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Best Portable Saunas

Updated January 2024
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket
HigherDose
Infrared Sauna Blanket
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Best of the Best
Bottom Line

Bring the spa-like sauna experience home with the HigherDose Sauna Blanket. Not only does it recreate the relaxing warmth and therapeutic sweat of a traditional sauna, but it also improves your skin and helps your body recover after workouts.

Pros

Easy to store and clean. Offers nine temperature settings ranging from 68 to 158 degrees.

Cons

The HigherDose Sauna Blanket is on the pricier side compared to other options. It may seem too short for people taller than 6 feet.

Best Bang for the Buck
LifePro Sauna Blanket
LifePro
Sauna Blanket
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Best Bang for the Buck
Bottom Line

LifePro's sauna blanket delivers deep heat therapy to boost your well-being, from easing tension and burning calories to rejuvenating skin and reducing toxins. All that spa-worthy detox can be had conveniently at home for a much more affordable price than the competition.

Pros

Available in multiple color options. Has arm holes in case you need to use your smartphone or control a TV remote.

Cons

Fewer heat settings than higher-end sauna blankets. Control panel gets hot during use.

SereneLife SLISAU35BK Full Size Portable Steam Sauna
SereneLife
SLISAU35BK Full Size Portable Steam Sauna
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Best Steam Sauna
Bottom Line

Skip the harsh, dry heat and indulge in the soothing power of steam with the SereneLife portable sauna. This compact sanctuary brings the spa experience right to your home, offering an affordable way to unwind and detoxify.

Pros

It only takes 10 minutes for it to get to temperature. The steam generator is fully adjustable, offering users the convenience of customizing the temperature and steam output to their preferences.

Cons

Although we were glad a chair was included, we wish it were taller and not as low to the ground.

Zonemel Portable Sauna Tent
Zonemel
Portable Sauna Tent
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Best Sauna Tent
Bottom Line

The Zonemel sauna tent pops up in minutes and offers a relaxing sauna experience anytime, anywhere. Choose from two sizes to find the perfect fit for your body type, then simply add a chair and steamer (not included) to enjoy the detoxifying benefits of a sauna session.

Pros

The sauna tent features a transparent window that provides an unobstructed view. Additionally, you can open the window directly to let in fresh air when you feel uncomfortable. There’s an inner pocket for storing a towel or personal items.

Cons

While we appreciate the sturdiness and durability of the metal frames for this tent, we expect them to rust over time due to the humidity.

Sauna Rocket 2-Person Full Body Sauna Bundle
Sauna Rocket
2-Person Full Body Sauna Bundle
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Best Two-Person Portable Sauna
Bottom Line

Unlike the competition, the Sauna Rocket portable sauna offers a spacious design with plenty of room to stretch out fully. It's available in two sizes to comfortably accommodate two or three adults and includes two powerful 6-gallon steam generators for consistent heat so you can feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

Pros

Includes not one but two steam generators. The sauna is easy to set up but due to its size, you’ll likely need an extra set of hands.

Cons

We wish a bench or a few chairs were included.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

30
Models
Considered
84
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Consulted
16
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Researched
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Buying guide for best portable saunas

You don't have to hit the gym or book a spa appointment to enjoy the benefits of a sauna. With a portable sauna, you can relax whenever you want at home — without permanent installation involved. But before you work up a sweat, you'll want to learn how to find the best portable sauna for your needs.

Some portable saunas operate like traditional saunas with an external heat source and steam, so you get an experience similar to what you'd expect at your favorite health club. Other portable saunas use infrared heat, which allows them to heat more quickly and use less energy. But no matter what type you choose, the best portable saunas are easy to disassemble and store and don't require any installation, making them perfect for all kinds of homes, including apartments, and even while traveling.

To find the top portable saunas, we considered all types, including infrared saunas, sauna blankets and domes. We also looked at models of various sizes and materials and evaluated features like temperature range, user-friendly controls and ease of storage. In the end, the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket earned our top spot for its spa-like experience, the various temperature options and how easy it is to clean. 

5 Best Portable Saunas for Your Home in 2024

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket

Best portable sauna


Product Specifications

Dimensions: 71" L x 71" W | Type: Infrared sauna blanket  | Maximum Temperature: 150 degrees  | Weight: 16.45 lb  | Timer Settings: 1 hr

It's difficult to find a portable sauna that's more convenient or effective than the HigherDose Sauna Blanket. It uses infrared heat to warm your body directly and help you work up a sweat and improve circulation. The exterior of the blanket is made of nontoxic polyurethane leather and is fully waterproof to hold up to your sweat and other moisture. The inner layers also contain charcoal, clay and magnetic materials to help detox the body and boost blood flow. Best of all, the durable zipper keeps the heat trapped inside, so you immediately feel the effects. 

The HigherDose blanket needs only 10 minutes to preheat and can heat up to 150 degrees. It offers eight heating levels and has a single heating zone for consistent, all-over heat that helps you work up a healthy sweat. You can also set the timer up to 60 minutes to customize your sauna session to best meet your needs. HigherDose recommends just 30 to 45 minutes to see similar health benefits to those from a full-size sauna.

But what makes the blanket so convenient is that you can use it on any heat-resistant surface where you can lay flat. Its handheld controller also makes it easy to choose and adjust the settings when lying down. When you're done with your sauna experience, you can fold up the blanket and easily store it, even in a smaller home or apartment. 

LifePro Sauna Blanket

Best bang for the buck


Product Specifications

Dimensions: 71" L x 31" W | Type: Infrared sauna blanket  | Maximum Temperature: 176 degrees  | Weight: 7.96 lb  | Timer Settings: 30 to 60 minutes

The LifePro Sauna Blanket provides a spa experience at home like other portable saunas but at a fraction of the price. It uses infrared heat like some high-end counterparts and heats up to 176 degrees, making it ideal when you really want to work up a sweat. However, unlike other sauna blankets that cover the body completely, it has arm holes at the sides, so you can multitask while enjoying your sauna session and use your smartphone or another device. 

Its timer allows you to choose from sessions ranging from 30 to 60 minutes, so you can get the most benefits from your portable sauna. Its controller's long cord makes it easy to adjust the blanket's settings while lying down, too, so you can get as comfortable as possible. In addition to helping relieve stress and anxiety, it works especially well for treating muscle soreness and pain because it covers the entire body, making it a great option for athletes or anyone who works out regularly.

The sauna blanket also includes two disposable thermal sauna wraps that help prevent the heat from escaping and boost its overall benefits. It folds easily and weighs under 8 pounds, so it's one of the easiest portable saunas we considered to travel with. Best of all, the setup is extremely simple, and the blanket takes only 10 to 15 minutes to reach your chosen temperature, so you can enjoy sauna sessions whenever you want. 

SereneLife Portable Steam Sauna

Best steam sauna


Product Specifications

Dimensions: 35" L x 35" W x 71" H | Type: Sauna tent  | Maximum Temperature: 122 degrees  | Weight: 13.18 lb | Timer Settings: 1 hour

With its collapsible tent design, the SereneLife Portable Steam Sauna provides an experience very similar to traditional saunas. It comfortably fits one person but folds down when not in use, so it's super easy to move and store. It also comes with a folding chair that helps provide a truly relaxing spa-like experience. The tent's zippers are conveniently placed, too, to make it easier to access when inside. The front and back of the tent even have plastic windows, so you can see out while relaxing.

The SereneLife portable sauna's steam generator features a 1,600-watt heating element, allowing it to reach a maximum temperature of 122 degrees in just 10 to 15 minutes. It also has an easy-to-use wired controller with just a few simple buttons that let you choose a custom temperature and set the timer for up to 60 minutes.

In addition to being easy to move and store, the SereneLife sauna tent is a breeze to clean. After a sauna session, you only need a damp cloth and gentle dish soap to wipe down the surfaces. Setup is just as easy, taking only 20 minutes to assemble for the first time. 

Zonemel Portable Sauna Tent

Best sauna tent


Product Specifications:

Dimensions: 31.5" L x 31.5" W x 5.1" H | Type: Sauna tent | Maximum Temperature: NA  | Weight: 5 lb  | Timer Settings: NA

Unlike the other portable saunas on our list, the Zonemel Portable Sauna Tent doesn't come with a steam generator or heating element. But it provides a portable sauna space that only needs a chair and a steamer to offer a spa experience at home. The tent is available in two sizes that both comfortably fit one person, so there is an option even for taller users.  

The opening features a double-headed zipper that makes it easy to open and close the tent. It also has an inner pocket where you can store a towel, water bottle or other essential items. The door has a transparent window that can be unzipped if you want to let in fresh air while enjoying the sauna, too.

The tent's exterior is made of waterproof, insulated canvas material, while the frame uses sturdy metal poles. They are easy to connect, so setup is quick and easy. It folds down when not in use, though, so you can move it and store it out of the way in minutes.

Sauna Rocket Two-Person Full-Body Sauna Bundle

Best two-person portable sauna


Product Specifications:

Dimensions: 48" L x 36" W x 63" H | Type: Sauna tent | Maximum Temperature: 120 degrees  | Weight: 32.8 lb  | Timer Settings: 1 hr

If you want to share your sauna time with a loved one, the Sauna Rocket Two-Person Full-Body Sauna is a great option. This bundle includes the tent and two steamers to ensure there's enough steam to let you and a friend work up a sweat. The zippered closure is easy to access, too, so you can get in and out with any trouble.

The tent's assembly doesn't require any tools, so you can set it up in less than 15 minutes. It disassembles just as quickly, making it easy to move around and place in storage when not in use. The window in the door also lets in some light without ruining the relaxing vibe of your at-home spa experience. 

The tent is large enough to fit two folding chairs, so it provides a full-body sauna experience for up to two people. Because your entire body is exposed to the steam, it's ideal for post-workout recovery sessions or treating chronic pain issues. The exterior is made of insulated canvas that traps the heat and steam for total relaxation. Its frame contains reinforced metal poles that are sturdy enough to hold up to regular use. 

What are the health benefits of heat therapy and saunas?

Infrared saunas, including portable saunas, have many health claims and possible benefits. However, you should always consult your doctor before using an infrared sauna, and avoid using one if you’re pregnant.

  • Relaxes: Traditional steam saunas and infrared saunas are probably best known for their relaxation effect. The heat can help relax tense muscles, while your sympathetic nervous system activates to help balance your body's temperature, releasing endorphins that can boost your mood.
  • Improves sleep: Because traditional saunas and infrared saunas can help relieve stress, you may get a better night's sleep after sauna sessions.
  • Improves skin quality: According to the Mayo Clinic, sauna bathing can help increase your skin's hydration and stabilize the skin barrier to improve its look and feel.
  • Lowers blood pressure: Studies suggest a traditional sauna or infrared sauna can help reduce high blood pressure. According to the Mayo Clinic, a 30-minute sauna bathing session can lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
  • Relieves muscle soreness and joint pain: The Mayo Clinic also reports that studies find sauna bathing can help treat muscle soreness and pain associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. It's believed that the heat helps blood vessels relax, which reduces pain and tension in muscles and joints. It is also a great option for recovery after sports and workout injuries.
  • Improves circulation: Sauna bathing helps the blood vessels open and dilate, which boosts circulation throughout your body.
  • Lowers inflammation: Studies from the National Library of Medicine suggest regular sauna bathing can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. It's likely due to the improved circulation that helps blood flow and reduces swelling.

Infrared saunas may also help with the following conditions:

  • Depression
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Chronic pain
  • High blood pressure

Things to consider when choosing the best portable sauna

While portable saunas may all seem similar, it's essential to know what features to look for to ensure you purchase the best sauna for your needs. You can choose from several different types of portable saunas, so there is an option for every kind of house.

Understanding the different types of portable saunas

Saunas are spaces that use dry or wet heat to offer therapeutic benefits. You can choose from portable steam saunas and portable infrared saunas, which provide a similar experience but with different methods.

Portable steam saunas are most similar to traditional saunas. They use a steam generator or steamer box to convert water to steam for wet or moist heat. On the other hand, portable infrared saunas use dry heat to provide their therapeutic benefits. They have infrared heaters that heat the body and penetrate the skin directly.

In general, infrared saunas don't get as hot as steam saunas, but they still let you work up a good sweat. An infrared sauna usually takes less time to heat up and doesn't require as much maintenance as a traditional steam sauna.

Whether you opt for a steam or an infrared sauna, there are three main styles of portable saunas: fabric-enclosed cabinets, domes and blankets.

  • Fabric-enclosed cabinet: This type of sauna is a zippered enclosure designed for one individual to sit inside on a chair. Your body is enclosed in this tent-like structure, but your head sometimes remains outside, or the door features a zippered window you can open for fresh air. There are also openings so your hands can be outside the compartment. This type is typically made from moisture-resistant polyester or cotton fabric. The fabric is lightweight and foldable, making this a highly portable structure that doesn’t require a lot of storage space.
  • Sauna dome: This is a tubular enclosure designed for an individual to lie down, usually on padding like a mat and pillow, leaving the head outside the capsule. Some are made from fabric, while more expensive models are made of either wood or plastic. These vary in portability, depending on material and weight. Some sauna users prefer to lie down for deeper relaxation. These portable saunas can be used any place there’s room to extend the body fully.
  • Sauna blanket: These portable saunas are similar to sleeping bags, so you slip inside the fabric to experience infrared heat. They provide full-body treatment, but your head is exposed. Many also have openings for your arms to allow you to read or use a device while experiencing the therapeutic benefits. Some feature Velcro closures to secure you inside, while others feature more durable zippers. Blankets are extremely lightweight and typically the most portable and easy to store of all at-home portable sauna products. A sauna blanket's exterior is typically made of nylon or polyester, while its inner layers are usually infused with carbon fiber and/or tourmaline.

Considering the features you want or need

Size and space requirements: Consider your needs, physical limitations and the space available in your home when choosing a portable sauna. Infrared sauna blankets take up the least space and are easiest to stow away, typically weighing between 5 and 18 pounds. While some sauna domes weigh less than 30 pounds, others constructed from more durable materials can weigh over 80 pounds.

Comfort: Saunas are supposed to be relaxing, so you want a model that enhances relaxation and doesn’t detract from it. If you’re claustrophobic, choose a model that leaves your head outside the enclosure. Accessories like a mat, a chair, flooring and pillows can also increase your comfort.

EMF safety: Some consumers are sensitive to electromagnetic fields and are concerned about EMF emissions. Many portable saunas offer low-EMF emissions for your safety.

Chair: A chair is necessary when using a fabric-enclosed sauna, but not all models come with one. Check to see if the manufacturer provides one, and if so, opt for a foldable chair. We also recommend checking customer reviews to see if the seat is comfortable. Not all chairs included with portable saunas are comfortable to sit on.

Heated foot pad: This is a nice feature that comes with some fabric-enclosed saunas. It’s a way to raise your body temperature easily and provide some comfort for your tired toes.

Timer: One necessity in a portable sauna for the house is a timer because you don’t want to sit inside too long. One is usually included in a handheld, fixed or remote control panel and can typically be set in 15-minute intervals up to an hour.

Heat settings: This is another crucial feature we wouldn’t recommend skimping on. This allows you to adjust the temperature on a handheld, fixed or remote control panel. While portable saunas that use infrared technology don’t exceed 150 degrees (or need to), some only go up to 120 degrees. Check the manufacturer’s specifications first.

Picking the portable sauna that fits your budget

Most portable saunas cost between $100 and $6,000. Infrared sauna blankets and fabric-enclosed portable saunas are usually the most affordable, ranging from $100 to $600.

Larger fabric-enclosed portable saunas that fit two people and include accessories like a chair cost a bit more, so you can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000. You can also find some smaller sauna domes that cost between $450 and $800.

Sauna domes and cabin-style wood saunas are the most expensive portable options. They usually cost between $1,000 and $6,000 but often include special features and additional therapies like light therapy, speakers and Bluetooth connectivity.

Tips when using a portable sauna

  • Check with your doctor before using a sauna. This is especially important if you’re on any medications or have chronic health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease.
  • Start slowly. If this is your first time using a sauna, begin with 10 minutes at a lower temperature of 100 degrees. Gradually increase the time and temperature with each session. The maximum recommended time is 20 to 30 minutes at 150 degrees.
  • Drink water with electrolytes before, during and after sauna use to avoid dehydration. Never use a sauna if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
  • Watch for warning signs. If you start to feel faint or nauseous, leave the sauna immediately. Those are signs your body is overheating, which can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Don’t use a sauna if you have a fever because it will only raise your temperature.
  • Don’t go to sleep when using your portable sauna. Try meditating, reading, watching television or listening to relaxing music to occupy the time.
  • Stand up slowly. You may feel lightheaded after sweating in a sauna, so stand up slowly afterward and immediately replenish your system with water. Allow your body to cool down before you attempt to do anything, like take a shower.

Frequently asked questions about portable saunas

Do portable saunas steam up?

Many portable saunas don’t have the humidity element that traditional steam rooms or wet saunas do and instead use infrared heat. However, some fabric-enclosed saunas include a steam generator attached to the outside of the enclosure that adds humidity to the mix. These steam buckets enable you to use essential oils and are available with budget-priced sauna cabinets.

How often can I use my portable sauna, and for how long?

Overusing a sauna can do more harm than good. We don’t recommend more than three or four 30-minute sessions a week. However, if your doctor says it’s OK, you might be able to tolerate daily sessions.

Is a sauna or steam room effective?

It depends on what your goals are in using a sauna. If you want to reduce your stress and unwind at the end of a long day, sauna bathing can be an ideal way to relax. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, some evidence also suggests that sauna bathing provides health benefits, such as reducing high blood pressure, relieving joint and muscle pain, improving circulation and reducing inflammation.

What's the difference between dry and wet saunas?

Dry saunas heat the air to a high temperature using a heat source but don't increase the area's humidity. On the other hand, wet saunas convert water to steam, so they increase both the heat and humidity of the area. Wet saunas often have greater benefits for those with respiratory issues like allergies or asthma because they can make it easier to breathe. Dry saunas may be a better option for treating sore, tight muscles.

How we analyzed

To find the top portable saunas, we conducted extensive research and analyzed customer reviews for more than a dozen models. We considered saunas of all styles, including blankets, fabric-enclosed cabinets and domes, and looked at both steam and infrared saunas. We evaluated saunas based on their size, how easy they were to set up and store, how hot they get and overall value, so we settled on the best saunas to use at home or on the go. 

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