Stepping into an infrared sauna for the first time is often a rejuvenating experience, but that is often accompanied by one common question: What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna? The short answer is that the best outfit for an infrared sauna is as little as possible – preferably, just a towel or a swimsuit made out of natural fibers.
Unlike traditional saunas, infrared heat penetrates deep into your tissues and that means that synthetic materials can trap heat or even melt, and metal components on clothing can become uncomfortably hot.
Whether you are at a spa, using a blanket at home, or at the gym, it is important to choose the right clothing to maximally detoxify and ensure your safety.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before using an infrared sauna, particularly if you are pregnant, have cardiovascular issues, or have medical implants. We are not liable for any injuries resulting from the use of synthetic clothing, which may melt, or metal accessories, which can cause burns. Follow all safety guidelines regarding hydration and session duration to prevent overheating.
Key Takeaways
- Less is More: the best outfit is the minimal. Swimsuits or loose cotton wrap is ideal.
- Avoid Synthetics: Synthetic fabrics such as polyester can trap toxins and melt in high heat; stick to natural fibers such as cotton or bamboo.
- Remove Metal: Zips, clasps and jewelry can become very hot quickly and burn your skin.
- Hydration is Key: What you bring (water) is just as important as what you wear.
- Blanket Rules: If using an infrared sauna blanket, clean, loose fitting clothing is required to absorb sweat and protect the liner.
Understanding Infrared Sauna: The Importance of Clothing
Before jumping into specifics of what to wear to your infrared sauna, it’s important to know why what to wear in an infrared sauna is different than what you might wear to the gym or in a traditional steam room.
Infrared saunas use light waves to heat your body directly versus heating the air around you. Since the heat was direct and it penetrated deep into your skin, your body sweats profusely to cool down.
This severe sweating is the aim – this is how your body sheds toxins. If you are wearing heavy clothing or synthetics, you are in effect putting a wall between the infrared light and your skin.
This can prevent sweat from evaporating and can also block out the rays which can make you feel over-heated and uncomfortable. Furthermore, synthetic fabrics may release chemicals when placed in a high heat, which is antithetical to the detoxification process.
The Best Outfits to Use in Infrared Saunas
When choosing your clothing for an infrared sauna, comfort and safety should be your number one concerns. The purpose being to let your skin breathe and sweat freely.
The “Birthday Suit” Option
If you are in a private environment, such as at home or in a private locked room at a spa, going nude is actually the most effective method of experiencing an infrared sauna.
This cuts down any barrier to the infrared waves and permits the most skin exposure and detoxification. Of course you will want to sit on a clean towel for hygiene purposes.
Swimsuits and Bathing Suits
If you are out in a public or shared space, a swimsuit is the default option. However, not all swimsuits are created equally.
- Best Choice: Look for swimsuits made of 100% cotton or natural fibers. These are breathable and will not trap heat against your skin.
- What to Avoid: Avoid swimsuits with metal clasps, underwires or zippers. Metal conducts heat and can give you localized burns on your skin.
Also, stay away from thick, neoprene-type wetsuit material and these are designed to insulate and will cause you to feel stifled.
Loose-Fitting Clothing Made of Cotton
For people who aren’t comfortable in a swimsuit, loose fitting cotton clothing is a perfect alternative. A large-enough cotton t-shirt and cotton shorts are loose so that airflow is possible
Many people ask the question, “can you wear clothes in infrared sauna sessions?” The answer is yes as long as they are the right clothes. Cotton also absorbs sweat naturally and does not block the infrared penetration as much as synthetic fabrics do.
The Best Outfits to Use in Infrared Saunas
| Fabric Type | Recommendation | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Highly Recommended | Breathable, natural, absorbs sweat, doesn’t melt. |
| Bamboo | Highly Recommended | Natural, anti-bacterial, soft on heated skin. |
| Polyester | Avoid | Traps heat, can melt, releases odors/plastic smell when hot. |
| Nylon | Avoid | Does not breathe well, can feel sticky and uncomfortable. |
| Neoprene | Avoid | Insulates heat too effectively, causing overheating. |
What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna: Males Guide
For men choosing what to wear in an infrared sauna men styles, the rules are likewise simple.
- Swim Trunks: The most popular choice is board shorts or swim trunks. Look for elastic waistband pairs instead of metal snap or zipper ones. If your shorts have a metal grommet or zipper, make an effort to make sure that it’s not pressing directly against your skin.
- Gym Shorts: If you are wondering what to wear in an infrared sauna at the gym, loose basketball shorts made of breathable material can work, but be aware that synthetic gym shorts tend to become slippery and smelly when combined with a lot of sweat. Cotton shorts are a better option.
What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna: Women’s Guide
When it comes to what to wear in an infrared sauna as a woman, the concern should be avoiding metal hardware, which is found in many women’s undergarments and swimwear.
- Sports Bras: If you prefer to wear a sports bra, make sure it is made from cotton and does not have any metal clasps or underwire. A simple cotton bralette or a sports bra specially for sauna use is best.
- Bikinis: Simple bikini bottom and top is good as long as it fits loosely. If your bikini is bound by metal tie ends, look out that it does not directly touch your skin.
- Wraps: Many women prefer a simple sarong or huge cotton wrap. This provides a lot of coverage while being incredibly breathable.
The best thing to wear in infrared sauna for women often comes down to a personal comfort level between modesty and maximizing the benefits to the health. If you are at the gym, a small swim suit is often the go-to option.
What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna Blanket
Infrared sauna blankets have become very popular for home use. These are essentially sleeping bags that produce heat. When considering what to wear during infrared sauna blanket use the strategy is slightly different.
You have nowhere for your sweat to drip because you are lying inside the blanket and your sweat will stick to your skin and clothes.
- Cotton Pajamas: Loose fitting and comfortable cotton pajamas or sweat-wicking activewear (made especially for heat) are recommended. This layer soaks up the sweat so you are not laying in a pool of liquid.
- Socks: It is very recommended to wear cotton socks as the intensity of the blanket can be felt from the feet and socks will protect the inner liner of the blanket from the sweat of the feet.
- No Metal Rule: This is even more important in a blanket. That is, since you are lying on the material, a metal zipper or button pressed against your skin can get quite hot and give you a burn.
Tip: Regardless of what you are wearing, always wrap the blanket in a towel or put down a designated insert to protect the device from your sweat.
Accessories and What to Bring
Your outfit is not only about the clothes When you ask “what to bring to infrared sauna”, you need to consider accessories for the sauna, to make the experience better.
- Towels: Always take at least two large towels – one to sit on (to protect the wood/blanket from sweat) and another to wipe face and body.
- Water Bottle: Hydration is not Negotiable You lose a significant amount of water during a session. Bring along a large insulated water bottle.
- Hair Ties: If you have long hair, tie it up. Sweaty neck feels hotter than dry neck.
- Slip-on Sandals: Hygiene reasons dictate that you wear flip-flops or sandals when you walk to and from the sauna. The moment you have them inside you should remove them.
Jewelry and Electronics
Always take off all jewellery before entering Metal heats up on infrared light instantly. Likewise, don’t take your phone or smartwatch inside. Electronics are not built to handle the heat and humidity and a hot smartwatch can scorch your wrist.
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FAQs
Do you wear clothes in an infrared sauna?
Yes, you can wear clothes, but it should be loose-fitting and made of natural fibers such as cotton or bamboo. Avoid synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon which may melt or retain heat too much. If you are in a private setting then wearing nothing (or just a towel) is often thought of as the best choice for maximum exposure.
Can I use my Apple Watch or Fitbit in the sauna?
No. Most consumer electronics, such as smartwatches, are not rated for the high temperature of a sauna. The batteries can overheat and explode and the metal casing can burn your skin.
What do you wear to the infrared sauna at the gym?
In a gym, generalized etiquette typically calls for a swimsuit. Choose a swimsuit that does not have metal zippers or clasps. Alternatively, see if the gym offers towels; many people just cover themselves with a towel.
Is it OK to wear a hoodie or sweats to make more sweat?
This is generally not recommended. Infrared sauna is very effective at heating up the core. Wearing heavy clothing such as hoodies can cause your body temperature to rise too quickly, causing you to feel dizzy or to develop heat exhaustion. It is better to allow the sweat to evaporate off your skin.
Do I have to shower immediately afterwards?
Yes it is recommended to shower after your session to rinse off the toxins that are released through your sweat. Use lukewarm or cool water to help to close your pores.
Final Thoughts
Deciding What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated The golden rule is to use natural materials as much as possible and use as little metal as possible.
Whether you use a bathing suit, loose cotton clothing or simply a towel, the idea is to let your body sweat freely and also absorb the infrared heat safely.
By preparing properly, with the proper attire, hydration, and state of mind, you can get the most out of the detox, and enjoy the relaxing and health-boosting experience.
