As someone who has a profound respect for science and spirituality, no product blends the best of these two worlds quite like grounding mats. An increasingly popular muscle recovery tool utilized by everyone from elite athletes to office workers, it’s fair to say there’s still a bit of skepticism about whether the juice is worth the squeeze.
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However, as a certified personal trainer (CPT) and holistic health advocate, grounding mats may be a valuable part of your wellness routine. And I’m certainly not the only member of the Garage Gym Reviews team who stands behind this somewhat-controversial technology that aims to connect your body to the Earth’s energy.
Whether you’re already in the pro-grounding mat camp or still need a little convincing about the potential health benefits, we’re here to clear the air. As we do with any piece of fitness equipment, supplement, or recovery tool, our team researched, tested, and evaluated the best grounding mats on the market to determine which ones are worth it and which ones you can pass on. So, whether you want to improve your recovery, reduce stress, or get better sleep, you can use this list to find the ideal fit to keep you centered
5 Best Grounding Mats
- Best Overall Grounding Mat: Hooga Grounding Mat
- Best Grounding Mat for Meditation: HigherDOSE Infrared PEMF Go Mat
- Best Grounding Mat for Earthing: Earth and Moon Grounding Mat
- Best Grounding Mat for Workspace: The Terra – Grounding Mat
- Best Grounding Mat for Sleep: Earthing Elite Sleep Mat
Best Overall Grounding Mat: Hooga Grounding Mat
Good for: Anyone looking for a lightweight, inexpensive grounding mat that can be easily moved and stored
The Hooga Grounding Mat is a great budget-friendly option that can be used as a floor, computer, or desk mat. In addition to being waterproof, it has a non-slip backing that adds to the durability. We also like that you can try it for 60 days to evaluate its effectiveness.
What our tester says:
“The effects are present after repeated use, but you definitely need to trust the process since there isn’t much feedback from the mat in terms of tingling or warmth.”
Checking critical boxes for value, durability, and portability the Hooga Grounding Mat earns the top spot on our list. Senior Staff Writer Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC, rated this ultra-affordable mat a perfect 5 out of 5 for the first category.
“At roughly $30, it’s a budget-friendly step into grounding and can be ideal for wallet-minded athletes or those curious about the discipline,” he explains.
While other grounding mats can cost upwards of $120 or more, Ben was impressed by Hooga’s sub-$50 profile. So, what exactly do you get for your money?
The mat is made of a lightweight conductive carbon that folds easily. It also has a non-slip base and waterproof top side. Ben rated the build materials 4 out of 5 stars.
“It’s durable enough that I wouldn’t be surprised to get multiple years of use out of this,” he notes. “I also appreciate the 15-foot grounding cord that allows for varied setups within reach of a grounded outlet.”
One downside, however, is that the excessive cord length “can be bulky and cluttered” when using the mat underneath an office desk.
Of course, a grounding mat is no good if you don’t experience any tangible benefits or effects. While you shouldn’t expect much tingling or warmth like you would from the best foot massagers, Ben still gave the Hooga 3.75 out of 5 stars, offering a critical piece of advice.
“The effects are present after repeated use, but you definitely need to trust the process since there isn’t much feedback from the mat, at least in my case,” he explains. “But I do feel like my energy levels have increased and joint pains lessened since adopting this mat into my regular setup.”
| Dimensions | 24” L x 16” W |
| Weight | 1 lb |
| Grounding cord length | 15 ft |
| Waterproof? | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Best Grounding Mat for Meditation: HigherDOSE Infrared PEMF Go Mat
Good for: People looking for a grounding mat for meditation and with some added features
If you’re willing to splurge, the HigherDOSE Infrared PEMF Go Mat is a premium recovery tool that offers potential benefits such as reduced stress, increased energy, and holistic recovery. It uses pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) and infrared heat technology — both of which are supported by research. However, the $700 price tag may preclude some users from going all-in on this high-end grounding mat.
Best Grounding Mat for Earthing: Earth and Moon Grounding Mat
Good for: Those who want to enjoy earthing therapy in a safe manner without breaking the bank
The Earth and Moon Grounding Mat earned strong scores from our product tester for value, size, and effectiveness. For $70, you get quite a few accessories to help foster a safe experience. We also love that this grounding product is covered by a lifetime warranty.
What our tester says:
“I can’t say I’ve noticed many positive benefits yet, but the tingling makes me think it’s working.”
Staff Writer Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC, was eager to find out if the hype around earthing mats was warranted. Although he didn’t experience immediate tangible benefits, there’s no doubt the Earth and Moon Grounding Mat was doing its job.
“I felt tingling within minutes, which was super interesting and makes me think it’s working,” he explains, giving this mat 4 out of 5 stars for effects.
Made from polyurethane infused with carbon, this mid-priced mat feels similar to a yoga mat that plugs into a wall. Although Matt only gave it 3 out of 5 stars for material and durability, he believes you get a good bang for your buck.
“It costs $70 but feels really nice and comes with an outlet tester to make sure it’s grounded, as well as a free bracelet,” he says, scoring it 4 out of 5 stars for value. Another bonus is that this grounding mat comes with a lifetime warranty. Plus, a lengthy 90-day return policy gives you sufficient time to test the mat’s effectiveness before you decide to pull the plug or make it a permanent part of your recovery routine, like the best massage chairs.
Although it’s easy to roll up and store, the Earth and Moon Grounding Mat does not come with straps or a case. As a result, Matt docked two points off the portability score, giving it 3 out of 5 stars. He assigned the same rating for ease of cleaning since the mat is not machine washable.
“I haven’t had to clean it yet, but I imagine it’ll be easy since it feels like a typical yoga mat,” adds Matt.
| Dimensions | 35” L x 24” W |
| Weight | 1.5 lbs |
| Grounding cord length | 15 ft |
| Waterproof? | No |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Best Grounding Mat for Workspace: The Terra Grounding Mat
Good for: Workers who would enjoy a grounding mat while in the office or working from home
The Terra Grounding Mat is ideal for office use, as you can fit it under or on top of your desk, depending on your needs. Another interesting feature is that it’s pet-friendly, which you don’t usually see advertised. However, the small size may not make it a great fit for all users.
Best Grounding Mat for Sleeping: Earthing Elite Sleep Mat
Good for: Anyone looking for a large, yet lightweight grounding mat for sleep
The Earthing Elite Sleep Mat is a solid option if you’re looking to enhance your zzz’s. However, it’s on the expensive side, and the materials may not last as long as we’d like to see based on the price point.
What our tester says:
“You can also set this mat up across a larger bed so that two people can sleep on it.”
Grounding mats aren’t only used for meditation or enhancing productivity at work. Oftentimes, people utilize them to promote better sleep. If you’re in that camp, you should put the Earthing Elite Sleep Mat on your wish list (along with the best magnesium sprays).
“A good night’s rest can improve mood, cognitive function, lower the risk of serious health problems, and lead to an overall happier and healthier life. Sleep is the bedrock upon which everything else is really built,” says Dr. Shelby Harris, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry at Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Senior Staff Writer and Olympian weightlifter Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1, tested this mat extensively. While he didn’t feel any noticeable tingling sensations, that could be because the mat is designed for restful zzz’s. Still, he was pleased to report that his back was less stiff when he woke up.
As a larger athlete, Caine found the mat lacked sufficient width for his body. However, he still gave this mat a 5-star rating for size. Here’s why:
“It’s big enough for one person to sleep on lengthwise. The 27-inch width isn’t wide enough for my shoulders and arms, but I’m very broad, and from my understanding, your entire body doesn’t need to be on it,” he explains.
If you share a bed with a partner, you don’t have to worry about purchasing two of these mats, either.
“You can also set this mat up across a larger bed so that two people can sleep on it, with their bare legs on the mat,” Caine says.
Also earning a 5-out-of-5 rating for portability, Caine appreciates that this mat comes with a clear zip-up bag. This makes it easy to transport, especially since the mat is surprisingly lightweight despite its large footprint.
“It also has a nice long cord that should be able to reach any outlet in your average bedroom,” he says.
Unfortunately, you’ll have to extend yourself a bit financially for the Earthing Elite Sleep Mat. As a result, Caine rated it just 2 out of 5 stars for value.
“It comes with some free reading material about grounding, but $149 feels like a lot for an item that may or may not make a major difference. Also, the materials feel flimsy for the cost, too.”
| Dimensions | 84” L x 27” W |
| Weight | 1.07 kg (2.36 lbs) |
| Grounding cord length | 15 ft |
| Waterproof? | Water-resistant |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Other Grounding Mats We Researched
While the grounding mat market isn’t nearly as expansive as it is for barbells or dumbbells, we cast a wide net to help you stay #grounded. Here are a couple other mats that didn’t quite make the cut for us:
- GroundingWell™ Mat: Available with different plug configurations, we felt the $70 price tag was a bit steep for what you get.
- Soliterra Grounding Mat: While budget-friendly, this mat generated mixed reviews from Amazon customers.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Grounding Mats
Eager to see whether earthing products are legit or just another fitness fad, our team went on a mission to evaluate their effectiveness. Since this is a fairly new product category, we took the time to examine all the options on the market, including budget-friendly and high-end mats.
Our product testers, all of whom are certified personal trainers with years of experience, used grounding mats after workouts, during their workday, and even while sleeping. Our team rated each mat based on our fitness equipment testing methodology, assigning a score from 1 to 5 across these categories:
- Material and durability: Does the mat feel like it’ll hold up with repeated use? Cheaper materials won’t last over time, which is not ideal if you’re investing hard-earned money on your recovery.
- Effects: Do you feel any tingling or any notable sensations when using the mat? What effects (positive or negative) did the experience yield?
- Portability: Is it easy to fold or roll the mat up when you’re on the go? Does it come with straps or a carrying case?
- Ease of cleaning: Whether you’re standing, sitting, or sleeping on a grounding mat, you want to be able to clean it consistently without any hassles.
- Size: Are the dimensions suitable for users of all sizes? Compact mats can be great for certain situations but not ideal if you’re a larger individual.
- Value: Does the price justify the quality? Does the company offer a mat kit with extra accessories?
- Customer Experience: How easy is it to order the mat? We also look at return policies, warranties, and contact options to get a clear idea of what the customer experience is like.
- Customer Reviews: Do the mats generate positive feedback from customers? If a product is widely regarded as ineffective or overpriced, the rating will speak for itself.
Benefits of Grounding Mats
Grounding (also known as earthing) involves making direct contact with the Earth’s surface to establish a conductive connection with your body. This popular holistic health practice is based on the idea that the human body can absorb electrons from the Earth to fight free radicals—molecules that can potentially lead to oxidative stress and disease.
Of course, not everyone has time or access to harness this natural energy. That’s where items like grounding mats, earthing sheets, and mattress covers come in. These products mimic the Earth’s electromagnetic fields (EMF), offering a convenient way to enjoy grounding benefits without stepping outside.
Disclaimer: While more research is needed to fully understand the capabilities of this emerging technology on human health, here are some ways you may potentially improve your physical and mental well-being based on a 2015 study1 conducted on the effects of grounding:
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved healing from injuries
- Improved immune system response
- Improved sleep quality
- Reduced stress
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In addition, a study published in the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine2 on the effects of grounding the human body during sleep showed promising results for reducing pain, stress, and cortisol levels. Researchers found that earthing during sleep reduced night-time levels of cortisol and resynchronized cortisol hormone secretion more in alignment with the body’s natural 24-hour circadian rhythm profile. However, again, more research is needed to fully back these claims.
Based on my own experience, I find grounding therapy to be a useful tool to have in my health and wellness arsenal. Practicing deep breathing and mindfulness can calm my nervous system and allow me to feel more connected emotionally and spiritually. That doesn’t mean standing on an earthing mat will magically make your problems disappear, but it can be a practice you pencil into your recovery routine, especially during periods of stress. At the very least, it probably won’t do any harm!
Buying Guide: What To Look For In Grounding Mats
Although each grounding mat aims to produce the same result of reducing the negative charge in your body, there’s still quite a few factors to consider before purchasing a grounding mat for your workplace or home.
Size and Portability
First, you should consider the size of the grounding mat you’d like. To best figure out your ideal mat’s dimensions, you should think about where you’d want to use it.
For standing or sitting, you may want a larger mat; however, if you’re wanting it at your workspace, you may need something a bit more compact. Additionally, you can get a larger mat for your bed if you’d like to ground while sleeping.
If you’re planning on taking a mat back and forth to different places, you’ll want to make sure that the grounding mat is portable and easy to travel with. Look for lightweight options with carrying solutions, like bags or totes to carry the mat and the grounding cord.
Grounding Cord Length
Depending on where you want to have your grounding mat, you may need a longer grounding cord to reach your outlet. Many grounding mats come with decent lengths of grounding cords, but if you are concerned about the distance between your outlet and where you’d like to perform your grounding, this is a specification to pay attention to.
Extras
Some grounding mats come with extra features, or just extra perks. Some mats come with testing kits to make sure your outlet can safely be used for grounding. Because it’s still a niche recovery method, other mats come with literature on the subject of earthing.
Premium grounding mats can come larger or added features, like heat or infrared and red light therapy. These premium features will add to the cost, however, so plan your budget accordingly.
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Experts Who Contributed To This Article
- Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC
- Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
- Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
- Dr. Shelby Harris, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry at Albert Einstein College of Medicine
FAQs About the Best Grounding Mats
Do grounding mats really work?
While they may not have the same impact for all users, research shows grounding mats can have beneficial effects such as reduced anxiety and stress, improved sleep, better blood circulation, pain relief, and reduced inflammation.
What are grounding sheets?
Grounding sheets contain conductive materials like silver or carbon threads that aim to connect your body with the Earth’s natural electrical charge during sleep. Potential benefits of using this grounding product include improved sleep quality, reduced stress, and better overall well-being.
Which brand of grounding mat is best?
Choosing the best grounding mat brand depends on your needs. For example, we put Earthing at the top for sleep. We like Hooga as our best overall because you get great bang for your buck. Ultimately, you need to consider several factors such as your budget, portability, and intended use to make the best purchasing decision.
References
- Oschman JL, Chevalier G, Brown R. The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. J Inflamm Res. 2015 Mar 24;8:83-96. doi: 10.2147/JIR.S69656. PMID: 25848315; PMCID: PMC4378297.
- Ghaly M, Teplitz D. The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain, and stress. J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Oct;10(5):767-76. doi: 10.1089/acm.2004.10.767. PMID: 15650465.
