Should You Wear Clothes on the Richway Biomat? A Closer Look at the Benefits and Considerations

Introduction

The Richway Biomat, a therapeutic mat that produces far infrared rays and negative ions, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. As users explore the best practices for using the Biomat, questions arise regarding whether to wear clothes or not during a treatment session. In this blog post, we will delve into the advantages and considerations of wearing clothes on the Biomat and discuss the impact of different fabric choices.

Comfort and Personal Preference

One of the primary factors to consider is personal comfort. Some individuals may find it more relaxing and enjoyable to use the Biomat without clothes, allowing direct contact with the soothing warmth of the mat. On the other hand, some users may feel more at ease and comfortable by wearing clothes during their session.  Both of these options are acceptable, however, as we will see later in this post, the types of fabrics those clothes are made from may present an issue. So why doesn't it matter if you wear clothes or not?

Radiant Heat vs Conductive Heat

When you use a conventional heating pad, all of the heat you receive is transferred to you via conductive heat.  This means the heat you are receiving is by way of physical contact.  If you move a conventional heating pad away from your body even a few inches, the heat is no longer felt.  By contrast, a Richway Biomat gives off radiant heat, which is the transfer of heat via electromagnetic waves.  And that's exactly what far infrared rays are, electromagnetic waves produced by the channels inside the amethyst crystals as they are heated. The penetrating heat from the Biomat extends for up to 6-8 inches off of the mat so you don't have to be touching the Biomat to receive the heat.  It travels through particles of matter, while conductive heat heats the particles of matter it touches.

Which is why it doesn't matter if you are wearing clothes or not when using the Biomat when it comes to how much therapy you receive.  You'll get the same treatment either way.  So its all about what makes you feel the most comfortable.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

Wearing clothes on the Biomat can help maintain hygiene and cleanliness. It serves as a protective barrier, preventing direct contact between the body and the mat's surface. This can be particularly beneficial if multiple people use the Biomat or if you prefer to keep the mat clean and free from sweat, lotions, or oils.  Over time, these things can cause the mat to smell badly and make the mat non-hygienic. We recommend even individuals who are using the Biomat by themselves and not sharing it with others to use the cotton pad that comes with every mat to keep sweat and dirt at bay.

Using the Biomat in a Professional Environment

In our experience, professionals (massage therapists, acupuncturists, physical therapists, chiropractors) who use the Richway Biomat with their clients not only should make wearing clothes mandatory while on the mat, but also make sure they are using the Infinity Pad 187 Made With Germanium, which is the water-proof cover with healing properties of its own made specifically for the Biomat by Richway.  This will help keep the mat clean and healthy for the next client while protecting it from long-term damage.

Treatment Effectiveness

As stated above, neither wearing clothes or not wearing them should diminish the effectiveness of the Biomat.  

Natural Fibers vs. Synthetic Clothing

When choosing to wear clothes on the Biomat, it is generally recommended to opt for natural fiber clothing, such as cotton or linen. Natural fibers allow better airflow and moisture absorption, preventing excessive sweating and enhancing comfort during the treatment session.

More importantly, studies have shown that wearing synthetic fiber clothing and using synthetic fiber blankets are not as healthy natural fiber materials.  So wearing synthetics while using the Biomat is not a good idea.  We recommend that you wear 100% cotton clothing or any other natural fiber while using the mat.

Dangers of Synthetic Fabrics

Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester or nylon, should be avoided on the Biomat. These materials do not allow proper ventilation, trapping heat and moisture against the skin. This can lead to discomfort, excessive sweating, and potential skin irritations. Wearing and using synthetic fibers can pose health risks due to the chemicals and toxins present in these materials. Synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic are derived from petroleum-based chemicals and are often treated with various chemicals during the manufacturing process. These chemicals, including formaldehyde, phthalates, and flame retardants, can potentially cause skin irritation, allergies, and respiratory problems. They may also release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can lead to indoor air pollution and exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma.  It is advisable to choose natural fibers like cotton, linen, or wool whenever possible to minimize the potential health risks associated with synthetic fibers. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether to wear clothes on the Biomat is a matter of personal preference and comfort. While wearing clothes does not significantly impact the treatment's effectiveness, it can provide hygiene benefits and protect the mat's surface. If you choose to wear clothes, opting for natural fibers is advisable to enhance breathability and avoid potential discomfort or skin irritations caused by synthetic fabrics.

Remember, these same principles apply to any additional items used on the Biomat, such as blankets or quilts. To ensure maximum comfort and minimize potential risks, using all-natural fiber materials is recommended. Enjoy your Biomat sessions, and may they bring you the relaxation and healing you seek.