Overview: What Are Portable Saunas?
Sauna bathing has a long history, invented in Finland over 9000 years ago. Many experts extol their potential health benefits, such as supporting heart health, reducing anxiety, detoxifying the body, speeding up workout recovery, improving circulation, promoting weight loss, relieving pain, and more.
While many people use the sauna in their local gym or spa to relax, today there are portable saunas in the form of infrared sauna blankets, tents, and other portable units that offer many of the same advantages to health and well-being.
Pain management and sports medicine physician Reuben Chen, M.D, explains some of the benefits of sauna bathing:
Sauna sessions can induce a relaxation response in the body, leading to a reduction in stress levels. The increase in body temperature can help in relaxing muscles, improving circulation and reducing pain sensations. Regular sauna sessions may help strengthen the immune system [1]
In this review, we’ll explain the benefits of portable saunas, how they work, and answer all of your most pressing questions. We’ll also present out list of the best portable saunas on the market, as assessed and selected by our team of experts. Keep reading to find your ideal portable home sauna!
Top Picks: Best Portable Saunas 2024
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![HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket]()
Best for Deep RelaxationHigherDOSE Infrared Sauna BlanketGo to Review - At Amazon
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![LifePro RejuvaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket]()
Best for Home relaxation, body healingLifePro RejuvaWrap Infrared Sauna BlanketGo to Review - At Amazon
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![SereneLife Portable Infrared Home Spa]()
Best for fatigue reductionSereneLife Portable Infrared Home SpaGo to Review - At Amazon
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![Durasage Portable Steam Sauna]()
Best for relaxing and restoring your energy levelsDurasage Portable Steam SaunaGo to Review - At Amazon
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![SereneLife Portable Steam Sauna]()
Best for weight loss, detoxing, and stress reliefSereneLife Portable Steam SaunaGo to Review - At Amazon
How we picked
Trusted Manufacturers
We only recommend brands that have highly reputable, trusted manufacturers known for their quality products and stellar safety practices.
Science and Evidence
The products we select as best have a wealth of scientific research supporting their benefits, efficacy, and safety.
Cost Benefit
Whether expensive or low cost, all of our recommended selections offer significant benefits and features making them well worth the price.
Expert Recommended
All of the models we have recommended are expert-approved by professionals in the field, as well as by our own team.
Our Choices For The Best Portable Saunas of 2024
1. HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
Best for: Deep Relaxation
Price: $699.00
Features: One heating zone, 1-9 display level, handle-held controller
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Body Detoxification
- Deep Relaxation
- Money-back Guarantee
- FSA/HSA Eligible
Cons
- High Price point
- Size restriction
- Regular Maintenance
More to Know
User Judy G says,
This sauna blanket is amazing. I don’t know why I haven’t used it more often. It is great for muscle soreness and relaxation and sweating out impurities. It’s great to use after a weight lifting workout. So happy I got the bundle that included the towel inserts too. Definitely recommend.
2. LifePro RejuvaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket
Best For: Home relaxation, body healing, repair, and detoxification
Features: Non-toxic waterproof fabric, Infrared heating, Premium Quality
Price: $374.99
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Clinically Proven Benefits
- Portable and Convenient
- High-Temperature Range
- Quality and Assurance
Cons
- Physical Limitations
- High Price Point
- Maintenance and cleaning
- Dependency on Electrical Power
More to Know
User Natalie says,
Love this product. I have had for a few weeks and love the convenience of a sauna at home. Easy to use and has been a wonderful addition to my health journey.
3. SereneLife Portable Infrared Home Spa
Best For: Fatigue reduction and personal health care detox stress
Price: $468.99
Features: Compact size, Portable, and convenient
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to use
- Portable design
- Energy efficient
- Relaxation Benefits
Cons
- Size limitation
- High price point
- Maintenance
- Power Requirement
More to Know
User Kevin Re says,
Great, reasonably priced sauna. Gets very hot and provides an excellent health experience. Sweating out toxins and I feel amazing afterwards.
4. Durasage Portable Steam Sauna
Best for: Relaxing and restoring your energy levels
Price: $139.95
Features: Complete set including a steam generator, foldable chair, and user manual
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Convenience and portability
- Design for relaxation
- User-friendly
- Powerful steam generator
Cons
- Space considerations
- Maintenance
- Electrical requirements
More to Know
User Carrie Lang says:
Easy to assemble and easy to use and clean. Great quality and comfortable to sit in. Very relaxing and makes my skin and joints feel great!
5. SereneLife Portable Steam Sauna
Best For: Weight loss, detoxing, and stress/fatigue relief
Price: $280.99
Features: Compact size, Portable, Includes accessories and convenient
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to use
- Energy efficient
- Adjustable settings
Cons
- Size limitation
- High price point
- Power Requirement
More to Know
User Jeffrey Hakkim says,
My boiler started to fail so they sent me a working one and now everything has been great ! Well worth the money !
6. Sun Stream Saunas (Evolve 360 Mini Infrared Sauna)
Best For: People with electro-hypersensitivity (EHS) or biohackers
Features: 360 Degree Infrared Surround, Ultra-Low EMF & Near Zero ELF, No Synthetic Cloth Heater Covers, Stereo speakers
Price: Not available
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 100% Solid Canadian Hemlock Construction
- ChromaTherapy Options
- Easy Assembly
- Adjustable Infrared Intensity
Cons
- Space Requirements
- Limited Capacity
- Limited Stock
More to Know
Anonymous User says,
I couldn’t be more thrilled with my Mini! We got it picked up, set up and heated up 🙂 Thank you for an amazing sauna! My mini is beautiful and functions wonderfully!
7.Kiguee Sauna Box
Best For: Relaxation, Detoxification, Improved Circulation
Price: $239.00
Features: Full body spa, Remote control, Premium Grade Oxford Material
The Kiguee Portable Sauna delivers sauna-like benefits into your house with convenience and efficiency. It heats up quickly due to a 2.6L steam generator, reaching temperatures of up to 130°F, and is made to last with sturdy materials and safety features such as automated power-off. With benefits including detoxifying, increased circulation, and stress relaxation, its small size and remote control make it an excellent addition to your wellness regimen or a wonderful present.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Quick heat-up
- Easy Assembly
- Remote control
Cons
- Heat efficiency varies
- May not fit all body types
- Requires regular maintenance
More to Know
User Andrea Cox says,
This is one of the best purchase decisions I’ve made in my entire life. The adjustable heat settings work wonderfully. I sleep like a baby after sitting in this sauna.
8. Adamson Full-Size Portable Steam Sauna
Best For: Muscle Recovery, Athletic Performance, Energy Boost
Price: Not available
Features: Portable steam sauna, Accessories included, Optimize Athletic recovery
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Quick heat-up
- Easy Assembly
- Durable
Cons
- Limited Stock
- Space requirements
- Digital display visibility
More to Know
User Paulsteam says,
Super simple setup and this gets WAY hotter than I thought it would…I bought this cause I love the feeling I get after using a sauna, but wanted something I could just hop into at home quick and easy. Easy to recommend for anyone looking for a quick cleanse/steam at home. Also takes up very little space, considering. Great product.
How Do Portable Saunas Work?
Portable saunas vary in their functioning, with some using infrared heat, and others using steam generated by water or even outdoor wood burning to increase the temperature. The high heat generated offers health benefits, although infrared heat penetrates the body most deeply and is possibly the most effective method.
The heat from the portable sauna stimulates the mitochondria of the cells, causing the synthesis of additional ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This powers all of the cells in the body for powerful benefits like speeding up healing and workout recovery, reducing pain, improving circulation, and more.
A scientific review and article published in the International Journal of Hyperthermia by Erik D. Marchanta, et al discussed the benefits of passive heat in inducing mitochondrial adaptations in the skeletal muscle to preserve muscle mass, and its ability to improve insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes [2].
The increase in ATP may lead to other powerful portable sauna benefits like supporting heart and brain health, promoting relaxation, and improving respiratory health.
A review article published in the World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews by Jörgen Sandell and Mark Davies examined the benefits of saunas on lung capacity, heart health, and neurocognitive conditions [3].
The heat also makes you sweat, which can help release harmful toxins from the body. A study of people experiencing withdrawal symptoms from substance abuse published in the Journal of International Medical Research by Richard D Lennox and Marie Cecchini-Sternquist concluded that sauna use for body detoxification improved both physical and emotional symptoms [4].
Are Portable Saunas Safe?
Portable saunas have no serious safety issues if you follow the directions correctly. Make sure to limit each session to 20-30 minutes, no more than twice daily to avoid dehydration. If you are using a steam sauna, do not stay directly next to the heat source to avoid burns.
In terms of temperature, one precaution is to ensure that you start at a lower heat and work your way up to a level that is comfortable for you. If you are using an infrared personal sauna, check that the model has very low or zero EMF levels.
What Should You Look for in a Portable Sauna?
When selecting the ideal portable sauna for you, consider the following features:
Type
Portable saunas come in various models such as tents, infrared blankets, outdoor wood-burning models, and more. They may employ steam or infrared heat as the main source. Ensure that you choose the model that is best for your lifestyle and needs.
Temperature Range
Check the maximum and minimum temperature range of the product, to ensure that it meets your needs and comfort levels.
Size
Some personal saunas are for single use, while other models fit 2 or 3 individuals. If you buy a single-use sauna like an infrared blanket, make sure the length and width fit your frame.
Safety
Check that the manufacturer carries out their production in a facility that follows rigid guidelines for safety. If you buy an infrared device, ensure that it has either very low or zero EMF levels.
Manufacturer
It’s best to buy from a highly reputable manufacturer that has a reputation for producing safe, high-quality products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Personal Saunas Healthy?
Are Portable Saunas Worth It?
A: Portable saunas are ideal for people who love sauna bathing but want to do it from the comfort of their own homes. They are much more affordable than building a dry sauna in your home and offer many of the same benefits as dry sauna bathing.
Which Portable Sauna is Better, Infrared or Steam?
A: Both infrared and steam personal saunas offer health benefits, infrared heat penetrates more deeply for more powerful benefits to pain relief, circulation, stress reduction, and overall health. In addition, they are much easier to maintain than steam saunas and less costly.
How Long Should You Sit in a Portable Sauna?
A: Portable home sauna units are generally safe as long as you limit your sessions to 20-30 minutes, no more than twice daily, as longer could lead to dehydration and health issues.
Who Should Not Use Saunas?
A: Women who are pregnant should not use a portable sauna, as well as individuals with some medical conditions like heart disease. If you have a health issue, get approval from a medical doctor before using any sauna, dry or personal.
Do Portable Saunas Use a Lot of Electricity?
A: A portable sauna with steam uses about 1-2 Kw of electricity per hour, which is roughly equivalent to running a dishwasher for one cycle. Personal infrared saunas like blankets use even less than a steam model. Therefore, using the sauna daily should not have a big impact on your electricity bill.
Conclusion
Portable saunas offer the health and relaxation advantages of dry saunas from the comfort of your own home, and they come in a variety of models including tents, sauna blankets, outdoor wood-heating models, and more. They may provide benefits like promoting relaxation, easing pain, speeding up healing and workout recovery, boosting circulation and heart health, and more.
In this review, we have presented our list of the best portable saunas on the market according to the assessment of our team of experts. All of the models we highlighted are safe, high quality, made by reputable manufacturers, and have excellent reviews from customers.
If you enjoy the benefits of dry sauna bathing and want to experience its benefits more often and from your own home, a portable sauna could be the right choice for you. We highly recommend that you consider the brand we have highlighted for potent health and wellness advantages.
