Written by Emma Cronan, Writer
Are you interested in purchasing a sauna for your home but not yet ready to commit to one of the larger, standard models? If this sounds like you, then we recommend checking out a portable sauna.
These saunas are great cost-effective alternative to regular sauna, with some costing thousands of dollars less than immobile ones. Of course, the other perk to these is that you can pack them up when they’re not in use and take them with you on trips.
In this article, we’re bringing you our top six picks for portable saunas. We’ve included a mix of styles and types, which should give you plenty of options to choose from. We’ll also cover what to look for when buying a new portable sauna.
Best Portable Saunas
- SweatTent Outdoor Sauna – Editor’s Pick
- LifePro Sauna Blanket – Best Portable Sauna Blanket
- Sunlighten Solo System Portable Sauna – Best Portable Infrared Sauna
- TOREAD Portable Folding Steam Sauna – Best Portable Steam Sauna
- iDOTODO Full Body Portable Personal Infrared Sauna – Best Two-Person Portable Sauna
- SunHome Infrared Sauna Blanket – Best Low-EMF Portable Sauna
SweatTent Outdoor Sauna – Editor’s Pick
SweatTent Outdoor Sauna
The SweatTent is a collapsable at-home sauna that can reach up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 minutes. It comes with everything you need, including an insulated sauna tent and a wood thermometer.
Sleep Advisor Score
4.90 / 5
Why the SweatTent Outdoor Sauna Earned Editor’s Pick
The SweatTent Outdoor Sauna earned the Editor’s Pick spot because it comes with a lot of great features at a pretty reasonable price. This sauna costs about 1,600 dollars and includes the insulated sauna tent, a sauna stove, sauna rocks and a basket, a wood thermometer, a fire poker, a weatherproof roof cover, and heat-resistant gloves.
Additionally, this outdoor sauna can reach up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, only requiring 30 minutes to heat up. SweatTent even offers a 60-day money-back guarantee, so if you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you can return it.
Our Take: Even with its portable design for on-the-go use, this sauna has many amazing features.
What We Liked
- Affordable – Although purchasing the SweatTent is still an investment, this product is much more affordable than an immovable wood sauna. What really sells us on it, though, is that the SweatTent still comes with impressive components for a successful sauna session, like a wood-fired stove and sauna rocks. As such, you get plenty of value with this product.
- Wood-fired design – Since this sauna is wood-fired, there’s no EMF exposure like you’d get with infrared saunas.
- Fast setup – This portable sauna can be moved around fairly easily, and it should only take about three minutes to set up. If you store your sauna in a closet or under your bed when it’s not in use, you won’t be wasting a lot of time taking it down and putting it back up each time you use it.
Potential Drawbacks
- Not aesthetically pleasing – We know that, sometimes, the aesthetic appeal of a product, especially one as large as a sauna, can be important for consumers. You may not find this one as appealing as standard, immobile saunas.
- Heavier – Even though the SweatTent is portable, it’s still quite heavy compared to other portable saunas on the market. The tent weighs around 30 pounds, and the stainless steel stove weighs about 50 pounds.
LifePro Sauna Blanket – Best Portable Sauna Blanket
LifePro Sauna Blanket
A sauna blanket option which is perfect for those on-the-go seeking the benefits an infrared sauna can offer.
Sleep Advisor Score
4.50 / 5
Why the LifePro Earned Best Portable Sauna Blanket
Instead of purchasing a sauna that takes up lots of space, you may be wondering if there are other options outside of stationary or foldable saunas. The LifePro is a sauna blanket, which means you can receive all of the benefits of a traditional sauna experience while lying down on your bed or couch.
This sauna blanket includes infrared heating, two detox wraps, and a lifetime warranty. It is also available in eight color variations. According to LifePro, this product is designed to ease tension, support well-being, rejuvenate aging skin, and boost metabolism. The LifePro is easy to assemble and use, and it weighs less than 11 pounds, making it convenient to take on the go and store away when it’s not being used.
Our Take: While not a traditional sauna, the LifePro Sauna Blanket is a unique, convenient way to experience a sauna’s advantages.
What We Liked
- Comfortable – You’re able to lie down while using this sauna blanket, so you may find it more comfortable than sitting in a more traditional sauna setting in which you may need to sit upright.
- The price – The black color variation of the LifePro costs around 200 dollars, while some of the other color variations are slightly cheaper. If you want the benefits of a sauna without breaking the bank, we suggest you check out the LifePro.
- Speedy delivery – You can buy this sauna blanket on Amazon, which is convenient if you need quick delivery. For example, if you’re buying the LifePro for someone as a last-minute gift, Amazon’s speedy delivery could really help you out.
Potential Drawbacks
- Taller and heavier folks may dislike this one – Since this sauna blanket only comes in one size, it may be too small, tight, or uncomfortable for heavier people. Additionally, if you’re taller than average, this blanket may not be long enough. Make sure you check the dimensions of the LifePro before you order one if this is a concern for you.
- Your face is excluded from sauna benefits – In a more traditional, immovable sauna, your face is inside of it, also reaping the sauna’s benefits. However, the LifePro blanket does not cover your face, which may be a drawback for some.
Sunlighten Solo System Portable Sauna – Best Portable Infrared Sauna
Sunlighten Solo System Portable Sauna
This portable infrared sauna is easy to take apart and store away. Its compact nature and high-quality infrared technology make it an excellent option if you want a relaxing experience.
Sleep Advisor Score
4.70 / 5
Why the Sunlighten Earned Best Portable Infrared Sauna
The Sunlighten Solo System Portable Sauna is a great portable infrared sauna because its pieces can easily be taken apart and stored away Its compact nature makes this sauna space-saving, which is ideal if you don’t have room for a traditional sauna in your home.
This portable sauna has high-quality infrared technology, including nine infrared heaters. The Sunlighten Solo System comes with a dome, a pillow, a pad to lie on, and various control panels. When using this sauna, you can lie down in a comfortable position, which will hopefully enhance your relaxing sauna experience.
Our Take: We love how easy the Sunlighten Solo System Portable Sauna is to store away, which is helpful for people with limited storage space.
What We Liked
- Zoned heating – This sauna’s infrared technology provides two separate zones of heating, so your upper and lower body get enough heat. Zoned heating should ensure that the sauna’s heat is evenly distributed throughout the entire sauna.
- Stores away easily – You should be able to easily store the Sunlighten Solo System. The company claims that this is the perfect product for small spaces and that it can be pushed into a closet or corner.
Potential Drawbacks
- Somewhat heavy – The domes weigh 46 pounds and the pad that you lie on weighs 13 pounds. If you have limited mobility or strength, the domes may be too heavy for you, which will make it more difficult to move the sauna into storage when you’re not using it.
- Price – This sauna costs around 3,200 dollars, which is on the more expensive side, especially for a portable sauna.
TOREAD Portable Folding Steam Sauna – Best Portable Steam Sauna
TOREAD Portable Folding Steam Sauna
The TOREAD sauna is foldable, so you can easily store it anywhere in the house. It comes with multiple add-ons, including a tent, folding chair, sweat pad, and more.
Sleep Advisor Score
4.20 / 5
Why the TOREAD Earned Best Portable Steam Sauna
The TOREAD Portable Folding Steam Sauna is our favorite portable steam sauna for various reasons, including its ability to fold up easily and quickly. This way, you can store it under your bed or even in the trunk of your car.
Also, you can’t beat the price of the TOREAD, which ranges from just below to slightly over 100 dollars, depending on the color of the sauna you purchase. When you purchase this product, you’ll receive a tent, steam pot, folding chair, steam box, sweat pad, and a foldable steel wire. Everything you’ll need is included in the already low price.
Our Take: We love that the TOREAD sauna provides the traditional steam sauna experience, but you can fold it up and store it away when you’re not using it.
What We Liked
- Durable stainless steel holder – Although this steam sauna folds up easily, it is still durable and should stand the test of time. Its stainless steel holder is not only efficient for installation, but it also helps the sauna keep its original shape as you use it.
- Heats in six minutes – The TOREAD’s steam nozzle fills the entire sauna tent in just six minutes. This quick heating time means you won’t have to wait long to use your sauna after turning it on.
- Can support heavier folks – The folding chair that comes with this sauna supports up to 270 pounds, so heavier folks should not be uncomfortable. We really like this feature, as some other saunas may not be as comfortable for people of higher weights.
Potential Drawbacks
- Fits one person – If you’re looking for a sauna in which you can socialize with someone else, whether it be your partner or a friend, you should not choose the TOREAD sauna. This sauna is meant for one person at a time.
- Your face isn’t inside of it – In a more traditional steam sauna, your face is inside of the structure and receives steam. The TOREAD will not cover your face, which may be a dealbreaker if you are looking to improve your complexion or even open up your nasal passages more.
iDOTODO Full Body Portable Personal Infrared Sauna – Best Two-Person Portable Sauna
iDOTODO Full Body Portable Personal Infrared Sauna
The iDOTODO is a full-body portable sauna that can reach a temperature of up to 140 Fahrenheit. It has a collapsable frame, so it’s easy to store or take with you on a trip.
Sleep Advisor Score
4.30 / 5
Why the iDOTODO Earned Best Two-Person Portable Sauna
The iDOTODO Full Body Portable Personal Infrared Sauna is great if you want to spend your sauna time with a companion. This sauna is spacious, you’re fully enclosed when you’re using it, and it can reach a temperature of up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Moreover, when you’re not using your home sauna, you can easily fold it up to store it away. Or, maybe you want to bring it on a road trip with you, which is also possible.
The iDOTODO sauna has a collapsible frame that makes it easier to take the product apart. Additionally, since this sauna uses infrared heating technology, there are no extra pieces that you need to store away, such as a wood stove for a dry sauna.
Our Take: The iDOTODO is a fantastic choice for people looking for a portable sauna that can also accomodate two people.
What We Liked
- Two-person sauna chair – This sauna comes with a two-person folding chair, which makes it portable and shareable. Additionally, since the two parts of the chair are connected, if one person is using the sauna, they may be able to lie down comfortably on the folding chair.
- Heats up in under 10 minutes – The infrared heating panels only take around eight minutes to fully heat the entire sauna. This quick timing means is great for those with busy schedules.
- Quick assembly – Not only does the iDOTODO heat up quickly, but it can be assembled rapidly as well. The entire assembly process should only take around five minutes, according to the company, making it convenient to take apart and set up when you want to use the sauna.
Potential Drawbacks
- Not clear what the EMF levels are – The manufacturer of the iDOTODO does not state the specific level of electromagnetic fields (EMF) for this particular sauna, but most infrared saunas have fairly low EMF levels. We advise contacting the company directly if you want to know exactly what the levels are in this product.
- Not aesthetically pleasing – Some people value the aesthetic appeal of the items in their home, especially an item as large as a sauna. This sauna will not likely blend seamlessly into your home, which may be a downside. That said, since it’s a portable sauna, it may only be an issue if you plan to leave it out all the time.
SunHome Infrared Sauna Blanket – Best Low-EMF Portable Sauna
SunHome Infrared Sauna Blanket
The SunHome infrared sauna has low levels of EMF and is affordable and easy to clean. Its competitive price and transport-friendly design make it worth your attention.
Sleep Advisor Score
5.00 / 5
Why the SunHome Sauna Blanket Earned Best Low-EMF Portable Sauna
The SunHome Infrared Sauna Blanket is a fantastic option if you’re looking for an infrared sauna for your home. Not only is it comfortable to lie down under, it is relatively affordable, easily transportable, and has low levels of EMF. Infrared saunas expose you to EMF, but according to the World Health Organization1, low EMF levels are considered safe, with no adverse health effects being reported.
We also love that this product is easy to clean, constructed with non-toxic fabric, and includes industrial-grade zippers to trap the heat inside when the sauna blanket is in use. The infrared heating can reach up to 167 degrees Fahrenheit, and you can control the temperature using the control panel.
Our Take: The SunHome sauna blanket comes with safe EMF levels, a competitive price point, and a transport-friendly construction.
What We Liked
- Low EMF – Sauna blankets use infrared technology, inherently having a certain level of EMF exposure. If you’re looking for a sauna blanket but are worried about exposing yourself to higher levels of EMF, this should be a safer choice for you.
- 30-day money-back guarantee – SunHome provides a 30-day trial period, so in the event you dislike it, you can get your money back. We appreciate this feature, especially for folks who are unsure if they’ll fit under the blanket comfortably.
- Small when folded – This blanket is particularly small when folded up, as it can fit into the bag provided with your purchase. This easy folding makes this sauna blanket extra convenient for storage and transportation.
Potential Drawbacks
- Takes a while to heat up – Compared to some other portable saunas, the SunHome Infrared Sauna Blanket takes longer to heat up. The company’s site says that the blanket should heat up within 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your desired temperature.
- One heating zone – While not a dealbreaker, this blanket lacks the zoned heating that some other portable saunas have. Since there is only one heating zone, you may not feel like the infrared heat is distributed equally across your body while you use the blanket.
What Is a Portable Sauna?
A portable sauna is a sauna that you can use in your home or your yard, but when you are not using the sauna, you can store it away so it does not take up space in your home. Additionally, a portable sauna typically folds up so you can transport it, whether you’re moving it from room to room in your home or bringing it in your car during a trip.
What to Look for In a Portable Sauna
Size and Capacity
When shopping for a portable sauna, you’ll want to consider its size and how many people it can hold. Most portable home saunas are only meant for one or two people, so if you’re looking for a home sauna to hold more people, you may want one that is not portable. Additionally, since these saunas tend to be on the smaller side, taller and heavier people may want to check out the dimensions to ensure that they will comfortably fit in them.
Portability
Another factor you’ll want to look into is how portable the sauna actually is. Is it heavier? Can it be rolled up like a blanket? Does it have a large, bulky carrying case? Can it fit in the trunk of your car or under your bed?
Type of Portable Sauna
There are many different types of portable saunas to choose from. You can buy a tent like the SweatTent, a blanket like the LifePro, or one that zips up like the TOREAD. Additionally, there are some more unique sauna designs such as the Sunlighten Solo System, which is similar to a pod enclosure on the ground.
Heating Technology
If you have started looking for a portable sauna, you have likely come across various saunas with different heating technology, including a dry sauna, a steam sauna, and an infrared sauna.
Read More: Infrared Sauna vs. Traditional Sauna
A dry sauna uses burned wood or a traditional heater to heat the inside of a sauna. Conversely, a steam sauna is what we typically think of as a steam room filled with humidity. Steam saunas use either a steam generator to create this humidity, or you can pour water over hot rocks. Some saunas can be used as either a dry sauna or a steam sauna depending on the settings you select.
Finally, an infrared sauna uses infrared light waves to generate heat2, warming your body directly instead of heating the air around you.
Performance
Different saunas can reach different maximum temperatures, so when shopping for a portable sauna, read the manufacturer’s website to obtain this information. You’ll want to make sure your desired sauna reaches a temperature suitable for you.
Additionally, it is important to know how long your sauna takes to reach a certain temperature. Some saunas may take as long as 30 minutes to an hour to heat up, whereas others can reach their maximum temperature in under 10 minutes. Knowing this information will help you know how far in advance to turn on your sauna before using it.
Installation
With portable saunas, installation should not be an issue. You’ll likely receive the product in the mai, along with directions on how to set it up. Compared to stationary saunas, the installation of portable saunas should be less time-consuming.
Durability
Another consideration when buying a portable sauna is its materials and overall durability. Depending on the materials used, one sauna may last longer than another. Though it’s not the only measure of durability, a sign of a durable product is a good warranty and return policy, which signals that the brand stands behind the quality of their product.
Warranty
Before you purchase a portable sauna, we suggest that you check out the product’s warranty, especially if you are buying a more expensive sauna. This will help give you some peace of mind in the event of any issues with the product. Usually, you can find a sauna’s warranty listed with the product details on the manufacturer’s website.
Budget
It is important to remember your budget when sauna shopping. Some of these portable saunas are pretty pricey, but there are more affordable ones that can still provide a great experience. Especially if you’re a newer sauna user, you may want to buy a less expensive sauna so it’s not as much of a financial commitment.
Portable Sauna Benefits
Saunas have various benefits, and portable saunas, in particular, have their own additional perks.
- May help with hypertension – A study3 conducted in 2017 suggests that regular sauna use could help with high blood pressure.
- Could reduce pain – According to a 2019 study4, dry saunas have been found to decrease back pain.
- May improve sleep – If you struggle to sleep, investing in a sauna to use before bed might help. After your exposed to heat in the sauna, your body temperature drops5, creating an increase in melatonin, an important hormone for facilitating sleep.
- Could boost metabolism – Dry saunas have been found to increase metabolic rate6 because you burn calories when you sweat in a sauna.
- Convenient – Portable saunas are a convenient option when you don’t want a sauna to take up too much space in your home or you want the flexibility of moving it from one place to another.
- More affordable – Portable saunas are also usually more affordable than immovable in-home or outdoor saunas.
Looking for a non-portable sauna? Explore our picks for the Best Home Saunas and Best Infrared Saunas.
Portable Sauna Safety Tips
Safety should be your top priority when using a sauna. While we advise that everyone consult their healthcare provider before using a sauna, and this is especially true for older adults or those who are pregnant or have other medical conditions.
Typically, it is recommended that you stay in a sauna for a maximum of 15 to 20 minutes7. Hydration is also key since you’ll be sweating a lot and will need to replenish your body’s water levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do portable saunas actually work?
Yes, portable saunas do work. Make sure you read all of the information on the manufacturer’s website before purchasing a portable sauna to ensure that the product comes with the features you’re looking for. We also recommend reading through reviews on sites like Amazon to see what other customers are saying about the product and their experience with it.
Are portable saunas safe?
Yes, portable saunas are safe. If you are worried about a sauna’s impact on your health, we urge you to consult a healthcare professional before using any type of sauna. Additionally, if your sauna uses infrared technology, you may want to ensure it comes with low EMF levels specifically.
How hot do portable saunas get?
The highest heat that a portable sauna can reach will vary based on the specific sauna you purchase. However, most saunas reach around at least 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do portable saunas use a lot of electricity?
The amount of electricity a portable sauna uses will vary by brand and specific sauna model. However, Salus Saunas8 explains that the cost of using your electricity for a sauna will be similar to the cost of using electricity for an oven or clothing dryer.
Emma Cronan
Writer
About Author
Emma is an Editorial Intern for Sleep Advisor. She collaborates with the editor and staff writers to come up with article ideas, create article outlines, and write for the website.
Combination Sleeper
- 1. “Radiation: Electromagnetic fields”. World Health Organization. 2016. –
- 2. Bauer MD, Brent A. “What is an infrared sauna? Does it have health benefits?”. Mayo Clinic. 2022. –
- 3. Zaccardi, Francesco., et al. “Sauna Bathing and Incident Hypertension: A Prospective Cohort Study”. American Journal of Hypertension. 2017. –
- 4. Cho, Eun-Hee., et al. “Dry sauna therapy is beneficial for patients with low back pain”. Anesthesia and Pain Medicine. 2019. –
- 5. “Sauna & Sleep: A Winning Combo?”. Oura Ring. Webpage accessed November 28, 2024. –
- 6. Leppäluoto, J., et al. “Some cardiovascular and metabolic effects of repeated sauna bathing”. National Library of Medicine. 1986. –
- 7. “Sauna benefits, types and safety tips”. State Farm Simple Insights. Webpage accessed November 28, 2024. –
- 8. “Sauna Cost Calculator”. Salus Saunas. Webpage accessed November 28, 2024. –