While the best home saunas can be a great addition to your recovery and wellness regimens, the hot, humid conditions can be less than comfortable at times. As Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer, states, “Dry saunas, in particular, are growing in popularity because they don’t require any complicated venting and are much less susceptible to mold due to the lack of moisture.” The best infrared saunas use infrared light rather than steam, directly heating the body for the sake of improved muscle recovery, pain relief, and mental health. (1)(2)
In addition to the benefits of infrared heat, infrared saunas can be cheaper alternatives than their traditional, steam-powered brethren. Still, though, the investment can be costly, so understanding how to select a high-quality unit is a must prior to purchase. To offer some assistance, our expert-led team has adapted our fitness equipment testing methodology to suit recovery gear like infrared saunas and curated this guide to the best infrared saunas available today. From portable units for on-the-go sweat sessions to outdoor-ready silhouettes for at-home recovery, we’re sure you’ll find a sauna experience that matches your goals with this comprehensive round-up.
The 8 Best Infrared Saunas of 2025
Best Overall Infrared Sauna: Sun Home Equinox 2-Person Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna
Sun Home Equinox Sauna
This at-home sauna has a modern design and can comfortably fit two people. This sauna has built-in surround sound that’s bluetooth compatible, so you can stream your favorite music and podcasts.
Specs
- Price: $6,999
- Product Dimensions: 45.9” L x 50.9” W x 77.7” H
- Product Weight: 520lbs
- Seating Capacity: 2
- Max Temperature: 165° F
- Additional Features: Magnetic locking assembly system, full spectrum high-intensity heaters, chromotherapy LED lighting, Bluetooth surround sound system
- Warranty: 7-year cabinetry and heaters, 3-year controls
Pros
Full spectrum heating system provides multiple infrared light benefits
Magnetic panel-locking system improves assembly
Can reach temperatures up to 165° F
Cons
Near-$7,000 price tag is well above $4,150 average
Does not support app-based controls
Best Luxury Infrared Sauna: Sunlighten Amplify II
Sunlighten Amplify II
The Sunlighten Amplify II infrared sauna is available in multiple wood finishes and boasts two full spectrum infrared heaters for a range of light therapy benefits. Bluetooth speakers and chromotherapy lighting arrangements round out this luxurious recovery unit built for elevating every sweat session.
Specs
- Price: Starting at $6,799
- Product Dimensions: 45.9” L x 50.9” W x 77.7” H
- Product Weight: Starting at 456lbs
- Seating Capacity: 2
- Max Temperature: 165° F
- Additional Features: Two full spectrum high-intensity heaters, four SoloCarbon infrared light therapy heaters, chromotherapy LED lighting, magnetic locking assembly system, multiple wood options, premium sound system
- Warranty: 7-year cabinetry and heaters, 3-year controls, 1-year glass doors and audio
Pros
Available in multiple wood finishes
Requires a standard 120-volt outlet
Premium Bluetooth sound system
Cons
Actual pricing only available through online quote
Best Infrared Sauna for Outdoors: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Sauna
Sun Home Luminar 5 Person Outdoor Sauna
Sun Home Luminar 5 Person Outdoor Sauna
This at-home infrared sauna can fit up to five people comfortably, convenient for multi-athlete homes or families. You can also control this unit right from your smart phone.
Specs
- Price: $11,699
- Product Dimensions: 51.5” L x 82” W x 82.5” H
- Product Weight: 1,270lbs
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Max Temperature: 170° F
- Additional Features: 10 full spectrum high-intensity heaters, chromotherapy LED lighting, LED accent lighting, mobile app control, Bluetooth surround sound system, aerospace-grade aluminum exterior, pitched stainless steel roof
- Warranty: 1-year limited
Pros
All-season aluminum exterior can withstand harsh weather conditions
Smartphone connectivity for remote adjustments
Full spectrum heating elements for added infrared therapy benefits
Cons
Requires 240-volt power source
Most expensive infrared sauna we’ve had in testing
Shorter warranty than other infrared saunas we’ve tested
Best Infrared Sauna Blanket: HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket
HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket
Reap the benefits of a sauna in the comfort of your home with the Higher Dose Infrared Sauna Blanket, which has a wide 68- to 158-degree temperature range that can boost cardiovascular health and aid in muscle recovery. The ETL-certified blanket is made from PU leather and integrated with clay, charcoal, crystal, and magnetic layers.
Specs
- Price: $699
- Product Dimensions: 72.5” L x 32” W
- Product Weight: Not listed online
- Seating Capacity: 1
- Max Temperature: 175° F
- Additional Features: Handheld controller, convenient carrying bag, available inserts
- Warranty: 1-year limited
Pros
Compact design is ideal for smaller spaces
Reaches temperature quickly, per our tester
More affordable than standalone infrared sauna structures
Cons
Pooling sweat can deteriorate leather material
No specific temperature reading
Not ideal for multi-person sauna use
Best Infrared Sauna for Small Spaces: Sunlighten Solo
Sunlighten Solo System Portable Sauna
Sunlighten Solo System Portable Sauna
Functionality and convenience are the aim with this single-person portable sauna system. It has infrared heating technology to provide the benefits of a sauna without taking up a ton of room in your house. You can even fold the Solo System up for easy storage.
Specs
- Price: $3,199
- Product Dimensions: 69” L x 28” W x 18” H (Dome) | 74” L x 23.6” W x 4” H (Pad)
- Product Weight: 46lbs (Dome) | 13lbs (Pad)
- Seating Capacity: 1
- Max Temperature: 150° F
- Additional Features: 5 zone-based SoloCarbon heaters, bamboo carbon exterior, zone-based digital heater controls, chromotherapy LED lighting
- Warranty: 7-year dome and pad, 3-year controls, 1-year memory foam
Pros
Lightweight design is easy to set up and store post-session
Zonal heat control across dome and pad
Included light bar offers chromotherapy treatment
Cons
Dome dimensions can be less ideal for taller athletes
Heat can escape from top opening, per our tester
Single-person use only — no group sessions
Best Two-Person Infrared Sauna: Dynamic Andora 2-Person Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna
Dynamic Saunas
Dynamic Andora 2-Person Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna
Dynamic Andora 2-Person Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna
If you’re in need of a two-person infrared sauna, this impressive profile can deliver with 6 low-EMF far infrared heating elements and a stylish aesthetic crafted with Canadian hemlock wood. Additionally, the Dynamic Andora is available on third-party retailers like Amazon, which can be beneficial when trying to find convenient shipping rates and schedules.
Specs
- Price: $2,299.99
- Product Dimensions: 43” L x 47” W x 74.4” H
- Product Weight: 319lbs
- Seating Capacity: 2
- Max Temperature: 140° F
- Additional Features: 6 low EMF carbon heating panels, chromotherapy LED lighting, Bluetooth speakers, soft-touch controls, removable bench seating
- Warranty: 5-year limited
Pros
43-inch bench can support two athletes at once
Low electromagnetic field exposure from carbon heaters
Reforested Canadian hemlock wood provides a stylish look, per our tester
Cons
Interior can feel cramped at times
Lower max temperature than other infrared saunas we’ve tested
Best Budget Infrared Sauna: LifePro RejuvaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket
LifePro RejuvaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket
LifePro RejuvaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket
If you’re tight on space, this budget-friendly infrared sauna blanket can be perfect for generating relaxing sweat sessions with max temperatures up to 176 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, the LifePro RejuvaWrap is available in multiple color options, which can be interesting to those looking to match their recovery modalities to their personal taste.
Specs
- Price: $399.99
- Product Dimensions: 71” L x 36” W
- Product Weight: 16.9lbs
- Seating Capacity: 1
- Max Temperature: 176° F
- Additional Features: Waterproof materials, cabled remote control, convenient carrying bag, multiple color options
- Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
More affordable than the average infrared or steam sauna
Waterproof interior helps limit grime and sweat build-up
Cons
Few features outside of cabled digital controller
71-inch length may be too short for taller individuals
Best Portable Infrared Sauna: Vital+ SaunaPod Infrared
Vital+ SaunaPod Infrared
The Vital+ SaunaPod uses a fiberglass frame and polyester shell to create an infrared sauna bathing experience primed for on-the-go recovery. This infrared sauna unit also comes equipped with chromotherapy lighting and multiple far infrared heaters for a range of soothing perks and modalities.
Specs
- Price: $995
- Product Dimensions: 36” L x 36” W x 75” H
- Product Weight: Not listed online
- Seating Capacity: 1
- Max Temperature: 150° F
- Additional Features: 6 infrared panels, 2 660nm red light LED strips, chromotherapy lighting, fiberglass sauna framing, sweat-absorbing floor mat, portable chair
- Warranty: 1-year
Pros
Fiberglass framing is easy to assemble and move
Foldable chair included for comfortable seating
Chromotherapy lights for additional wellness modalities
Cons
Can only fit one athlete at a time
Exterior is not weatherproof
Zipper can be finicky at times
How We Tested and Chose the Best Infrared Saunas
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To compile this round-up of the best infrared saunas available today, we brought in 12 high-quality profiles to gather hands-on experience and see what each silhouette could bring to our recovery routines. Adapting the BarBend equipment testing methodology to fit recovery items, we then rated these saunas on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) in a range of categories such as the following:
- Footprint and Portability: Your brand-new infrared sauna can be rendered useless if its dimensions don’t align with your available space. As such, we provided the available measurements for each infrared sauna chosen for this guide to give athletes a better idea of how large of an area they’ll need to comfortably house each profile. Additionally, we included some portable and lightweight infrared saunas to accommodate travel-centric athletes or those looking to take on some sauna bathing in tighter quarters.
- Construction and Durability: Like the best cold plunges on the opposite end of temperature-centric recovery, we focused on infrared saunas boasting durable construction qualities that could withstand regular use without compromising internal temperatures. For saunas rated for outdoor environments, we made sure to look for exterior designs capable of withstanding different weather conditions, as well.
- Ease of Assembly: Having a piece of recovery equipment with a phone book’s worth of assembly instructions can make you question why you purchased the silhouette in the first place. All of the infrared saunas chosen for this guide feature manageable setup protocols or minimal assembly at all. For larger structures, like those rated for group sauna bathing, we made sure to emphasize the benefit of having assistance during assembly, particularly when trying to hoist larger walls or heavier components into position.
- Available Wavelengths: Infrared light exposure can be beneficial for muscle recovery, cardiovascular health, and more, according to studies, but the wavelengths do differ in terms of how deep the light can penetrate your body. (3) We emphasized infrared saunas utilizing far infrared heating elements (the deepest-penetrating infrared wavelength ideal for muscle recovery) as well as units using full spectrum infrared technology — a setup featuring all three infrared wavelengths for a complete approach for better sauna experiences.
- Added Amenities and Conveniences: To make sensations even more comfortable, many infrared saunas come equipped with added accessories like Bluetooth-compatible speakers and chromotherapy light setups — an additional recovery modality that can help boost relaxation and cognitive function. (4) While these features can increase the total price for each unit, we did point out which silhouettes came equipped with such technologies for more comfortable muscle recovery sessions.
- Warranty: According to Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, “Saunas, even ones that are reasonably priced or affordable for the category, are expensive.” Naturally, then, it can be beneficial to opt for a sauna that’s protected through a well-rounded warranty package that provides support for key components like the controls, cabinetry, and more. We made sure to provide any and all information available for the warranty bundles offered with each selected sauna.
- Price: We understand that infrared saunas can be costly with the average price tag coming in at roughly $4,150. We provided picks that featured pricing similar to this median as well as some profiles better suited for larger and smaller budgets, alike.
Benefits of Infrared Saunas
Certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto notes, “Don’t feel like you’re missing out on some magic elixir by not having access to a sauna.” However, if you are looking to elevate your post-workout recovery regimen, there are plenty of infrared sauna benefits that warrant your attention. From boosted muscle recovery to improved mood, skin, and more, here are a handful of our favorite perks associated with the modality:
- Muscle Recovery: Studies report that sauna bathing under infrared light can help support muscle recovery protocols, leaving you with less muscle soreness and ready to tackle future training sessions. (1) This is the result of the improved blood flow brought on by infrared light, allowing your muscle cells to recover more easily after strenuous exercise. (1)(3)
- Sweat Detoxification: Sweating is one of the body’s most effective ways it dispels unwanted toxins. (8) As such, the increase in body temperature when sauna bathing can be helpful in removing unwanted compounds and heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, and aluminum.
- Improved Cardiovascular Health: Research indicates that infrared light therapy can also be beneficial for cardiovascular health and blood pressure. (9) Infrared light, particularly mid-infrared wavelengths, can help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, leading to improved markers associated with chronic heart failure. (3)(10)
- Skin Rejuvenation: In addition to being a premier setting to practice meditation for athletes, infrared saunas using full spectrum infrared light therapy can also be rejuvenating for your skin. Exposure to near infrared light, according to studies, can help improve your skin vitality and complexion. (3)(11) This infrared wavelength is also common in cosmetic tools such as red light therapy masks.
How Much Do Infrared Saunas Cost?
We’ve determined that the average infrared sauna costs roughly $4,150, based on our calculations. Of course, though, there are profiles above and below this median price tag, so it’s important to set your budget prior to beginning your search. To make comparisons easier, we’ve compiled the price points of every infrared sauna featured in this round-up and listed them in the chart below:
| Best Overall Infrared Sauna | Sun Home Equinox 2-Person Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna | $6,999 |
| Best Luxury Infrared Sauna | Sunlighten Amplify II | Starting at $6,799 |
| Best Infrared Sauna for Outdoors | Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Sauna | $11,699 |
| Best Infrared Sauna Blanket | HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket | $699 |
| Best Infrared Sauna for Small Spaces | Sunlighten Solo | $3,199 |
| Best Two-Person Infrared Sauna | Dynamic Andora 2-Person Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna | $2,299.99 |
| Best Budget Infrared Sauna | LifePro RejuvaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket | $399.99 |
| Best Portable Infrared Sauna | Vital+ SaunaPod Infrared | $995 |
What to Consider Before Buying an Infrared Sauna
“Saunas, like cold plunge tubs, are a nice-to-have item,” states Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer. “Research on sauna use and heat therapy in general is promising, and if one can afford a home sauna, one can enjoy easy access to benefits like improved workout recovery, pain relief, alleviated stress, and increased cardiovascular health and fitness.” (12) Like any major purchase, though — from the best smart home gyms to functional trainers, rowing machines, and beyond — there are a few factors worth considering before finalizing your online cart.
Size and Available Space
In order to avoid any mishaps during assembly and setup, a good precaution is to ensure that your infrared sauna of choice can actually fit within your available space. As Capritto notes, “Carefully measure the intended space and compare it to the dimensions of products you’re interested in.” If you live in tighter confines or don’t have the room available for a standalone infrared sauna, it may be best to look at infrared sauna blankets or structures designed for better portability. These units can be packed away neatly when not in use and don’t take up as much space as structured profiles resembling a small hut or shed.
Indoor or Outdoor Use
You’ll also need to determine where you want your infrared sauna to live. While a majority of infrared saunas are rated for indoor use only, some silhouettes are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor environments. These can be excellent additions to a patio or backyard landscape without compromising the layout of your indoor training area. Capritto notes, though, “If you plan to set up your sauna on a deck or other elevated surface, ensure that the product is rated for that and that your existing construction can handle the weight of the sauna.”
Infrared Wavelength Type
Infrared saunas work by using infrared light to create warm environments. Rather than heat the surrounding air with steam and humidity — what you’d experience with a traditional sauna — these infrared beams heat the body directly, which can be more energy-efficient since less heat is needed to achieve similar benefits. However, infrared beams can vary in wavelength, and these different beams can provide different perks to your post-workout recovery.
For the deepest penetration, and the most powerful light therapy benefits, it’s best to opt for an infrared sauna utilizing far infrared wavelengths. (3) Some saunas implement full spectrum infrared technology, meaning all three wavelengths are used to generate such benefits as muscle recovery, improved circulation, boosted heart health, skin vitality, and more. (1)(3)(5)(9)(11)(12) These profiles can be more well-rounded in terms of effects, but may come at a higher price point.
Additional Recovery Modalities
Unlike the best massage guns or foam rollers, infrared saunas can be multi-purpose recovery tools provided they are equipped with different therapy modalities. Many of the best infrared saunas also offer chromotherapy lighting that can be helpful in promoting better brain health and improved moods. (4) If you’re interested in using your sauna for means beyond your standard sweat session, be sure to look for a profile offering these features.
Added Conveniences
Infrared saunas can be tech-riddled marvels for your home gym that expand your idea of a traditional hot box. Some offer additional recovery modalities like chromotherapy, while others can come with Bluetooth speakers or surround sound systems perfect for those who can’t stand working out without music. Like anything tech-related in today’s day and age, you can even find infrared saunas with companion apps for remote settings adjustments directly from your phone. If you’re adamant about having these built-in luxuries, be sure to structure your search process accordingly.
Capritto adds that you should also consider whether you’d like to sauna bathe with other companions. “If you plan to sauna with others, check the capacity. Some home saunas only fit one or two individuals, while others may be able to comfortably accommodate five or more,” she states.
Price
We’ve calculated that the average price of a high-quality infrared sauna is roughly $4,150. While there are certainly profiles cheaper and more expensive than this metric, this can be a good starting point to see if you can comfortably afford a unit for your personal space. Capritto also points out that some infrared saunas may require additional costs for installation, particularly when it comes to the electrical demands of the sauna itself. “Many saunas require 120 volts for operation, which is the output of a standard household outlet,” she says. “However, some require a 240-volt outlet, in which case, you may need to hire an electrician.”
Infrared Saunas FAQs
What is the best infrared sauna?
The best infrared sauna for your needs can depend on your available space, recovery preferences, and budget. In our opinion, though, the Sun Home Equinox is the best available today thanks to its comfortable seating arrangement, full spectrum heating elements, and durable construction.
How much do infrared saunas cost?
At-home infrared sauna prices can vary greatly from one silhouette to the next. On average, you can expect to pay roughly $4,150 for a high-quality profile with smaller, more portable designs costing less and more durable, rigid structures costing more. In the end, though, be sure to calculate your personal budget and find a silhouette that fits your finances best.
What are the cons of infrared saunas?
When used excessively, infrared saunas can lead to possible issues such as overheating, dehydration, and lightheadedness. It’s always important to listen to your body when taking part in sauna bathing and remove yourself from the hot conditions if you begin to feel discomfort. If you’re unsure whether you’re able to use a sauna or not, be sure to consult with your personal healthcare provider.
Which home sauna is better — steam or infrared?
Both infrared and traditional saunas can be helpful for post-workout recovery, but their specific methods can be beneficial for a different range of athletes. Infrared saunas can be best for those wanting to target muscle recovery, cardiovascular health, and skin rejuvenation. (1)(11) Traditional or steam saunas, though, can be helpful for respiratory health given the higher humidity levels within the seating area. (13)
References
- Ahokas, E. K., Ihalainen, J., Hanstock, H. G., Savolainen, E., & Kyröläinen, H. (2023). A post-exercise infrared sauna session improves recovery of neuromuscular performance and muscle soreness after resistance exercise training. Biology of Sport, 40(3), 681–689. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37398966/
- Chang, M., Ibaraki, T., Naruse, Y., & Imamura, Y. (2023). A study on neural changes induced by sauna bathing: Neural basis of the “Totonou” State. PLOS ONE, 18(11). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10681252/
- Tsai, S.-R., & Hamblin, M. R. (2018). Biological effects and medical applications of infrared radiation. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 170, 197–207. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5505738/
- Kishan, K., Saklecha, P., & Savaliya, K. (2022). Effect of chromotherapy on the anxiety level in the patients undergoing endodontic treatment: A randomized clinical study. Journal of Conservative Dentistry, 25(4), 398. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36187850/
- Shui, S., Wang, X., Chiang, J. Y., & Zheng, L. (2015). Retracted: Far-infrared therapy for cardiovascular, autoimmune, and other chronic health problems: A systematic review. Experimental Biology and Medicine, 240(10), 1257–1265. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4935255/
- Jaramillo, C. (2022, August 11). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes – seatup, LLC. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/
- Miah, T., & Kamat, D. (2017). Current understanding of the health effects of electromagnetic fields. Pediatric Annals, 46(4). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28414399/
- Genuis, S. J., Birkholz, D., Rodushkin, I., & Beesoon, S. (2010). Blood, urine, and sweat (BUS) study: Monitoring and elimination of Bioaccumulated Toxic Elements. Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 61(2), 344–357. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21057782/
- Umehara, M., Yamaguchi, A., Itakura, S., Suenaga, M., Sakaki, Y., Nakashiki, K., Miyata, M., & Tei, C. (2008). Repeated waon therapy improves pulmonary hypertension during exercise in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Journal of Cardiology, 51(2), 106–113. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18522783/
- Hussain, J., & Cohen, M. (2018). Clinical effects of regular dry sauna bathing: A systematic review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2018(1). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5941775/
- Wunsch, A., & Matuschka, K. (2014). A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 32(2), 93–100. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3926176/
- Ketelhut, S., & Ketelhut, R. G. (2019). The blood pressure and heart rate during sauna bath correspond to cardiac responses during submaximal dynamic exercise. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, 218–222. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S096522991930473X
- Laukkanen, J. A., Laukkanen, T., & Kunutsor, S. K. (2018). Cardiovascular and other health benefits of Sauna Bathing: A review of the evidence. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 93(8), 1111–1121. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30077204/
