In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?
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Our Top Picks
Reviews
Behind the Scenes
FAQ
Why Trust PEOPLE?
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People
There aresmall indulgencesthat can treat aches and pains while helping you relax. We’re putting heating pads at the top of that list.
Experts Say
With access to hundreds of heating pads, it can be challenging to select the best one, so in true PEOPLE-tested fashion, we put them through real-world testing to carve out which ones are actually worth trying before whittling our list down to these top nine.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALEDeepsoon Heating Pad at Amazon$23$17Jump to ReviewBest Value:SALEYeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad at Amazon$30$20Jump to ReviewBest for Cramps:Rael Heating Patch On-The-Go Menstrual Cramp Relief at Getrael.comJump to ReviewBest for Travel:Sunbeam Premium Sunbeam Heating Pad at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest for Back Pain:SALEGENIANI King Size Heating Pad at Amazon$40$24Jump to ReviewBest Microwavable:Warmies Marshmallow Warmies Bottle at Warmies.comJump to ReviewBest for Neck and Shoulders:Pure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Back & Neck Luxury Heating Pad at Amazon$60Jump to ReviewBest Weighted:SALEiReliev Weighted Heating Pad at Amazon$40$30Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEDeepsoon Heating Pad at Amazon$23$17Jump to ReviewBest Value:SALEYeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad at Amazon$30$20Jump to ReviewBest for Cramps:Rael Heating Patch On-The-Go Menstrual Cramp Relief at Getrael.comJump to ReviewBest for Travel:Sunbeam Premium Sunbeam Heating Pad at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest for Back Pain:SALEGENIANI King Size Heating Pad at Amazon$40$24Jump to ReviewBest Microwavable:Warmies Marshmallow Warmies Bottle at Warmies.comJump to ReviewBest for Neck and Shoulders:Pure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Back & Neck Luxury Heating Pad at Amazon$60Jump to ReviewBest Weighted:SALEiReliev Weighted Heating Pad at Amazon$40$30Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEDeepsoon Heating Pad at Amazon$23$17Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEDeepsoon Heating Pad at Amazon$23$17
Best Overall:
SALE
Best Value:SALEYeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad at Amazon$30$20Jump to Review
Best Value:SALEYeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad at Amazon$30$20
Best Value:
Best for Cramps:Rael Heating Patch On-The-Go Menstrual Cramp Relief at Getrael.comJump to Review
Best for Cramps:Rael Heating Patch On-The-Go Menstrual Cramp Relief at Getrael.com
Best for Cramps:
Best for Travel:Sunbeam Premium Sunbeam Heating Pad at Amazon$40Jump to Review
Best for Travel:Sunbeam Premium Sunbeam Heating Pad at Amazon$40
Best for Travel:
Best for Back Pain:SALEGENIANI King Size Heating Pad at Amazon$40$24Jump to Review
Best for Back Pain:SALEGENIANI King Size Heating Pad at Amazon$40$24
Best for Back Pain:
Best Microwavable:Warmies Marshmallow Warmies Bottle at Warmies.comJump to Review
Best Microwavable:Warmies Marshmallow Warmies Bottle at Warmies.com
Best Microwavable:
Best for Neck and Shoulders:Pure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad at Amazon$50Jump to Review
Best for Neck and Shoulders:Pure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad at Amazon$50
Best for Neck and Shoulders:
Best Investment:Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Back & Neck Luxury Heating Pad at Amazon$60Jump to Review
Best Investment:Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Back & Neck Luxury Heating Pad at Amazon$60
Best Investment:
Best Weighted:SALEiReliev Weighted Heating Pad at Amazon$40$30Jump to Review
Best Weighted:SALEiReliev Weighted Heating Pad at Amazon$40$30
Best Weighted:
Best OverallDeepsoon Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$23$17 at AmazonStar QualitiesLarge size provides extensive coverage of multiple areasSoft material makes it easily moldable to the bodySix temperature settings, with the highest setting at 140°F) and heats evenlyLightweight and portableBudget-friendlyRed FlagsLacks a strap to secure the padNo advanced features and not washableHigher settings are required for more significant pain reliefDesigned with a cushy, non-irritating interior and a flannel exterior, this well-insulated pad won’t let any heat escape. Not to mention, this option scored high marks across all testing categories. Our tester, who reported dealing with back pain and discomfort related to frequently lifting their toddler, loved the size of this heating pad because of its ability to treat multiple areas at once while providing consistent, even heat.We also found throughout the testing period after that 20 to 30 minutes of usage, the pad consistently eased pain and tension in the lower back with nightly use. With its six temperature settings — the highest setting reaching 140 degrees Fahrenheit — and affordable pricing, this is easily our top pick.PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best OverallDeepsoon Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$23$17 at Amazon
Best OverallDeepsoon Heating Pad
Best Overall
Deepsoon Heating Pad
PHOTO: Amazon
$23$17 at Amazon
Star QualitiesLarge size provides extensive coverage of multiple areasSoft material makes it easily moldable to the bodySix temperature settings, with the highest setting at 140°F) and heats evenlyLightweight and portableBudget-friendlyRed FlagsLacks a strap to secure the padNo advanced features and not washableHigher settings are required for more significant pain relief
Star QualitiesLarge size provides extensive coverage of multiple areasSoft material makes it easily moldable to the bodySix temperature settings, with the highest setting at 140°F) and heats evenlyLightweight and portableBudget-friendly
Large size provides extensive coverage of multiple areas
Soft material makes it easily moldable to the body
Six temperature settings, with the highest setting at 140°F) and heats evenly
Lightweight and portable
Budget-friendly
Red FlagsLacks a strap to secure the padNo advanced features and not washableHigher settings are required for more significant pain relief
Lacks a strap to secure the pad
No advanced features and not washable
Higher settings are required for more significant pain relief
Designed with a cushy, non-irritating interior and a flannel exterior, this well-insulated pad won’t let any heat escape. Not to mention, this option scored high marks across all testing categories. Our tester, who reported dealing with back pain and discomfort related to frequently lifting their toddler, loved the size of this heating pad because of its ability to treat multiple areas at once while providing consistent, even heat.
We also found throughout the testing period after that 20 to 30 minutes of usage, the pad consistently eased pain and tension in the lower back with nightly use. With its six temperature settings — the highest setting reaching 140 degrees Fahrenheit — and affordable pricing, this is easily our top pick.
PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best ValueYeamon Portable Cordless Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$30$20 at Amazon$35 at WalmartView on Yeamonbeauty.comStar QualitiesMultiple heat settings and vibration featuresIdeal for travel and easy to use anywhere30-minute auto shut-off timerCan charge with a USB-CRed FlagsRequires pulling the device over the head or stepping into itRequires some effort to adjust heat and vibration settingsHard plastic unit can be uncomfortableThis cordless, USB-C cable-chargeable heating pad was a tester favorite. We loved this one because it has a band that secures the pad to the body. But this band isn’t perfect; it must be stepped into or pulled over your head.There’s another caveat: The heating pad has to be moved to the front of the body to adjust the heat and vibration settings, which our tester found cumbersome, especially when treating back pain. However, a built-in safety feature — automatic shut-off after 30 minutes — was an impressive safety measure that made up for the design’s shortcomings.PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best ValueYeamon Portable Cordless Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$30$20 at Amazon$35 at WalmartView on Yeamonbeauty.com
Best ValueYeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad
Best Value
Yeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad
$30$20 at Amazon$35 at WalmartView on Yeamonbeauty.com
Star QualitiesMultiple heat settings and vibration featuresIdeal for travel and easy to use anywhere30-minute auto shut-off timerCan charge with a USB-CRed FlagsRequires pulling the device over the head or stepping into itRequires some effort to adjust heat and vibration settingsHard plastic unit can be uncomfortable
Star QualitiesMultiple heat settings and vibration featuresIdeal for travel and easy to use anywhere30-minute auto shut-off timerCan charge with a USB-C
Multiple heat settings and vibration features
Ideal for travel and easy to use anywhere
30-minute auto shut-off timer
Can charge with a USB-C
Red FlagsRequires pulling the device over the head or stepping into itRequires some effort to adjust heat and vibration settingsHard plastic unit can be uncomfortable
Requires pulling the device over the head or stepping into it
Requires some effort to adjust heat and vibration settings
Hard plastic unit can be uncomfortable
This cordless, USB-C cable-chargeable heating pad was a tester favorite. We loved this one because it has a band that secures the pad to the body. But this band isn’t perfect; it must be stepped into or pulled over your head.
There’s another caveat: The heating pad has to be moved to the front of the body to adjust the heat and vibration settings, which our tester found cumbersome, especially when treating back pain. However, a built-in safety feature — automatic shut-off after 30 minutes — was an impressive safety measure that made up for the design’s shortcomings.
PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best for CrampsRael Heating Patch On-The-Go Menstrual Cramp ReliefPHOTO: RaelView on Getrael.comStar QualitiesGreat for travelEffective pain relief for lower back pain and menstrual cramps8 hours of consistent heat without needing to be plugged inRed FlagsSmall size yet priceyTakes longer to warm upInfused with soothing botanicals, our tester found this portable, stick-on patch so comfortable they forgot it was there, and upon removal from clothing, there was no residue left behind. Another bonus: After eight hours, the tester found it was still as warm as at the start of use, and it distributed heat evenly. It also proved somewhat effective for period cramps.However, the size was an issue, as our tester noted they would have preferred it to be bigger, and it took a little extra time to reach its full heating potential.PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best for CrampsRael Heating Patch On-The-Go Menstrual Cramp ReliefPHOTO: RaelView on Getrael.com
Best for CrampsRael Heating Patch On-The-Go Menstrual Cramp Relief
Best for Cramps
Rael Heating Patch On-The-Go Menstrual Cramp Relief
PHOTO: Rael
View on Getrael.com
Star QualitiesGreat for travelEffective pain relief for lower back pain and menstrual cramps8 hours of consistent heat without needing to be plugged inRed FlagsSmall size yet priceyTakes longer to warm up
Star QualitiesGreat for travelEffective pain relief for lower back pain and menstrual cramps8 hours of consistent heat without needing to be plugged in
Great for travel
Effective pain relief for lower back pain and menstrual cramps
8 hours of consistent heat without needing to be plugged in
Red FlagsSmall size yet priceyTakes longer to warm up
Small size yet pricey
Takes longer to warm up
Infused with soothing botanicals, our tester found this portable, stick-on patch so comfortable they forgot it was there, and upon removal from clothing, there was no residue left behind. Another bonus: After eight hours, the tester found it was still as warm as at the start of use, and it distributed heat evenly. It also proved somewhat effective for period cramps.
However, the size was an issue, as our tester noted they would have preferred it to be bigger, and it took a little extra time to reach its full heating potential.
PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best for TravelSunbeam Premium Sunbeam Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$40$35 at AmazonStar QualitiesFlexible design is versatile and travel-friendlyHeats up quicklyHolds up well after multiple applicationsRed FlagsHighest heat setting could be hotterCables are bulky$40 price tagFor travelers and avid gym goers who need muscle relief on the go, the flexibility of this portable heating pad makes it a top pick because of its ability to be used on multiple parts of the body, from the shoulder to the legs.While we loved that the heating pad was small enough for travel, the cables were bulky. Alternatively, the pad’s ability to heat up quickly was a nice surprise, with our tester sharing that it soothed their pain in just 10 minutes, even though they would have liked the heat setting to deliver higher heat.PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best for TravelSunbeam Premium Sunbeam Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$40$35 at Amazon
Best for TravelSunbeam Premium Sunbeam Heating Pad
Best for Travel
Sunbeam Premium Sunbeam Heating Pad
$40$35 at Amazon
Star QualitiesFlexible design is versatile and travel-friendlyHeats up quicklyHolds up well after multiple applicationsRed FlagsHighest heat setting could be hotterCables are bulky$40 price tag
Star QualitiesFlexible design is versatile and travel-friendlyHeats up quicklyHolds up well after multiple applications
Flexible design is versatile and travel-friendly
Heats up quickly
Holds up well after multiple applications
Red FlagsHighest heat setting could be hotterCables are bulky$40 price tag
Highest heat setting could be hotter
Cables are bulky
$40 price tag
For travelers and avid gym goers who need muscle relief on the go, the flexibility of this portable heating pad makes it a top pick because of its ability to be used on multiple parts of the body, from the shoulder to the legs.
While we loved that the heating pad was small enough for travel, the cables were bulky. Alternatively, the pad’s ability to heat up quickly was a nice surprise, with our tester sharing that it soothed their pain in just 10 minutes, even though they would have liked the heat setting to deliver higher heat.
Best for Back PainGENIANI King Size Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$40$24 at AmazonStar QualitiesLightweight, portable, cozy, and soft outer shellEasy to adjust and use on various body parts, including knees, lower back, and shouldersHeats up quickly, distributes heat, and provides relief within 15 minutes of useNo visible signs of wear after a month of useRed FlagsCord tanglesRequires proximity to an electrical outletLower heat settings may not provide sufficient heatFor quick pain relief, this fast heating pad was found to be of great value and offered excellent heat distribution. We also loved that the blanket-like design and soft outer shell gave this heating pad a cozy feel, and it is so light and portable that our tester nestled this right into their backpack.We imagine this would also be a great foot warmer, given its size. However, our tester found that only thehigh-heat seating offered relief, the cords tangled occasionally, and the distance to an electrical outlet had to be considered before use.PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best for Back PainGENIANI King Size Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$40$24 at Amazon
Best for Back PainGENIANI King Size Heating Pad
Best for Back Pain
GENIANI King Size Heating Pad
$40$24 at Amazon
Star QualitiesLightweight, portable, cozy, and soft outer shellEasy to adjust and use on various body parts, including knees, lower back, and shouldersHeats up quickly, distributes heat, and provides relief within 15 minutes of useNo visible signs of wear after a month of useRed FlagsCord tanglesRequires proximity to an electrical outletLower heat settings may not provide sufficient heat
Star QualitiesLightweight, portable, cozy, and soft outer shellEasy to adjust and use on various body parts, including knees, lower back, and shouldersHeats up quickly, distributes heat, and provides relief within 15 minutes of useNo visible signs of wear after a month of use
Lightweight, portable, cozy, and soft outer shell
Easy to adjust and use on various body parts, including knees, lower back, and shoulders
Heats up quickly, distributes heat, and provides relief within 15 minutes of use
No visible signs of wear after a month of use
Red FlagsCord tanglesRequires proximity to an electrical outletLower heat settings may not provide sufficient heat
Cord tangles
Requires proximity to an electrical outlet
Lower heat settings may not provide sufficient heat
For quick pain relief, this fast heating pad was found to be of great value and offered excellent heat distribution. We also loved that the blanket-like design and soft outer shell gave this heating pad a cozy feel, and it is so light and portable that our tester nestled this right into their backpack.
We imagine this would also be a great foot warmer, given its size. However, our tester found that only thehigh-heat seating offered relief, the cords tangled occasionally, and the distance to an electrical outlet had to be considered before use.
Best MicrowavableWarmies Marshmallow Warmies BottlePHOTO: WarmiesView on Warmies.comStar QualitiesSoothing lavender-scentedCute and discreet designEasily conforms to different areas of the bodyHeats in the microwave in just 60 secondsRed FlagsMay not soothe larger areas of the bodyNo strap to hold it in placeDifficult to clean if spilled on due to its fuzzy fabricThis lavender-scented heat pad, while practical, has design-worthy flair. Our tester loved the soothing scent and that the heating pad didn’t look like a medical device. Its small size could feel like a drawback, but it’s discreet and needs no batteries or charging, making it ideal for teens on their period journey. The water-like substance inside helps the pad conform to the body for skin-to-skin-like heat therapy, but we wish it had a strap to hold it still.PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best MicrowavableWarmies Marshmallow Warmies BottlePHOTO: WarmiesView on Warmies.com
Best MicrowavableWarmies Marshmallow Warmies Bottle
Best Microwavable
Warmies Marshmallow Warmies Bottle
PHOTO: Warmies
View on Warmies.com
Star QualitiesSoothing lavender-scentedCute and discreet designEasily conforms to different areas of the bodyHeats in the microwave in just 60 secondsRed FlagsMay not soothe larger areas of the bodyNo strap to hold it in placeDifficult to clean if spilled on due to its fuzzy fabric
Star QualitiesSoothing lavender-scentedCute and discreet designEasily conforms to different areas of the bodyHeats in the microwave in just 60 seconds
Soothing lavender-scented
Cute and discreet design
Easily conforms to different areas of the body
Heats in the microwave in just 60 seconds
Red FlagsMay not soothe larger areas of the bodyNo strap to hold it in placeDifficult to clean if spilled on due to its fuzzy fabric
May not soothe larger areas of the body
No strap to hold it in place
Difficult to clean if spilled on due to its fuzzy fabric
This lavender-scented heat pad, while practical, has design-worthy flair. Our tester loved the soothing scent and that the heating pad didn’t look like a medical device. Its small size could feel like a drawback, but it’s discreet and needs no batteries or charging, making it ideal for teens on their period journey. The water-like substance inside helps the pad conform to the body for skin-to-skin-like heat therapy, but we wish it had a strap to hold it still.
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Best for Neck and ShouldersPure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared Neck & Shoulder Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$50 at AmazonStar QualitiesEven heat distribution across the entire padSimple setup with self-explanatory controlsNo signs of wear and tear after usePlush, machine-washable fabricRed FlagsNo adjustable feature around the neckBulky cordNo specialized or unique featuresFor neck and shoulder tension, we found this machine-washable plush heating pad designed with heat-retaining ceramic beads and infrared technology to be a winner! With easy-to-navigate controls, using this is intuitive — so no tech-savviness is needed. But we did find the cord to be slightly bulky. Additionally, our tester didn’t like the inability to adjust it around the neck for firmer positioning to deliver more heat.PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best for Neck and ShouldersPure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared Neck & Shoulder Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$50 at Amazon
Best for Neck and ShouldersPure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad
Best for Neck and Shoulders
Pure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad
$50 at Amazon
Star QualitiesEven heat distribution across the entire padSimple setup with self-explanatory controlsNo signs of wear and tear after usePlush, machine-washable fabricRed FlagsNo adjustable feature around the neckBulky cordNo specialized or unique features
Star QualitiesEven heat distribution across the entire padSimple setup with self-explanatory controlsNo signs of wear and tear after usePlush, machine-washable fabric
Even heat distribution across the entire pad
Simple setup with self-explanatory controls
No signs of wear and tear after use
Plush, machine-washable fabric
Red FlagsNo adjustable feature around the neckBulky cordNo specialized or unique features
No adjustable feature around the neck
Bulky cord
No specialized or unique features
For neck and shoulder tension, we found this machine-washable plush heating pad designed with heat-retaining ceramic beads and infrared technology to be a winner! With easy-to-navigate controls, using this is intuitive — so no tech-savviness is needed. But we did find the cord to be slightly bulky. Additionally, our tester didn’t like the inability to adjust it around the neck for firmer positioning to deliver more heat.
Best InvestmentPure Enrichment PureRadiance Back & Neck Luxury Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$60 at AmazonStar QualitiesSoft faux fur and micro-mink fabric and gentle on sensitive skinEven heat distributionVery straightforward to use, with minimal setup requiredNo immediate signs of wear after several usesRed FlagsLimited flexibility in movement as the pad is designed to be used in one positionWhite color may require extra careBulky designFor targeted, movement-free heat therapy, this luxe heating pad is designed with a magnetic neck closure, an adjustable strap, and faux fur fabric — it’s the perfect merger of design and effectiveness. We loved that the whole pad heats up and distributes heat evenly.However, there is limited flexibility in movement as the pad is designed to be used in one position, like aheated jacket. And, unlike smaller, portable heating pads, this one is more bulky, so it could take up quite a bit of space in a carry-on, making it better suited forchecked luggageor solely for at-home use.PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best InvestmentPure Enrichment PureRadiance Back & Neck Luxury Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$60 at Amazon
Best InvestmentPure Enrichment PureRadiance Back & Neck Luxury Heating Pad
Best Investment
Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Back & Neck Luxury Heating Pad
$60 at Amazon
Star QualitiesSoft faux fur and micro-mink fabric and gentle on sensitive skinEven heat distributionVery straightforward to use, with minimal setup requiredNo immediate signs of wear after several usesRed FlagsLimited flexibility in movement as the pad is designed to be used in one positionWhite color may require extra careBulky design
Star QualitiesSoft faux fur and micro-mink fabric and gentle on sensitive skinEven heat distributionVery straightforward to use, with minimal setup requiredNo immediate signs of wear after several uses
Soft faux fur and micro-mink fabric and gentle on sensitive skin
Even heat distribution
Very straightforward to use, with minimal setup required
No immediate signs of wear after several uses
Red FlagsLimited flexibility in movement as the pad is designed to be used in one positionWhite color may require extra careBulky design
Limited flexibility in movement as the pad is designed to be used in one position
White color may require extra care
Bulky design
For targeted, movement-free heat therapy, this luxe heating pad is designed with a magnetic neck closure, an adjustable strap, and faux fur fabric — it’s the perfect merger of design and effectiveness. We loved that the whole pad heats up and distributes heat evenly.
However, there is limited flexibility in movement as the pad is designed to be used in one position, like aheated jacket. And, unlike smaller, portable heating pads, this one is more bulky, so it could take up quite a bit of space in a carry-on, making it better suited forchecked luggageor solely for at-home use.
Best WeightediReliev Weighted Heating PadPHOTO: Amazon$40$30 at Amazon
Best WeightediReliev Weighted Heating Pad
Best Weighted
iReliev Weighted Heating Pad
$40$30 at Amazon
Weighted design molds to the body and provides extra pain relief
Heats up quickly in seconds and distributes it evenly
Auto shut-off after 2 hours for safety
Red FlagsHeavier and bulkierToo large to reach small areas easilyNo significant difference between medium and high heat settingsHigh setting could be warmer
Heavier and bulkier
Too large to reach small areas easily
No significant difference between medium and high heat settings
High setting could be warmer
For pain-melting heat and anxiety-easing weight, this heating pad offers both, in addition to moist heat, as an extra dose of heat therapy. Just spritz water onto the pad for even more heat penetration into fatigued muscles. Our tester reported this heating pad heats up in seconds and offers three heat settings. And, if you get too comfy and doze off, don’t worry; there’s a built-in safety function that auto shuts off after two hours.
While this weighted heating pad comes with a travel bag, this design isintentionally weighty, so it may not be ideal for lugging around in a carry-on, especially when treating shoulder or neck pain.
To find the best heating pads, we first researched dozens of designs before carefully selecting them to test at home. From there, we began a testing period where we used the heating pad at least five to six times throughout the testing period for varying times: 15 min, 30 min, and 1 hour.
Frequently Asked QuestionsModeration is the key to heating pad use, Sekhon tells PEOPLE. Why? To avoid irritation or burns. “I suggest keeping sessions to around 20 minutes at a time, particularly for sensitive areas like your back or abdomen,” she explains. “After each use, let your skin cool down before applying heat again.”If you are dealing with ongoing pain (think: cramps or a sore back), she advises shorter and more frequent sessions throughout the day, which can work well. “Just keep an eye on how your skin feels, [as] any discomfort or overheating is a sign to pause.”“We do not recommend using heating patches while sleeping, as you may be unaware if they get too hot,” Dr. Gunvor Ekman Ordeberg, OB/GYN and co-founder ofDeoDoc Intimate Skincare, tells us. “That said, you should avoid using any heating patch/pad overnight to avoid the risk of skin burns.”“It is ok to use the heating patches every day of your period,” Ordeberg shares. “However, if you struggle with period pain, I recommend you contact your doctor as there might be an underlying condition, such as PCOS and endometriosis, that causes the severe period pain.”As for use daily on other parts of the body, Sekhon says, in most cases, it is OK. But she has some rules. First, keep sessions to about 20 minutes. Next, avoid cranking up the temperature too high. Lastly, listen to your body. “That said, if you’re finding that you need it every single day to manage chronic pain, it might be time to talk to a doctor. Daily use could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs more targeted treatment.”Heating pads are great tools for pain management, but there are some times when the use of one isn’t appropriate.“We do not recommend using the heating patches during pregnancy as they have not been tested on pregnant women,” Ordeberg shares. Additionally, Sekhon says those with conditions like diabetes and poor circulation should check in with their doctor first.” When in doubt, prioritize your safety and reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Moderation is the key to heating pad use, Sekhon tells PEOPLE. Why? To avoid irritation or burns. “I suggest keeping sessions to around 20 minutes at a time, particularly for sensitive areas like your back or abdomen,” she explains. “After each use, let your skin cool down before applying heat again.”If you are dealing with ongoing pain (think: cramps or a sore back), she advises shorter and more frequent sessions throughout the day, which can work well. “Just keep an eye on how your skin feels, [as] any discomfort or overheating is a sign to pause.”
Moderation is the key to heating pad use, Sekhon tells PEOPLE. Why? To avoid irritation or burns. “I suggest keeping sessions to around 20 minutes at a time, particularly for sensitive areas like your back or abdomen,” she explains. “After each use, let your skin cool down before applying heat again.”
If you are dealing with ongoing pain (think: cramps or a sore back), she advises shorter and more frequent sessions throughout the day, which can work well. “Just keep an eye on how your skin feels, [as] any discomfort or overheating is a sign to pause.”
“We do not recommend using heating patches while sleeping, as you may be unaware if they get too hot,” Dr. Gunvor Ekman Ordeberg, OB/GYN and co-founder ofDeoDoc Intimate Skincare, tells us. “That said, you should avoid using any heating patch/pad overnight to avoid the risk of skin burns.”
“It is ok to use the heating patches every day of your period,” Ordeberg shares. “However, if you struggle with period pain, I recommend you contact your doctor as there might be an underlying condition, such as PCOS and endometriosis, that causes the severe period pain.”As for use daily on other parts of the body, Sekhon says, in most cases, it is OK. But she has some rules. First, keep sessions to about 20 minutes. Next, avoid cranking up the temperature too high. Lastly, listen to your body. “That said, if you’re finding that you need it every single day to manage chronic pain, it might be time to talk to a doctor. Daily use could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs more targeted treatment.”
“It is ok to use the heating patches every day of your period,” Ordeberg shares. “However, if you struggle with period pain, I recommend you contact your doctor as there might be an underlying condition, such as PCOS and endometriosis, that causes the severe period pain.”
As for use daily on other parts of the body, Sekhon says, in most cases, it is OK. But she has some rules. First, keep sessions to about 20 minutes. Next, avoid cranking up the temperature too high. Lastly, listen to your body. “That said, if you’re finding that you need it every single day to manage chronic pain, it might be time to talk to a doctor. Daily use could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs more targeted treatment.”
Heating pads are great tools for pain management, but there are some times when the use of one isn’t appropriate.“We do not recommend using the heating patches during pregnancy as they have not been tested on pregnant women,” Ordeberg shares. Additionally, Sekhon says those with conditions like diabetes and poor circulation should check in with their doctor first.” When in doubt, prioritize your safety and reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.”
Bianca Lambertis a contributing shopping writer for PEOPLE who specializes in beauty, style, and travel. She keeps a heating pad on speed dial for her period cramps and has written about her fibroid treatment and period pain management for publications like Byrdie and PopSugar. Her favorites areDeoDoc’s Menstrual Heat Patchesand theCora Heat Patch.
Our Expert PanelGunvor Ekman Ordeberg, MD is an OB/GYN and co-founder ofDeoDoc Intimate Skincare.Lucky Sekhon, MD, is a double board-certified REI and OBGYN atRMA of New York.
Our Expert Panel
Gunvor Ekman Ordeberg, MD is an OB/GYN and co-founder ofDeoDoc Intimate Skincare.Lucky Sekhon, MD, is a double board-certified REI and OBGYN atRMA of New York.
What Is People Tested?
We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
source: people.com
