Sauna Blanket Vs Sauna: Which Is The Best Option For You?

Are you torn between the sweltering embrace of a traditional sauna and the cocoon-like warmth of a modern, convenient sauna blanket? The debate between a sauna blanket vs sauna is more than just choosing between two relaxing experiences; it’s about understanding which option aligns perfectly with your budget, lifestyle, health goals, and personal comfort.

As a wellness enthusiast, I have more than 10 years of experience exploring and evaluating various wellness practices. All this has equipped me with a deep understanding of how sauna blankets and traditional saunas can uniquely contribute to our well-being, drawing from the latest scientific studies and personal insights gained through real-world use.

This article unveils the subtleties of each option to guide you in finding your perfect match for relaxation and health benefits. Prepare to uncover insights that could transform your wellness routine.

Quick Summary

Feature	Sauna Blankets	Traditional Saunas
What They Are	Portable wraps using infrared technology to heat your body directly	Wooden rooms that heat the air to high temperatures using stoves
Ease of Use & Space	Portable, easy to store, perfect for small living spaces	Require dedicated room and permanent installation
How They Feel	Targeted heat surrounding your body like a warm cocoon	All-around heat experience that fills the air around you
Maintenance	Simple wiping down after use	Regular cleaning of wood surfaces and heating elements
Cost	Typically $200-500	$2,000-10,000 plus installation and higher energy costs
Health Benefits	Promotes sweating, relaxation, and circulation with targeted heat	Similar benefits with more intense heat and full-body coverage
Best For	Individuals with limited space/budget who want solo sessions	Those who value authentic experience and social sauna bathing

Medical Disclaimer The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen, including the use of saunas. The author and publisher of this content are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions, preparations, or procedures described in this article.

Understanding Sauna Blankets and Traditional Saunas

Before we dive into the battle of sauna blanket vs sauna, let’s try to understand the basics of saunas and sauna blankets:

What is a Traditional Sauna?

Traditional saunas, often found in Nordic cultures, heat a room to high temperatures using a wood-fired or electric stove to warm stones. Users sit in this wooden room, where temperatures soar between 158-212°F (70-100°C)to induce sweating.

To add to the humidity, you can even throw water on the heated stones, which creates steam, thereby enhancing the sauna experience.

Find the best home sauna with our comprehensive buying guide.

What is a Sauna Blanket?

A sauna blanket is a revolutionary and portable wellness tool designed for the modern age. Picture a lightweight, foldable fabric that wraps around your body and uses infrared technology to deliver heat therapy directly to you.

Unlike the spacious rooms needed for traditional saunas, sauna blankets offer a compact, personal experience that can be used anywhere with an electrical outlet.

Explore our picks for the Best Sauna Blankets this year.

Historical background

Sauna bathing began thousands of years ago in Finland. Think about this: In Finland, they love saunas so much that nearly everyone has access to one. With over 3 million saunas and just 5 million people living there, it’s clear these hot rooms are deeply important to Finnish culture.

Sauna blankets blend ancient relaxation practices with modern infrared technology. While they might seem new, they draw on centuries-old knowledge about the benefits of heat therapy, packaged in a form that fits our busy, space-limited modern lives.

Related: Are Infrared Sauna Blankets Worth it?

How They Work: The Technology Behind the Heat

Both options raise your body temperature and make you sweat, but they achieve this through very different methods:

Traditional Sauna Heating Mechanisms

Traditional saunas warm up the entire room with hot rocks or heaters. The process works like this:

1. A heat source (wood fire or electric heater) warms rocks or heating elements
2. The heated elements warm the air in the sauna room
3. The hot air then warms your body from the outside in
4. Your body temperature rises and you begin to sweat

The experience is similar to sitting near a campfire—everything around you gets warm because of the heat radiating from the source. In Finnish saunas, water is often thrown on hot stones to create löyly (steam), which increases humidity and creates a distinctive sensation when inhaled.

Infrared Technology in Sauna Blankets

Sauna blankets wrap around you like a sleeping bag but work very differently:

1. Infrared heating elements inside the blanket generate invisible light waves
2. These infrared rays penetrate 1-3 inches below your skin’s surface
3. Your body absorbs this energy directly, warming you from within
4. Your core temperature rises, causing you to sweat while the surrounding air stays cool

This targeted approach means sauna blankets heat your body efficiently without needing to heat the entire room. Your head stays outside the blanket, which many people find more comfortable than the all-encompassing heat of a traditional sauna.

Temperature Comparison

The heat experience differs significantly between these options:

Traditional sauna temperatures:

• Typically range from 158-212°F (70-100°C)
• Heat the entire room evenly
• Can be adjusted by adding water to stones (increasing humidity)
• Need 30-45 minutes to fully heat up

Sauna blanket temperatures:

• Usually range from 77-185°F (25-85°C)
• Heat only your body, not the surrounding air
• Offer multiple heat zones and settings for personalized comfort
• Reach operating temperature in 5-10 minutes

This temperature difference explains why many find sauna blankets more tolerable for longer sessions, while traditional saunas deliver a more intense but shorter heat experience.

Health Benefits: What Science Says

Modern research confirms that both sauna types offer impressive health advantages. Let’s look at what science tells us about these heat therapy options.

Shared Benefits

Both traditional saunas and sauna blankets provide several key health improvements:

• Cardiovascular Health – Regular sauna sessions can lower blood pressure and improve heart function, mimicking some benefits of exercise¹
• Stress Reduction – Heat therapy triggers endorphin release, helping reduce stress and promote relaxation²
• Better Sleep – Many users report improved sleep quality after sauna sessions, likely due to the relaxation response and body temperature changes³
• Muscle Recovery – Heat therapy helps muscles recover faster after workouts by increasing blood flow and reducing soreness⁴
• Pain Relief – Regular sauna use can help reduce pain from conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia by relaxing muscles and improving circulation⁵

Unique Benefits of Traditional Saunas

Traditional saunas offer some distinct advantages thanks to their high temperatures and social setting:

• Respiratory Benefits – Steam inhalation in traditional saunas can help open airways and soothe nasal passages, providing relief for those with respiratory issues⁶
• Social Wellness – Shared sauna experiences promote social bonding and community, which research links to better mental health outcomes
• Full-Body Heat Experience – The 70-100°C temperatures create a more intense heat stress response throughout the body, potentially offering stronger cardiovascular benefits⁷

Unique Benefits of Sauna Blankets

Infrared sauna blankets provide their own set of special benefits:

• Deeper Tissue Penetration – Infrared rays can reach 1-3 inches below the skin’s surface, targeting muscles and tissues that air-heated saunas don’t reach as effectively⁸
• Lower Temperature Comfort – The lower operating temperatures (25-80°C) make sauna therapy accessible to those who can’t tolerate the extreme heat of traditional saunas
• Localized Therapy – The direct contact with skin allows for more focused therapy on problem areas like sore backs or stiff joints

I was skeptical about sauna blankets until I tried one for my back pain. Within two weeks of regular use, I noticed less stiffness in the morning and better sleep. The science behind the benefits is impressive, but feeling the results firsthand really convinced me.

Related: Infrared Sauna Blanket Benefits

Sauna Blanket vs Sauna: Side-by-Side Comparison

Let’s break down the key differences between sauna blankets and traditional saunas across several important factors that might affect your choice:

Cost Comparison

The price gap between these options is pretty big:

Sauna blankets are much more wallet-friendly:

• Most quality options cost between $200-$500
• No installation costs
• Lower electricity bills (typically 300-600 watts per session)
• Pay once, use anywhere

Traditional saunas are a bigger investment:

• Home models start around $2,000 for small prefab units
• Custom-built models can reach $10,000 or more
• Installation might add $500-$1,500 depending on electrical work needed
• Higher power usage (3,000-6,000 watts per session)
• Public sauna visits cost about $20-$40 per session, adding up quickly if used regularly

For people who want sauna benefits without spending thousands, sauna blankets offer a practical alternative that pays for itself after just a few months compared to public sauna visits.

Space Requirements

The space needed for each option makes a big difference for most homes:

Sauna blankets take up minimal space:

• Need only the floor space of a yoga mat when in use
• Fold down to about the size of a small suitcase for storage
• Can be used in any room with an electrical outlet
• No permanent space commitment
• Perfect for apartments or smaller homes

Traditional saunas demand dedicated space:

• Require a minimum of 15-25 square feet of permanent floor space
• Need proper ventilation and electrical connections
• Can’t be easily moved once installed
• May need building permits depending on your location
• Typically require ceiling heights of at least 7 feet

For many people, the space factor alone makes the decision simple – if you don’t have a spare room or outdoor area for a permanent structure, sauna blankets become the obvious choice.

Experience and Feel

The physical sensation differs greatly between these options:

Sauna blankets create a personal cocoon:

• Feel like being wrapped in a warm sleeping bag
• Heat touches your skin directly through the fabric
• Your head stays outside and cool while your body heats up
• More private, solo experience
• Some describe it as a “gentle hug” of warmth

Traditional saunas create an immersive room experience:

• The hot air surrounds your entire body, including your face
• Heat feels more intense and penetrating
• Can adjust humidity by adding water to stones
• Room for movement and different sitting positions
• Often shared with others for social bonding

Many people who try both say traditional saunas feel more intense, while sauna blankets provide a gentler, more controlled heat that’s easier to tolerate for longer periods.

Read our in-depth Review Articles of:
Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket
HigherDose Sauna Blanket
BON CHARGE Sauna Blanket
LifePro Infrared Sauna Blanket
MiHigh Sauna Blanket

Convenience Factors

Day-to-day usability makes a big difference in how often you’ll actually enjoy your sauna:

Sauna blankets win for ease of use:

• Ready to use in 5-10 minutes
• Can be used while watching TV or reading
• No need to travel to a gym or spa
• Use any time without planning ahead
• Great for quick sessions between other activities
• Can be packed for travel or taken to different rooms

During my first sauna blanket session, I appreciated how easy it was to adjust the temperature when I felt too warm. With traditional saunas, once you’re in that hot room, your only option is to leave if it gets uncomfortable. The blanket gave me more control over my experience.

Related article: Top Rated Portable Infrared Saunas in 2024

Traditional saunas require more planning:

• Need 30-45 minutes to fully heat up
• Require dedicated time away from other activities
• May involve travel time if using a public facility
• Harder to fit into busy schedules
• Limited to one location

People with packed schedules often find they use sauna blankets much more frequently simply because they remove most barriers to getting a session in.

Maintenance Needs

The upkeep requirements differ significantly:

Sauna blankets need minimal care:

• Wipe down with a damp cloth after each use
• Some models have washable covers
• No wood to treat or maintain
• No heating elements to clean
• Replaceable if damaged at a fraction of traditional sauna costs

Traditional saunas demand regular maintenance:

• Wood requires periodic treatment to stay in good condition
• Benches and floors need scrubbing to remove sweat residue
• Heaters need inspection and occasional maintenance
• May develop mold or mildew if not properly ventilated
• Repairs can be costly and might require professional help

The simplicity of maintaining a sauna blanket makes it more appealing for people who want the benefits without the chores.

Safety Considerations

Both options require some safety awareness:

Sauna blankets safety notes:

• Multiple temperature settings for gradual adaptation
• Auto shut-off features prevent overheating
• Less risk of dehydration since your head stays cool
• Easy to exit if feeling uncomfortable
• Lower risk of burns compared to traditional sauna heaters
• Best to check EMF (electromagnetic field) levels before buying

Traditional saunas safety points:

• Higher temperatures can be risky for people with certain health conditions
• Greater dehydration risk due to whole-body heat exposure
• Wood and heater surfaces can cause burns if touched
• More difficult to exit quickly if feeling unwell
• Need for proper electrical installation to prevent hazards

Both options should be avoided by pregnant women and people with certain heart conditions. It’s always wise to check with your doctor before starting regular sauna sessions, especially if you have health concerns.

How to Choose the Right Option for You

Not sure which sauna fits your life? Use these quick tools to decide:

Quick Decision Quiz

Start Here: Ask yourself these questions in order:

1. Is your budget under $1,000?
   • YES → Sauna blanket is your best option
   • NO → Continue to question 2
2. Do you live in a small apartment or rental property?
   • YES → Sauna blanket is your best option
   • NO → Continue to question 3
3. Do you want to share sauna time with family or friends?
   • YES → Traditional sauna is your best option
   • NO → Continue to question 4
4. Do you need to use your sauna more than 3 times per week?
   • YES → Consider your schedule – if it’s busy or unpredictable, a sauna blanket might get used more often
   • NO → Traditional sauna might be worth the investment for a more authentic experience

Find Your Sauna Match ‘Quiz’

Take this quick quiz to see which option suits you best. Give yourself 1 point for each “A” answer and 0 points for each “B” answer:

1. When I relax, I prefer:
   • A) Being alone in my own space
   • B) Sharing the experience with others
2. My living situation is:
   • A) An apartment, rental, or smaller home
   • B) A larger home with extra space
3. My schedule is typically:
   • A) Busy or unpredictable
   • B) Structured with set free time
4. When it comes to wellness purchases, I prefer:
   • A) Affordable options I can use right away
   • B) Investment pieces that last for years
5. I want my sauna experience to be:
   • A) Quick, convenient, and easy
   • B) Traditional, authentic, and immersive
6. For relaxation, I value:
   • A) Flexibility to multitask (read, watch TV)
   • B) Complete disconnect from daily activities

Scoring:

• 0-2 points: Traditional sauna matches your preferences
• 3-6 points: Sauna blanket matches your preferences

Match Your Health Goals

• Joint pain or muscle recovery? Sauna blankets target specific areas better
• Respiratory benefits? Traditional saunas with steam options work best
• Stress relief? Choose based on whether you relax better alone (blanket) or in a dedicated space (traditional)

Perfect For You If…

Choose a sauna blanket if you:

• Live in an apartment or rental
• Want to start right away with low investment
• Need to use it in different locations
• Prefer sauna sessions while reading or watching TV

Choose a traditional sauna if you:

• Want the highest possible heat intensity
• Own your home with extra space
• Value the authentic Finnish experience
• Enjoy sauna time with family or friends

This approach helps you match your real-life situation with the right sauna option, focusing on how you’ll actually use it rather than just comparing features.

Next Steps After Deciding

If you choose a sauna blanket:

1. Research low-EMF models for safer long-term use
2. Look for waterproof, easy-clean materials
3. Check for safety certifications
4. Plan where you’ll use and store it

If you choose a traditional sauna:

1. Measure your available space carefully
2. Check if you need permits for installation
3. Consider electrical requirements and costs
4. Plan for proper ventilation

Comparing Sauna Blankets with other types of saunas

Now, with the help of this table, let’s quickly see how sauna blankets compare with all other types of saunas as well, on various parameters:

Feature	Sauna Blanket	Traditional Sauna	Steam Sauna	Infrared Sauna
Initial Cost	Affordable	Expensive	Expensive	Moderate to High
Space Required	Minimal	Considerable	Considerable	Moderate
Installation	None	Professional	Professional	Some DIY Possible
Heating Mechanism	Infrared	Electric Heater/Wood-Burning Heater	Steam	Infrared
Heat Distribution	Direct Contact	Air Circulation	Humid Air	Direct Radiation
Portability	High	Low	Low	Moderate
Maintenance	Low	High	High	Moderate
Health Benefits	Detoxification, Relaxation	Cardiovascular, Relaxation	Respiratory, Relaxation	Detoxification, Pain Relief
Social Aspect	Individual	Communal	Communal	Individual or Small Group

Diving deeper into the features listed, we can see that sauna blankets are winning the race in terms of affordability and minimal space requirements. However, if you’re up for socializing and ready to invest in a full sauna experience, traditional or steam saunas might be more up your alley.

It’s evident that each type boasts distinct advantages tailored to fit different lifestyles and preferences. Thus, the choice ultimately hinges on individual needs, aligning with the holistic goal of amplifying one’s well-being.

Conclusion

Choosing between a sauna blanket and a traditional sauna comes down to personal preference, your budget, space, and specific health goals. Both offer health and relaxation benefits, making them valuable additions to your wellness routine.

Have you tried using a sauna blanket or been to a traditional sauna? We want to hear about your time with them! Your stories matter and can help others.

If you have questions on how sauna blankets work or need tips for choosing the right one, just ask. Sharing helps everyone learn more.

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Resources

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2. Laukkanen, T., Laukkanen, J. A., & Kunutsor, S. K. (2018). Sauna Bathing and Risk of Psychotic Disorders: A Prospective Cohort Study. Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre, 27(6), 562–569. https://doi.org/10.1159/000493392 ↩︎
3. Engström, Å., Hägglund, H., Lee, E., Wennberg, M., Söderberg, S., & Andersson, M. (2024). Sauna bathing in northern Sweden: results from the MONICA study 2022. International journal of circumpolar health, 83(1), 2419698. https://doi.org/10.1080/22423982.2024.2419698 ↩︎
4. Scoon, G. S., Hopkins, W. G., Mayhew, S., & Cotter, J. D. (2007). Effect of post-exercise sauna bathing on the endurance performance of competitive male runners. Journal of science and medicine in sport, 10(4), 259–262. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2006.06.009 ↩︎
5. Matsumoto, S., Shimodozono, M., Etoh, S., Miyata, R., & Kawahira, K. (2011). Effects of thermal therapy combining sauna therapy and underwater exercise in patients with fibromyalgia. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 17(3), 162–166. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.08.004 ↩︎
6. Vathanophas, V., Pattamakajonpong, P., Assanasen, P., & Suwanwech, T. (2021). The effect of steam inhalation on nasal obstruction in patients with allergic rhinitis. Asian Pacific journal of allergy and immunology, 39(4), 304–308. https://doi.org/10.12932/AP-090818-0393 ↩︎
7. Hussain, J., & Cohen, M. (2018). Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2018, 1857413. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/1857413 ↩︎
8. Henderson, T. A. (2024). Can infrared light really be doing what we claim it is doing? Infrared light penetration principles, practices, and limitations. Frontiers in Neurology, 15, Article 1398894. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1398894 ↩︎

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