On this page you’ll find an in depth Comparison Table of the 5 Most Popular Infrared Mats, our 5 Evaluation Criteria for Infrared Mats reviewed including Mat Safety, Crystal Coverage, Negative Ions , Return & Warranty Policies, plus Infrared Mats vs PEMF Mats, FAQs and questions other people asked me in the Ask a Question section.
Quick links,
Comparison Table
Healthy Wave Infrared PEMF Mat
Price Range
Healthy Wave Soft & Flexible Mat
Price Range
Biomat
Price Range
Vitamat
Price Range
Table of Contents
- How We Evaluate & Review Infrared Mats
- What is an Infrared Mat & Who is an Infrared Mat for?
- How do Infrared Mats Work, and do they Really Work?
- Infrared Mat Benefits & Who can Benefit?
- My Infrared Mat Evaluation Review Criteria
- Other Considerations Before Purchase
- Infrared Mats vs PEMF Mats
- FAQs
- Ask a Question
On this page
- Comparison Table
- How We Evaluate Infrared Mats
- What is an Infrared Mat & Who is it for?
- How do Infrared Mats Work, and do they Really Work?
- Infrared Mat Benefits & Who can Benefit?
- My Infrared Mat Evaluation Review Criteria
- Other Considerations Before Purchase
- Infrared Mats vs PEMF Mats
- FAQs
- Ask me a Question
How We Evaluate & Review Infrared Mats
Our 5 criteria to help you choose the best infrared mat for you.
Is the infrared mat constructed with EMF shielding to block harmful EMF’s?
Does the mat’s controller operate only on a timer to ensure the heat shuts off if left on accidentally?
Is the infrared mat constructed with even and complete crystal coverage of the mats surface for an even application of the infrared heat?
Is the infrared mat constructed with crystals which emit negative ions?
Not all infrared mats, depending on construction materials, will emit beneficial negative ions.
Infrared mats usually come with a big price tag, what kind of return policy is there?
If the infrared mat isn’t the right fit for you, are you out of luck?
Most infrared mats are not inexpensive, does the warranty back up the price tag?
The mat controller is the most likely component to fail, what kind of warranty does the mat controller have?
What is an Infrared Mat & Who is an Infrared Mat for?
An infrared mat is an infrared therapy device which creates its’ infrared heat by warming crystals, and you receive the therapy by laying on the mat.
Typically infrared mats will be around the size of a yoga mat, but there are many size options available including ones to fit chairs, belts, and even blanket variations.
If you have aches or pains, a circulatory system, or are just looking to feel rejuvenated, then infrared mats are for you.
An infrared mat isn’t a cure to anything in particular, but I can say from experience with a severe disc herniation (back pain & sciatica problem) that having a hot infrared mat to relax on in the evenings before bed was irreplaceable.
How do Infrared Mats Work, and do they Really Work?
Most infrared mats work by heating up crystals which then emit the infrared heat.
There are some cheaper variations that may use a different material like ceramic, but these tend to be less common.
The infrared heat, like in an infrared sauna, will heat you from the inside out, increasing circulation, warming you up, and dissipating minor aches and pains.
Infrared mats aren’t a cure for any kind of disease or ailment, using one every night didn’t cure my disc herniation, but I sure felt a lot better in the meantime while I used it.
Infrared mats really work, they work for aches and pains, feeling good, feeling rejuvenated, getting a sweat on, having a better sleep, and feeling cozy, but they don’t work as a “cure” for any kind of condition.
Infrared Mat Benefits & Who can Benefit ?
The most noticeable benefit of an infrared mat, like with an infrared sauna, is an improvement in circulation.
Also noticeable is the feeling of warmth and relaxation I, and others get while using an infrared mat, similar to the feeling we get from basking in the sun. This is because the sun’s light is also infrared and heats us up from the inside, like an infrared mat does.
Anyone and everyone could benefit from a little time on an infrared mat, just like we could all benefit from a little bit more time spent in the sun.
Infrared heat is a relatively well researched topic, and from the research it’s easy to build a longer list of infrared therapy benefits:
- Reduction of pain & stiffness
- Detoxifying the body
- Relieves back pain symptoms
- Reduces chronic fatigue
- Relieves muscle & joint pain
- Reduction in blood pressure (infrared saunas)
- Reduces cardiovascular disease (infrared saunas)
- Prepares skin for sun exposure
- Improvement in peripheral motor functions
- Suppresses vascular inflammation
A couple in the above list are noted specifically as benefits from infrared saunas, an infrared sauna can be replicated with an infrared mat using a reflective sauna blanket (just make sure you’ve got a towel because this is a sweaty thing to do!).
More in depth on this topic and the benefits of infrared on our benefits of infrared mats page.
My Infrared Mat Evaluation Review Criteria
As shown above, the following are the 5 main criteria I use to evaluate infrared mats which I developed over the years of trying out different infrared mats for myself and building this website.
The 5 criteria are as follows and now let’s go into the details of each.
- Infrared Mat Safety
- Infrared Crystal Coverage
- Negative Ions
- Return Policies
- Warranty Policies
After we review these 5 criteria be sure to read the next section about Other Considerations Before Purchase of an infrared mat.
Infrared Mat Safety
EMF Shielding and Controller Comparisons
Let’s put this into a comparison table for easier viewing.
We’re looking at whether the infrared mat has EMF shielding (electromagnetic field shielding) of unwanted electronic byproduct EMFs, and whether the controller operates only on a timer to ensure the heat shuts off if left turned on accidentally overnight or otherwise.
EMF Shielding & Controller Comparisons
EMF Shielding
Yes, made with EMF shielding material.
Controller Timer
Yes, timer will shut off mat at end of session.
EMF Shielding
Yes, made with EMF shielding material.
Controller Timer
Yes, timer will shut off mat at end of session.
EMF Shielding
Yes, made with fiberglass EMF shielding layer.
Controller Timer
Yes, timer will shut off mat at end of session.
HigherDose Infrared Mat
EMF Shielding
Yes, operates within recommended EMF limits.
Controller Timer
Yes, timer will shut mat off, however no timer on Go-Mat.
EMF Shielding
Yes, EMF eliminating wires used.
Controller Timer
No, no timer to shut off mat.
Infrared Crystal Coverage
Infrared crystal selection can be a preferential topic, but coverage is not, does the infrared mat provide even, and complete surface coverage of crystal and therefore infrared heat?
In crystal selection amethyst is commonly accepted as the best choice for infrared, however you will find those who argue jade is better. Tourmaline is generally known to generate more negative ions than the others.
Choose your own preference, or consider an infrared mat which combines all three.
To see the crystals of the different infrared mats compared more in depth check out our Amethyst Mats page.
Crystal Coverage Comparisons
Infrared Crystal Coverage
Provides complete infrared coverage, excepting the red light therapy lights. Tourmaline and Jade stones are also included in the Pro mat, and amethyst encircles them to ensure coverage.
Infrared Crystal Coverage
Provides complete infrared coverage, primarily amethyst with some alternating rows of tourmaline and jade in addition.
Infrared Crystal Coverage
Provides complete infrared coverage, with only amethyst. Includes a TOCA (Tourmaline Catch Power) layer within the fabric of construction.
HigherDose Infrared Mat
Infrared Crystal Coverage
Provides complete infrared coverage, with alternating rows of tourmaline and amethyst.
Infrared Crystal Coverage
Provides mostly complete infrared coverage, using spaced jade stones and the space inbetween filled with germanium, charcoal & yellow mud which also provide some heat but not negative ions.
Does the Infrared Mat emit Negative Ions?
Infrared heat can be created in more than one way but only certain crystals produce negative ions, does the mat produce negative ions?
All of the mats in review here do produce negative ions, but to different degrees depending on the crystals included, here is a summary of the estimated negative ion production & crystals included in each infrared mat on the list.
Negative Ion Comparisons
Healthy Wave Infrared PEMF Mat
Includes 3 Negative Ion Generating Crystals:
- Amethyst: 1500 negative ions per square inch
- Jade: 700 negative ions per square inch
- Tourmaline: 1500+ negative ions per square inch
Negative Ion Producing Crystals
Healthy Wave Mat Soft & Flexible
Includes 3 Negative Ion Generating Crystals:
- Amethyst: 1500 negative ions per square inch
- Jade: 700 negative ions per square inch
- Tourmaline: 1500+ negative ions per square inch
Negative Ion Producing Crystals
Biomat
Includes 2 Negative Ion Generating Crystals:
- Amethyst: 1500 negative ions per square inch
- Tourmaline: 1500+ negative ions per square inch
Negative Ion Producing Crystals
HigherDose Infrared Mat
Includes 2 Negative Ion Generating Crystals:
- Amethyst: 1500 negative ions per square inch
- Tourmaline: 1500+ negative ions per square inch
Negative Ion Producing Crystals
Negative Ion Producing Crystals
Return Policies
Does the product work for you?
We can’t ever be sure whether we will like something or if something is right for us without trying it, that’s why this is a big point for me and it is included on my infrared mat evaluation criteria.
I’ve gathered the return policy details for each brand & infrared mat here in the table for you to compare directly to one another.
Return Policy Comparisons
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Warranty Policies
Does the warranty back the product up?
Infrared mats come with 2 main components, the mat, and the mat controller. One can’t work without the other.
Which is more prone to technical issues? The controller. Although it has no moving parts, it’s a complicated piece of electronics which gets warm during use.
It’s important to consider specifically your controller warranty when shopping for an infrared mat.
Especially when you’re making an investment level purchase, you want to be sure that you’re covered if something goes wrong.
Warranty Policy Comparisons
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Other Considerations Before Purchase
If you’re looking at buying your very first infrared mat, there are a couple things that I recommend considering beforehand.
One is that a flat, firm surface area is the best for setting up an infrared mat. You can also use a chair or couch, but in these cases it may be better to consider a softer, flexible mat (for example the Healthy Wave Soft & Flexible Infrared mat).
Usually it isn’t too much trouble to find the floor space, and there are many sizing options available.
I use my infrared mat right next to the couch, and it’s the right size that I can actually simply slide it under the couch when I’m not using it or when company is over. Although, whenever company comes, they always tend to be the ones getting the mat out to use themselves!
Another thing to consider is the weight of the infrared mat. Since most of the mats are using crystals to generate the infrared heat, it’s basically a mat filled with rocks (crystals). Most mats will come with a carrying case, but if you plan to be moving the mat around a lot, it is something to keep in mind when purchasing.
A last consideration to make when buying an infrared mat is whether or not you should consider one which has PEMF as well, let’s look at that next.
Infrared Mats vs PEMF Mats
If you’re looking at buying an infrared mat, should you be thinking about one that includes PEMF or not?
Here are a couple points to consider for yourself to help figure this question out.
- PEMF mats are less flexible (typically) than infrared mats
- This is because of the PEMF coils inside, they need a flat surface
- For what reasons are you buying an infrared mat?
- PEMF is demonstrated to help with a number of the same things infrared mats help with, low back pain, improving circulation etc., combining both may then be beneficial
- Would you be considering PEMF in the future?
- Rather than buy a pricey infrared mat, and a pricey PEMF mat, some mats include both therapies for not so large a premium over an infrared only mat
- You need only the space for one mat, not room for two
Personally at home I use the Healthy Wave Pro 4 Therapy Infrared PEMF Mat 74″ x28″.
For me it’s the right balance of excellent infrared heat and very easy to use PEMF with 30 different frequency settings. Perfect for a higher frequency PEMF during morning stretches, I use 16Hz, and low frequency, I use 4Hz, while stretching before bed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you use an Infrared Mat?
You should use your infrared mat as often as you like and as you can, there is no reason to only use it once a day or once a week. Usually I use mine every evening before bed, or anytime I have any aches or pain. Again it is important to keep hydrated while using any infrared mat.
How long can you stay on an Infrared Mat?
There is technically no limit to how long you can stay on an infrared mat, but it will depend on the temperature set point and it is important to keep hydration in mind. The infrared mat will raise your body temperature and sweating is normal, so keeping hydrated is important during any infrared mat session. Normally anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour is recommended. It is also wise to make sure your mat controller has an automated timer shut off in case you accidentally fall asleep on the mat, or accidentally leave it turned off, that it will eventually turn itself off.
What does an Infrared Mat do?
An infrared mat heats a material which will emit infrared heat, this is typically amethyst crystal, or in some cheaper infrared mats can be other materials like carbon. The infrared heat which is emitted can act to therapeutically increase blood flow, circulation, and help with minor pain relief.
What should you wear while using an Infrared Mat?
While using an infrared mat you should not wear any clothes that you would not want to sweat in. Shorts and a t-shirt, or loose fitting sweatpants and shirt. The same type of thing you may wear for a work out. If you’re really going to have a hot infrared mat session and try to sweat make sure to use your mat cover as well to keep it easy to clean by just wiping the protective cover.
What are the Benefits of an Infrared Mat?
The benefits of an infrared mat include relief from aches and pains, improved circulation, relaxation, improved sleep, detoxification through sweating, improved energy levels and more. Infrared mat benefits are the same as you would receive from for example an infrared sauna, to varying degrees of how long you are on the infrared mat, how hot you set it, how much you sweat and other factors.
If you made it this far down the page, then thank you for reading!
It took a lot of time and thought to put this page together so I really do hope its helped you, if it did, please share it with friends or family who would be interested.
Next stop to learn more head over to the review of our top rated infrared mat the Healthy Wave Mat!
Do you work for Healthy Wave?
Hi Kelly,
No I don’t work directly for Healthy Wave, and that’s a good question.
I do have affiliate links on this website, including those to Healthy Wave among others, and if someone made a purchase using one of the links on the website then I would receive a referral commission with no price difference to the customer.
That info is also in the affiliate disclosure I have on the website.
I do recommend Healthy Wave as my first pick for infrared and PEMF mats, just because I think they’re the best – for all the reasons on my comparison and reviews.
The affiliate commissions keep the website up and running and help with projects like the PEMF research database, and the PEMF location directory.
Hope that helps answer your question 🙂
Greg
Hi-
I’m still confused about the red-light therapy vs. far infrared. I have a Higher Dose mat, and your chart says it has far infrared but not red-light therapy. Can you explain the difference?! Am I missing out on the real therapy of red light??
Thanks!
Hi Juliet,
thanks for your comment!
And yes far infrared and red light are 2 different forms of “light energy”, basically just meaning they have different waveform lengths/frequency.
Red light is actually visible red light, while far infrared is invisible, but you can feel it, for example, the warmth you feel from the sun’s light is actually indeed far infrared light/heat.
So the heat you feel on your HigherDose mat is far infrared heat, great for circulation and recovery, and the red lights you may see on other mats like the Healthy Wave mat are emitting a higher frequency energy which is visible red light and is known to help the body’s cells in a variety of ways.
On most mats that include red light therapy it is more of a supplemental therapy to the main therapy of far infrared or PEMF therapy.
If you really want to experience red light therapy specifically, you might want to look at a red light therapy device, I have a review of some of the most popular red light therapy panels which you can check out, might be helpful in understanding the differences 🙂
Hope this helps a bit!
Greg
Hello….May I ask if there are any black friday or holiday sales coming up. our friend had a coupon but unfortunately it expired 11-7. Our budget would be able to at least have afforded a mini …thank you for all you do to help heal folks…Dan
Hi Dan,
thanks a lot for your comment.
Which infrared mat were you thinking of?
Typically yes, there will be Black friday sales, though it depends on the brand.
Usually I see Healthy Wave with Black Friday sales, and I do have a coupon I’m able to give out for Healthy Wave mats.
For Biomat I actually haven’t seen, in the past that is, any sales for Black Friday but maybe this year will be the exception.
If you’d like the Healthy Wave coupon I’m able to give out you’ll receive it if you sign up on my mailing list, or just email me via the contact us page and I’ll send it over.
Let me know! 🙂
Greg
How can I get service for BEMER MAT cable disconnected.
SN : 450100 01 174301
Thank you!
Hi Sun Chu,
thanks for the comment, though this is our page about infrared mats. But regarding the Bemer, you might be able to find someone knowledgeable in our Bemer mat directory, or Googling in your area.
That being said, I’m not aware of service people for Bemer products, just that you can ship it back to the manufacturer for warranty defects.
You may have better luck trying to call Bemer directly and ask them how you could work on it yourself.
Good luck!
Greg
Hello, Great information! my question, are these devices FDA approved
Hi James,
good question.
These mats won’t be FDA “approved” in the sense that a new drug gets an “approval”, but they will all be FDA registered via the FDA’s 510(K) form, which is basically a registration with the FDA with the FDA taking enough time to review the product and determine it falls within a pre-existing category of products which are safe.
In other words I suppose you could say these mats are “FDA approved” as safe, although the technical term is that they’re FDA registered, not to be too technical about it!
Hope that helped 🙂
Greg