Saunas are incredibly popular, particularly for their range of health benefits. Relaxation is generally one of the primary benefits associated with a sauna.
Apart from this, several researchers have shown that saunas can yield additional benefits, such as improvements in blood pressure regulation and a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.
In fact, recent evidence shows that a sauna may be a good option for improving neurocognitive well-being as well.
Infrared sauna blankets have become very popular in recent years, especially since corona. People are searching for affordable at home alternatives to public saunas.
Sauna blankets offer an affordable, easy to use alternative that is relatively small and easy to transport.
- Heat Zones: One heating zone
- Display: 1-8 level
- Control: White color handheld controller
- Crystals: Tourmaline and Amethyst + Charcoal layer
- Timer Settings: 1 hour
- Electrical Field: Low EMF
- Warranty: One-Year limited warranty.
- Size: 71 x 71 inches (180 x 180 cm), unfolded.
- Ships from: USA and Canada
- Ships to: US, Canada, and Europe
There are quite a few options on the market when looking at a sauna blanket.
One of the most popular options currently is the Higher Dose Sauna Blanket. In this post, we aim to look at what makes this blanket special, and whether or not it is as good as the manufacturer claims.
What Is An Infrared Sauna Blanket?
Traditional saunas rely on a wood burner to create heat inside a room. Some saunas rather use an electrical heating element.
The idea behind the heating system is to generate heat, which results in an increased temperature. Saunas often also generate steam.
In recent times, infrared saunas have also become relatively popular among the general population.
An infrared sauna is equipped with special technology that uses an infrared light in the heating process. The light causes the body to heat up, which provides a similar effect compared to more traditional options.
Going to a sauna can sometimes be a tedious task. You have to look for a local facility that offers an infrared sauna. You’ll also need to visit the facility. For those who prefer a similar experience at home, sauna blankets offer a convenient option.
An infrared sauna blanket uses a similar technology as the real thing. The primary difference is the fact that these blankets tend to be more compact.
This allows you to have an infrared sauna at home – without the need to worry about expensive subscription fees or driving a long distance to a local facility.
Infrared sauna blankets are generally made to resemble the design of a sleeping bag. The interior of the blanket features an insulating layer.
This layer helps to ensure heat generated by the blanket remains on the inside. The inside remains heated, yet the exterior of the blanket retains a cooler temperature.
Benefits Of Infrared Sauna Blankets
Several studies have shown the potential benefits that an infrared sauna may have on the human body.
A large body of evidence shows that a primary benefit yielded by infrared saunas is relaxation. By promoting a relaxation effect in the body, you feel less stressed.
Joint Pain And Stiffness
In one study, researchers considered how these saunas may benefit individuals with ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
The goal was to determine if increasing the body’s thermal energy through infrared rays could yield improvements in symptoms.
A total of 34 patients were involved in the study. Researchers divided the patients based on their diagnosis. A total of eight treatments with infrared were provided to the patients, spanning over the course of four weeks.
No adverse effects were reported and IR was well tolerated. There was also no exacerbation of the disease.
Pain and stiffness decreased clinically, and improvements were statistically significant. Fatigue also decreased. Both RA and AS patients felt comfortable on average during and especially after treatment.
In the RA and AS patients, pain, stiffness, and fatigue also showed clinical improvements during the 4-week treatment period, but these did not reach statistical significance.
Infrared treatment has statistically significant short-term beneficial effects and clinically relevant period effects during treatment in RA and AS patients without enhancing disease activity.
Muscle Recovery
In another study, researchers identified muscle recovery benefits of this technology.
The study investigated the effects of far-infrared sauna (FIRS) bathing on recovery from strength training and endurance training sessions.
Ten healthy physically active male volunteers participated in the study. Participants had on various days either a 60 min hypertrophic strength training session (STS) or a 34–40 min maximal endurance training session (ETS) exercise, followed by 30 min bathing in a special FIRS sauna at a temperature of 35–50°C and humidity of 25–35%.
FIRS bathing appears favorable for the neuromuscular system to recover from maximal endurance performance. FIRS bathing is very light-loading for the body and provides a comfortable and relaxing experience.
Weight Loss
A study conducted among a group of obese women from Korea also showed benefits related to weight reduction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of far-infrared (FIR) therapy on weight loss.
There were 35 individuals who participated in the study.
Body weight, Waist circumference (WC), Bio Impedance Analysis (BIA), abdominal fat Computer Tomography (CT) scanning were evaluated. The results of 25 women were analyzed After 6 weeks of FIR therapy.
There was significant efficacy on obese women in terms of body weight, WC, Body fat mass (BFM), and Visceral fat area (VFA). There was no efficacy in the Total fat area (TFA), and Subcutaneous fat area (SFA).
This study suggests that FIR therapy might be an effective way to promote weight and abdominal visceral fat loss.
Other Benefits
Apart from the studies above, researchers have also found that infrared saunas can provide the following benefits:
- Strengthened immune system
- Relieving muscle soreness
- Improved mood
- Decreased stress levels
- Detox
- Improved skin health
- Increased blood flow
Higherdose Sauna Blanket V3 Review
- Heat Zones: One heating zone
- Display: 1-8 level
- Control: White color handheld controller
- Crystals: Tourmaline and Amethyst + Charcoal layer
- Timer Settings: 1 hour
- Electrical Field: Low EMF
- Warranty: One-Year limited warranty.
- Size: 71 x 71 inches (180 x 180 cm), unfolded.
- Ships from: USA and Canada
- Ships to: US, Canada, and Europe
The Higherdose Sauna Blanket V3 is one of the most popular at-home options currently on the market.
It features eight different heat settings, with a single, large heating zone.
The blanket comes with a built-in timer, which helps you effectively time your sessions up to one hour. In addition to these features, the blanket also features a one-year warranty, which helps to protect your investment against factory defaults.
When unfolded, the blanket measures 71 inches by 71 inches, making it great for larger individuals too.
Durability and efficacy are two of the main benefits that come with this blanket. While large, you can easily fold up the blanket for a compact storage solution. This does not only make it easy to store but also a convenient option when traveling.
The blanket offers the same infrared technology that saunas use, just in a compact structure. It is also an affordable option when compared to prices for infrared saunas as spas and gyms.
There are multiple layers inside the blanket, made from charcoal, tourmaline, and amethyst. The interior of the blanket does not absorb any odors, and is exceptionally easy to clean after using the sauna.
The magnetic therapy provided by the blanket adds additional benefits. All materials used in the construction are non-toxic, creating a safer experience.
Setting Up The Higherdose Sauna Blanket
When looking at a Higherdose Sauna Blanket review, you’ll find that everything you need comes in the box.
This includes the blanket, instructions, controller, power supply cord, and connecting cords.
There are easy-to-follow instructions included as well, which makes the process of using the blanket for the first time much more convenient.
Start by unrolling the infrared sauna blanket v3. All you need to do is plug it into an appropriate outlet – but, before you do, there are a few things you should take into consideration.
Choose A Comfortable Spot
Start by choosing a comfortable area where you can use the blanket.
The blanket measures 71 inches by 71 inches unfolded. Make sure you choose a spot where you will feel comfy and relaxed.
The great thing about the higher-dose sauna blanket is the fact that it is versatile. You can use it on the floor, on your bed, or even on the couch.
You also do not have to be concerned about damaging items around you, as the exterior of the blanket won’t heat up while it is turned on.
Set The Temperature
The sauna belt gives you an opportunity to choose between eight different temperature settings. The remote control allows you to adjust the temperature without having to worry about cords.
The temperature settings range from 80 degrees Fahrenheit up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Start at a low heat setting and gradually increase the temperature to avoid a sudden feeling of extreme heat on your skin.
Allow It To Preheat
The blanket does not heat up immediately. In fact, most people find that it takes around 10 minutes for the blanket to effectively heat up.
Turn it on, set the temperature, and then get comfortable while waiting for the sauna to preheat.
How To Use Sauna Blankets
Start by taking a look at the manufacturer instructions that come with the blanket.
It is important to understand exactly how the blanket works before you start using it.
Find The Right Settings
Never push yourself with a temperature that is higher than what your body can handle. You can easily adjust the settings of the blanket using the remote control that comes with the device.
This allows you to configure the temperature, as well as the timer. With some blankets, you can set the timer up to one hour. Gradually increase the temperature of the blanket.
How Often Should You Use A Sauna Blanket?
It is generally considered safe to use a sauna blanket on a daily basis.
To get the most out of your blanket, use it at least three times every week. Some people even opt for five sessions every week.
At first, limit the sessions to about 30 minutes each. Later on, as your body gets more used to infrared technology, you can extend the sessions up to 60 minutes.
What To Wear
Users should wear a long sleeve shirt, long pants, and socks when inside.
Loose cotton clothing is recommended. Be aware the clothing will soak up a lot of sweat. There is also an insert available for purchase that replaces the need for clothing.
Cleaning The Sauna Blanket
The Higherdose V3 is very easy to clean.
It should be cleaned after every use. Just use an antibacterial wipe to wipe down the inside. You can also use a homemade solution of vinegar and essential oils.
What To Expect
There are a few factors that affect the experience you have when you are inside the sauna blanket.
The primary elements that affect your experience include the temperature, as well as the duration you spend inside.
A few things that you can expect:
- A significant amount of sweating
- Increased heart rate
- RElaxation
- Feeling of invigoration
- Relieved muscle tension
Higherdose Sauna Blanket Alternatives
While the Higherdose Sauna Blanket is a good option, there are a couple of alternatives that you can look at as well. We take a look at a few of these below.
Vanell Far-Infrared Sauna Blanket
The Vanell Far-Infrared Sauna Blanket is an excellent alternative for people who find themselves on a lower budget.
You can buy this blanket for under $170. The blanket comes with built-in safety features to protect you against hazards.
The two heating zones on the blanket also adds more control. The timer can be adjusted between 15 and 60 minutes.
You can easily adjust the temperature of the blanket as well. Just take note that this blanket is not the most ideal option for people who are taller than average.
User Reviews:
SereneLife Infrared Home Spa
The SereneLife Infrared Home Spa is another good option that offers a powerful setup in a compact package.
The system also comes with a sauna chair, which adds to the overall value you get.
The temperature settings go up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. There are also hand access zips included, which makes it easy to read a magazine or play a game while enjoying the sauna.
User Reviews:
Conclusion
Sauna blankets are comfortable to use, portable, and allow you to experience the benefits that saunas offer at home.
The Higherdose infrared blanket is one of the top choices on the market, featuring a variety of heat settings, as well as a timer.
The blanket is also quite affordable compared to similar options on the market.
- Heat Zones: One heating zone
- Display: 1-8 level
- Control: White color handheld controller
- Crystals: Tourmaline and Amethyst + Charcoal layer
- Timer Settings: 1 hour
- Electrical Field: Low EMF
- Warranty: One-Year limited warranty.
- Size: 71 x 71 inches (180 x 180 cm), unfolded.
- Ships from: USA and Canada
- Ships to: US, Canada, and Europe
Dr. Ahmed Zayed holds a bachelor’s degree in medicine from Alexandria university and is a practicing plastic surgeon. He’s our expert on all things nutrition, medicine, rehabilitation, and flexibility. Dr.Ahmed has been a medical content writer for more than 11 years and his work reached top publications such as the HuffingtonPost