In the sauna blanket vs portable sauna debate, both are cheap ways to sweat at home, but neither feels like a real sauna. If you have the space and budget, a one or two person infrared home sauna is the better long-term buy.
Sauna blanket vs portable sauna vs home sauna
| Type | Price | Experience | Space | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sauna blanket | €150–€500 | Lie down, wrapped | Packs away | 2–4 years |
| Portable sauna tent | €150–€400 | Sit, head out | Folds away | 2–4 years |
| Infrared home sauna | €2,500–€5,000 | Sit inside a cabin | About 1 m² | 15+ years |
Sauna blankets
A sauna blanket is a heated sleeping bag you lie in for 30–45 minutes. It is cheap and stores in a drawer. However, you can’t move much, it is awkward to clean, and you don’t breathe hot air, which many people miss.
Portable saunas
A portable sauna is a small fabric tent with a heater or steamer. Your head stays outside. It is fine for a quick sweat, but it feels cramped, and the fabric and zips wear out.
Cabin home saunas
A cabin infrared sauna gives you a proper room to sit in. Most one and two person models plug into a standard socket and are ready in 15 minutes. In addition, they add value to a home gym or garden room. For a hotter, traditional option, see our barrel vs infrared sauna guide.
A word on health claims
Be wary of claims that a sauna blanket burns hundreds of calories. As we explain in do saunas help you lose weight, most of what you lose is water. For general health advice, see the HSE.
Frequently asked questions
Is a sauna blanket as good as a sauna?
No. It makes you sweat, but you do not breathe hot air or sit upright, so it feels quite different.
Are portable saunas safe?
Generally yes if you follow the instructions, stay hydrated and keep sessions short. Avoid them if you are pregnant or have a heart condition without GP advice.
What is the cheapest proper home sauna?
A one person infrared cabin sauna, from around €2,500 in Ireland.
Can I put a home sauna in a bedroom?
Yes. Small infrared saunas fit in a bedroom or spare room and most use a standard socket.
Upgrade to a real home sauna
Plug-in infrared saunas delivered across Ireland.
