What is inside an infrared blanket? Build and technology explained
In short
On the outside it is a blanket, on the inside a stack of carefully designed layers. The way an infrared blanket is built explains almost every usage tip.
- Outer layer protects and keeps warmth in
- Insulation directs the warmth to your body
- Elements give off even infrared warmth
- Controls handle temperature, timer and safety
So what is actually inside an infrared blanket? From the outside it looks like a thick blanket with a cord, but inside there are several layers that each have their own job.
We go through them one by one: the outer layer, the insulation, the heating elements, the inner side and the controls. After that you will see straight away why the familiar usage tips are the way they are.
More than a heated blanket
From the outside a sauna blanket looks like a simple product, but there is more to it than you might think. The layered build makes sure the warmth is given off evenly and in a targeted way, that the blanket feels comfortable and that the whole thing stays safe. Once you understand how the blanket is put together, you also see why quality and proper use matter so much.
The outer layer
The outside is the protective shell of the blanket. Ideally it is water repellent, hard wearing and easy to clean. Besides protection, the outer layer has a second job: it helps keep the warmth in, so that it is directed towards your body instead of escaping. A neat, sturdy outer layer therefore adds to both hygiene and how the warmth feels.
The insulation layer
Under the outside there is usually an insulating layer. It makes sure the warmth from the heating elements is guided inwards, towards your body, and does not escape needlessly. Good insulation makes the blanket more efficient: the warmth goes where you want it, and the outside stays easier to handle.
The heating elements in an infrared blanket
The heart of the blanket is the heating elements. They give off infrared warmth, often in the far infrared range, also called FIR. They are spread across the surface so that the warmth is released evenly and you are warmed comfortably all round rather than in separate spots. Good to know: the amount of warmth you feel mainly depends on the temperature you set. How many watts those elements need together and how to convert that into watts per square metre is explained in the power of a sauna blanket.
The inner side
The inner layer touches your skin or clothing and is all about comfort and hygiene. A pleasant, non abrasive inner side makes your session more enjoyable. Because you sweat here, it helps if this layer can be cleaned and if you can put a towel or an inner liner for your sauna blanket inside to absorb moisture and keep the blanket clean.
The controls and safety features
A controller or remote lets you set the temperature and the timer. A well made model also comes with safety features, such as overheating protection and automatic switch off. These make sure the blanket does not get too hot and switches off when the set time is up, which is handy if you forget the timer or fall asleep. On a good blanket, the cord and connections are neatly and firmly finished.
| Layer | Function | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Outer layer | Protects and keeps warmth in | Hard wearing, easy to wipe down |
| Insulation | Directs the warmth inwards | Outside stays easy to handle |
| Heating elements | Give off infrared warmth | Evenly spread, do not fold sharply |
| Inner side | Comfort and hygiene | Can be cleaned, suitable for an inner liner |
Almost every usage tip for a sauna blanket comes straight from the way it is built.
Why the build matters for use
The layered structure explains a few practical tips you often hear:
- Do not fold sharply: wiring runs through the blanket, so you are better off avoiding sharp creases
- Do not submerge: because of the electrical parts, you only clean the blanket with a damp cloth
- Store it dry: moisture and electronics do not mix, so let the blanket dry completely
- Be careful with the cord: never pull on the wiring or the connections
Once you understand the build, you can see why careful use extends its lifespan and why a blanket with a quality mark and safety features is worth it.
Do not fold your blanket along the same line every time. Vary where you fold, and you spread the strain on the wiring inside more evenly.
- Well finished, with adjustable temperature and timer
- Generous size, comfortable to stretch out in
- 60 days to change your mind and 2 year warranty
In conclusion
An infrared blanket is a carefully built product: layers that together provide even warmth, comfort and safety. Knowing that helps you choose more consciously and look after the blanket properly. Curious how the models are made? Take a look at the Luxyor infrared sauna blankets or read on in the knowledge base on infrared sauna blankets.
Frequently asked questions
What layers does an infrared sauna blanket consist of?
From outside to inside: a protective outer layer, an insulating layer, the heating elements and a comfortable inner side. It comes with a controller for temperature and time.
What does FIR mean?
FIR stands for far infrared, the far infrared range in which many sauna blankets give off warmth. It tells you something about the type of heat the elements radiate.
Why shouldn't I fold the blanket sharply?
Wiring runs between the layers of the blanket. Folding sharply in the same place every time puts unnecessary strain on that wiring. So roll or fold it loosely and vary where you fold.
Why can't the blanket go in the washing machine?
Because of the electrical parts. Clean the inside with a slightly damp cloth and let the blanket dry completely before you store it, unless the manual says otherwise.
How do I recognise a solid model?
By a neat finish of the cable and connections, CE marking and safety features such as overheating protection and automatic shutoff.
