The Best Heating Pads

Aches and pains are a common occurrence for many people, and having a reliable heating pad on hand can be extremely helpful. Heat therapy is an excellent alternative to medicines, but it is important to pick a heating pad that functions properly and works best for your individual needs.

Types of Heating Pads

A heating pad is any device used to apply heat to your body. This includes grain-filled fabric wraps, electric pads, and disposable paper covered versions. The following are some of the most common ones available.

1. Traditional Heating Pads

Electric heating pads are effective and commonly available. Most are simply electric coils placed inside a mat or flexible pad. Many will have removable covers that can be washed. This type of heating pad plugs in and is controlled by a switch or dial. It can be turned on or off, and the settings include low, medium, and high. Modern versions have an automatic shut-off feature for additional safety.

2. Heat Wraps

A heat wrap is normally a non-electric pack that can be applied to the body. They come in reusable and disposable varieties.

3. Reusable Heat Wraps

Heat wraps are commonly filled with natural materials like corn, rice, wheat, buckwheat, oatmeal, barley, or beans. They are heated in a microwave before use. Many are enhanced with herbs for aromatherapy. All ingredients are enclosed in a fabric bag that is either contoured or shaped like a pillow. Many people find these to be economical and safer than electric pads.
4. Disposable Heat Wraps

Disposable heat wraps are activated by a chemical reaction. The heat lasts for a few hours before slowly dissipating. Once the heat is finished, the wrap is thrown away. They are often made to fit specific parts of your body like the head and shoulders. Disposable heat wraps are convenient, but non-disposable versions are a better investment for frequent use.

Moist Verses Dry Heat

There are heating pads that offer both moist and dry heat. This can be confusing to the user. It is mainly a personal preference as to which one should be used. Dry heat can feel comfortable and is less of a hassle to set up when compared to moist heat. Others find that moist heat is best when it comes to easing pain and soreness. Moist heating pads include a sponge that is dampened and placed inside the pad. As it heats, the moisture in the sponge also heats.

Safety Concerns

All heat sources have a potential danger, but heating pads won’t damage furniture, clothing, or linens. Extreme caution should be used as they can burn or start fires if used improperly. Adult supervision is needed for children’s use, and one should not sleep with a heating pad on. Automatic shut-off features have increased the electric heating pad’s safety.

Always use the lowest effective setting. You want to heat your muscles, not your skin. A gradual heat setting of low to medium over an extended length of time works much better than a quick blast of high heat.

Before You Buy

Think about exactly what you will be using your heating pad for before you buy one. Will it be used occasionally or frequently? Women may find it effective once a month while those with back pain may need it more often. These factors will help you choose the size and shape of the heating pad that is best for you.
Consider the settings offered on a heating pad as well. Most have a dial or switch that allows you to somewhat control the amount of heat being put out by the pad. These controls can be as simple as a low and high feature or they can be much more complex. Complex settings allow you to be specific as to the purpose of the level of heat desired. Think about just how precise the settings need to be for your needs.

Recommendations

Budget conscious buyers have several options when it comes to purchasing a reliable and effective heating pad. The Sunbeam 731-500 Heating Pad with UltraHeat Technology is an excellent deal at under $15. It gives you high temperatures and maintains a constant heat for maximum relief. Those with arthritis love the large slide control, and a sponge for moist heat is included. The Sunbeam 756-500 Heating Pad can be found at the same price point with similar features.
Those that are looking to make more of an investment in their heating pad will appreciate the added features of the PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad with Fast-Heating Technology. The large size accommodates larger muscles, and the six temperature settings allow you to pinpoint the exact level of heat needed. The two hour shut-off, nine foot cord, and machine washable cover make this well worth the price.

Many people are simply looking for a nice heating pad to keep on hand for occasional aches and pains. The Sunbeam 732-500 King Size Heating Pad with UltraHeat Technology is a well-made, mid-price model that provides three heat settings and a moist heat option in a larger size. A more unique choice would be the Sunbeam Body Shaped Heating Pad. This smaller design has flexible 70 inch straps that allow you to keep the heat directly on the pain. It can also be used as a cold pack.

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This page about Heating Pad was composed by V. Tobies and published by Alternative.me.
It was last updated on 2024-12-22 08:16:44 and has been viewed 4907 times.