Does the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket V3 Offer Recovery Benefits?

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From cold plunges to compression boots, there are a staggering number of self-care, wellness and recovery tools available to the modern athlete. Heat therapy tools have quickly become some of the most coveted by testers on our review team, and I personally have extensively researched the benefits of infrared sauna technology.

However, it’s worth noting that most of the contraptions we featured in our best infrared sauna roundup push the limits of a tight budget, boasting five- or even six-figure price tags. One notable exception is the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket. Like other top infrared sauna blankets, the HigherDose is a harmonious marriage of convenience and luxury. Still, at $699, buying the HigherDose can be a steep investment. We’ve taken a hard look at this unique type of home sauna that blankets you—literally—in comfort to help you assess if this is the right tool for your relaxation and recovery. Read on to also learn what the health and wellness experts have to say about infrared sauna therapy in general.

HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket Features at a Glance

• Materials: Non-toxic PU leather body; charcoal, clay and magnetic layers
• Dimensions: 71 inches x 71 inches
• Highest temperature: 158 degrees Fahrenheit
• Warranty: 1-year warranty
• Price: $699
• Financing: Available via Affirm
• Shipping: Free shipping

What Is the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket?

Imagine getting all the goodness of an infrared sauna, but instead of a big, bulky setup, it’s compacted into something as portable as a sleeping bag. That’s the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket, a futuristic sleeping bag that warmly wraps you up from head to toe. All you need is a safe outlet and flat surface, and you're good to go.

This sauna blanket has layers that work together like an eclectic superhero team. There's a top layer of non-toxic PUI leather; followed by a far infrared layer; a mix of crystals, charcoal and magnetic material; a layer with heating crystals; and a bottom layer with low-frequency currents to keep things safe. As you’re sandwiched in those layers of warmth, you can tweak the temperature to your liking with eight different heat settings. The blanket is perfect for 30- to 45-minute relaxation sessions, although you’re encouraged to start with shorter sessions off the bat.

Benefits of the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

 “Improved blood circulation, vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), and enhanced energy creation for tissues,” says Ryan Fraley, physical therapist, board certified sports specialist and clinic director at Physical Therapy Central in Oklahoma.

And, of course, there’s all the sweat you expel: “One of the main things people crave about saunas is the production of sweat,” he says. “The rise in core temperature stimulates sweating, allowing for the elimination of last night’s tequila and other impurities from the body.”

“Sauna [use] isn't accessible to everyone but if it is, it can be an incredible tool for healing,” says Sara Barthel, a functional medicine nutritionist specializing in inflammation, digestive disorders and autoimmunity.

She cites a small 2010 study published in the Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology that focused on the detoxifying benefits of sauna therapy, including infrared sauna therapy that found infrared sauna use may have therapeutic benefits, especially for those interested in potential benefits of sweat therapy, though more research is needed.

Other potential benefits of using the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket include the following:

• You get to take a load off: Heat from the infrared sauna may help you enter a more relaxed state of mind, reducing stress and tension in muscles, according to research published in the Asian Journal of Sports Medicine. Plus, being wrapped like a burrito in warmth (presuming you aren’t claustrophobic) might even add to the soothing sensory experience.
• Pain relief: Patients experienced short-term relief from lower back pain when using a dry sauna, according to a study published in Anesthesia & Pain Medicine.
• Potential weight loss: While not a replacement for a healthy diet and exercise, there are claims that infrared sauna usage can jumpstart metabolism, such as a study published in Scientific World Journal that examined weight loss from sauna use in sedentary young men. Take that with a grain of salt though, as most experts generally temper expectations, explaining instead that any observed weight loss is likely water loss.

Potential Risks of the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

Those who are new to using an infrared sauna should start with just a short duration, and gradually increase the time they withstand the high temperature, Fraley says. Smart prep will also ensure you have the best experience.

“It's crucial to stay well-hydrated before, during and after sauna sessions. The heat in the sauna can cause sweating and increased fluid loss, so drinking enough water is important,” Fraley says.

Related Post: The Best Electrolyte Powder for Rapid Rehydration

Be sure to assess your individual health history to be sure it’s safe to use infrared sauna tech. And, if you have any underlying health conditions, such as cardiovascular problems, low blood pressure, certain skin conditions or any other health concerns, you should consult with your healthcare professional.

“While regular sauna use can have potential benefits, it's important to find a balance and not overdo it,” Fraley says. “Allow your body time to rest and recover between sauna sessions.”

Here’s a few other things to keep in mind to ensure a positive experience when using a sauna blanket, like the HigherDose.

• Check materials: You run the risk of contact dermatitis (a fancy term for a rash) if you have sensitive skin. Look for blankets made from high-quality and hypo-allergenic materials.
• Read user reviews: Firsthand feedback is a great way to properly assess how long you should use the blanket if you’re a beginner.
• Temperature control: Make sure the blanket allows you to control the temperature to suit your personal comfort level.
• Built-in added precautions: If you anticipate drifting off to sleep as you're enveloped in warm air, check for safety features such as automatic shut-off mechanisms and temperature sensors.

Using the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

Note that it’s best practice to always follow certain protocols when using an infrared sauna blanket, and your best bet is to carefully read the manufacturer's instructions. For example, each product and model of the HigherDose blanket (more on V3 vs. V4 below) may have specific guidelines and features.

Be sure to bring up any concerns you have about using an infrared sauna blanket with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Having said that, we’ve compiled the brand’s general guidelines on how to get going with the HigherDose:

• Choose a safe location: Place the HigherDose blanket on a flat, heat-resistant surface. Ensure there is enough space around it for proper ventilation and ease of use.
• Dress appropriately: You can buy optional infrared sauna blanket inserts, from the company for $89, but if you don’t, HigherDose recommends covering more skin to lessen cleaning up sweaty puddles after use.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water before, during and after your sauna session to stay hydrated. Sweating in the infrared sauna can cause fluid loss, so it's essential to replenish.
• Zip yourself in and get comfy: When you’re ready to use the sauna blanket, lie down in the blanket, as if you’re using a sleeping bag—zip yourself in and get cozy. Leave your head exposed for comfort and ventilation. There is an option to add a red light face mask, which some users say leaves them with glowing skin.
• Relax: As the sauna blanket heats up, allow yourself to experience a feeling of deep relaxation. Focus on your breathing and enjoy the warmth. If you’ve ever done yoga, embrace the idea of Savasana-like state.
• Pace yourself: Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the time in the HigherDose blanket as your body gets accustomed. Eventually, if you feel comfortable, you can have up to 45-minute sessions in the blanket.
• Stay well-ventilated: Ensure the room you’re in is well-ventilated. If you start feeling uncomfortable or overheated, open the blanket to cool down and consider taking a pause.
• Cool down: After your session in the blanket, HigherDose recommends a cool-down shower as both a cleansing and revitalizing treat.
• Clean up: Use a dry towel to absorb sweat left in the blanket. A nontoxic disinfectant wipe or spray is best to sanitize the waterproof parts of the mat, and a hand vacuum can clear debris from the mesh areas with embedded crystals. Leave the mat unfolded until completely dried before stowing.

Our Experience With the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

Delivery and setup

Our tester said the blanket arrived organized and secure, with easy-to-follow setup directions. She recommends buying the additional towel inserts from HigherDose, and found them to be the ideal method of keeping the blanket from the wear and tear of moisture over time.

Use and cleanup

Our tester said the blanket is a breeze to operate, thanks to the inclusion of an eight-level temperature dial. The blanket took about 10 minutes to “preheat.” Although our tester eventually used HigherDose’s towel inserts, on first use, she used a towel as directed and spent minimal time dealing with sweaty cleanup.

HigherDose Sauna Blanket V3 vs. HigherDose Sauna Blanket V4

According to HigherDose, both blankets will tout the same merits—enhanced muscle recovery, boost to your blood flow, calorie burning and relaxation, plus the detox benefits. The only differences between the HigherDose Sauna Blanket V3 and V4 are aesthetic (the appearance is slightly updated), and a minor construction difference (a zipper enclosure in the V4 rather than velcro, like the V3).

Warranty and Customer Service

For its price tag, the one-year warranty of the sauna blanket is fairly humble. At publishing time, the blanket received excellent marks for customer service and durability, averaging 4.88 out of 5 stars based on 2,517 online reviews. One reviewer said, “I didn’t know what to expect when I ordered my blanket, but now I wonder how I lived without it! I try and use my blanket every day, and miss it when I travel. It’s a game changer for my overall health and mood. Highly recommend. Also, customer service is fantastic and responsive!” HigherDose has a chat box option on the website available for quick turnaround inquiries, and email and phone line customer service options are on deck as well.

HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket FAQs

How often can you use the HigherDose infrared sauna blanket?

The HigherDose manual suggests using the infrared sauna blanket three to four times a week on level five or six for up to 45 minutes. If you can tolerate the heat and aren’t experiencing adverse effects, you can use the blanket as much as desired, however, you should allow at least an hour to cool down between uses.

Should you shower after using an infrared sauna blanket?

As a user of infrared saunas at health clubs, I’ve been advised to shower afterward to wash away the sweat and toxins. Ultimately though, showering after using an infrared sauna blanket is a matter of personal preference.

Is the HigherDose infrared sauna blanket worth the high price tag?

Given that walk-in home saunas will run you thousands—if not several thousands—of dollars, many users see the $699 price tag of the HigherDose infrared sauna blanket as well worth it. It’s a good idea to try an infrared sauna at your local health club to see how you tolerate the heat before you take the plunge on buying your own device.

The Takeaway: Is the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket Right for You?

The terminology “infrared heat” might seem intimidating, when in reality it’s a heat source we’re all well familiar with. For example, while visible light is what you see when sitting by a campfire, it’s the infrared heat radiation that heats your body. A tool like an infrared sauna blanket simply allows you to harness that heat, and the associated benefits. Since the body is being heated directly by the blanket, rather than the air around you being heated during traditional sauna use, people sometimes find the experience less stifling, yet more rejuvenating.

Our tester looked forward to her sessions in the HigherDose blanket, experiencing a feeling of “enhanced well-being” after each session. She likes the way the blanket can be dialed into whatever experience you want, whether it’s a higher intensity sweat session or gentle, soothing heat. All in all, she says the blanket is operationally simple, easy to clean and a portable recovery tool worth investing in. Always be mindful of how much heat you can handle and don’t push your session to the point of discomfort. Talk to a health professional about any concerns or pre-existing conditions that can impact your ability to tolerate a longer sweat session.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.