A heating pad is a mat or a cushion used to warm parts of your body to reduce pain and stiffness. The heat improves blood circulation, which brings more oxygen to the injured cells and speeds up the tissue recovery process. Heating pads can be extremely helpful for relieving back pain, neck pain, menstrual cramps, arthritis pain, and migraine symptoms among others. They can also alleviate pain in a muscle injury. There are several different types of heating pads, including electrical, disposable, and microwaveable heating pads.
We looked over dozens of heating pads with the intention of finding the highest quality products suitable for any budget. We narrowed down our search using factors such as type, size, the price of the product, and what Amazon reviewers had to say about them. Finally, we identified 5 of the best-rated heating pads you can purchase for yourself or give it to someone else as a gift.
In terms of comfort and efficiency, Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad stands out as a top choice. This heating pad effectively uses most or dry heat therapy to reduce pain in aching muscles. It’s made of plush microfibers that make the therapy all the more comfortable.
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The 5 Top-Rated Heating Pads
Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating | Purifier Type | Area of Effect | Nightlight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall | LEVOIT Air Purifier | 3-Stage Filter; HEPA, Pre-Filter, and Carbon-Activated | 219 sq ft | ||
Best for Budget | KOIOS Air Purifier | 3-Stage Filter; HEPA, Pre-Filter, and Carbon-Activated | 156 sq ft | ||
Best Plug In | GermGuardian Pluggable Air Purifier | UV-C Light | 64 sq ft | ||
Best Large Capacity | Bissell air320 Smart Air Purifier | 3-Stage Filter; HEPA, Pre-Filter, and Carbon-Activated | 308 sq ft | ||
Best with UV Light | Germ Guardian HEPA Filter Air Purifier | UV-C Light | 78 sq ft |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad
Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad is designed to eliminate muscle pain and tension in your back, abdomen, arms, and legs. It features 6 temperature settings to fit personal preferences. The temperature settings are adjusted using a digital LCD controller. This heating pad provides both dry and moist heat therapy options, with penetration for more effective muscle relief. It saves energy and it’s safe to use due to the 2-hour automatic shut-off function, which prevents any potential accidents caused by excessive overheating. The reviewers praise its softness, flexibility, and size that enables large coverage.
Pure Enrichment heating pad comes with a 9-foot long cord which makes it easy to use from the comfort of your bed or a chair. It’s machine washable and it includes a storage bag to keep the heating pad protected in between uses. It’s recommendable to use this heating pad for a maximum of 20 minutes per day. It’s available at the price of $35.
Enrichment PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad Key Features:
- Extra-Large
- Fast-heating
- 6 temperature settings
- Digital LCD controller
- Provides dry and moist heat therapy
- 2-hour auto shut-off
- Machine washable
- 5-year warranty
Our Runner Up Pick: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Pain Relief
Sunbeam Heating Pad for Pain Relief is designed to cover large areas that need relief, including shoulders, back, and legs. It features a digital LCD controller that allows you to choose from 4 heat settings. It’s made of plush microfibers for added comfort during daily sessions. It also features an automatic shut-down option, which enables the device to turn off automatically after 2 hours to prevent overheating. According to majority of the reviews, the heating pad is very soft and it works great on aching knees and back.
This heating pad can be easily cleaned in a washing machine. It includes a 9-foot long cord so that it’s convenient to use from the bed or from your cozy chair. It’s available at the price of $23.
Sunbeam Heating Pad for Pain Relief Key Features:
- King-size
- 4 heat settings
- LCD controller
- 2-hour auto shut-off
- Machine washable
- 5-year warranty
Best Budget Pick: HP Solutions Heating Pad
HP Solutions Heating Pad is your snuggly companion that will help you get rid of muscle tension and pain. It’s made of plush fabric and cotton to provide a gentle touch on the skin. It’s filled with rice and flax-seed, which may leave a light scent when the pad gets heated. The handles provide flexibility and allow you to wrap it around any body part as needed.
This versatile product can be used for dry or moist heat therapy and cold therapy. Heat therapy improves blood flow, relaxes muscles, and speeds up the healing process, while cold therapy reduces swelling and helps with sunburns. If you opt for heat therapy, heat the pad in the microwave for 75 seconds. You can add increments of 15 seconds if necessary. If you wish to reheat the pad in the same session, you should wait for at least 10 minutes. before you do so For cold therapy, place the pad in a tightly sealed plastic zip lock bag and put it in the freezer for 2 hours. This heating pad is available at the price of $19.
HP Solutions Heating Pad Key Features:
- Easy wrap-up anywhere on the body
- Made of plush fabric and cotton
- Filled with rice and flax-seed
- May leave out scent of rice and flax-seed when heated
- Handles
- Suitable for heat and cold therapy
- 19.5 x 5 x 1 inches
- 1-year warranty
Best Electric Heating Pad: Nestco XL Heating Pad
Nestco XL Heating Pad is designed to relieve muscle pain and cramps, but according to the reviews, it also works great against bruises, migraines, and snoring. It can be used on the entire body for dry or moist heat therapy. This heating pad allows you to choose from 3 temperature modes (104°F, 122°F, 140°F) and it automatically turns off after 2 hours to help you avoid overheating. It uses 9V power adapter which provides average heat-up speed and a controller that’s safe to use.
Nestco heating pad is made with plush fabric and it can easily be cleaned in a washing machine. It includes a carrying bag you can use for storage or when traveling. The heating pad is available at the price of $30.
Nestco XL Heating Pad Key Features:
- 3 temperature modes (104°F, 122°F, 140°F)
- Plush microfibers
- 2-hour auto turn-off
- Dry or moist heat therapy
- Machine washable
- Measures 12 x 24 inches
- Includes a carrying bag
Best Microwaveable Heating Pad: Beady Heat Microwavable Heating Pad
Beady Heat Microwavable Heating Pad uses moist heat therapy to penetrate deep into the tissue and reduce muscle pain and cramps. Its exterior is made of micro-fleece that feels soft to the skin, while the inside cover is made of heat-saving beads that are activated by a microwave. The heating pad is scentless, which makes it suitable for people with allergies.
To use this heating pad, put it in the microwave and heat it for 30-90 seconds. You may need to leave it more or less in the microwave, depending on how hot you want it to be. The pad stays warm for about 20 minutes. The reviewers praise its efficiency in relaxing muscles, particularly when it comes to neck pain and menstrual cramps. This heating pad comes at the price of $20.
Beady Heat Microwavable Heating Pad Key Features:
- Uses moist heat therapy
- Odorless
- Exterior made of micro-fleece
- Interior made of heat-saving beads activated in the microwave
- Stays warm for 20 min
- Measure 10 x 5 x 2 inches
Who Should Buy a Heating Pad
Heating pads are considered to be quite effective when it comes to treating different types of body aches. They can reduce pain caused by injuries, sprains or strains. They relax muscles and eliminate soreness and tension. Heating pads are also helpful if you suffer from arthritis or plantar fasciitis. They can alleviate pain caused by joint problems, so they can be extremely beneficial for people with hip or knee pain. However, it’s important to remember not to use heat therapy on areas that are bruised or swollen.
Majority of people suffer from lower back pain at some point in their lives, and in most cases, the cause of the pain is related to muscles. Heating pads make the muscles warmer and the blood vessels dilated, which increases blood flow and brings more oxygen to the damaged cells. This reduces muscle pain and spasms. Heating pads are also efficient in alleviating symptoms of headaches, migraines and menstrual cramps. They are versatile and can be used on the entire body, depending on individual needs, which makes them a worthy purchase for anyone who suffers from some kind of muscle ailment.
Important Features to Consider
A heating pad should do several things well. Here’s what to consider when selecting a heating pad for sore muscles:
- Size. The size of the heating pad will depend on your personal preferences and the part of the body that needs treating. Heating pads are usually available in small, medium, large, and extra-large size. Large heating pads are suitable for lower back pain, stomach pain or menstrual cramps. If you need to treat your neck or shoulders, than a small heating pad might be a better option. There are pads that are specially designed to hug your neck or they can come with handles so that you can easily wrap them around your neck or shoulders. Smaller heating pads can also be suitable if you have knee problems, so that you can specifically treat the knee area. If you suffer from tired eyes or puffiness, you can get a microwaveable compress pad in the form of an eye mask intended to soothe sore eyes.
- Different types. Heating pads can be electric, microwaveable, disposable, and infrared. An electric heating pad is the most common type you can find and you can wrap it around your body or lay under it. They feature a cord that you can plug into your wall. They usually come with a user-friendly controller that allows you to adjust various settings, such as temperature modes or timing. Microwaveable heating pads are usually filled with gels, grains or some other type of a heat-retaining material. To use it, you need to put it into a microwave and heat until the desired temperature. Disposable or chemical heating pads can be used on the move and they are activated by a chemical reaction. They are usually small and can be worn directly on skin or on top of the clothes. Finally, infrared heating pads use infrared rays that reach deep below the surface of your skin and increase circulation. These pads are different from the other types in a sense that they work on lower temperatures and don’t get extremely hot. They are particularly suitable for people with sensitive skin.
- Dry vs. moist heat. Think about whether you prefer dry or moist heat therapy. Many electric heating pads use dry heat, which draws moisture out of your skin. These heating pads are long-lasting and quite easy to use, but they may dehydrate your skin after a prolonged use, so you may want to limit using them if you have a dry skin. On the other hand, moist heating pads eliminate the risk of dehydration and skin irritation, which makes them more suitable for people with dry, sensitive or aging skin. They penetrate deep into your skin and enable faster healing.
- Auto shut-off. Many electric heating pads feature an automatic turn-off of a device after a certain period of time, usually after 2 hours. This function is particularly useful because it saves energy and prevents the risk of overheating.
- Easily washable. For hygienic reasons, it’s important to clean your heating pad regularly. Most electric heating pads are machine washable so they are quite easy to maintain, which is another factor to be taken into account before making your purchase.
- Scented or scentless. Microwaveable heating pads are usually filled with some type of grains, such as rice or flax-seed. When heated, they may release a scent, which may not be suitable for persons with allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a heating pad and how does it work?
A heating pad is a mat or a cushion that is designed to warm parts of your body to relax muscles and alleviate pain. It’s placed on the body part that needs healing and it uses heat to increase blood circulation, reduce muscle spasms, and generally, help with pain caused by muscle ailments. It’s also helpful with stiffness and joint problems.
How long should you use a heating pad?
Doctors suggest that for minor muscle tensions, you shouldn’t use a heating pad for longer than 20 minutes per session. In case of a more serious muscle ailment, it may be necessary to use it longer, for 30 minutes or more. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult the expert before a treatment.
How does heat help with pain?
Heat dilates blood vessels, which increases circulation and brings more oxygen to the injured cells. This alleviates pain in aching areas, improves motion, and increases flexibility of joints.
Is it safe to use a heating pad?
A heating pad is safe to use provided that you apply it properly to your skin. You should always start from the lowest temperature mode and gradually go up if necessary, to prevent the risk of burns. Also, you shouldn’t use it for longer than 20 minutes per session unless otherwise stated by the doctor. When using a heating pad, you shouldn’t apply it directly to your skin as it may cause burns. Rather, put it in a thin towel or apply it on top of your clothes.
Other Heating Pads We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other heating pads. Even though they didn’t make our top 5 best heating pads, they’re the best of the rest and and each is still a great option for you. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Electric Heating Pads
Anbber Heating Pad for Back Pain
This heating pad can be used for dry or moist heating therapy and it allows you to choose from 6 heat levels. It turns off automatically after 2 hours to prevent excessive heating and energy consumption.
Key Features:
- Dry or moist heat therapy
- 6 heat levels
- 2-hour auto shut-off
- Made of plush fabrics
- Machine washable
- Measures 34 x 17 inches
Cost: $43
This electric heating pad features an adjustable Velcro strap to wrap firmly the injured area. It also includes a convenient storage bag.
Key Features:
- 6 heat settings
- 1.5-hour auto shut-off
- Adjustable Velcro strap
- Plush fibers
- Hand washable
- Storage bag
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 1-year replacement guarantee
Cost: $27
Heating pad by Figerm heats in just a few seconds and it can be used for dry or moist heat therapy. It’s made of plush fabric and it allows you to choose from 3 heat settings according to your preferences.
Key Features:
- Dry or moist heat therapy
- 3 heat settings
- 2-hour auto shut-off
- Made of plush fabrics
- Machine washable
- Measures 12 x 24 inches
- 9o days return warranty
Cost: $24
Insider Blue Electric Heating Pad
This large heating pad features 9 heat settings and 4 different automatic shut-off options. It includes 2 elastic straps and a carrying bag.
Key Features:
- 9 heat settings
- 4 automatic shut-off options
- 2 elastic straps
- Carrying bag
- Machine washable
- Measures 24 x 12 inches
- 1 year warranty
Cost: $35
Milliard Electric Therapy Heating Pad
This heating pad features a vinyl heating core surrounded by the plush velour cover that feels soft on your skin. It has easy-to-use controls that are integrated into the cord to prevent loss or tangling.
Key Features:
- Vinyl heating core with the plush velour cover
- 3 heat settings
- 8-foot long cord
- Controls integrated into the cord
- Machine washable cover
- Measures 15 x 12 inches
Cost: $34
This heating pad is made of soft plush flannel and it’s primarily intended to relieve tired, sore feet, although it can be used for other body parts as well. It features 3 heat settings and it turns off automatically after 2 hours to prevent overheating.
Key Features:
- 3 heat settings
- 2-hour auto shut-off
- Made of plush flannel
- 10-foot long cord
- Machine washable
- Measures 22 x 21 inches
- 9o days return warranty
Cost: $40
Although it’s custom-designed to be worn around neck and shoulders, this heating pad can be applied to any part of the body. It utilizes dry and moist heat therapy and it features 3 heat levels.
Key Features:
- Custom-designed to be worn around neck and shoulders
- 3 heat levels
- 2-hour auto shut-off
- Soft flannel
- 10-foot long cord
- Machine washable
- Measures 18 x 25 inches
- 9o days return warranty
Cost: $24
Pure Enrichment PureRelief Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad
This heating pad is designed to wrap around your neck and provide relief to sore muscles. It uses moist or dry heat therapy and it becomes heated in seconds.
Key Features:
- Moist or dry heat therapy
- Made of micromink fibers
- 4 Heat Settings
- 2-hour auto shut-off
- Machine washable
- Includes a storage bag
- Measures 14 x 22 inches
- 5-year warranty
Cost: $33
Sable XXX-Large Heating Pad for Back Pain Relief
Heating pad by Sable utilizes moist heat therapy to relax muscles and reduce pain. It’s made of hypoallergenic plush and it features a timer and a temperature control function that enables it to stop heating when it reaches the set temperature for safer usage.
Key Features:
- Moist heat therapy
- 10 heating modes
- Timer from 10 min to 90 min
- Temperature control function
- Made of hypoallergenic plush
- Machine washable
- Measures 33.46 x 17.72 inches
Cost: $34
Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder Pain Relief
This contoured heat wrap is designed to provide relief to the muscles of your neck and shoulders. It features slightly weighted edges and a magnetic closure to make it more comfortable for use.
Key Features:
- Contoured heat wrap
- Adjustable collar
- Slightly weighted edges and a magnetic closure
- 4 heat levels
- Made of micromink fabric
- Machine washable
- 5-year warranty
Cost: $35
Tech Love XXL Electric Heating Pad
This heating pad can be used for moist or dry heat therapy. It features a fixation strap and a travel pouch.
Key Features:
- Dry or moist heat therapy
- 6 heat settings
- 2 or 6-hour auto shut-off
- Fixation strap
- Plush fibers
- Machine washable
- Travel pouch included
- 1-year warranty
Cost: $60
Thermophore MaxHEAT Automatic Moist Heat Pack
This heating pad uses moist heat therapy to reduce pain and stiffness. It provides 25-minute treatments and it turns off automatically.
Key Features:
- Moist heat therapy
- 25-minute treatments
- Runs between 150°F to 165°F
- Automatic shut-off
- Fleece cover
- Measures 14 x 27 inches
- 2-year warranty
Microwaveable Heating Pads
Caylee’s Creations Heating Pads
This heating pad is handcrafted in the USA with triple-stitched seams for durability and it’s filled with whole corn grains to retain heat longer.
Key Features:
- Filled with whole corn grains
- Cotton outer cover
- Triple-stitched seams
- Mold resistant
- No added scents
- Suitable for hot or cold therapy
- Measures 7.5 x 11 inches
- Made in the USA
Cost: $23
Sacksy Thyme Ultra Premium Herbal Heating Pad
This cotton heating pad is filled with a mixture of organic flaxseed, cherry pits, and organic herbs. It can be used for hot and cold therapy and for aromatherapy due to its calming herbal scent.
Key Features:
- 100% cotton
- Filled with organic flaxseed, cherry pits, and organic herbs
- Suitable for hot or cold therapy
- Aromatherapy benefits
- Measures 13 x 7.5 inches
- Available in several colors
Cost: $30
Sunny Bay HandsFree Neck Heating Wrap
This heating pad is designed to reduce muscle tension in your neck and shoulders. It can be used for hot and cold therapy.
Key Features:
- For neck and shoulders
- Filled with flax seeds
- Fleece cover
- Holds heat up to 30 min
- Suitable for hot or cold use
Cost: $28
Thermalon Moist Heat Heating Pad
Heating pad by Thermalon utilizes moist heat therapy to relax sore muscles. It features a pocket for warming hands or feet.
Key Features:
- Moist heat treatment
- Treats shoulders, lower back, and abdomen
- Pocket for warming hands or feet
- Non-toxic and odor-free
- Washable
- Measures 9 x 12 inches
Infrared Heating Pads
This heating pad uses natural gemstones to heal sore muscles, improve circulation, and alleviate chronic fatigue. Jade and and tourmaline stones convert heat into far infrared radiant invisible light hat can penetrate up to 8 inches deep into the skin.
Key Features:
- Uses jade and and tourmaline stones to heal muscles
- LED controller
- Sets temperature up to 70° C (160° F)
- 12-hour auto shut-off
- Includes a carrying bag
- Measure 32 x 20 x 1.2 inches
- 1-year warranty
Cost: $130
UTK® Far Infrared Natural Jade and Tourmaline Heating Pad
This heating pad comes in various sizes to be able to treat muscles in the whole body. It turns off automatically after 4 hours, it features a digital controller and a memory function that remembers your favorite heat and time settings.
Key Features:
- Uses natural jade and tourmaline stones
- Digital controller
- Sets temperature up to 159°F
- Memory function
- 4-hour auto shut-off
- 10-foot long cord
- Includes a travel bag
Eye Mask Heating Pads
Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress
This naturally hydrating eye compress relieves dry and irritated eyes and it’s activated by a microwave. After it’s been heated in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, apply it over closed eyes for 8-10 minutes.
Key Features:
- Uses moist heat therapy
- Activated by a microwave
- Adjustable strap
- Self-hydrating
- Anti-bacterial and non-allergenic
- Non-toxic and latex-free
- Washable and reusable
Cost: $19
Optix 55 Microwavable Compress Pad
Microwavable compress pad by Optix 55 is used for treating dry eyes and puffiness. It absorbs moisture from the air and releases it as clean moist heat.
Key Features:
- Treats dry eyes, puffiness, redness, sinus pressure, blepharitis, and other eye conditions
- Uses moist heat therapy
- Microwave-activated
- Velcro strap
- Washable and reusable
- Includes a storage pouch
Cost: $21