable: SereneLife Portable Infrared Sauna, $220
- Best splurge: HigherDose Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna, $8,999
- Best budget stand-up: SereneLife Portable Sauna Box, $324
- Best 3-person: Dynamic Saunas Maxxus 3, $2,899
- Best 2-person: HeatWave Coronado 2-Person Ceramic Infrared Sauna, $2,600
- Best stowable: Sunlighten Solo System Portable Sauna, $2,600
- Best sauna blanket: HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket, $699
- Best sauna blanket runner-up: Hydragun HeatPod Sauna Blanket 2, $599
- Best budget sauna blanket: LifePro Rejuvawrap Sauna Blanket, $280
Benefits of using an infrared sauna
While typical saunas heat the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared rays (something the eye can’t see) to penetrate into your skin and muscles, directly heating your body. According to Lauren Dal Farra, MD, cardiologist and CEO of Palm Health, that process can result in some health perks.
Self-reported benefits include, “increased relaxation, improved skin clarity and elasticity, decreased pain, and increased well-being from using the infrared sauna,” says Dr. Dal Farra. Neurologist Sita Kedia, MD, the chief medical officer at Palm Health, says at-home infrared saunas may also help you sleep better at night.
“People report that regular infrared sauna sessions help improve the quality and onset of sleep. Improved sleep may be attributed to multiple factors, including increased muscle relaxation, pain reduction, decreases in cortisol, and the cardiovascular benefits of increased blood flow and circulation,” says Dr. Kedia. “We also know that routine cardiovascular exercise improves quantity and quality of sleep. Saunas simulate the changes seen with cardiovascular exercise, which may be one of the primary drivers for saunas to improve sleep in individuals.”
Additionally, several studies demonstrate that repeated infrared thermal therapy improves vascular endothelial function1. “Regular use of an infrared sauna may provide many of the same cardiovascular conditioning benefits as exercise,” Dr. Dal Farra says.
Ready to find an at-home sauna for yourself? Scroll on to explore a range of the best infrared sauna options that can help you get your sweat on in the comfort of your home.
Shop the best infrared saunas and sauna blankets
It’s no secret that at-home saunas can run a high price tag. If you’re on a budget and want to give a portable sauna a try without breaking the bank, the SereneLife Infrared Home Spa is like having a personal spa wherever you go—and it’s under $200. This affordable sauna comes with a foldable chair so you can sit and relax while being surrounded by heat, and there’s a wired remote to let you adjust the temperature up to 140° Fahrenheit and time up to 60 minutes. Once you’re done using it, you can easily collapse and fold it down for space-saving storage.
- Dimensions: 27.6 x 31.5 x 37.8 inches
- Highest temperature: Up to 140° Fahrenheit
- Power source: 120V, 1050 W
- Features: Portable design, energy and power efficient, heated foot pad
Pros:
- 140° F maximum temperature
- Foldable and portable
- Affordable
- Includes a chair
Cons:
- Small
- Heating may be inconsistent
For those who want to go full luxe, HigherDose has got you covered again. This sauna not only looks sleek with its black exterior, but it also can fit you and two buddies (there’s a two-person version as well). It has a wood exterior, red Canadian cedar interior, and low EMF carbon heaters on the back and side walls and floor. The full spectrum infrared heat penetrates, energizes, and helps increases blood flow all at once, and there’s a removable bench so you lay down. Plus, color light therapy and an upgraded entertainment system (an iPad holder and Bluetooth) complete this state-of-the-art-sauna experience.
- Dimensions: 71 x 48 x 77 inches
- Highest temperature: Up to 174° Fahrenheit
- Power source: 120V
- Features: Swivel iPad holder, Bluetooth, color therapy lights
Pros:
- Full spectrum infrared heat
- Fits up to three people
- Color light therapy
- Built-in sound system
- Removable bench
Cons:
- Expensive
- Large footprint
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to pay big bucks to get a stand-up infrared sauna for your house. The SereneLife Portable 1-Person Sauna ticks off all of the boxes in terms of size and function without breaking the bank. We love this portable sauna because you can easily set it up and step inside to enjoy up to 60 minutes of 140° Fahrenheit infrared heat. The budget-friendly home sauna also comes with a built-in warming pad for the feet, too, so you can get nice and cozy from head to toe.
This 1-person sauna also features a 1,300-watt high-power heating element, which creates more efficient heating and allows the device to warm up fast. Similar to other styles on our list, it has a remote controller that allows you to customize the heat and time settings to your preference. And, while you can technically stand up in it, it also comes with a sauna chair that folds down for easy storage.
- Dimensions: 71 x 16 x 43 inches
- Highest temperature: Up to 140° Fahrenheit
- Power source: 120V
- Features: Heated foot pad, portable design
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Warming pad for feet
- Affordable
Cons:
- Only fits one person
If space isn’t an issue in your home, this 3-person sauna gives you a lot of room to relax by yourself or with a friend or two. The sauna features nine energy-efficient FAR infrared heating panels that evenly distribute the heat, bringing a professional sauna experience into your home. This Dynamic sauna is specifically designed with recovery in mind, as the infrared warms the body’s core temperature and promotes detoxification while promoting glowing skin, improved blood circulation, less joint pain, and faster muscle recovery.
The sauna is also pretty to look at, as it’s made from reforested Canadian Hemlock wood, and the door features a tempered glass panel to give you privacy. For added therapeutic benefits, the luxe at-home sauna features chromo therapy lights, which utilize the science of color and how the color relates to (and addresses) different physical symptoms (plus, it looks really cool).
- Dimensions: 64 x 44 x 75 inches
- Highest temperature: Up to 140° Fahrenheit
- Power source: 110V
- Features: Low EMF, 2 dynamic speakers
Pros:
- Fits up to three people
- Carbon heating panels on rear, side, floor, and under the bench
- Built-in sound system and bench
Cons:
- Large
- Expensive
If you and a workout buddy need a spot to help speed up your muscle recovery process, this sauna has got you covered. The HeatWave Coronado Ceramic Infrared Sauna features stunning walls made from Canadian hemlock wood to help provide more even heat distribution throughout the sauna. Additionally, it has a super user-friendly LED control panel, so you can easily adjust the settings to your liking.
We also love this salon-worthy sauna because it has full-spectrum color therapy, allowing you to utilize the science of color to address certain physical symptoms, including skin concerns and stress. The at-home sauna also has an integrated sound system to let you chill out to your favorite tunes or listen to the latest episode of a podcast.
- Dimensions: 47.75 x 39.25 x 75 inches
- Highest temperature: Up to 141° Fahrenheit
- Power source: 120V, 1600W
- Features: Full spectrum color therapy, CD player, radio, and aux input
Pros:
- Integrated sound system
- Color therapy system
Cons:
- Large
- Expensive
The Solo System has everything you could want in an at-home infrared sauna. While it takes up far less space than a traditional walk-in infrared sauna (and can easily be taken apart and stored), you still get the exact same experience… but better. All three parts—the upper dome, lower dome, and pad—heat up individually, allowing you to choose different temperatures for different areas. It also has a sustainable bamboo fiber exterior (which is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and naturally deodorizing), an ergonomic design, a comfy plush memory foam pad to lie on, and nine different heat settings.
Aside from the comfort of the heat surrounding your body, it also has built-in chromotherapy lighting. You can choose from multiple different colors, which can be incredibly therapeutic, helping your body calm on a deeper level.
- Dimensions: 69 x 28 x 18 inches
- Highest temperature: 150° Fahrenheit
- Power source: 120V, 1260W
- Features: Chromotherapy lighting, 5 Zone-based digital heaters
Pros:
- Chromatherapy lighting
- Ergonomic design
- Sustainable, natural materials
- Portable
Cons:
- Expensive
HigherDose began as a luxe, private infrared studio in New York City, but is now dedicated to bringing that salon-worthy sweat experience to the comfort of your home with the coveted HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket. Loved by celebrities such as Selena Gomez, Gwyneth Paltrow, Bethenny Frankel, and more, the HigherDose Sauna Blanket is a must for those who want the benefits of a full-sized sauna without worrying about it taking up too much space.
This blanket utilizes far infrared rays (aka, light waves) that help heat your body’s core temperature to support detoxification, pain relief, and muscle recovery. It also features layers of charcoal, crystals, clay, and a magnetic layer to draw out impurities, balance the heat, improve blood flow and circulation, and fight free radicals while grounding the body and deepening the benefits of infrared heat. On top of all of this, you can roll the blanket up and store it in the brand’s Sauna Blanket Bag, which comes with comfortable backpack-style straps for travel.
Read the our full review of the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket here.
- Dimensions: 32 x 72 inches
- Highest temperature: 158° Fahrenheit
- Power source: 100-120V, 350-420W
- Features: Low EMF, magnetic grounding layer, crystal therapy
Pros:
- 60-minute run time
- Made of waterproof polyurethane fireproof cotton
- Foldable
- Has charcoal, clay, and magnetic layers
- Built-in crystal therapy
Cons:
- Can only use it laying down
- Expensive
The Hydragun HeatPod is very similar to the HigherDose blanket, above. Similar to HigherDose, it has a 60 minute run time, 176 degrees Fahrenheit heat, and a durable vegan leather sleeping bag-like enclosure. Since the unfolded blanket measures 71 inches by 71 inches and is made out of vegan leather, it definitely takes some effort to lug around—but it’s worth it. Accompanying the sauna blanket: a storage bag, user manual, and plug-in remote control with buttons for power, temperature, and a timer.
The HeatPod can reach anywhere between 86 and 176°F, and it’ll stay on for 5-60 minutes. Lastly, it uses infrared heat therapy to soothe your muscles and relieve your stress—at least that’s what it did for me. As an avid runner, I slipped myself into this sauna blanket during post-workout recovery and, as a menstruator, I snuggled in it when I had menstrual cramps. The Hydragun HeatPod Sauna Blanket is definitely pricey, but I think it’s worth the splurge.
- Dimensions: 71 x 71 inches
- Highest temperature: Up to 176° Fahrenheit
- Power source: 100-120V, 550-600W
- Features: Storage bag, infrared heat
Pros:
- High-tech
- Works great for menstrual cramps
- Soothes muscles sore from exercise
Cons:
- Added accessories (like a towel or footrest) bring the cost up
This blanket from LifePro has a temperature range of 77° to 176° Fahrenheit and five layers—including a top waterproof layer and a bottom, non-toxic PU leather layer—to help your body detox and combat inflammation. We love this at-home sauna blanket because it comes with a built-in timer that ranges from 5 to 60 minutes and allows you to completely customize your time spent sweating, depending on your schedule—you can squeeze in a sweat session anytime during the day, even if it’s only for a few minutes.
Designed to promote detoxification with the benefits of far-infrared light, this at-home sauna blanket compares to its competitors (but costs a bit less) by promoting blood circulation, muscle recovery, and more. The sauna also comes in various colors with five disposable thermal wraps, a head towel, and a carrying bag that makes it easy to bring it with you while on the go.
- Dimensions: 71 x 36 inches
- Highest temperature: Up to 176° Fahrenheit
- Power source: Not listed
- Features: Carrying bag, towel, zero EMF, multiple color options
Pros:
- Temperature range from 77℉ to 176℉
- Waterproof top layer
- Large controller
- Timer can be set from 5-60 minutes
Cons:
- May not be as durable as more expensive options
Frequently asked questions about at-home saunas
How do infrared saunas work?
“During an infrared sauna session, infrared light penetrates the skin, and the core body temperature increases. The body has to work hard to cool itself and maintain thermal regulation,” says Dr. Dal Farra. “As a result, the body induces sweating, vasodilates arteries, and increases the heart rate and volume of blood pumped by the heart each minute. The effect is similar to that achieved by walking at a moderate pace.”
Infrared saunas vs. sauna blankets
Chances are, the word “sauna” conjures up images of a small, warm room with areas for people to sit or lie down on while they unwind. Traditional infrared saunas look like this and are designed to provide users with a designated space to relax in. But given how expensive these separate rooms can cost, brands have created alternatives that work just as well, without the hefty price tag. These options include portable infrared saunas that pop-up like a tent, smaller, dome-like structures users can lie down in, and infrared masks or belts that provide concentrated relief in the form of a wearable.
The most popular alternative is a sauna blanket, which is just a sauna disguised as a sleeping bag. Designed to be laid in, they’re typically less expensive than traditional, walled-in infrared saunas and are much lighter and more portable, allowing users to relax anywhere they can find an electrical outlet.
How much does an at-home infrared sauna cost?
The price ultimately depends on model and type. Larger, permanent walk-in saunas range anywhere from the $2,500-$10,000 price range, although these are definitely at the most luxurious end of the spectrum. Portable options—which include infrared sauna blankets—can cost anywhere from $150-$700, depending on the style and model.
How to use an infrared sauna
In order to reap the potential benefits of infrared saunas, all you need to do is dedicate a tiny fraction of your day. “We observe that benefits begin at sessions of at least 15 minutes in length. Depending on your health condition, we recommend starting at 15 minutes and working up to 45-minute sessions,” says Dr. Dal Farra. “If you’re using the infrared sauna for cardiovascular and metabolic benefits, I recommend around four sessions per week, or 12 to 15 sessions over three weeks. The temperature of the infrared sauna is typically between 110°F to 130°F.”
- Lin, Chih-Ching, et al. "Far Infrared Therapy Inhibits Vascular Endothelial Inflammation via the Induction of Heme Oxygenase-1." Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, vol. 28, no. 4, (2008): 739–745. https://doi.org/10.1161/atvbaha.107.160085. ↩︎
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