Our 8 Best Heating Pads reviews & comparisons for 2024

Things To Consider Before Purchasing a Heating Pad

Auto Shut Off

If you’re concerned about safety, consider getting one with an auto shut-off feature. You may fall asleep while using yours, so having one that shuts off after an hour or so could prevent serious injury. You’ll want to decide if a long or short shut off is best for you, as a short timer may be a problem for extended use.

Timer

This is similar to the auto shut off but is a feature designed to give you more exact control over how long your therapy lasts. Most brands come with different timers, and some are easier to handle than others, so be sure to check into this before you buy.

Size

Size is important, and you’ll need to decide on what you’re going to be using your pad for. If you require full body relief for larger sections like your spine or waist, you may want to consider a large pad. If you’re relieving smaller areas like the wrist or legs, go for something smaller in size.

Number Of Heat Settings

If you’re a fan of having lots of options to customize your pad’s temperature, you may want one with extra settings. Some have more than others, and these will sometimes come with memory functions to remember previous settings, so keep an eye out for this function.

Heat Up Time

How long does it take yours to warm up? This varies from product to product, as some take only seconds, while others may take up to a minute or more. It might help to check multiple reviews to get a more exact estimate on the time it may take.

How Hot Does It Get?

Depending on your needs, the max temperature can make a world of difference in what kind of relief you receive. Usually, product descriptions can tell you the max temperature in both Fahrenheit and Celsius, so check these out before buying.

Material

There are different types of materials used in manufacturing, like micro plush fiber, velvet, polyester, and so on. Some materials distribute warmth better, while others might be softer or more durable, so check up with manufacturer descriptions to find out.

Length Of Power Cord

There’s nothing more disappointing than finding out that the cord is too short. Usually, cord length is specified in product descriptions or the manufacturer’s website, so it’s important to check before you buy, or you might end up with wasted time and money. Longer cords are not only convenient but can give you more options for where to place it.

Wireless Capability

Some models are wireless, meaning that cord length is irrelevant. There are pros and cons with this, such as battery length and charge time, so be sure to weigh these in when deciding to ditch the cord or not. Both suit different needs and purposes.

Heating Methods

There are different types of designs, such as microwave, electric, infrared, and other non-electric sources of heat. These will be explained in more detail later on, but for now, just be aware that methods vary, and some may be more suitable for your needs than others.

Types Of Heating Pads

There are a number of different types of hot pads on the market, all suitable to specific needs and areas of your body. You wouldn’t use a pad designed for spine support on your knees, and you wouldn’t use a pad for knees on your neck, so knowing the differences will definitely come in handy.

Not only will choosing the right pad for your needs alleviate pain much better, but it could save you a headache in finding the appropriate one. Compiled below is information on the various versions, which should be able to assist in your search.

Body Parts

As stated before, some models were made with certain body parts/areas in mind. It’s helpful to know how each pad helps these parts, and how to recognize the right pad for your body, as each pad is shaped and specifically designed to work in certain ways.

Neck/Back/Shoulders

Heating pads designed for these parts of your body are usually contoured in a specific way, so as to fit snugly around your neck or to fit and drape on your shoulders. These are form fitting to take relief off high-pressure areas around your neck.

Back And Spine

Your back and spine are some of the larger areas of your body, meaning that they require more surface area. You’ll want to look out for an XL-sized brand, so as to get appropriate relief across your entire lower back and spine. Smaller ones work too for more precise pain targeting.

Knees

You can also buy some with knee support to target joint pain. These products wrap firmly around your knees and are designed to deliver exact and precise pain relief, as the fabric contours and bends easily. Be sure to check on the size of your pad too, so you’ll have a comfortable therapy session.

Heating Methods

There are different methods in the market, with some methods delivering warmth more effectively than others. It’s important to know what each does so you can make an informed decision on which pad will be right for you and your body.

Electric

The main drawback of electric models is that they need recharging and often have higher temperatures than non-electric models. They usually heat the skin at just a surface level, meaning they aren’t necessarily more penetrating than others. This might be an issue for some people, which should be kept in mind.

Infrared

Infrared can usually give a more penetrating type of relief in comparison to electric. Their design goes beyond penetrating the skin’s surface and can really give deep relief to aching bones and muscle. Be sure to check if your pad is infrared on the product description if that’s what you need.

Moist

Heating pads designed for moist methods are perfect for deep skin penetration and relief in ways that traditional electric can’t do. Much like infrared, moist can expand tissue elasticity and give more effective joint and muscle relief. Moist is also better for people with specific medical concerns, like skin dehydration and people with aging skin.

Microwave

Microwave is very different from electric, moist, and infrared. Firstly, these warm-up solely by putting them in the microwave. Various gels and other materials are used to fill them, like wheat and lavender. The microwave makes a great alternative to traditional means.

Non-Electric Heating Pads

These are pocket-sized ones that don’t require charging or any other additional power source. You snap a metal plate, which then starts generating heat through a chemical reaction, making them excellent for camping or traveling. The drawback is that these are usually one-time use and don’t last very long.

Portable

These are good to take on the go, giving you heat and relief wherever and whenever you may need it. There are different types, like cordless, rechargeable, USB, and so on, so decide which one is best for you before purchasing.

Travel

These are great because they can be folded and transported easily. Usually, these come with a storage bag for convenience, though that may vary depending on the manufacturer. If you’re in the market for one you can take with you from place to place, check these out.

USB

USB versions can be a viable alternative to other designs, as they usually aren’t as bulky and don’t need a power cord. However, if you can avoid them you should, as the temperature control on them is usually not all that good, and they’re frequently made with subpar materials.

Cordless/Rechargeable

These double as a pad for comfort and relief on the go, as well as at home. As these don’t require a power cord, they’re exceptionally portable. This can come in handy if you anticipate going somewhere without easy access to a plug outlet or other power source.

Helpful Benefits of Using a Heating Pad

Heating pads are great for relieving pain at certain spots on your body, but they can also have extra benefits for certain health conditions like arthritis and muscle spasms. Depending on what condition you have, you may find great relief by using one for half an hour or more a day.

As always, be sure to check with your doctor before using one to mitigate symptoms. Conditions such as muscle spasms may require special treatment before applying a heating pad. Improper use can worsen conditions, so it’s absolutely vital that you know how and when to use a pad for a medical condition.

Arthritis

Those suffering from arthritis can find immediate relief from using a heating pad. Daily use of a pad can help alleviate arthritic pain, and give short term benefits when used properly. Be sure to check with your doctor, as it may have a negative effect on certain types of arthritis.

Fibromyalgia

Those suffering from fibromyalgia are in luck, as inflammation isn’t an issue to contend with. Heat therapy can soothe muscles and make them more flexible, which is especially beneficial for those with this condition. As always, double check with a doctor.

Muscle Spasms

Muscle spasms are a bit more complicated to relieve when using these types of products. While in general, heat therapy is beneficial for muscle spasms, you might have to wait 3 days or 72 hours after spasms begin, as inflammation may be an issue. For more information, be sure to check up with a doctor for this specific condition.

Cancer

People with cancer may find heat therapy to help with pain relief, as suggested by The American Cancer Society. This can relieve deep aches and stimulate your skin, depending on what type of therapy suits you best. If you’re currently going through chemotherapy, you should check with a doctor, as heating pads are not a generally recommended approach.

Lower Back Pain

Heat therapy is usually very effective in relieving lower back pain. Using one on a daily basis not only gives you pain relief but also works as a helpful treatment, according to The American College of Physicians. Though, this varies from person to person, so a doctor can better guide you on what treatment is best for your back pain.

Frequently Asked Questions about Heating Pads

What’s The Best For Menstrual Cramps?

Those suffering from menstrual cramps will be happy to know that a heating pad can offer you pain relief. Heat therapy can soothe muscle contractions and help improve blood flow. The best one for this is largely going to depend on what features you’re looking for, as well as other factors such as size and type of energy design.

Is a Heating Pad Safe For Pregnancy?

This depends on what stage your pregnancy is in. They are not recommended during the early stages by most medical professionals.

Women in their second and third trimesters can benefit from them under low to moderate temperatures and only for brief periods of time. As always, it is crucial that you ask your doctor ahead of time.

Can a Heating Pad Reduce Swelling?

The main cause of swelling comes from bleeding muscle tissue. As applied heat would make more blood collect in a swollen area, they do not reduce swelling at all. It’s not recommended nor good for your well-being to use one for such conditions.

What’s The Difference Between Infrared And Electric Heat Pads?

Electric heating pad works mainly on the surface of the skin. These are not usually able to penetrate the epidermis more than an inch or so.

Infrared, on the other hand, can penetrate much deeper than traditional electric methods, going directly into the bone, improving circulation and quickening both relief and healing. The pain you are experiencing can determine which is best.