Best Infrared Mats Of 2024 To Support Your Physical And Mental Health

For years, people have used traditional saunas because of their numerous benefits. But in recent years, there has been a surge in the adoption of other innovative hot and cold therapy methods.

Research suggests that therapy treatments such as infrared heat therapy can have numerous physical and neurological benefits1.

But while infrared saunas are fairly straightforward to use, the market is flooded with options, making it challenging to determine the best one for your needs.

Far infrared light is a type of radiation that uses thermal light to heat your body from the inside out. According to board-certified naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist Lana Butner, N.D, infrared saunas penetrate human tissue, cells, and organs more easily than conventional heat, prompting deeper detoxification at lower temperatures (115 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit) than a non-infrared sauna (150 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Infrared mats have similar effects to those of an infrared sauna, without being fully enclosed in a space. "Due to the ability to withstand the lower temperatures of an infrared sauna, individuals can be exposed to this type of heat for longer periods of time, allowing for a more intense sweat and longer durations of detoxification time," Butner says.

HigherDose is a well-known brand in the infrared sauna space, with luxurious brick-and-mortar sauna locations and a line of quality at-home products. The brand’s Infrared PEMF Mat is Butners’ top pick. “I love it and it is my favorite at-home self-care tool that I use religiously,” she says. “I have the BEST naps, deepest sleeps, and feel completely rejuvenated after lying down and resting on this device.” 

Why we picked it:

As the name implies, this mat combines healing infrared heat and pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy. Recemt research suggests that the electromagnetic pulses from PEMF devices can help repair and improve cellular function2. This therapy is frequently used by practitioners to treat pain by reducing inflammation.

The top layer of the HigherDose mat contains the PEMF energy. You can use the attached console to adjust the frequency between four options, depending on your goals (such as relaxation or stimulation).

This layer sits atop a non-VOC polyurethane leather material that’s durable and easy to clean. Below, there is a layer of low-EMF far infrared heat, which is also adjustable (up to 158 degrees Fahrenheit) on the console.

The infrared layer is followed by a layer of clay, charcoal, and a magnetic strip that work together to evenly distribute heat and improve circulation. Lastly, the bottom layer contains 20 pounds of amethyst and tourmaline, which aim to enhance the benefits of the infrared heat and promote balance. 

Reviews:

This lower-priced infrared mat by PHYMAT is great for newbies who are interested in trying out an infrared mat but don’t need too many additional bells and whistles.

Why we picked it:

The nine-layer design includes memory foam for heat preservation and comfort, and an aluminum foil layer for blocking EMF radiation. As the name implies, there are five gems in this mat: amethyst, clear crystal, turquoise, obsidian, and red agate.

They’re combined with tourmaline and jade, which help regulate the infrared heat and are visible through the mesh encasement on the top. It’s worth noting that you should use a towel or the provided protective cover to avoid getting any dirt or sweat into the mat. 

Reviews:

This mat gets mostly positive feedback on Amazon, though there are not a ton of reviews yet. Most mention the low price compared to other infrared mats, and one person writes, “The mat is really great. I melt away on it. It helps with pain relief and it helps with relaxation. I do wish the control pad felt more solid… but it seems fine. I think it’s a good price considering the cost of other brands.”

This smaller, ridged infrared mat is designed to fit on a standard chair, and is a great pick for travel or work. The Mini BioMat comes with a carrying suitcase, a machine-washable cotton cover that helps keep your mat clean, and an attached digital controller, used to adjust the temperature between 95 and 158 degrees Fahrenheit.

Why we picked it:

The mat has 17 layers (although you wouldn’t guess that by looking at it!), including a silicon and teflon EMF protection layer and a layer of amethyst and tourmaline crystals that aim to enhance the reach of far infrared heat. 

The mat’s unique design features a mesh panel that allows you to see the crystals inside. This mat is a good pick for FIRS-curious beginners—however, while it’s certainly a quality mat, there aren’t quite as many features as the HigherDose model (no PEMF), and it does come at a higher price. This FDA-certified medical device is widely used among massage therapists and reiki practitioners.

Reviews:

This HealthyLine infrared mat is one of the more tricked-out infrared mats on the market, featuring adjustable PEMF and infrared levels, photon LED lights (which may have some benefits for our skin, including managing conditions like psoriasis3), and amethyst, tourmaline, and jade stones.

Why we picked it:

If your main focus is sweating out toxins, you’ll like this pick. The mat comes with a padded cotton cover, a waterproof cover, and a sauna foil blanket to trap heat. 

It’s also foldable and your purchase includes a carrying case—but the brand notes that the mat is on the firmer side, so it’s not the best choice if you want something that’s easy to use on a chair or to take with you on the go. One big pro of this mat is that, while it’s expensive, the brand offers a 90 day trial and free returns (you do need to cover shipping, though). It also comes with a 5-year extended warranty.

Reviews:

There are a few ways infrared mats differ from immersive experiences such as stationary saunas or infrared sauna blankets. 

When deciding which of these infrared mats is best for you, consider the below factors:

Your space and intended use: Infrared mats vary in size and flexibility. People who want to take their mat on the go should choose a device that's lightweight and easily portable. Those who plan to have a dedicated space for their mat will be just fine with less flexible models and may even prefer something more durable

Your goals: If infrared heat is the only therapy you're after, you'll likely be happy with one of the lower-cost options. But if you're hoping to pack in multiple therapies, features like PEMF and LED lights could be well worth the splurge. It's also helpful to consider your relationship to crystals and stones. Some mats include more rare stones than others, which may not hold significance to everyone but will increase the price.

If you have the space for it, an infrared mat can be an easy way to bring the therapeutic benefits of infrared heat into your home.