Infrared Portable Sauna: A Comprehensive Guide for New Buyers

Infrared portable saunas have become increasingly popular due to their affordability and convenience, offering a similar experience to traditional infrared saunas at a fraction of the cost. If you’re considering adding one to your wellness routine, it’s essential to understand how these portable saunas work, their benefits, and the key features to look for when purchasing.

Key Takeaways

What Are Infrared Portable Saunas?

An infrared portable sauna is a more accessible version of a wooden indoor infrared sauna. These saunas come in a tent-like structure supported by a frame, with infrared panels or heating elements inside. The main appeal of infrared portable saunas is that they essentially provide the same or similar benefits as their larger wooden counterparts, but at a much lower price and with greater flexibility in the way they can be used in your home.

Like their wooden counterparts the infrared technology used in these saunas heats your body directly without the need to heat the surrounding air, creating a more comfortable and tolerable environment. Unlike traditional saunas, which rely on high temperatures, infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures (typically 40–60°C or 104–140°F). This makes the experience gentler while still promoting sweating, detoxification, muscle relaxation, and improved circulation.

Difference Between Infrared Portable Saunas and Infrared Sauna Blankets

It’s important to note that infrared portable saunas and infrared sauna blankets are two different products. While both use infrared technology, an infrared portable sauna is a more enclosed, structured setup with a tent and frame, allowing you to sit comfortably inside. In contrast, an infrared sauna blanket wraps around your body, providing a more compact and restricted experience. Portable saunas are generally more powerful and provide a closer experience to a traditional sauna than sauna blankets do due to their additional heating elements. 

However, infrared sauna blankets offer some advantages, especially when it comes to convenience and storage. If you’re in a smaller space where a portable sauna wouldn’t fit, or if you need something lightweight and easy to store, an infrared sauna blanket is a great alternative. Additionally, if you prefer to lie down and fully relax during your session, sauna blankets allow you to do so comfortably. They’re an excellent option for those who want a highly portable solution or limited space, while still enjoying the infrared health benefits. There are a range of great  options reviewed on our Infrared Sauna Blanket Page including the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket.

How Do Infrared Portable Saunas Compare to Other Sauna Types?

When deciding between different types of saunas, you might be comparing portable infrared saunas to traditional steam saunas or more permanent wooden infrared saunas. Here’s how they stack up:

Traditional Steam Saunas

Traditional steam saunas heat the air around you to a high temperature, typically around 70–90°C (160–194°F). This environment encourages intense sweating and promotes detoxification. However, the high temperatures and humidity can be uncomfortable for some, especially for those sensitive to heat. In contrast, infrared portable saunas operate at lower temperatures, making the experience more tolerable for a wider range of users. They also don’t require a large, permanent space in your home and are much easier to set up.

Indoor Wooden Infrared Saunas

Wooden infrared saunas use the same infrared technology but are generally larger, more luxurious, and come with additional features such as inbuilt entertainment options or medical grade chromotherapy lights. While these saunas provide a more immersive experience, they are significantly more expensive and require a dedicated installation space. Infrared portable saunas, on the other hand, offer a much more affordable way to enjoy the benefits of infrared heat therapy. While they may lack some of the luxury features of their wooden counterparts, they deliver many of the same benefits and can be packed down and stored when not in use.

Advantages of Infrared Portable Saunas

While infrared portable saunas come with some limitations, they also offer several key advantages that make them an appealing choice for many users:

  1. Affordability: Infrared portable saunas are much more budget-friendly compared to full-sized wooden saunas. They offer a similar experience at a fraction of the cost, making infrared heat therapy accessible to a wider range of people without the financial commitment of a permanent installation.
  2. Convenience and Portability: These saunas are designed for easy setup and takedown. They can typically be assembled or packed away within 15–20 minutes, making them a flexible solution for people with limited space. While not ideal for travel, their portability allows for easier storage compared to a permanent sauna.
  3. Space-Saving Design: For those living in apartments or homes with limited space, an infrared portable sauna is a great option. Once folded, it can be easily stored in a closet or under a bed when not in use, saving valuable floor space.
  4. No Permanent Installation Required: Unlike traditional or wooden saunas, infrared portable saunas don’t require a dedicated installation space. You can set them up in any room and pack them away when not in use, which is a major advantage for those with space constraints or for renters who can’t install permanent fixtures.

Disadvantages of Infrared Portable Saunas

While infrared portable saunas offer many benefits, they also come with some disadvantages that potential buyers should consider.

  1. Smaller Size and Capacity: One of the main trade-offs with portable saunas is their compact size. While convenient for small spaces, the tent-like design typically only fits one person at a time. This makes them less ideal for group sessions or for those looking to enjoy a sauna experience with a partner. Additionally, their compact design may limit your ability to stretch out and fully relax compared to more spacious wooden infrared saunas.
  2. Durability Concerns: Because infrared portable saunas are designed to be lightweight and foldable, they may not be as durable as permanent models. The materials used to construct the frame and cover, while sufficient for regular use, may not withstand long-term wear and tear, especially if the sauna is frequently packed down and reassembled. Lower-end models might also have shorter lifespans compared to sturdier wooden infrared saunas. Although this can be mitigated by choosing a more premium portable infrared sauna with a higher frame quality. 
  3. Fewer Features: While some portable saunas come with additional features like heating pads for the feet or built-in speakers, they tend to lack the luxury options available in higher-end wooden infrared saunas. Features like chromotherapy lights, customizable temperature controls, and built-in entertainment systems are typically found in more expensive permanent models. If you’re looking for a more feature-rich experience, portable saunas might feel a bit basic in comparison.
  4. Aesthetics & Design: Wooden infrared saunas often add a sense of luxury to a home with their elegant wood paneling and design. In contrast, infrared portable saunas are purely functional in appearance, with a fabric exterior that’s more practical than beautiful. While this doesn’t affect the sauna’s performance, it may not offer the same visual appeal as a more permanent installation.

Considerations When Buying an Infrared Portable Sauna

When shopping for an infrared portable sauna, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you’re getting the right model for your needs.

  1. Durability: Look for high-quality materials that will last, even with regular use. Saunas made with sturdy fabrics, zippers, and frames are likely to provide a longer lifespan, ensuring you get good value for your money.
  2. Size and Capacity: Infrared portable saunas come in different shapes and sizes. Some are designed for a single user, while others can accommodate two people. Make sure you choose the right size based on your space and personal preferences.
  3. Safety Features: Ensuring your sauna is made from safe, non-toxic materials is key. While specific safety features such as automatic shut-offs should not be assumed for every model, ensure that the sauna is reliable and meets standard safety regulations.
  4. Entertainment and Additional Features: Some saunas offer extra features like built-in speakers for music, reading lights, or even foot heating pads. Consider whether these additional features would enhance your sauna experience or if you prefer a simpler model.
  5. Warranty: A good warranty can offer peace of mind when purchasing a sauna. Check the terms and duration of the warranty to ensure you are covered for any defects or issues that may arise.

Choosing Between an Infrared Portable Sauna and an Indoor Infrared Sauna

When deciding between an infrared portable sauna and an indoor infrared sauna, the choice often comes down to two main factors: space and price. Both types offer the benefits of infrared heat therapy, but the overall experience, features, and practicality differ significantly between them.

Space Considerations

The amount of available space you have at home will likely be one of the biggest deciding factors in choosing between these two options. Indoor infrared saunas are larger, often designed as permanent fixtures made from high-quality wood, and require a dedicated area in your home. This makes them ideal for people who have a spare room, basement, or an area they can designate solely for a sauna. On the other hand, infrared portable saunas are far more compact and don’t require a permanent space. They can be set up in almost any room, such as a bedroom or living area, and packed away when not in use. This makes them a practical option for people living in apartments or homes without extra space for a fixed sauna.

Price Differences

The most significant factor to consider is the price. Indoor infrared saunas are generally a more premium product, featuring higher quality materials such as durable wooden construction and often equipped with enhanced features like chromotherapy lights, entertainment systems, and advanced temperature controls. These features make them an appealing option for those looking for a luxury wellness experience at home, but they also come with a higher price tag. Infrared portable saunas, on the other hand, are much more affordable and accessible to a broader audience. They provide many of the same benefits as their larger counterparts, such as relaxation, detoxification, and improved circulation, but at a fraction of the cost. If budget is a primary concern, a portable sauna offers an economical way to experience infrared therapy without making a large investment.

Features and Functionality

Indoor infrared saunas offer greater functionality and enhanced features compared to their portable counterparts. Many indoor saunas include options like inbuilt speakers, customizable temperature settings, ergonomic seating, and even medical-grade chromotherapy lights. These features make the sauna experience more immersive and enjoyable, providing a spa-like environment in the comfort of your own home. While infrared portable saunas are simpler, they still effectively deliver infrared heat therapy. However, they typically lack the luxury features found in indoor saunas. Portable models are more about practicality, with easy setup, and compact design. They provide the core benefits of infrared heat without the bells and whistles.

Ease of Use and Flexibility

One of the most significant advantages of infrared portable saunas is their flexibility. They can be set up in about 15-20 minutes, and when you’re done, they can be packed down and stored in a closet or under the bed. This makes them an ideal solution for people who need a sauna they can use occasionally and easily put away afterward. In contrast, indoor infrared saunas require permanent installation. While this means you have a dedicated space for regular sauna use, it also requires a commitment of space and may not be an option for renters or those who frequently move homes. However, the fixed setup offers a more stable and reliable experience, as you don’t have to worry about assembling or disassembling the unit.

If you have the space and budget to invest in a permanent installation, an indoor infrared sauna offers a premium experience with enhanced features, superior materials, and an overall more luxurious and immersive environment. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to create a dedicated wellness space at home and value added features like chromotherapy or built-in entertainment. However, if you’re limited by space or looking for a more affordable entry point into infrared therapy, a portable infrared sauna is a fantastic option. It provides similar health benefits, is easy to set up, and can be packed down for storage when not in use, making it a practical solution for those with limited room or those who want a flexible, budget-friendly way to enjoy sauna therapy.

If in the end you are leaning away from a portable infrared sauna and toward an indoor infrared sauna a couple of great options are the Sun Home Saunas Solstice or the Sun Home Saunas Equinox (the primary difference between them being the full spectrum capabilities of the Equinox). We’re clearly not the only ones who think so too Fortune Magazine listed them as their best infrared sauna for home. 

Is an Infrared Portable Sauna Right for You?

Infrared portable saunas are a great option if you’re looking to experience the benefits of infrared heat therapy without the cost and space requirements of a full-sized wooden sauna. They are ideal for users who want an affordable, easy-to-use solution that provides many of the same wellness benefits. If you’re someone who values convenience, lives in a smaller space, or wants a more affordable way to incorporate infrared sauna therapy into your routine, an infrared portable sauna could be the perfect fit. While they may lack some of the luxury features and durability of their wooden counterparts, they offer a practical solution for most users seeking relaxation. 

Infrared portable saunas bring the many benefits of infrared heat therapy into a compact and more affordable format. While they are not as feature-rich or robust as full-sized wooden infrared saunas, they still offer an effective way to promote relaxation, detoxification, and general well-being. When choosing the right model, it’s important to consider factors like durability, size, additional features, and warranty. By evaluating your own needs and space, you can find a portable infrared sauna that fits your lifestyle and budget, providing a valuable addition to your health and wellness routine.

If you’re in the market for a Portable Infrared we have a range of options below. Overall we have a preference for the AMBITHERM Portable Infrared Sauna because despite being more expensive than the rest the additional elements and features justify the price. 

Infrared Portable Sauna Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right size depends on your personal preferences and available space. Start by measuring the area where you plan to set up the sauna, ensuring you have enough room for the structure. Portable infrared saunas come in various sizes; most are designed for a single user, while others can accommodate two people. If you prefer to sit comfortably and have more room to stretch, consider a larger model. However, if space is limited or if you need something that’s easy to store, a smaller, more compact version may be ideal.

Portable infrared saunas offer several benefits, including ease of use and convenience, as they can be set up in various spaces within your home. They are designed to provide the same health benefits as traditional saunas, such as improved circulation, pain relief, and relaxation, but with the added advantage of being more energy-efficient. Infrared saunas work by emitting infrared light that penetrates the skin to a deeper level, allowing for a more effective and comfortable heat therapy experience. Additionally, portable infrared saunas are often more affordable and accessible, making them a popular choice for those seeking the therapeutic effects of sauna sessions at home.

No, portable infrared saunas are designed to be used indoors. Using them outdoors can damage the sauna’s fabric and electrical components due to exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight.

On average, portable infrared saunas take about 5 to 10 minutes to reach the desired temperature, but this can vary depending on factors like the model, the room temperature, and your preferred heat level. Some higher-end models may have more efficient heating elements that allow them to heat up faster. It’s best to preheat the sauna before your session so that you can start enjoying the benefits right away. If you live in a colder climate, it may take a little longer for the sauna to reach the optimal temperature, so adjust your preheating time accordingly.

Most portable infrared saunas come with a foldable chair designed to fit inside the sauna, and these chairs are usually lightweight and easy to set up. You can use your own chair if you prefer, but make sure it fits comfortably inside the sauna and doesn’t obstruct the heating panels. Some users also prefer using a meditation stool or a small, cushioned seat for added comfort.

Some users enjoy adding aromatherapy to their sauna sessions to enhance relaxation and stress relief. However, it’s important to be cautious when using essential oils in a portable sauna. Essential oils should never come into direct contact with the heating elements or the fabric, as they are flammable and can cause damage. Always ensure that the oils are not overpowering, as the heat can amplify their potency.

Yes, it is recommended to preheat your portable infrared sauna for about 5 to 10 minutes before entering. Preheating allows the sauna to reach the optimal temperature for your session, ensuring you can start enjoying the benefits immediately. The exact preheat time can vary depending on the ambient room temperature and the power of the sauna’s heating elements. If you prefer a higher temperature, you may need to preheat the sauna longer. Preheating also helps to maintain a consistent heat level throughout your session, maximizing the therapeutic effects.

While a portable infrared sauna alone is not a weight loss solution, it can support weight loss efforts as part of a broader wellness regimen. The heat from the sauna increases your heart rate, similar to moderate exercise, which can help burn calories. Additionally, sweating can temporarily reduce water weight, though this is quickly regained with hydration. Some users report that regular infrared sauna sessions help them feel more energized and motivated to engage in physical activity. However, for sustained weight loss, it is important to combine sauna use with a healthy diet and regular exercise. One key benefit however is the improvement in one’s sleep, which means you will have more energy for the exercise needed to lose weight. 

Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your portable infrared sauna and ensuring hygienic use. After each session, wipe down the interior of the sauna, including the chair, and fabric walls, with a damp cloth to remove any sweat or moisture. When cleaning, avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the fabric. Make sure the sauna is completely dry before packing it away to prevent mold and mildew growth. Leave the sauna open after use to air out. Periodically inspect the zippers, frame, and electrical components for signs of wear or damage, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper storage.

When using your portable sauna, you can choose between swimwear, exercise clothes, or any lightweight material. Natural fibers like cotton are the best choice, as they allow for better heat penetration and effectively wick away sweat. Many people also prefer to wear minimal clothing or simply wrap themselves in a towel to maximize skin exposure and enhance the overall benefits of the infrared heat. Always keep an extra towel nearby to wipe away sweat and maintain cleanliness in the sauna.

The frequency of use depends on your health goals and overall tolerance. For general relaxation and health maintenance, 2-3 times a week is sufficient. For specific goals, such as pain relief, muscle recovery, or detoxification, you can use the sauna up to 4-5 times per week. Make sure to stay well-hydrated, as frequent use can lead to dehydration due to sweating. Always listen to your body, and if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or overheated, take a break or reduce the frequency of your sessions. If you have any underlying health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before using the sauna frequently.

Infrared Portable Saunas