Infrared saunas are trending among celebrities and the public at large as an exciting option to create the spa experience at home. They provide serenity and a number of benefits.

Within this innovative wellness spectrum, two options stand out: the infrared sauna blanket and the infrared sauna cabin. The sauna blanket is praised for its flexibility and affordability. If you only look at the price, the sauna blanket seems to be the best choice, as it’s a lot cheaper than its infrared cousin. 

The best buying decisions though, are not merely based on price but also on how the products we purchase fit into our lives.

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COMMON BENEFITS OF INFRARED SAUNAS

Regardless of their form, both sauna blankets and cabins use far infrared technology to deliver therapeutic heat. They are beneficial for healing and wellness, proven to support heart health, help muscle recovery after exercise, boost the body's natural detox processes, and lessen anxiety, tension, and stress [1]. Those are just the known benefits, but IR therapy can do so much more. 

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Lifestyle Integration

A sauna cabin needs a dedicated spot in your home. There is always a design that suits your style and interior preferences. The durability of a cabin, both indoors and out, adds both wellness and aesthetic value to your home.

No special space is required for the sauna blanket: it is stored away after use. This makes it easy to fit into any lifestyle. Its portability makes it possible to create a personal spa wherever there is a power source: On vacation, weekend get-away, or even in the office. 

The sauna blanket is perfect for people with limited space or for nomads at heart.

Take a moment to reflect which option will suit your home environment. Do you see room for a sauna cabin in your living space, or does the convenience of a storable sauna blanket appeal more to your current situation?

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Personal Use vs. Social Experience

While the sauna blanket can be used by one person at the same time, the sauna cabin has more possibilities. They come in all sizes, from one to 8 people. 

So an ideal option for those for whom sauna is a social affair: relaxing with your partner after a day of work, or catching up with family or friends.

Which sauna experience do you prefer? Do you prefer the solitude of a personal session to unwind in silence, or do you see yourself sharing the warmth with loved ones, making the sauna a communal wellness ritual.

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Sun Home Luminar™ Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna

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Installation and Setup

Simplicity determines the arrangement of the sauna blanket. Just unfold, plug in and you're just minutes away from pampering. This makes the blanket easy to fit into your daily routine, with minimal fuss and maximum convenience. Although most sauna blankets are ready to use right away, some require some warm-up time. We have in-depth review of the best blankets on the market today, if you're think of buying one.

On the other hand, installing a sauna cabin requires space and good preparation. Professional help may also be required and often a special electrical installation.  But once in place, this sauna is also easy to operate, often with a smart remote control. The latter ensures that the sauna is heated up for your stay.

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HigherDOSE Sauna Blanket

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Therapeutic Options

Both the sauna blanket and cabin come equipped with features designed to strengthen your health and relaxation. 

The sauna cabin, with its spacious design, allows for a variety of therapeutic accessories such as full spectrum infrared that combines far infrared and near infrared wavelengths, and optional additions like chromotherapy, vibrational sound therapy for mood improvement, or an other innovative therapy. 

The sauna blanket, while more compact, offers direct heat application, providing a concentrated form of the same infrared therapy to target relaxation and detoxification effectively. It also gives you the chance to read a book, or listen to some music or a podcast. You can also easily merge blanket sessions with complementary therapeutics.

For a tailored experience, both sauna blankets and cabins present advanced personalization features. Adjusting temperature, lighting, or combining complementary methods with your cabin like color therapy or sound vibration therapy intensify the therapeutic benefits, all make your sauna session perfectly suited to your needs.

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Energy Efficiency and Operational Costs

In general, infrared sauna blankets are more energy efficient due to their smaller size and direct heat application.

Although sauna cabins may use more energy due to their larger size, they are designed with energy efficiency in mind. High-quality insulation and efficient heaters minimize energy waste.

See an example of the difference in costs in the table below. In this overview we have compared the energy costs of a single infrared sauna with those of an infrared sauna blanket. 

This table summarizes average wattage, hourly costs based on average electricity rates, typical session duration, and estimated monthly costs.

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Longevity and Maintenance

The design of the sauna blanket for personal use and direct contact with the body requires regular maintenance to ensure hygiene and longevity. Ease of cleaning and maintenance varies by model, but is generally simple.

The sauna cabin is built with durable materials and designed for long-term use. The cabins require less frequent maintenance than the blankets. To ensure the lasting performance and hygiene of your sauna, regular cleaning is essential. 

Whether you choose a sauna blanket or cabin, keeping it clean not only extends its lifespan, but also improves your enjoyment.

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Sun Home Solstice™ 2-Person Infrared Sauna

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Cost-Effectiveness

When assessing the cost-effectiveness of choosing between an infrared sauna blanket and a sauna cabin, it is important to look beyond just the initial purchase price and operating costs. 

Accessibility and flexibility are the hallmarks of the sauna blanket and offers an affordable entry into the world of infrared wellness. It's a healthcare investment that won't break your budget and provides a gateway to the benefits of infrared therapy without the financial hassle.

With its many options, the sauna cabin has a higher price tag. It is an investment in a long-term wellness lifestyle, and it represents a luxurious experience, reflected in the cost. For those who see wellness as a priority, the cabin is a worthy addition to the home.

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Making the Decision

As you weigh the benefits of a sauna blanket's convenience against the immersive experience of a sauna cabin, the best choice is the one that fits your lifestyle and meets your specific self-care goals. 

Ready to take the next step in the quest for your home wellness spa? Explore our detailed reviews and find the perfect sauna solution for you. 

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References

1. Fatma Vatansever and Michael R. Hamblin, Far infrared radiation (FIR): its biological effects and medical applications, PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3699878/

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