4 Best Infrared Sauna Blankets to Buy in Australia for At-Home Recovery (Updated DEC 2023)

Last Updated on 05/12/2023 By Jessica Chai

Results of an online survey “A hot topic for health: Results of the Global Sauna Survey” published by Hussain et al. in 2019 found that sauna-bathing participants from Australia and other countries use saunas primarily for stress reduction, better sleep, and mental wellness.

Now, imagine getting these health benefits and more in the comfort of your home.

And we are not talking about building a home sauna. We meant using the trendy infrared sauna blanket.

With this ingenious wellness product, you no longer need to visit traditional or steam sauna studios for treatment.

But how do these sauna blankets work exactly? And most importantly, are they practical, safe, and affordable?

To answer these questions, we will highlight the function of infrared sauna blankets and their health benefits based on science and research.

We also tried the best infrared sauna blankets in Australia to see whether these innovative products are worth adding to your wellness routine.

We will emphasise crucial product features as well as their pros and cons.

Then, at the end of the review, we will identify our top pick according to our standards.

Also, don’t forget to check our short buying guide and FAQ section for more helpful information.

The 4 Best Infrared Sauna Blankets Australia:

1. Best Zero-EMF Design – HeatPod by Hydragun
2. Best Budget – Steady State Infrared Sauna Blanket
3. Best Portable – MiHigh Infrared Sauna Blanket
4. Best Extra-Large – SaunaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket

What is an Infrared Sauna Blanket?

An infrared sauna blanket is a portable heating device that looks like a sleeping bag. The outside is usually polyurethane leather, while the inside is waterproof fabric.

To use it, plug in the sauna blanket, then slip into it, covering your feet up your shoulders. You can use the zippers or Velcros on the device for a secure fit and to trap the heat.

The effect of an infrared sauna on the body is the same as its traditional counterpart. So, expect increased heart rate, profuse sweating, and vasodilation during treatment.

However, infrared sauna blankets use different means to stimulate these body reactions.

Specifically, researchers call it far-infrared light (Dr Luigi Cristiano 2019). This technology uses electromagnetic radiation to generate heat and penetrate your tissues, cells, and organs, warming your body from the inside out.

It’s different from a traditional sauna or steam room that heats the air to make you sweat.

But while infrared sauna blankets emit electromagnetic fields (EMF), it is not a cause for concern.

These heating devices work like any appliance or gadget that generates non-ionising radiation, such as microwave ovens, mobile devices and computers. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (2022), low EMFs are perceived as harmless to people.

Aside from infrared technology, sauna blankets also work in a lower temperature range.

Traditional saunas generate heat between 65.55°C (150°F) and 90.55°C (195°F), whereas infrared devices work between 43.33°C (110°F) and 57.22°C (135°F).

Functional medicine specialist Dr Melissa Young from Cleveland Clinic explains that this lower temperature makes the infrared sauna an equally beneficial yet more tolerable and comfortable option.

Most people can withstand infrared temperature levels, allowing them to sweat and detoxify for longer.

Is Infrared Sauna Blanket Worth It for Recovery?

Saunas, in general, are becoming a trend. And it’s mainly because of several health claims and promotions, from detoxification to better circulation to increased metabolism (The New York Times 2023).

With infrared sauna blankets, a few studies also found these devices beneficial for people needing relief and recovery.

For instance, one research published in the International Heart Journal in 2014 concluded that using intermittent infrared blanket sessions as an adjunct therapy helps patients with decompensated heart failure.

Specifically, researchers noted how thermotherapy or heat acts as a vasodilator for the participants, increasing their heart performance or cardiac index.

A study by Oosterveld and others (2009) published in the journal of Clinical Rheumatology also found positive effects of infrared sauna in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

In the 4-week treatment period, the participants showed significant clinical improvements, including reduced stiffness, fatigue, and pain.

Similarly, a group of researchers found that Waon therapy can help treat patients with CSF or chronic fatigue syndrome (Soejima et al. 2015).

Waon is a type of thermotherapy using the far-infrared dry sauna. And after treatment, the participants reported reduced perceived fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

An earlier research in 2005 also noted that CSF patients had reduced fatigue, pain, and sleep disturbance after repeated far-infrared ray dry sauna sessions (Masuda et al. in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research).

And lastly, in a 10-person study, Mero and others conducted in 2015 concluded that far-infrared sauna bathing is good for neuromuscular system recovery after strength and endurance training.

Researchers linked this finding to deep penetration, mild temperature, and light humidity of far-infrared therapy.

Undoubtedly, infrared saunas provide varying forms of relief, whether you are recovering from a medical condition or an intense workout session.

More importantly, all studies cited did not see any adverse effect of using an infrared sauna.

Comparison & Reviews of the Top 4 Infrared Sauna Blankets:

Here’s an overview of the infrared sauna blankets we’ve tested for quick comparison. Scroll down further for an in-depth review of each.

1. Best Zero-EMF Design- HeatPod by Hydragun

Hydragun’s HeatPod is one of the best infrared sauna blankets in Australia as it has both comfort and safety in mind. With its well-chosen construction materials and zero-EMF heating coils, the HeatPod is the best partner for satisfying and worry-free sauna sessions.

Features

After testing different Hydragun recovery products, like its HeatPulse Knee Massager and Atom Mini Massage Gun, I can confidently say the brand never fails to impress.

And the new HeatPod Infrared Sauna Blanket is no different. Right after unboxing, I immediately noticed the things I liked about the product.

Its soft leather exterior, for example, looks and feels high quality. I researched a bit and found that this is premium SGS-certified vegan leather, which is also sweat-resistant. 

I was also happy that, unlike the Velcro closure of the Steady State and SaunaWrap units, HeatPod sports a heavy-duty zipper design.

It made it easy for me to get in and out of the blanket. But I do wish there was zipper access from the inside.

The Hydragun HeatPod weighs around 8.5 kg and is pretty heavy for a small person like me. However, taking it anywhere shouldn’t be a problem, thanks to the zippered carry case included.

I was expecting the weight, in a way, considering that it is an electric device and the size should fit one person.

Specifically, the HeatPod sauna blanket is 190 x 180 cm when unfolded and has an interior circumference of 165 cm. And this size can accommodate users up to 196 cm tall (6’5”).

The remote beeps when the time is up. And it also comes with an auto shut-off function – 100% handy for people like me who love to nap and sauna.

Set up is no sweat (sorry for the pun!) either. All I had to do was connect the cord to the blanket, plug it in, choose my settings, and get ready to feel toasty!

I like that its power cord is long enough, allowing me to position the blanket and the remote control how I want them.

But the icing on the cake would have to be HeatPod’s densely wound heating coils. Aside from generating even heat, these also emit zero electromagnetic fields (EMF) or radiation.

Not to sound too technical, but these heating elements are Faraday-shielded to cancel out any EMF generated.

That only means you can enjoy regular at-home sauna treatments with total peace of mind. You can even complement your HeatPod with a matching Hydragun towel, pillow, and footrest for the ultimate sauna experience!

Overall

The Hydragun HeatPod is how you would imagine a high-quality sauna blanket – soft, safe, and warm. Athletes, gym enthusiasts, or anyone needing quick heat therapy will surely appreciate having this at home.

I like using it after an intense workout to reduce body aches and feel completely sore-free the next day!

The upfront cost may be a little higher for the Hydragun HeatPod than other sauna blankets. But after seeing its science-based construction and experiencing its user-friendly operation and effects, I can say this sauna innovation is worth the investment.

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2. Best Budget – Steady State Infrared Sauna Blanket

If you like heat-based body treatments but are not yet ready to invest in a premium device, consider getting the Steady State Infrared Sauna Blanket. While relatively new in the wellness industry, this 100% local Aussie small business was able to put low-cost and function into one recovery product.

Features

I was interested in trying this infrared sauna blanket mainly because Steady State is a new wellness brand headquartered in Melbourne.

The family-owned company only started in 2020 and was since driven to introduce recovery tools that are quality and effective yet affordable.

And I quickly added it to my list of the best infrared sauna blankets in Australia, considering it has features at par with other high-end and well-known brands.

For instance, it sports the same durable PU leather exterior and a generous blanket size of 180 x 180 cm. Its length is the same as MiHigh but with a wider width to accommodate more body types.

However, these size and material features make this sauna blanket slightly heavier than similar models. Still, portability is not a problem with the handy carry case included.

When I climbed in, I felt like being swaddled in a weighted blanket, and I was sweaty in no time. The experience was generally comfortable and relaxing.

The only issue I encountered would be the Velcro closure, similar to SaunaWrap. While it creates the perfect seal to retain heat, it also makes getting in and out of the blanket slightly challenging.

A zipper design, I think, would have made it better and perhaps can help preserve blanket quality.

Nonetheless, it’s a minor design flaw, which does not affect its excellent performance. More importantly, the Steady State blanket underwent rigorous EMF tests and met strict Australian standards.

Overall

Steady State Infrared Sauna Blanket allowed me to enjoy home-based heat therapy at nearly half the price of similar devices. And this alone makes it ideal for people into occasional, private sauna sessions.

Best of all, getting this blanket gives you all the infrared sauna benefits while supporting a small local business.

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3. Best Portable – MiHigh Infrared Sauna Blanket V2

MiHigh is among the best infrared sauna blankets in Australia because of its brand reliability. It’s also one of the companies that first introduced sauna blankets. And recently, they’ve upgraded their original unit into a more user-friendly and portable device.

Features

When placed side by side, the MiHigh V2 resembles the Hydragun HeatPod. So, I would like to zoom in more on the similarities and differences between these two.

And one obvious similarity is their zip closures, which I prefer. Aside from making it easier to get in and out of the blanket, the zip design will not collect hair or lint like Velcro seals.

The original MiHigh used to have the Velcro patch, like the Steady State and SaunaWrap units. So, I’m glad the company improved that in the upgraded model.

Both sauna blanket units fall within the same price category, too. And like the Hydragun bundle packages, you can add the Experience Kit to your MiHigh blanket purchase.  

The kit includes microfibre towels and a spray bottle for cleaning, a headband for catching sweat, and a towel insert if you prefer sauna sessions undressed.

In terms of size, MiHigh V2 and Hydragun suit user heights up to 196 cm. But I also noticed that MiHigh is slightly narrower with an unfolded measurement of 180 x 157 cm.

I find the blanket easier to fold and store inside the carry bag with this reduced size. However, while it boosts portability, you may want to measure your body size before buying to ensure a good fit with enough wiggle room.

The differences between MiHigh V2 and HeatPod were more evident when I used the sauna blankets. For instance, instead of setting your desired temperature for your session, MiHigh has nine heat levels to choose from that range from 25°C to 75°C.

While my ideal temperature is at 70°C and still within MiHigh’s heat range, others may find its maximum temperature too low. Also, some users may not like pre-set heat levels.

But based on my trial session, I like heat levels 7 and 8 the best, while level 9 is too hot for me. And honestly, I thought it was easier to work with only nine heat levels rather than press the temp button multiple times.

Also, after trying several sauna blankets, I noticed there’s minimal temperature difference between 60°C and 65°C, for example. So, distributing a wide temperature range into a few heat levels seems logical.

Now how about safety features? Don’t worry. MiHigh V2 has an auto shut-off function, so you can set the timer, nap, and let the blanket work its magic.

It doesn’t have zero-EMF heating coils like the HeatPod, though. But MiHigh V2 is a low-EMF sauna blanket and perfectly safe.

Overall

A highly portable infrared sauna blanket is not all about having a small size and minimal weight. It should also be easy to use, no matter where you are.

And with MiHigh V2’s zip closure, user-friendly controls, and easy-to-clean interior, this blanket is the perfect partner for on-the-go sauna sessions.

People who like to travel, athletes who train in various locations, or those who prefer saunas at lower heat levels will appreciate this upgraded MiHigh blanket.

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4. Best Extra-Large – SaunaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket

Swaddling yourself in a warm, heavy sauna blanket can be uncomfortable and claustrophobic. The solution? Get a generously sized blanket like the SaunaWrap. Aside from having extra wiggle room, this US-made device is toxin-free and low-EMF, too.

Features

I know. Sweating while wrapped like a burrito is not the most pleasant feeling. But you can still enjoy the benefits of infrared sauna sessions by using a bigger or more spacious sauna blanket.

And this one by SaunaWrap is the perfect candidate for the job. With an unfolded size of 187 x 183cm, it can fit users up to 198 cm (6’6”).

Like other best infrared sauna blankets in Australia, the SaunaWrap includes a carry case. So, storing or transporting a large blanket like this is not a problem.

I also find the quality of the SaunaWrap to be top-notch. The exterior is soft, but the entire blanket feels heavy-duty.

The manufacturer says the material is a combination of vegan and polyurethane leather. And like the MiHigh blanket, it’s also ROHS compliant, meaning it is non-toxic.

So, what was it like using a large sauna blanket? Admittedly, getting into it for my trial session was tricky for a small person like me. I’m 163 cm and around 56 kg.

And the nearly 10kg SaunaWrap was heftier than all the other sauna blankets I had tested. It is understandable, though, considering its size and material.

The remote control is similar to MiHigh without the up and down buttons for the temperature and timer. But there are no pre-set heat levels.

Like the Steady State blanket, you have total control over how hot and long your infrared sessions will be. Still, Hydragun HeatPod’s maximum temperature is higher, though.

According to the Patriot Health Alliance website, the maker of the SaunaWrap, the feeling and benefits you get depends on the duration of your sauna session.

So, I tried doing that at 70°C – my ideal temperature level. And true enough, I felt better after my 45-minute session than the 15 and 30-minute sauna time.

I guess sweating for longer has a lot to do with it. It’s a similar feeling you get after doing an intense workout.

Overall

Having my sauna in the more spacious SaunaWrap blanket enhanced the experience. It felt less constricting and made longer sauna sessions pleasant and more bearable.

However, the blanket was too heavy for me, which affected the product’s ease of use and portability. This observation only means that matching your body type with the size of the blanket is essential.

And so, I think a sauna blanket like this is best for users with a larger build or athletes into body-building or strength training.

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The Winner – HeatPod Infrared Sauna Blanket by Hydragun

All the infrared sauna blankets are excellent, functional, and have unique features that would likely meet individual user needs or preferences.

However, the Health Constitution product testers and reviewers unanimously agree that the HeatPod Infrared Sauna Blanket by Hydragun is the crème de la crème.

We think that the HeatPod has the best specs for its price. Its high-quality construction means a long-lasting product and a worthwhile investment.

With its wide temperature range and good blanket size, the HeatPod will also suit most users of any height or body build.

Even beginners will not have trouble setting it up or working with its user-friendly remote control.

We also liked how the blanket allows more precision and control so you can personalise your sauna experience.

And finally, the unique zero-EMF design, which we did not see in the other blankets tested, is a huge plus.  

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What are the Benefits of Using an Infrared Sauna Blanket for Recovery?

Infrared sauna sessions increase the heart rate and induce sweating, enhancing your physical and mental wellness.

Earlier, we also discussed how heat therapy helps with pain relief and body recovery.

And while far-infrared technology and sauna blankets are relatively new, a few studies were able to cite other potential benefits, including:

• Better heart health and blood circulation. One study found moderate evidence that far-infrared sauna can normalise blood pressure (Beever 2009). Källström and others (2018) also linked infrared sauna baths with short-term improvements in cardiac function among heart failure patients. Other researchers associated far-infrared radiation with stimulated nitric oxide production (Park et al. 2013). This compound is a known blood vessel relaxant, resulting in improved circulation.

• Body detoxification. Health experts say the human body eliminates toxins through the intestine, liver, and kidneys (UAMS Health 2019), not by sweating. However, one study noted the prominence of toxic elements in sweat, including arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury (Sears et al. 2012). Another research also concluded that bisphenol A, a chemical contaminant, can be eliminated through induced sweating (Genius et al. 2012), like in infrared saunas.

• Rejuvenated skin. Infrared saunas promote sweating. And research shows that sweat contributes to increased and maintained skin hydration (Shiohara et al. 2018). Researchers also linked infrared radiation to increased collagen and elastin production, enhancing the skin’s look and feel (Lee et al. 2006). However, more studies are necessary for this infrared sauna benefit due to mixed expert opinions.

• Reduced stress levels. A few studies discussed the effects of heat therapy on the endocrine system, particularly on the level of cortisol or the stress hormone. For instance, Kukkonen-Harjula and others (1989) noted decreased cortisol among participants after heat exposure in a Finnish sauna bath. Similarly, mildly depressed patients showed significantly improved appetite and relaxation scores after repeated thermal therapy (Masuda et al. 2005b).

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Is At-Home Sauna Blanket Good for Weight Loss?

There is little evidence supporting the ability of sauna blankets to aid weight loss. Some say they weigh a little less after their session, but it’s likely due to water loss, not fat or calories. Sauna leads to water weight loss through sweat, which you can quickly regain by eating or drinking.

Are Sauna Blankets Safe to Use at Home?

High-quality sauna blankets are generally safe for at-home use. However, if you are pregnant or have pre-existing conditions, it’s best to consult a health professional first. Buying a sauna blanket with low electromagnetic field (EMF) emission, keeping track of your sauna frequency, and following manufacturer instructions also ensure safety.

Is an Infrared Sauna Blanket the Same as Sauna Sleeping Bag?

Some manufacturers refer to infrared sauna blankets as sauna sleeping bags since both share a cocoon-like design. Either product requires its users to lie down during their far-infrared light treatment. But these are different from a sauna bag, which has a tent-like design and uses steam to generate heat.

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How to Choose an Infrared Sauna Blanket for Muscle Recovery

While the best infrared sauna blankets in Australia have all the right features, each is unique.

And so, you must understand a few product specs to ensure you’re getting the sauna blanket that meets your needs.

Here are some key factors to check:

• Material. Remember that your body is in direct contact with the blanket during your infrared sauna session. Also, you will be sweaty while inside. So, it is essential to find a unit with materials that are durable, easy to clean, and not irritating to your skin.

• Size and weight. You will likely store the blanket away after every use, so get one that is not too big or heavy. Most infrared sauna blankets can accommodate a person about 175 cm to 196 cm tall. So, if you are taller, check the blanket dimensions before buying. Alternatively, look for a pliable blanket that allows you to bend your knees inside.

• Portability. Size and weight considerations are also crucial if you plan to take and use your blanket on the go. Getting one with a convenient carry bag is recommended for easy storage and transport. Keep in mind that sauna blankets of higher quality are usually bulkier and heavier.

• Temperature range. All infrared sauna blankets have adjustable temperatures, but some can get hotter than others. And this factor depends on your preference or the temperature level you can tolerate. A range from 26°C (78.8°F) to 60°C (140°F) is perfect for most users and beginners. Other users will likely feel better at higher temperatures.

• Ease of use. This one depends on the design of your sauna blanket. For instance, some units are like sleeping bags, while others have arm holes so you can move more freely. Consider checking the remote control for the settings as well. Ensure they are user-friendly and easy to reach while you’re in the blanket. Also, older blanket models have Velcro closures to trap the heat. But if you want to get in and out of the blanket more easily, look for units with double-sided zippers instead.

• Safety features. Some people like to sleep or nap while using the infrared sauna blanket. If this is you, get a blanket with an auto shut-off. Some models also automatically shut off when it reaches your desired temperature to avoid overheating. A blanket with a timer is another good feature.

• Warranty. Most infrared sauna blankets come with short or limited warranty coverages. But, in most cases, a 1-year warranty for this product suggests good quality. So, opt for established brands, and check their customer service and return policies. Read reviews and customer feedback as well.

• Budget. Based on the items we’ve tested and reviewed, the best infrared sauna blankets in Australia cost between $500 and $750. There are more affordable units, though. But generally, these blankets are quite an investment, so study your options well. Ensure your choice ticks all the boxes and is within your price range.

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What Are Our Evaluation Criteria?

As for this infrared sauna review, we evaluated and picked the best blankets according to four factors we think are the most important for all types of users.

Quality. We focused on how the brands design and create their products, particularly the materials used and their testing procedures or certifications.	Price. Infrared sauna blankets can be pricey. So, we want to feature options for different budget categories and highlight what makes each blanket a good buy.
Low EMF. Infrared sauna blankets emit non-ionising radiation or EMF that is generally safe for humans. But we also wanted to identify and select which ones have low or zero EMF emissions.	Test. We weighed the pros and cons of each test blanket based on our overall experience. We wanted to see how easy they were to use, store, and clean. Most importantly, we assessed how comfortable the sauna sessions were.

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Who Should Not Use an Infrared Sauna Blanket?

Children six years old and below should avoid sauna therapy because of their lower thermoregulation ability (Gomes et al. 2013). Likewise, older individuals should refrain from infrared saunas due to heat stress risks (Kenny et al. 2010).

Experts from the American Pregnancy Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) also say that overheating the body is not ideal during pregnancy. It is risky to put unnecessary strain on the mother’s body, especially during the first trimester when the baby’s body and brain are developing.

More research is still necessary to explain other infrared sauna contraindications. But generally, people on medications and with pre-existing conditions or implants should talk to their doctors before using an infrared sauna blanket.

Should You Shower Before or After Using Infrared Sauna Blankets?

Taking a shower before your sauna session is best to keep your blanket clean and prevent bacterial buildup. Ideally, make this a habit, especially if you are using a shared sauna blanket.

A warm shower before your sauna therapy also preps the body and opens the pores.

You’ll likely be sweaty after your infrared sauna session, and taking a shower after therapy should wash away released toxins and bacteria.

Should You Wear Clothes in An Infrared Sauna Blanket?

It’s best to wear loose and breathable clothing during your infrared sauna session, whether you are using a personal or shared blanket. You can also wear a bathing suit or wrap a towel around your neck.

Aside from being more hygienic, your sauna clothes can absorb most of the sweat post-session, making your blanket easier to clean.

Also, some sauna blanket materials do not feel comfortable when pressed against bare skin. Your clothes should make warm sauna sessions more pleasant.

Does Infrared Sauna Blanket Use a Lot of Electricity?

Compared with traditional saunas, infrared sauna blankets have a lower power consumption.

Of course, the exact cost will vary depending on your local cost per kilowatt-hour, the kilowatt rating of your blanket, and the extent of use.

Still, a more compact device, like a sauna blanket, generally consumes less electricity. It is also more energy-efficient as it works at a lower temperature and takes less time to heat up.