I Found The Best Infrared Mats — My Winner (Tested) | mindbodygreen

I consider hormesis1, or short intentional bursts of stress, to be one of the most underrated tools for slowing aging. And while there are plenty of ways to trigger hormetic stress—like HIIT workouts, cold plunge tubs, or saunas—my current obsession is PEMF or infrared mats.

These portable mats use infrared light to heat your body from within. This means your body 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," per board-certified naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist Lana Butner, N.D.

When our editors use their infrared PEMF mats, they typically see a boost in their heart rate variability, an improvement in sleep scores, and and overall bump in energy.

So what's the deal with these longevity boosting mats? Below, I break down the benefits of using an infrared mat, along with tester feedback on our favorite infrared mats on the market.

The easiest way to think of an infrared mat is like an open infrared sauna. Both use thermal light to penetrate human tissue, cells, and organs more easily than conventional heat, per Butner.

Yet where an infrared sauna releases infrared light from all angles, a mat will only warm one side of the body at a time. You'll still feel the mat's warming sensation, but it won't be nearly as intense as a sauna or even an infrared sauna blanket.

That being said, both still trigger the detoxification process—though you'll likely need to spend more time on the mat to unlock similar benefits.

It's worth noting most infrared mats typically come with PEMF or Pulsed Electromagnetic Field technology. Studied by NASA, this technology sends electromagnetic waves through your body to recharge your cells.

Research shows PEMF speeds up nerve tissue growth and repair, which makes it beneficial for inflammation, improved tissue regeneration, sleep issues, and energy fatigue.

Here's what to expect after adding an infrared mat to your routine:

Be mindful of these potential downsides:

Red & near-infrared light

Warms up quickly to max temperature

Widest PEMF Hz range on list

XL size suits wide range of bodies

Generous return period & warranty

Not super portable

Sturdy construction doesn't bed easily (for use in chairs + sofa)

Bon Charge should be on every biohacker's radar. The brand creates red light products with an emphasis on reducing EMF exposure. I'm a huge fan of the brand's infrared sauna blanket—and the PEMF mat is no exception.

Why I picked it:

Similar to HigherDose and Phyat, this PEMF mat has four layers of technology, including a lab-grade PEMF oscillating system, semi-precious stones, and two types of red light (660m red and 850nm near infrared light).

We love that Bon Charge adds a layer of high density mesh to increase the intensity of the PEMF waves—which start as just 1 Hz for deep sleep and increase to 30 Hz for meditation. The mat warms up quickly to 176 degrees Fahrenheit, and our tester says the infrared heat made her start sweating within 10 minutes.

My HRV jumped up 10 points overnight the first time I used the PEMF mat (proving grounding energy might not be so woo-woo after all). I love using the infrared heat after a workout but ahead of bedtime to help put my body in a restorative place.

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. Recommended by Butner, this

Why I 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:

Our commerce editor, Carleigh Ferrante, is a huge fan of the PEMF mat for post-workout recovery and stress relief. Find out why in her full review (which includes an exclusive discount).

Two budget-friendly size options

Includes 5 different stones

Heat display is only in Celsius

Takes a while to heat up

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 I picked it:

The 9-layer design includes memory foam for heat preservation and comfort, along with an aluminum foil layer for blocking EMF radiation from the infrared light waves.

This more affordable mat doesn't boast PEMF technology, but it does incorporate five gemstones: amethyst, clear crystal, turquoise, obsidian, and red agate. While I wish it could warm above 158° Fahrenheit, the budget-friendly design is a great option for someone who wants to focus on recovery and relaxation.

What's more, it has a shut-off safety feature that automatically turns the unit off when unsafe heating temperatures are detected.

Reviews:

Currently, the mat has limited reviews on Amazon. Most mention the low price compared to other infrared mats with one tester writing, “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.”

Some negative feedback complains that the controller display only operates in Celsius and that it takes a while to heat up, especially in the first uses. You'll also find speculation that the turquoise may not be authentic considering the under $400 price point.

FDA-certified

No timer feature

No product reviews

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 I 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.

I consider this mat 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) despite the higher price point. However, the FDA-certified medical device is widely used among massage therapists and reiki practitioners.

Reviews:

The brand’s website showcases a handful of positive reviews from customers who say their BioMat helped them recover from injuries, improved their circulation, and gave them more energy. Unfortunately, there aren’t any critical reviews to round out the feedback.

Infrared heat, PEMF, photon LED lights & heated stones

Generous warranty, 90-day trial, & free returns

Not easily portable

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 I 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 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 need to cover shipping). It also comes with a 5-year extended warranty.

Reviews:

There aren’t a ton of reviews on the brand’s website, but people generally have great things to say about this mat on Amazon and TrustPilot. One Amazon reviewer writes, “The TAJ mat is a true lifesaver. In addition to pain reduction, lying on the mat puts me into a deep state of relaxation. With so many healing modalities integrated into the mat, I am probably receiving more health benefits than I am even aware of.” Some negative reviews say it takes a while to heat up and a few mention that it’s very rigid and tough to fold.

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

"Mats are wonderful for calming the nervous system, but in regard to matching up to the detoxification benefits of sweating in a more immersive experience that you would get from a blanket or an actual sauna, the mat pales in comparison," says Butner. "The immersive experience is best for detoxification, while the mats are incredible for recovery and renewal of energy. I use mine as a grounding mat to really re-center my nervous system by upregulating my parasympathetic nervous system and pumping the brakes on my day-to-day sympathetic overdrive."

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.

Your budget: While our most budget-friendly pick is on the more affordable side, these mats are still an investment in your health. Consider each mat's return policy and warranty. If you're on the fence about whether infrared heat will benefit you or not, opt for a mat with a trial period or a more generous return window.

According to board-certified naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist, Lana Butner, N.D., "Everyone and anyone could benefit from having an infrared mat in their lives, except when contraindicated (such as during pregnancy or if you have an open wound)."

As long as you don't have any contraindications or warnings, you can safely use an infrared heating pad every day. Just be sure to start slowly (think 20- to 30-minute sessions), hydrate accordingly, and listen to your body if anything feels off. If you're not sure how to use the mat, consult with your doctor on what might be best for you.

If you have any health conditions, are pregnant, or plan on spending extended time on your mat, you should speak with your health care provider. If you've been cleared, HealthyLine (the maker of our "best features" pick) suggests the following guidelines for duration at various heats:

95 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit: overnight use

113 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit: 2 hours or more

131 to 149 degrees Fahrenheit: 30- to 90-minute sessions

149 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit: 30- to 60-minute sessions

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.

Just be sure to follow the same guidance you would if you were using a traditional sauna or steam room: Hydrate properly after each use, clean your mat's protective cover regularly, and get the green light from your doctor if you have any health conditions.

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