Best Portable Saunas | Fortune Recommends Health (2024)

Saunas come in various shapes and sizes, but you don’t need a massive structure to enjoy the many health benefits of sauna therapy. Portable saunas are a great alternative to traditional saunas for anyone on a budget or with limited space. A portable sauna is a compact and lightweight structure that provides the therapeutic benefits of a traditional sauna in a convenient and mobile package.

In this article, our experts share their picks for the six best portable saunas. We’ll explain the distinguishing features of each model and help you understand the different options so you can determine if a portable sauna is right for you.

Our picks for the best portable sauna

• Best overall: Sun Home Saunas Infrared Sauna Blanket
• Best low EMF: Sunlighten Solo Portable Sauna
• Best tent: SweatTent
• Best blanket: HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket
• Best infrared: SereneLife Portable Full Size Infrared Home Spa
• Best steam: SAUNABOX

Compare portable saunas

Best portable sauna overall: Sun Home Saunas Infrared Sauna Blanket

Why we like Sun Home Saunas Infrared Sauna Blanket as best overall

Sauna blankets can be a great alternative to traditional saunas for those with limited space and funds, and the Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket is our favorite choice.

When you’re in the mood to relax, boost your mood, or improve your cardiovascular health—just some of the many potential benefits of sauna use—this sauna blanket is basically ready to go. ( 1 ) ( 2 ) All you have to do is lay it down on a flat, heat-tolerant surface, wrap yourself in a couple of towels to protect your skin, and switch on the handheld control so you can adjust the temperature and time as needed.

When you’re done, simply wipe it down with a wet cloth (you will sweat), fold it, and put it away. That’s the charm of a sauna blanket.

More of a sleeping bag than a blanket, this form of sauna allows the infrared heat to be very close to your body, making for a warm and efficient heating experience. However, it can also feel very hot. Make sure you think about what you’re wearing and how many layers you want between your skin and the non-toxic polyurethane (PU) fabric. While the PU fabric is safe to be in direct contact with your skin, the user manual recommends wearing clothes that absorb sweat, such as a shirt, pants, and socks. If it’s still too warm, the company suggests placing a thin towel between you and the inside of the blanket.

When deciding whether or not a sauna blanket is right for you, think about what position you want to be in. A sauna blanket requires you to be supine, or lying down flat. You can prop your head and shoulders up slightly, but the blanket can slide around at different angles, so plan accordingly. And make sure you use the timer so you don’t fall asleep.

In terms of heat, it’s worth noting that there is only one heating zone with this blanket. Others have two or even three. However, it uses advanced carbon fiber heating elements that emit far-infrared heat, which is known for its deep tissue penetration and therapeutic benefits. Users can customize their experience with adjustable heat settings ranging from 95°F to 167°F.

We love the EMF shielding and non-toxic materials, so you can rest assured you are getting the benefits of infrared heat without any negative health consequences. The blanket’s waterproof and fire-resistant exterior adds an extra layer of protection, while the soft, easy-to-clean inner lining enhances user comfort.

Specs

Best low-EMF portable sauna: Sunlighten Solo Portable Sauna

Why we like Sunlighten Solo Portable Sauna as best low-EMF

When using an infrared sauna, it’s important to consider how the heating technology will impact your health, both positively and negatively. That’s why considering the EMF levels you’re exposed to is so important. Luckily, with the lowest EMF emissions on the market, you don’t have to sacrifice safety by opting for this portable model.

High-frequency electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) emissions are considered ionized and can damage DNA, ultimately leading to an increased risk of cancer (particularly in children)—so the lower the EMFs the better. ( 3 )

Unlike a sauna blanket, which leaves an opening where your head and shoulders emerge, this dome structure comes with a curtain to contain all the therapeutic heat it creates. With five heaters in the dome and four in the pad, you can still get the 360-degree sauna experience in a lightweight and portable structure.

The Solo System comes equipped with adjustable temperature control that is easy to read and use, allowing you to customize your experience. This portable sauna is constructed from bamboo carbon, which is more eco-friendly and just as durable as other portable sauna materials such as PU leather.

While portable, the combined weight of all its pieces is about 60 pounds, so be prepared to use good body mechanics when picking up and folding each part. On the plus side, because of its unique doming and weight, this sauna feels sturdier than many other portable saunas on the market.

Set-up is easy and doesn’t require more than your standard 120-volt outlet, but you’ll need a little extra space to store this portable sauna. While the foam pad folds, the domes don’t. If you have the space to store the different elements of this sauna (dome, pad, pillow), then it can provide a more immersive and slightly more spacious sauna environment than the blanket options.

Nevertheless, memory foam combined with the supportive, ergonomically shaped neck pillow makes the Sunlighten Solo Portable Sauna a comfortable experience for those who don’t love lying flat on the floor. Use your handy remote control to pick from one of the 16 chromotherapy colors, adjust the temperature, and relax knowing you’re getting all the therapeutic benefits of far-infrared heat without EMFs.

What customers are saying

Users appreciate the customer service from Sunlighten, and praise the sauna for being effective and easy to set up.

Verified Trustpilot reviewer, Katie P., says customer service made ordering her sauna easy, and she found it simple to use and set up.

One Amazon customer, Jolie, is happy overall, but finds the curtain problematic. She explains that every time she turns from her back to her stomach, the curtain comes partially off and “is impossible to put back on” without losing some of the heat.

Overall, with a good warranty and great customer service, most issues that arise can be addressed and fixed.

Specs

Best portable sauna tent: SweatTent

Why we like SweatTent as best tent

The SweatTent might not suit everyone’s vision of what a sauna should look and feel like, but for those who like to combine portability with the great outdoors, this sauna gets the job done and packs a punch.

One of the standout features of this sauna compared to other portable saunas is its ability to heat up to 200℉ within 30 minutes. The stainless steel wood-burning stove heats the 20 pounds of sauna rocks that come with your order, which you can then ladle water over if you’d like to create steam.

Note, though, you can only get the temperature this high if you assemble the tent correctly and the flaps of the sauna aren’t blowing in the wind. There is no flooring, and you may need to weigh down the flaps with cinder blocks if it’s windy. Also, sitting directly on whatever surface you place the tent on—grass, dirt, concrete, or tile—might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Despite the SweatTent’s ruggedness, it can provide a wonderful sauna experience. The tent can fit you and several friends (up to four people), but you’ll have to purchase seating at an additional cost.

The tent is relatively lightweight, at 30 pounds, but the 50-pound heating stove and 20 pounds of rocks will add another 70 pounds to your portable tent. Sleek carrying cases come with your order, but you may need other people to help set things up.

After the work is done and you’re in your SweatTent, you can enjoy the intense heat whenever and wherever you want, making the setup effort well worth it.

Specs

Best portable sauna blanket: HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

Why we like HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket as best blanket

The HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket makes infrared heat therapy easy to access. The lightweight, foldable design is especially convenient for those who live in apartments or small living spaces.

The temperature from the one heat zone maxes out at 158℉. This is about the middle of the road for a portable sauna, but you may not need such a high temperature. Most infrared saunas are capable of heating up to between 110℉ and 135℉. ( 4 ) And if you’re new to infrared saunas, it’s best to start at the low end of that range and gradually increase the temperature as your tolerance improves.

However, the blanket design has its pros and cons. You may want to have some thin towels or clothes (t-shirt, leggings) to place between your skin and the blanket to help absorb sweat and feel more comfortable, especially when you’re just starting out. We love the double-sided zipper so you can zip and unzip yourself from the inside and outside, but you’ll need to stay near an outlet to be able to use the blanket.

The blanket heats up in about 10 minutes, and a handheld temperature dial allows you to control the temperature. Once zipped inside the blanket, your arm and hand movements will be restricted. You can leave your arms outside of the blanket, but this may limit the immersive experience.

The blanket is 71” long with a circumference of 65” inside. If you are taller or larger around the waist and want your whole body to fit inside, you may want to take your body measurements before you purchase it. Also, know that your feet may be compressed between the end of the blanket layers toward the bottom, and your head and shoulders will likely not be exposed to the infrared heaters.

Despite these minor limitations, this sauna blanket is easy to set up and clean, effective, and safe. Operating at 100-120 volts, it consumes significantly less power than traditional saunas, contributing to its affordability and sustainability. Safety-conscious users can rest well knowing the fabric is non-toxic and HigherDose credits it with low EMF and ELF currents.

Crystal (amethyst and tourmaline), charcoal, clay, and magnetic layers add a luxurious element, taking this blanket to the next level. Amethyst and tourmaline generate negative ions, so they’ve been added to help fight free radicals, though the scientific validity and benefit of these has not yet been quantified or validated.

What customers are saying

Verified Amazon customers are mostly satisfied with their purchase of the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket, but there are some mixed reviews.

Verified Amazon customer Megan states she uses it daily and finds it “easy to use and set up.” Pamela A. says it heats up fast.

Amazon customer Theresa W. says she finds it incredibly relaxing. “The minute I get under it, I feel like I could fall asleep right away.” She also notes it has helped ease her arthritis pain.

Other users aren’t as delighted. Verified Amazon customer Brian, who is 6’ tall and 225 pounds, says, “It’s hard for me to move inside and zip it up all the way.” He adds that when he tries to move, the blanket unzips at the shoulder area.

Some users complain that the blanket fails to heat up to higher temperatures, and others describe it as inconsistent and say it loses its effectiveness over time.

Specs

Best portable infrared sauna: SereneLife Portable Full Size Infrared Home Spa

Why we like SereneLife Portable Full Size Infrared Home Spa as best infrared

If you want a standing infrared sauna but need it to be portable, the SereneLife Portable Infrared Home Spa is a great option. That said, a portable infrared sauna that’s this easy to set up comes with some caveats.

Most portable infrared home saunas come in the form of a blanket or dome, and your head and shoulders may not feel the heat. But for anyone who wants to sit upright and be fully immersed in the infrared heat, this easy-to-assemble tent is a solid choice. The SereneLife sauna walks the line between portable and traditional so you don’t have to sacrifice every aspect of a traditional standing sauna experience when opting for a portable design.

That said, don’t expect the design to be as sturdy as a standard sauna. One of our testers described the included chair as flimsy, stating, “This is like a cheap lawn chair that you would fold up and bring to watch your kids play soccer.” Another tester appreciated that it heated up to 140℉ in 10 minutes as promised, but he still describes it as “a very budget sauna.”

FIR heat comes from an overhead heater and a footpad, which some of our testers described as “useless.” The sauna maxes out at 140℉ in ideal conditions. You can still have a successful sweat session, but don’t expect super high temperatures. One tester noted the sauna has difficulty regulating the heat when in a cold garage. They had to move it to their bedroom to be more effective and noted that it works best in an insulated environment.

The sauna comes with a handheld remote control that has temperature control and a timer. It also includes a folding chair reminiscent of a camping chair, but you can easily swap in a wooden chair (or other heat tolerant chair) if you prefer. Just stay away from materials that can burn your skin when hot. A zipper door lets you get in and out with ease, but there’s only a small window through which you can see outside once inside.

Overall, this sauna gets the job done for under $400, but don’t expect a fancy spa experience.

What customers are saying

Users describe the sauna as convenient and easy to assemble, with many reporting noticeable benefits after just a few uses. However, some find the design and heating capabilities a little finicky.

Verified Amazon customer Jason G. reports that the sauna “works great and gives me the big sweats I’m looking for.” He also notes that, while it has no trouble reaching high temperatures inside his home, it struggles to reach and maintain the same temperatures in a less controlled climate like his garage.

Some users, like Kimmie G, are very pleased with their purchase. She notes feeling many of its benefits after using it three to four times per week, stating: “I can’t say enough good things about this new addition to my home gym.”

However, verified Amazon customer “MMCC” discovered the sauna had trouble maintaining higher temperatures over time. She adds that the chair is uncomfortable, the heating capabilities are inconsistent, and she’s lost confidence in using the sauna.

While the occasional negative review is to be expected, most people are pleased and satisfied with how the SereneLife sauna works. Just keep in mind that you get what you pay for, so manage your expectations.

Specs

Best portable steam sauna: SAUNABOX

Why we like SaunaBox as best steam

The SaunaBox creates a compact steam-heat sauna environment that can be put together quickly and stored away when you’re done using it. The combination of non-toxic materials and a quick heating system are appealing, but the cost is one of its top selling points. At $349 on sale ($449 MSRP), it’s the most budget-friendly, free-standing portable sauna on our list. Delivery is also free.

A portable sauna with steam heat is a nice addition to any home, particularly for people looking to maintain muscle mass.

That said, a steam heating system can have different maintenance requirements from a dry or infrared sauna. While the materials are anti-bacterial and resistant to microbes and mold, they may require frequent cleaning.

Any steam you let out of the sauna will make its way into your home, so consider that when deciding where to put it. SaunaBox’s website also recommends placing the sauna on concrete or tiled floors (anything water-resistant), as moisture can accumulate underneath it after frequent use.

Luckily, it’s so portable and easy to assemble that you can move it around as needed. A setup tutorial is available on the company’s website for those who want to scope out the process before buying one.

As for heat, this sauna packs a punch. The website claims a maximum temperature of 130℉ with almost 100% humidity. This will feel a lot hotter than dry heat, so it’s best not to go so high, especially if you’re new to steam saunas. We love that there is a good-sized velcro window for ventilation, if needed.

High heat can be more harmful than helpful for some individuals, so there are some precautions, and those with Alzheimer’s or cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or other health concerns should check with their own health care provider before sauna bathing. ( 6 )

What customers are saying

Customers are satisfied with SaunaBox, given its affordable cost.

Verified Trustpilot reviewer, Ryan R., reports: “It works surprisingly well and lives up to my expectations.” Daniel R. also gives rave reviews, stating: “SaunaBox has transformed my wellness routine, providing a convenient way to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of sauna therapy from the comfort of home.”

Several verified Yotpo reviewers report the heating system can have issues achieving the advertised temperature levels. Some note a chemical smell from the tent. But users love the convenience, portability, and ease of assembly that helps them enjoy the benefits of steam sauna therapy in their own homes.

The dominant complaint, for some, is mediocre to non-existent customer service and long wait times (several weeks) for delivery. One Trustpilot reviewer, Ryan A., complains about “terrible customer service” and a long wait (2-3 weeks) for his order, while Whitney S. expresses extreme disappointment with both the product and unavailable support.

Despite these negative reviews, most customers are happy with their SaunaBox, stating that it works, is effective, and fits nicely in most apartments.

Specs

How we test recovery products

Recovery is essential, not just for athletes but for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Whether through heat therapy in one of the best home saunas or cold therapy in a cold plunge tub, these methods can enhance your recovery. Choosing the right portable sauna involves considering a range of factors to ensure it meets your specific needs.

Our process is comprehensive, combining physical product testing with expert input to assess everything from effectiveness and ease of use to durability and safety standards.

You can read our full recovery product testing methodology here.

Performance (recovery effectiveness)—30%

A high-quality portable sauna should deliver on its promise of aiding your recovery process. Performance encompasses various critical aspects, including the ability of saunas to reach and maintain desired temperatures for heat therapy. Our testers assess the functional aspects of the sauna as well as the user’s recovery experience.

Here’s what we look for:

• Temperature range
• Temperature stability
• Ease of use
• Durability and material quality
• Power demand

Design and safety—30%

Alongside effectiveness, design is paramount for a positive recovery experience. It affects how these therapies support and enhance the user’s overall wellbeing, whether sitting in a sauna or immersed in a cold plunge tub . The health and safety aspects are also critical, especially for products used in close contact with the body or for therapeutic purposes like saunas.

This category scrutinizes the measures and features manufacturers implement to protect users from potential hazards while assessing the health-promoting aspects of the saunas. We evaluate:

• Size
• Accessibility features
• Material safety
• Certifications
• Safety features

Value—20%

This category delves into the intersection of quality, performance, durability, and the financial investment required to identify products that offer significant health and wellness returns without the financial burden. It offers a holistic view of the sauna’s worth by balancing the initial investment against the benefits and ongoing costs associated with its use. It also helps consumers make informed decisions, identify saunas that meet their needs, and represent a wise and sustainable financial investment.

Customer experience—20%

The overall purchasing and ownership experience can significantly impact satisfaction with a portable sauna. This category focuses on consumers’ journeys, from initial interest to post-purchase support. The assessment goes beyond the physical attributes and considers the entirety of the process, including shipping, customer support, assembly, and more.

Our factors in this rating include:

• Shipping
• Assembly
• Warranty
• Customer support

What to look for in a portable sauna

When choosing a portable sauna for home use, it’s important to consider several different factors that will impact your decision.

Cost

Portable saunas can range from a few hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars. It’s essential to balance the cost with the long-term benefits. While some models may be more budget-friendly upfront, higher-quality options often offer better durability and functionality, ultimately providing greater value over time.

Size

Portable saunas come in various sizes to accommodate different spaces and user preferences. Most are ideal for one person, but some are suitable for up to four people. Before purchasing one, consider the available space in your home or desired location for setup. Ensure the sauna fits comfortably without being too cramped or oversized. Consider the footprint and the space above and around the sauna for safety, ease of use, and assembly.

Sauna type

Portable saunas typically come in two main types: infrared and steam. Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to generate heat, offering therapeutic benefits such as relaxation. Steam saunas produce steam by heating water, creating a humid environment that can promote sweating and improve respiratory health. ( 7 ) Choose the sauna type that best suits your wellness goals and preferences.

Assembly process

The assembly process can vary depending on the model and design of the portable sauna. Look for saunas that are easy to assemble with clear instructions and minimal tools required. Some models may feature pop-up or foldable designs for quick and hassle-free setup, while others may require more extensive assembly but offer sturdier construction.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your portable sauna. Regularly clean the interior and exterior surfaces to remove sweat, oils, and debris, and follow any specific maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. Additionally, check for any wear and tear or malfunctioning components and address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Durability

A durable portable sauna should withstand regular use and transportation without compromising its structural integrity or performance. Look for saunas constructed from high-quality materials such as durable fabrics with reinforced seams and sturdy frames. Consider reading customer reviews or seeking recommendations to gauge the durability and reliability of different models before making a purchase.

How to use a portable sauna

Using a portable sauna is usually straightforward, though they come in different forms, such as a tent, dome, or blanket. The first thing you want to do is ensure you have a flat and heat-tolerant surface to place the sauna on. Next, assemble the sauna according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring all components are securely in place.

Once assembled, enter the sauna and adjust the temperature and timer settings to your preference using the provided controls. Relax and enjoy the sauna session, but stay mindful of safety precautions such as time and hydration. After use, wipe down the sauna with a damp cloth to remove sweat, and fold it away for storage until your next session.

FAQs

Our experts

Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD

Dr. Christopher Mohr is an internationally recognized subject matter expert, guest speaker, and performance coach. Through his facilitation and online resources, he works closely with some of the largest corporations in the world including Deloitte, Delta Airlines, Johnson & Johnson, and more to help busy executives develop the energy to thrive personally and professionally.

Amanda Dvorak

Amanda Dvorak is a Fortune Recommends writer and editor. A garage gym owner who is passionate about working out and healthy living, she has four years of experience writing product reviews for fitness and nutrition websites. Amanda is currently studying to become a certified personal trainer through the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA).

Jessica Coulon

Jessica Coulon is a contributing editor and writer for Fortune Recommends who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.

Kelly Uhler

Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.