What is best heating pad and how to use the heating pad properly?

Best far-infrared heating pad. 

What’s the purpose (For back, neck, belly, shoulder, or legs)

Is the FIR heating pad intended for a specific portion or is it multipurpose?

Some heating pads are designed for the neck, shoulder, and hands. With their size and shape, they are not suitable for back pain relief.

If you want to use it for different areas of the body, buy a multifunctional heating pad that can be placed on the back, belly, and joints. When rolled up, you can use it as a neck heating pad.

Auto shut-off

An automatic switch-off guarantees safety for you. Most heating pads turn off after 60 to 90 minutes.

If you fall asleep during use, the automatic function ensures that the device does not heat up continuously which could overheat as a result.

Overheating protection

A heating pad with overheating protection offers you additional safety protection in addition to the automatic switch-off. If the temperature is too high, the power supply is deactivated directly.

Temperature levels

Most models have three levels of temperature control. The majority of the heating pads work with an output of 100 watts, which gives you temperatures between 30 and 70 Celsius degrees.

Removable cover

The application of heat may cause you to sweat which is drawn into the cover. Dust and debris accumulate on the surface.

You might want an infrared heating pad designed with a removable cover or a separable control element. This makes it possible to clean the product in a washing machine. 

Length of the power cord

Depending on where your electrical outlet is located, a longer power cord can be very helpful. Most models have a power cord that is approximately eight feet.

How to use the heating pad properly？

When using the heating pad, you should pay attention to a few points.

Connect the heating pad to the socket with the power cord.

During use, lay it flat on the intended parts of the body. Do not bend it if you want it to be more durable.

Do not sit on the heating pad, as otherwise, the heating elements can suffer a defect and the product can no longer distribute the heat evenly.

To heat up the heating mat quickly, select the highest temperature level and then adjust it to a comfortable level.

Most heating pads switch off automatically after 60-90 minutes. To use the heating pad again, press the power button and then set the temperature level again. The heating pad will then give you another 60-90 minutes of warmth.

Disconnect the product from the electrical circuit after use. This prevents it from being switched on unintentionally.

Do not put the entire heating pad into the washing machine. Only wash the cover and make sure it’s completely dry before use.

Are there alternatives to far-infrared heating pads?

Chemical heating pads. These heating pads are filled with sodium acetate and a tiny piece of metal. Pressing the metal piece will trigger a chemical reaction inside the cushion. The sodium acetate crystallizes and heats up within seconds. A chemical heating pad will keep you warm for a few hours.

Microwave heating pads are made of anti-inflammatory fabric, which is filled with a heat-storing material. Rice, barley, or wheat are often used for the filling. Put it in the microwave and warm it up for a period of time. And then it is ready to use.

The hot water bottle is classic heat therapy. This heat source can be used flexibly because it does not require a power source. The disadvantage of the hot water bottle is that the heat is relatively short-lived. Compared to the electric pads, the hot water bottle is relatively small, so that it can only be used for smaller parts of the body. Another disadvantage is the material. It might lead to leakage of water if it is defective or improperly used. Holes, damage, or an improperly inserted cap can cause burns by the hot water.

Battery-operated hand warmers. The small device is very portable and compact. They provide heat conveniently and can be used on the go. Rechargeable hand warmers keep your hands toasty warm in winter. Sometimes they are used as heat therapy for people with Raynaud's.

Cherrystone thermal pillows. Cherry hot pillows work like chemical heating pads. They are particularly popular with babies and toddlers for stomach pain relief.

Any side effects?

No side effects have been found in using an FIR heating pad so far.

Unlike the traditional heat therapy that tends to make you profusely sweat, FIR therapy is a light loading to the human body. A far-infrared heating pad is operated under low temperatures. It won't overheat your skin.