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The Best Heating Pad

By Kevin Purdy and Nancy Redd

Relieving aches, soothing cramps, warming kittens : These are just a few of the many reported uses for a heating pad. We tested seven plug-in heating pads and found that Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad is the best for those who want rapid, reliable heat. It warms up quickly and has twice as many heat settings as other pads, its backlit controller is easier to grasp and operate, and testers preferred the overall experience of using this pad to that of all others we tested.

Everything we recommend

PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad

Affordable heat with options.

A comfortable, top-rated pad with six heating levels to choose from.

Buying Options

Sunbeam King Size XpressHeat

A well-rated model from a known brand.

It has the same feel and features as our pick but is a bit pricier.

Ohuhu XL Reusable Gel Pack for Hot & Cold Therapy

A non-electric, hot/cold option.

This flexible, microwaveable hot/cold pack has a unique hands-free wrap.

How we picked

We focused on heating pads certified by the two main labs that test electrical products: Underwriters Laboratories and Electrical Testing Labs.

Heating pads with a timer that can automatically turn the heating pad off can prevent burns.

We looked only at heating pads with multiple heat settings.

Our electric heating pad picks are both warrantied for five years.

A quality electric heating pad is safety-certified, quickly reaches and maintains desired temperatures, and is equipped with an auto-shutoff function as well as a machine-washable cover. The PureRelief ticks every box plus offers added comfort and conveniences such as a plush—but not excessively sweat-inducing—cover, six heat settings, a grip-friendly controller with a backlit display, and a storage bag. It’s also covered by a five-year warranty.

If the PureRelief is unavailable or jumps significantly in price, Sunbeam’s King Size XpressHeat is essentially the same heating pad (and appears to be made by the same manufacturer). Like our pick, this pad offers six levels of heat, a comfortable cover that can be machine-washed, and a backlit controller. The cover texture, plug, and controller shape are not as nice on the XpressHeat, though, and it sounds more “crinkly” when bent or adjusted, according to some testers. It’s a top-rated, best-selling product from Sunbeam, the most prominent heating pad brand in the US and, like our pick, is also warrantied for five years.

If you’d prefer a microwaveable heating pad that can also be used as an ice pack, we recommend the Ohuhu XL Reusable Gel Pack for Hot & Cold Therapy . It’s flexible enough when hot or frozen to conform to various body parts, fits easily in compact microwaves, and comes with a unique wrap that has Velcro straps attached, enabling hands-free use.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: pure enrichment’s purerelief xl king size heating pad, runner-up: sunbeam’s king size xpressheat, also great: ohuhu xl reusable gel pack for hot & cold therapy, how to (safely) use a heating pad, the competition.

We consulted the following experts for this guide: sports medicine specialist Michael S. Freitas , MD, medical director for the University at Buffalo Athletic Training Program, team doctor for Daemen College, and consultant for the Buffalo Bills; Joel Hawk, a principal engineer manager within the small-appliances division of UL ; and journalist Cathryn Jakobson Ramin, author of Crooked: Outwitting the Back Pain Industry and Getting on the Road to Recovery .

People use electric heating pads to relieve muscle pain associated with menstrual cramps, arthritis, injuries, and other ailments. Heat increases blood flow where applied, helping to dilate blood vessels  and improve circulation. The increased blood flow to a treated area can help soothe muscular cramping, spasms, aches, and soreness.

Be aware, though, that putting a heating pad on a new injury (generally within 72 hours) can worsen pain-causing inflammation. (The Cleveland Clinic has helpful information on choosing between heat and ice for treating pain.) Frequent, prolonged, or otherwise improper use of heating pads has been associated with burns and other ailments. If in doubt, consult a doctor before treating yourself with cold or heat.

After interviewing experts, reading hundreds of reviews, and talking to people who regularly use heating pads, we determined our criteria for picking out electric heating pads worth testing. We considered top-rated heating pads certified by the primary labs used to test electrical products, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Electrical Testing Labs (ETL), all of which offer:

• three or more heat levels
• quick heat-up
• dry and moist heat options
• easy machine washing of cover
• an automatic-shutoff timer
• an intuitive controller (one that could be operated in the dark) with a long power cord

These criteria left us testing seven models. We assessed each heating pad by doing the following:

• applying each pad to gauge its overall feel, ease of use, and any noise it made when adjusted
• evaluating the heat-up speed, heat dispersion, and average temperatures of each pad at given heat settings
• testing the auto-off functions of each pad
• washing and drying each pad cover
• folding and storing each pad
• monitoring each pad using a thermal-imaging camera as it heated up (here we were looking at the evenness of heat distribution and were not attempting to assess the pads’ surface temperatures)

In response to reader and tester complaints of our electric heating pad picks not feeling hot enough, we spoke with the manufacturers; both encouraged us to return any lukewarm-feeling pads for replacements. Sunbeam told us (and UL’s Joel Hawk confirmed) that there is no way for a layperson to accurately test a heating pad’s temperature, as heating pad makers use proprietary technology to assess the amount of heat each pad emits. Because of confidentiality policies, UL is unable to share temperature readings on the pads it has tested. As Hawk, who has been measuring the safety levels of heating pad temperatures for nearly 30 years, explained: “We are not there to judge if what manufacturers are saying is true. We are there to make sure that the pads aren’t above a safe temperature.” Thus, when testing heating pads, UL does not test to see if the pads reach manufacturer-stated temperatures (it only confirms the pads do not exceed safety limits). Anecdotally, Hawk shared, electric heating pad manufacturers have been lowering the highest temperatures of their pads over the years for safety reasons, which may account for people’s chilly experiences with not-so-hot devices.

For a 2020 update to this guide, we tried five non-electric, microwavable hot/cold pads, looking for top-rated best sellers that did not have numerous reports of leaking, skin burns, or microwave explosions. We did not consider hot-water-bottle devices or water-circulating hot/cold therapy devices for this guide.

The PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad was the consensus favorite pad of our testers and offers features found in no other heating pad that’s similarly priced. The smooth and plush sides of its cover were our testers’ overall favorite, and although it does make a bit more crinkling noise when bending than some, it’s reasonably quiet. The PureRelief’s six levels of heating (between 105 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit) fall within the same general range as other pads’ minimum and maximum levels (give or take 5 degrees) but offer the smallest gaps between temperatures. This addresses a common complaint among the heating pad users on our panel who noted “medium is too low, but high is too hot,” and makes this pad easier to adjust to the right temperature than pads with a narrower range of options and larger jumps between settings. The larger version of this heating pad, the XXL Extra Wide , features the same heating levels and is just as plush, but is nearly double the size.

The PureRelief’s controller is simple to use, allowing you to turn the heat up or down, turn the auto-off timer on or off, and turn the pad on or off. Other pads require you to cycle through settings (such as off/low/medium/high), making it more likely that you’ll accidentally leave the pad on, or just force you to click multiple times to simply go down one level. The PureRelief’s LCD screen has big numbers and backlighting, as opposed to the tiny red lights and lettering on most controllers. The PureRelief cord stays firmly plugged into the pad and will not come loose, unlike the cords on some pads we tested. Its cover dried faster than most pads after washing, it comes with the minor convenience of a storage bag, and it is warrantied for five years.

Our testers preferred the feel of the PureRelief’s plush side, as it seemed gentle against the skin but not, like another pad, so dense that it would cause excessive perspiration or feel “like a sweaty pillow,” one said. One tester thought the PureRelief made louder crinkling noises when bent than other pads, but others found it quieter.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The PureRelief’s cover requires gentler washing than others we tested: washing on the delicate cycle with cold water and drying on the delicates cycle rather than the medium setting most pads can tolerate. While its plug stays firmly connected to the base of the pad, its locking tabs could be tough to disengage for people with large hands or pain in their fingers.

One of our long-term testers found that the PureRelief can have problems maintaining temperatures for long periods of time. In their experience, after about 30 minutes of use, the PureRelief tends to cool down, requiring them to increase the number in order to start the heat again.

The PureRelief has maintained an overall rating of above four out of five stars after more than 72,000 reviews by verified purchasers since September 2016. After noticing an uptick in negative reviews, specifically citing non-functioning units, during early fall 2018, we contacted the company. Terry Cox, speaking for the heating pad’s maker, Pure Enrichment, said negative reviews were increasing because overall sales increased as winter approached, but the percentage of negative reviews remained roughly the same. Cox said Pure Enrichment would provide money-back returns for non-functioning or underperforming pads 60 days beyond Amazon’s standard 30-day return period; customers can email [email protected] to start the process. This policy is in addition to Pure Enrichment’s five-year warranty, which covers defects including a failure to heat up.

If the PureRelief pad is unavailable or becomes more expensive than Sunbeam’s King Size XpressHeat heating pad, we recommend the latter model. It is nearly the same pad: The Xpress Heat has six heating settings, a very similar texture on both sides, a controller with a backlit LCD screen, and an identical button layout to PureRelief, plus the same warranty. (The PureRelief is likely a less-expensive “clone” of the more-established Sunbeam pad.)

If you want a microwaveable heating pad, we recommend the Ohuhu XL Reusable Gel Pack for Hot & Cold Therapy . It can be used as either an ice pack or a heating pad, and its physical flexibility in either frozen or hot form makes it easy to wrap around various body parts. Although at 14 inches by 11 inches the gel pack is smaller than our top pick, this size is more than adequate for most body placements, and it ensures the gel pack will safely fit in even a compact microwave. (People looking for more coverage could consider buying this set of two .) Unlike some of the gel packs we tested, the gel within the Ohuhu pack is segmented into compartments, which makes it easier for even heat distribution when conforming to body parts. The gel packs we tested and looked at tended to be around the same size (and for some reason the same color blue), but what truly set the Ohuhu apart from the competition is its unique and useful pouch, which comes with attached Velcro straps that enable the Ohuhu to be wrapped around targeted body parts and used hands-free.

Like most gel packs, the Ohuhu can be heated up in either the microwave or a pot of boiling water. Use instructions are conveniently, if garishly, printed directly on the gel pack, and while the company suggests the Ohuhu will stay either cold or hot for 20 to 30 minutes, in our testing we found that it retained its heat for about 20 minutes but that its cooling ability lasted for over an hour.

The Ohuhu comes with a one-year replacement or refund warranty that includes free return shipping.

All of the electric heating pads we tested are certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), an independent organization that evaluates the safety of myriad materials and consumer products. We spoke to Joel Hawk, principal engineer manager with UL’s small-appliances division, about what that means for the safety of someone using certified heating pads. UL extensively tests the temperature regulation of each pad it certifies, along with the fail-safes built into the pads that cause them to stop working rather than overheat or allow the inside of a heating pad to become exposed (UL simulates overheating by covering the pads with heavy felt). Each pad is flexed, twisted, bunched, and squished, and has its cord yanked out thousands of times in UL’s laboratories, Hawk told us.

Problems can arise from exposing materials to the high end of a heating pad’s temperature range—some clothing, furniture, or other materials react poorly to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. But some public perception of the dangers of a heating pad may come from much older models of electric blankets, Hawk said, which lacked the modern electronic controls of today’s equipment. We will note that every heating pad we researched had at least one review alleging an incident in which the pad “nearly” or “could have” started a fire. Heat is an elemental, intimidating force, and you should always be aware of what your heated pad is on or near.

Both of our electric picks have a maximum two-hour automatic-shutoff function, which is enabled by default when you turn on the pad. You can turn it off on all of our picks, but an expert we spoke with advised that you do not (nor should you fall asleep with a pad on you). Sports medicine specialist Michael S. Freitas told us that continuous exposure to elevated heat leaves a person unable to register the damage they’re doing, creating a “hot tub effect,” similar to how laptops can burn laps . Beyond immediate injury, journalist Cathryn Jakobson Ramin noted that lying or sitting for extended periods of time with a pad on can run counter to the best practices for healing injuries. If you have any doubts about using a heating pad with any condition, check with a doctor.

Electric heating pads

The Sunbeam GoHeat Cordless Heating Pad was “the least hot heating pad” one tester, a daily heating pad user, had ever tried. Other testers agreed, with one saying this was a blessing in disguise since it lacks an automatic shut off timer, which could lead to burns.

Sunbeam’s Microplush King Size Heating Pad (currently unavailable) earned a “sweaty pillow” comment from one tester. Another thought it was simply too much fabric for close skin contact, “like how shag carpet feels on your knees.” With four levels of heating, it can suit most needs, but our pick and runner-up were strongly preferred.

The Sunbeam 4-in-1 Heating Pad (currently unavailable), also sold as the Select-a-Cycle, has three temperature-cycling modes—Rapid, Interval, and Wave—that none of the experts we consulted could imagine a practical use for. You have to click past the three modes to get to the three heat settings, which is annoying. Plus it’s a pad that costs more than our picks and is available at fewer stores.

We didn’t test Sunbeam’s new ConformHeat pad as it is smaller and more expensive than our Sunbeam pick.

Both the SoftHeat MaxHeat Washable Heating Pad and the Sunbeam King Size Heating Pad have a thin blue fabric around their sealed heating elements, and both covers feel like disposable hospital garments. The cover texture catches on rough skin. It’s not that bad if you need a pad for a one-time use, but all the other pads we tested felt better. And the Sunbeam King Size cover cannot be machine-washed.

Battle Creek’s Thermophore MaxHeat Deep-Heat Therapy pad is not like the others: It’s heavy (it weighs more than 3 pounds, whereas most pads weigh 1 pound), has a canvas cover, and automatically shuts off after 25 minutes if you don’t adjust its switch. It’s meant to be draped around you while lying down rather than propped lightly on a shoulder or behind a back. It has a long run of good reviews but costs almost twice as much as our pick.

Non-electric hot/cold pads

Rester’s Choice Gel Pad is essentially the same blue gel-filled rectangle as the Ohuhu and costs about the same, but it doesn’t come with a cover.

The Cureve Gel Pad comes with a cover, but one without Velcro straps, canceling out the possibility of hands-free use. It’s also double the size of the Ohuhu, making it impossible to fit into smaller microwaves. Furthermore, because its gel is not segmented into compartments like the Ohuhu, it heats up unevenly and is difficult to place on the body.

Both the Rester’s Choice (currently unavailable) and Thermal-Aid “natural” versions (filled with clay and corn, respectively) took longer to heat up in the microwave than the Ohuhu, plus have less warming capacity. Due to their fabric coverings, both pads took on faint food smells after being microwaved (despite the microwave being clean), which the Ohuhu did not. Neither can be heated by boiling, either, nor do they freeze well.

This article was edited by Tracy Vence and Kalee Thompson.

Cathryn Jakobson Ramin, author of Crooked: Outwitting the Back Pain Industry and Getting on the Road to Recovery , phone interview , July 14, 2017

Joel Hawk, principal engineer manager at UL, small appliances division , phone interview , July 19, 2017

Michael S. Freitas, M.D., sports medicine physician , phone interview , July 18, 2017

Meet your guides

Kevin Purdy

Kevin Purdy is a writer, editor, and repair advocate at iFixit. He previously reviewed products at Wirecutter, including mattresses, standing desks, and bike-commuting gear. He has also written for Lifehacker, Popular Science, Fast Company, and other publications.

Nancy Redd is a senior staff writer covering health and grooming at Wirecutter. She is a GLAAD Award–nominated on-air host and a New York Times best-selling author. Her latest nonfiction book, The Real Body Manual , is a visual health and wellness guide for young adults of all genders. Her other books include Bedtime Bonnet and Pregnancy, OMG!

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From Microwavable Magic to Targeted Therapy, We Tested the Best Heating Pads

Our top picks provide soothing relief from aches and pains

Lindsey Lanquist is a writer and editor specializing in fashion, lifestyle, and health content. Her work has appeared in SELF, StyleCaster, SheKnows, MyDomaine, and more.

Amy Walsh, M.D., M.D.P., is an Emergency Physician practicing in western Wisconsin. She has over 15 years of experience in the field. Her practice involves caring for all sorts of patient emergencies, including heart attacks, severe infections, and car accidents.

Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.

Verywell / Leticia Almeida

If you're dealing with muscle stiffness , soreness, or cramps, a heating pad may be able to provide some relief. From small pillows to large blankets and even wearable wraps, these devices can be plugged in or microwaved to provide soothing heat almost anywhere. Some are designed to target specific areas, like your back, while others have adjustable straps and rechargeable batteries that make them more versatile. 

To find the best heating pads on the market, we started by asking doctors and physical therapists for their advice on which key features to look for while shopping. Then, we tested 17 expert-approved heating pads in the Verywell Testing Lab and assessed their comfort, features, and functionality. Our top picks have earned high scores for their setup, design, features, heating quality, and overall value.  We also had an emergency physician from our Review Board review this story for accuracy and how to use a heating pad safely.

• How to Use a Heating Pad

To use a heating pad safely, start on the lowest setting and gradually increase the heat as needed. If the pad doesn’t have a cover, wrap it in a towel to prevent burns, says sports medicine specialist and orthopedic surgeon Natasha Trentacosta , MD. She recommends using a heating pad for 10 to 30 minutes at a time. Don’t sleep with a heating pad—you may burn yourself or cause extreme inflammation. Always make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, adds physical therapist Alex Corbett , PT, DPT.

Where We Stand

• What to Look For
• How We Tested

Our Experts

Why trust verywell fit, best overall, pure enrichment purerelief xl electric heating pad.

• Design 5 /5
• Features 5 /5
• Heating Quality 4.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

Large, flexible design

Easy to use

Heats up fast

Only one self-timer option

Temperature Range: 105 to 140 degrees | Heat Settings: 6 | Auto Shutoff: Yes | Power Source: Corded electric | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who It’s For

Best for those who want a large, flexible heating pad that can be used on almost any area of the body.

Why We Love It

After extensive testing in our Lab, Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief XL Heating Pad is our clear favorite for its large, versatile size and wide range of heat settings. We like how comfortable, easy to use, and effective this heating pad is. Measuring 12 inches wide and 24 inches long, it’s large enough to cover almost any muscle group, including your back and legs. 

Unlike some of our other top picks, this heating pad has six heat settings for a more customizable experience. And we appreciate that it heats up quickly, taking only one minute to reach each temperature. 

With a user-friendly design, Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief XL Heating Pad has a straightforward setup and simple controls, including a clear LCD screen and large buttons. Plus, the cord is 9 feet long, making it easy to adjust your position or move the pad around. We also love that a convenient storage bag and a removable, machine-washable microplush cover are included with your purchase. 

Potential Flaws

• We like that this pad has a two-hour self-timer, but we wish there were more intervals to choose from. 

Most Valuable Insight

“It's a comfy heating pad with multiple options. Despite having four buttons, it's easy to use and understand.” —Kayla Hui, Verywell Fit product tester

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Best Overall Runner-Up

Geniani extra large heating pad.

Courtesy by Amazon

• Design 4.5 /5
• Features 4.5 /5
• Heating Quality 5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Flexible and easy to bend

Soft, plush cover

Extra-long cord

Heat doesn’t reach edges of pad

Easy to turn off by accident

Temperature Range: Not listed | Heat Settings: 3 | Auto Shutoff: Yes | Power Source: Corded electric | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Best for soothing lower back pain or menstrual cramps.

With a similar design and price point to Pure Enrichment’s Heating Pad, Geniani’s Extra Large Heating Pad also stood out during testing. Its flexible design allows it to easily contour to the shape of your body without feeling too heavy or bulky. We also noticed that the soft, ultra-plush cover is ideal for lying on your back or stomach, making it a great choice for those with back pain or menstrual cramps. 

In testing, we found that the pad only needs one or two minutes to reach the highest heat setting. It runs hot enough to ease aches and pains, but doesn’t get so warm that it feels uncomfortable. Three settings make it easy to manage the heat as you need it, while the two-hour automatic shutoff feature provides peace of mind with each use. Plus, the extra-long 10-foot cord means you don’t need to sit right next to an outlet. 

• Although this pad heats up quickly, we did notice that the heat doesn’t go all the way to the edges. 
• The large power button is easy to use—but we realized during testing that it’s also easy to press accidentally while using this pad.

“I really love how comfortable and flexible this heating pad is. It feels like it melts over your lap.” — Christina Oehler, Verywell Fit product tester

Best Budget

Suzzipad microwavable heating pads.

• Design 4 /5
• Features 4 /5
• Value 4.3 /5

Soft and comfortable 

May be too small for some

Can pick up smells

Temperature Range: Varies | Heat Settings: 0 | Auto Shutoff: No | Power Source: None | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Best for times when you’re not close to an outlet. 

Hunting for a good deal? We recommend SuzziPad’s Microwavable Heating Pad because it’s budget-friendly but doesn’t skimp on quality. In testing, we noticed how easy it is to use—with a pleated design, you can fold it up, toss it in the microwave for 60 seconds, and it’s ready to go. 

In the Lab, we found that this portable pad evenly distributed heat for about 10 minutes at a time. We also noticed that the flexible shape is ideal for molding to your legs, neck, or stomach. We like that it’s cordless, so you aren’t tethered to one spot while using it. Plus, it’s covered in fuzzy fabric that’s comfortable to the touch. Choose from neutral grey or bright purple. 

• Since this pad is more compact than some other options on our list, it may not work well for larger areas (like your back).
• In our tests, we found that the pad did absorb the scent of foods that were microwaved prior to it, so we recommend cleaning the microwave before heating it up.

“This pad is super easy to use and I like that it's made from quality materials. It can stand up on its own pretty nicely.” — Kayla Hui, Verywell Fit product tester

Best With Massager

Comfier heating pad with massager.

Convenient, wearable design

Soft, plush material

Versatile for different muscle groups

Massage may not be intense enough for some

Temperature Range: Not listed | Heat Settings: 2 | Auto Shutoff: Yes | Power Source: Corded electric | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Best for targeting low back pain while working from home. 

Although we tested a few heating pads with massage settings, Comfier’s Heating Pad Waist Belt is by far our favorite. We appreciate the pad’s wearable design, which wraps around your abdomen like a belt so you can move around while enjoying both heat and massage therapy . Whether we wore it while standing or sitting, this soft, cushioned pad felt comfortable and secure.

Overall, we like this pad’s versatility: It has three different massage modes, two intensity levels, and two heat settings. We noticed that the massage modes can effectively relieve lower back pain, although this pad can also be used on your upper back, abdomen, shoulders, or thighs. Plus, we like that it comes with an extension strap for a better fit. 

• The pad’s massage feels soothing and effective, but we noticed during testing that it may not be intense enough for targeting deep knots.

“The best thing about this belt is that it fits like a weightlifting belt —but it’s padded, for a comfortable fit.” —Kayla Hui, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Back

Sunbeam heating pad back wrap.

Machine-washable cover

May be too large for some

Not as versatile

Temperature Range: Not listed | Heat Settings: 4 | Auto Shutoff: Yes | Power Source: Corded electric | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Best for low back pain, especially if you want to be able to move around while wearing your heating pad.

If postural exercises haven’t helped alleviate your low back pain, a heating pad can be a handy alternative. Sunbeam’s Heated Back Wrap makes targeting your trunk convenient and comfortable. During testing, we were impressed by the pad’s wearable design that contours to the curves of your back. Adjustable elastic waist straps with fasteners in the front provide a snug, customized fit.

This pad reaches the highest of four heat settings in one to two minutes and feels effective without getting uncomfortably hot. Although we could feel the heat throughout the pad, we noticed that it’s most concentrated in the center. We also confirmed in the Lab that the 9-foot cord allows you to walk around while wearing the pad. And if you happen to spill your favorite beverage on the fluffy cover, you can easily clean it by disconnecting the pad from the cord and tossing it into the washing machine.

• Although we like that the pad comes with an additional strap, it may be too large for some users to get a secure fit.
• This pad is ideal for targeting your back, but we noticed that its shape makes it harder to use on other areas.

“The best thing about this pad is that it can be used while moving around a room. I love that it adds an extra strap for size inclusivity.” —Christina Oehler, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Neck and Shoulders

Pure enrichment purerelief heating pad.

Simple closures

Large button

Takes longer to heat up

No self-timer feature

Temperature Range: 110 to 140 degrees | Heat Settings: 4 | Auto Shutoff: Yes | Power Source: Corded electric | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Best for relieving neck and upper back pain from Pilates or other workouts. 

Still feeling your upper body workout ? Get relief without putting your rest day routine on hold with Pure Enrichment’s Pure Relief XL Extra-Long Back & Neck Heating Pad. With a fitted, shawl-like design, it wraps around your shoulders and features a high collar that reaches your neck. During testing, we were impressed by how well the pad stayed in place, thanks to its secure magnetic closure and hook-and-loop strap around the waist. 

We also noticed that the pad’s user-friendly button makes it easy to choose from four heat settings. Even better, it only took 90 seconds before we started to feel the heat, and the highest settings felt hotter than most other pads we tested. Plus, we like that the soft, plush pad can be taken off and cleaned in the washing machine after each session.

• While we started to feel some warmth after 90 seconds, it takes this pad three to four minutes before it heats up all the way. Most other pads on our list come up to temperature in about half that time.
• This heating pad doesn’t have a self-timer feature, although it does turn off automatically after two hours.

“This pad can be used on different parts of your body, including your neck, back, and legs. I love the adjustable strap and how form-fitting the pad is." —Kayla Hui, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Knees

Comfier heated knee brace.

• Setup 4.5 /5

Wraparound design

Provides heat and massage therapy

Five vibration modes

Not as adjustable

Pricier than other options

Temperature Range: Not listed | Heat Settings: 2 | Auto Shutoff: Yes | Power Source: Corded electric | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Best for runners or walkers with sensitive knees . 

Traditional rectangular heating pads don’t contour well to joints, like your knees—but Comfier's Heated Knee Brace Wrap provides both targeted heat and massage therapy in that area. Designed to wrap around your entire knee for 360-degree warmth, it looks like a traditional knee brace and comes as a set of two sleeves connected by a thin cord. 

During testing, we were impressed that the pads warmed up quickly and evenly. We also appreciated their comfortable, secure fit, soft material, and open holes in the back that provide some much-needed flexibility. Comfier’s Wrap is equipped with two massage motors, five vibration modes, and a 30-minute timer. During testing, the vibration felt powerful but not overwhelming, and we like that you can use the heat and massage features independently.

• While we were able to get a secure fit around our knees, we noticed that the pad’s straps don't have a ton of give, so they may not fit everyone. 
• This heating pad is one of the pricier options on our list. But we still think it’s worth the investment if classic options aren’t providing the relief you need.

“I really like how many vibration settings these pads have. I think that anyone with a condition like arthritis would really benefit from the dual heat-and-vibration feature.” —Christina Oehler, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Feet

Gintao electric heated foot pad.

• Features 3.5 /5
• Heating Quality 3.5 /5

Easy to set up and use

Large surface area

Soft, comfortable cover

Not a snug fit

Temperature Range: Not listed | Heat Settings: 3 | Auto Shutoff: Yes | Power Source: Corded electric | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5

Best for runners with foot pain or anyone whose feet are always cold. 

Gintao’s Electric Heated Foot Warmer looks a bit like a pillowcase, but it’s actually a heating pad designed to warm up your feet. In testing, we found that it’s super easy to set up and use —just plug it in, choose from three heat settings, and slip your feet inside. We also like that the cover is made of a very soft, plush flannel that comes in a range of colors.

With a larger surface area, the pad’s design is ideal for soothing achy feet, ankles, and lower legs. Since the pocket lies flat when your feet aren't inside, you can also use it for other areas by draping it over your body. It even has enough room for two pairs of feet —if you’re willing to share. 

• This heating pad isn't very fitted, so it may take some adjusting at first.
• The pad takes about 8 to 10 minutes to heat up, which is much longer than most other pads we tested.

“This heating pad is good for feet and ankles and has a super comfortable cover. I think it’s definitely worth its overall value.” —Christina Oehler, Verywell Fit product tester

Best Portable

Yeamon portable cordless heating pad.

Discreet design

Three vibration settings

No soft cover

Temperature Range: 113 to 149 degrees | Heat Settings: 3 | Auto Shutoff: Yes | Power Source: Cord plus battery | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Best for those who want a cordless heating pad that targets their back or abdomen and can be worn discreetly.

Many heating pads require you to be close to a power source, but that’s not the case with Yeamon’s Portable Cordless Heating Pad. Once you charge it, you can wrap it around your waist, adjust the strap for a snug fit, and walk around freely. We also like the pad’s lightweight, portable design that’s easy to wear discreetly underneath your clothing. 

During testing, we noticed that it took less than a minute to heat up, and the heat was distributed evenly across the entire pad. In addition to cord-free heat therapy, the pad comes in 10 colors and has three vibration settings to choose from. Lined with a soft, comfortable material on the inside, it’s our top pick for targeting your back or abdomen either at home or on the go. 

• This pad is a great option for relaxing your back or abdomen, but its size and shape mean it's not versatile enough to target other muscle groups.
• While we appreciated the soft lining, we found that the plastic exterior can feel uncomfortable if you’re using this heating pad while lying down in certain positions.

“I would love to wear this around all day—it’s so snug and discreet that you can keep it with you for whenever you might need it.” —Christina Oehler, Verywell Fit product tester

After testing 17 heating pads, our favorite is Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief XL Heating Pad for its versatile and flexible design, soft cover, and easy-to-use controls. We continue to test these heating pads at home, and we’ll update our picks if we find anything new or noteworthy that we haven’t already touched on here. 

What to Look for When Shopping for a Heating Pad

• Size and Shape: First, consider how you plan to use your heating pad. Extra-large pads are best for your lower back, while smaller options can target your shoulders better, says physical therapist Jenny Fritts , PT, DPT. For relief from menstrual cramps, try a heating pad that wraps around your abdomen or one you can lie down on comfortably. Wearable wraps and braces are ideal for soothing sore knees, wrists, or elbows.
• Temperature Settings: If you want to be able to control how hot your heating pad is, you’ll need one with a range of heat settings. Fritts recommends looking for options like low, medium, and high, so you can find the most comfortable temperature.
• Material: Make sure the fabric covering your heating pad is soft, comfortable, and breathable.
• Features: Some heating pads are cordless, for relief on the go. If you’re considering a corded option, look for a long cord that will allow you to move around comfortably. Certain heating pads also have self-timers, letting you control how long they stay warm before automatically shutting off. Other nice-to-have features include a machine-washable cover for easy cleaning and built-in massagers for an even more relaxing experience.
• Safety: If you’re purchasing an electric heating pad, we recommend investing in one with an automatic shutoff feature, in case you forget to turn it off after a session. If you’re pregnant, you can still use a heating pad safely—just make sure it has a low heat setting to prevent injuries.

How We Tested the Heating Pads

To find the best heating pads, we’ve tested 17 pads in the Verywell Testing Lab. Throughout the testing process, we rate each heating pad in these key areas:

• Setup: After unboxing the heating pad, we note how easy it is to set up. Does it arrive fully assembled? Do we need to charge it or program it? How long does it take to set up before we can use it? We also evaluate the instructions—are they clear and concise or difficult to follow?
• Design: We examine the heating pad’s design. Does it fit our body well? Can we use it on multiple muscle groups? Is the cord conveniently placed? If the pad has a cover, we assess how soft and comfortable it feels. We also note whether the pad folds up nicely for storage and travel.
• Features: We pay attention to any special features, including multiple heat settings, massagers, self-timers, and automatic shutoff settings. We test all of the pad’s additional features and decide whether they’re helpful or unnecessary. We also consider whether the pad is missing any features that would have improved our experience. 
• Heat: During testing, we record how long it takes the pad to reach each heat setting. Does the heat disperse evenly throughout the entire pad? We also use a thermal imaging thermometer to measure the average temperature for each heat setting. This helps us ensure that the pad’s performance matches the manufacturer’s specifications. 
• Overall Value: To give each heating pad an accurate value score, we wait until the end of the test, after we’ve rated it in all other categories. Then, we check to see how much the pad costs. Based on how the heating pad performed during testing, do we think it’s priced fairly? Would we recommend it to a friend or family member? If so, the pad earns a higher value score. 

During the testing, research, and reporting process, we spoke with multiple experts. Some, like Fritts and Corbett, helped us understand how to use heating pads safely. Others, like Trentacosta, explained how heating pads can boost your recovery process. Although we choose products independently, advice from experts influences our decisions. 

• Alex Corbett PT, DPT, a physical therapist with BreakThrough Physical Therapy in Cary, North Carolina
• Jenny Fritts, PT, DPT, a physical therapist at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore
• Rahul Shah , MD, a board-certified orthopedic spine and neck surgeon based in New Jersey
• Natasha Trentacosta, MD, a sports medicine specialist and orthopedic surgeon at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles

An avid runner, certified personal trainer and running coach, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT , loves researching and testing the latest fitness gear and gadgets. Decades spent running and training athletes have helped her understand the value of using the best gear and products to improve your comfort and performance. She frequently uses heating pads and recommends them to trainees for relieving stiff, sore muscles.

Petrofsky J, Berk L, Bains G, et al. Moist heat or dry heat for delayed onset muscle soreness .  J Clin Med Res . 2013;5(6):416-425. doi:10.4021/jocmr1521w

Jo J, Lee SH. Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):16252. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-34303-z

Saccomanni B. Low back pain associated with pregnancy: a review of literature . Eur Orthop Traumatol. 2011;1(5):169-174. doi:10.1007/s12570-010-0030-x

By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach.

The Best Heating Pads of 2024

Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission.

Why trust Reviewed?

Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need.

BodyMed Digital Moist Heating Pad (14" x 27")

Heats up quickly

Holds onto heat extremely well

Strap allows for hands-free use

Large size may be ungainly for smaller uses

Uses a fair bit of electricity

Caylee's Creations Microwavable Corn Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack

Loses heat slowly

Can double as a cold compress

Sleeve is machine washable

On the smaller side

Kind of bulky

Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad

Microplush fabric exterior

Detachable cord and machine washable

Can spray with water for moist heat

Only reaches about 123°F when in use

Sunbeam King Size XpressHeat Heating Pad

Detachable cord

Microplush cover

Maximum temperature in use only about 120°F

Doneco King Size XpressHeat Heating Pad (12" x 24")

Heats up to 129°F when in use

Microplus cover

Somewhat slow to reach top temperature

Updated March 16, 2022

Between measuring the temperature changes on each heating pad, to giving our officemates the chance to try the products at home, we spent about two weeks assessing each product on its heat output, comfort, features, and usability.

Note: All of the electric and infrared heating pads described below had a significant number of online reviews describing some or all of the following problems: malfunctioning controls within weeks or months of purchase; very hot or melted plastic controls; and difficulty returning the products. We can tell you about our experiences with these products, but in general, caveat emptor .

The BodyMed is our top pick because of its fast heating, ability to maintain high temperatures and overall ease of use.

According to our data collected during testing in the open air, the BodyMed took an average time of about 12 minutes to heat up to its peak temperature, which is one of the faster ramp-up times among the products we tested. Additionally, after reaching its peak temperature, this heating pad kept those high temperatures; its temperature decreased by less than a degree during the remainder of the hour of testing. When we actually placed this model on the tester’s body, its maximum temperature was about 122°F.

While it did use a little bit more energy than most of the other electric heating pads, this one really impressed us with its easy-to-use controls, option for moist heat, and customizable automatic shut-off. Cleaning this product is a breeze; all you have to do is remove the sleeve and hand wash it in the sink. The BodyMed is large enough and flat enough that it can be folded to a variety of sizes, so it fits just as well on your back as it does on your leg. However, because of its large size, it may be a bit ungainly when folded up and applied to smaller areas, such as your neck.

Last but not least is the included strap that will help you to secure the heating pad to your body. While it seems like such a minor addition, the ability to use the product while moving around a little bit, or keeping your hands free, is a real bonus.

If you want a heating pad that can give you all of the heat you need, and is also convenient and easy to use, consider investing in the BodyMed Digital Moist Pad.

From the beginning of our testing, the Caylee’s Creations stood out for a variety of reasons. First of all, it is filled with corn kernels, which, when heated, smell deliciously of popcorn. So not only are you getting some serious heat relief, but this heating pad also makes you crave popcorn. This heating pad is about the size of a laptop, and has a removable sleeve that is hand-stitched, has a nice pattern, is machine-washable, and feels soft to the touch.

As for its heating ability, when it was tried out on a tester’s body, it reached a toasty 122°F. During testing in the open air, the Caylee’s Creation reached its maximum temperature after about 13 minutes and then experienced an average decrease of only about 3°F over the rest of the hour-long testing period.

Additionally, this heating pad doubles as a cold compress; all you have to do is put it in a freezer bag and let it freeze overnight. Our tester’s only complaint was that the pad was a bit too small and bulky to sit comfortably on the back of his neck. If you need short bursts of really hot heat, this corn-filled pad is the one for you.

How We Tested Heating Pads

We decided to test three different types of heating pads: microwavable, electric, and infrared. Because electric and infrared models come in a variety of sizes, we picked the ones that were appropriately sized for a larger surface area, such as a person’s back. This way, we could test not only a heating pad’s heating ability but also its versatility in being applied to other body parts.

During testing, we first measured the temperature of each heating pad out in the open air. Temperature data was recorded at five points on the surface of the pad, on both the medium and the high setting for one hour. The temperature data was recorded with data loggers that are about the size of watch batteries.

Further temperature data was gathered when we taped those same data loggers to each product and then strapped those heating pads to our backs. When the heating pads were exposed to the air, the recorded temperatures are 20 to 30 degrees lower than they were when they were placed on a human body, where the enclosed environment and human body heat make the heating process more efficient.

With our scientific data, we determined the three objective measures by which each heating pad was assessed: how long it took for each heating pad to heat up, how much the temperature fell off after reaching the maximum temperature, and the energy usage.

Raw temperature data wasn’t the only data we collected. We also used the heating pads casually so that we could determine how useful the various features were, as well as how easy it was to actually use each product.

Based on our testing, we think that the best pads should heat up quickly, maintain high temperatures throughout the entire time you use it, and not use a lot of electricity to do so. Additionally, they should be easy to use, easy to store, easy to clean, and easily foldable so that it can be adjusted to different sizes to more easily fit on different parts of your body.

What You Should Know About Heating Pads

We tested three types of pads: electric, microwavable, and infrared.

Electric Heating Pads

Electric pads typically have one- or two-hour automatic shut-offs (a great safety feature), and allow you to dial in your preferred heating level, whether that’s a specific temperature (up to 167°F for the Theratherm heating pad, or heat settings from 1 (warm) to 6 (hot) for the Pure Relief, Sunbeam, and Doneco heating pads. While there are multiple heat settings for electric heating pads, our data showed that electric pads rarely get hotter than 120°F-130°F, despite having temperature settings higher than those values.

Electric heating pads come in a variety of sizes, from those that can cover your whole body to those that are made specifically for smaller areas, like your neck.

Microwavable Heating Pads

Microwavable heating pads are made of materials that can absorb and emit radiant heat (and cold), such as flaxseed, wheat, water beads, corn, etc. Those materials are then wrapped or sealed into a fabric or insulated pouch that forms the outside of the heating pad.

Because microwavable pads go in the microwave, they are more prone to user error in that they can be heated for too long, and may cause burns. Please follow the included microwave instructions that come with these heating pads, and be sure that the microwave you’re using is not an inverter microwave, which can make the heating pad unsafe to be placed on your skin (as we found out personally). For more information about safety issues surrounding heating pads, check out the safety section of this article.

Microwavable pads are usually smaller than their electric counterparts; they need to be able to fit in any microwave.

Infrared Heating Pads

Infrared heating pads come in a variety of sizes but are generally more expensive than microwavable and electric pads because of their inclusion of semi-precious stones such as jade and tourmaline.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Heating Pad

There are a few things you should keep in mind when deciding which heating pad to buy.

Price —How much money do you have to spend? There are great pads at every price point. In general, though, microwavable heating pads are the least expensive, electric pads are somewhat more expensive, and infrared heating pads are larger financial investments. The cost tends to go up as the number of parts or the complexity of the heating method increases.

Heating time —How long do you need heat relief in a given session? It’s not recommended that you use these heating pads for extended periods of time, which generally exceed one to two hours. Within that time, though, the different types of heating pads provide different amounts and durations of heat relief. Microwavable heating pads generally provide hotter heat (depending on the length of time it’s in the microwave) over a shorter time duration (usually 10 to 20 minutes). Electric and infrared heating pads tend to provide heat at lower temperatures but maintain that same level of heat for a longer period of time (45 to 60 minutes).

Mobility —How mobile do you need to be while receiving heat relief? If it’s difficult to carve out 20 to 30 minutes a day to just sit in one place near a power outlet, it may be better to purchase a microwavable heating pad. These heating pads are small enough that you can strap them or hold them on your body while still moving around. Electric and infrared heating pads, however, require you to be within a certain distance (typically 5 to 10 feet) of an electrical outlet. Also, while some electric heating pads can be strapped to your body, you still won't be able to move outside of the radius of the power cord. If you do have a comfy seat near an outlet, though, and need more than 20-30 minutes to sit and absorb the heat, an electric or infrared heating pad may make more sense; you can receive the same level of heat relief, but without having to get up and reheat the heating pad multiple times.

Durability —There's a noticeable difference in the usable lifetime of electric/infrared heating pads and microwavable heating pads. Because the electric/infrared heating pads involve electronic components, heat, and flammable surfaces, there are many more things that can go wrong with an electric/infrared heating pad than with a microwavable pad. Many users report in online reviews that the heating pads didn’t last beyond a few months after the original purchase date.

Safety —There are a number of ways that heating pads can be used incorrectly, or can malfunction with or without user error. For more information, please read our section on safety below.

Other Heating Pads We Tested

The Pure Enrichment PureRelief is a great, no-frills heating pad that will provide you with plenty of sweet, sweet heat relief.

During testing in the open air, the Pure Enrichment had an average heat-up time of 13 to 14 minutes, and after heating up, its temperature decreased by about 5°F over the rest of the testing time. When a tester was actually wearing the heating pad, it reached a maximum temperature of about 123°F, which is comparable to the maximum temperatures, when worn on the body, of most of the other heating pads we tested.

The heating pad is made of microplush fabric and feels nice to touch. The controls are easy to use, and our testers really noticed the difference in the heat when flipping between the various heat settings. The electric cord detaches entirely from the heating pad, making it easier to store and easy to clean; you can just toss the whole pad into the washing machine. With an option to spray water on the heating pad for moist heat and a two-hour auto shut-off, this heating pad ticks all of the boxes for a heating pad that is both good at providing heat relief and easy to use.

The Sunbeam XpressHeat is nearly identical to the Pure Enrichment in both performance and features. It took about the same time (13 to 14 minutes) to heat up to its maximum temperature in the open air, but the average temperature decrease over the rest of the testing hour was a little bit larger than that of the Pure Enrichment (6°F decrease vs. 5°F decrease). Another small difference is that the maximum temperature of the heating pad on the tester’s body was slightly lower (about 120°F) than that of the Pure Enrichment. Otherwise, the Sunbeam has the same micro plush cover, detachable cord, and controls.

Its price is typically less expensive than the Pure Enrichment, though, so if you’re strapped for cash and you still want a pad that performs well, consider your money well-spent if you use it to buy the Sunbeam XpressHeat.

The Doneco XpressHeat is also nearly identical to the Sunbeam and Pure Enrichment heating pads. All three heating pads look similar, are covered in the same microplush material, and have the same controls, detachable electric cord, and machine washable pad.

Surprisingly, though, there are subtle differences in Doneco's performance. For instance, on the tester’s body, it reached a cozy maximum temperature of about 129°F, which was hotter than both the Sunbeam and the Pure Enrichment. The Doneco also takes longer to achieve its maximum temperature (about 15 minutes) but has a similar temperature falloff to the Pure Enrichment heating pad, of about 5°F over the rest of the hour during which it was tested. It also uses slightly less electricity than both the Sunbeam and the Pure Enrichment heating pads. If you are choosing between the Doneco, Sunbeam, and Pure Enrichment pads, the Doneco will provide you with the hottest heat.

What the Chattanooga Theratherm Digital Moist lacks in looks, it makes up for with its ability to maintain high temperatures for an hour or more.

Its yellow flannel cover is not as soft or nice to touch as the Sunbeam and Pure Enrichment pads and has more of a blanket aesthetic.

While the Theratherm took a bit longer than some of the other electric heating pads to heat up to its maximum temperature (on the order of 16 to 17 minutes to reach about 122°F), once it hit that temperature, it stayed very close to that value for the remaining 30-40 minutes of the testing period, and only decreased by an average of about 1°F. The tradeoff here is that the Theratherm used nearly twice as much energy as the other electric heating pads to maintain that heat.

The Theratherm’s flannel cover is machine washable, and the controls, while not as intuitive as others we saw, allowed for a high level of precision in both temperature (range of 88°F-166°F in 1°F increments) and a timer (one to 60 minutes in one-minute increments). You can also set a lock on the controls; this is a great feature, especially because the control unit is bright and colorful, and may attract the eyes and fingers of kids who like to press buttons.

One other thing—both our testers and some online reviews reported smelling a chemical-y odor emanating from this heating pad. Your mileage may vary, but if you need consistently high levels of heat for an hour, the Theratherm pad is a great option.

Retains heat well

Machine washable flannel cover

Precise temperature controls and timer

Not aesthetically pleasing

Takes a long time to reach highest temperature

Emits slight chemical odor

The Heating Pad by Vive is a reasonably-priced heating pad option for those who prefer a gradual increase in their heat relief.

This heating pad was probably the most basic of the electric heating pads that we tested. While the cord was not detachable from the pad itself, the pad is covered in a removable microplush cover that is hand washable. Users can dampen the included sponge-like sheet that lives inside the heating pad’s cover if they want moist heat relief.

The streamlined controls only have four options: “Warm”, “Low”, “Medium”, and “High”. There’s no timer or auto shut-off on the controls, but an auto shut-off function does exist; the heating unit just turns off periodically when it reaches certain temperatures. At first, we thought that this was a bug, but it’s actually a safety feature to prevent users from getting burned.

The Vive was the only electric heating pad that performed very differently between having the heating pad exposed to the open air, and being used on a tester’s body. In the open air, on the high setting, the Vive heating pad took about 15-16 minutes to heat up to achieve its maximum temperature of about 100°F. During that testing, the Vive heating pad did a solid job of maintaining that heat and only decreased by just over 1°F over the rest of the testing period.

When the tester actually wore the pad, though, the Vive reached temperatures of about 122°F, which puts it more on par with the other electric heating pads we tested. However, when it achieved those high temperatures, the auto shut-off caused the resulting temperature decrease to be drastic and noticeable (on the order of 1°F per minute).

While this feature probably makes this one of the safer heating pads on the market, the fact that the heat would turn off unexpectedly caused many online reviewers to say that the unit didn’t feel hotter than “warm”, despite using the higher heat settings.

If safety is your number one concern in an electric pad, the Heating Pad by Vive is your best choice.

Removable microplush cover

Includes insert for optional moist heat

Automatically turns off heat to prevent burns

The microwavable Thermalon is perfectly sized for soothing away aches in your joints and in your lower back.

The Thermalon heating pad can also provide you with cold relief after being tossed in the freezer, and the entire pad is hand washable.

Microwavable heating pads are fundamentally different from electric heating pads in that they heat up faster, but also lose heat more quickly. The Thermalon conforms to this pattern and reaches temperatures of about 117°F in only 8 minutes. Afterward, the temperature fell off by more than 6°F over the remainder of the hour of testing.

For a versatile, easy-to-use microwavable heating pad that can help you manage your joint pain, consider the Thermalon heating pad.

Bean bag design contours well to the body

Doubles as a cold pack

Loses high heat quickly

The HealthSmart microwavable heating pad is basically a smaller, stiffer version of the Thermalon. The moist heat technology is the same, in that the beads in the heating pad passively absorb water from the air when it’s not in use, and then use that water to create moist heat after being heated in the microwave. Unlike the Thermalon, the HealthSmart heating pad cannot also be used as a cold pad.

The cover feels like cotton and can be washed by hand with a damp cloth. While being used on the tester’s body, the HealthSmart reached the highest temperature out of all of the products we tested and clocked in at 138°F. During testing in the open air, this heating pad performed similarly to the other microwavable heating pads, and took about 7 minutes to reach its hottest temperature, and then lost about 6°F of heat over the rest of the hour of testing.

Like the Thermalon heating pad, our testers had trouble keeping this pad on the backs of their necks, but it did stay in place when applied to shoulders or either side of the testers’ necks. Because the HealthSmart is less flexible, though, you may have trouble keeping it on curvier body parts.

If all you need is a bare-bones, no-frills microwavable heating pad that heats up quickly, the HealthSmart heating pad is a great pick.

Heats up to 138°F when in use

Somewhat small

Doesn't contour to the body well

This UTK heating pad has tourmaline and jade stones mounted on a pad and wrapped in leather. While the leather is nice, it’s a slippery surface, which makes it difficult to keep the heating pad on any part of your body that isn’t flat. It comes with a nice carrying case, as well controls with precision adjustments on both the temperature (103°F-159°F in 1°F increments) and time (0-240 minutes in 15-minute increments). A four-hour auto shut-off and a memory function, where you can save your favorite heating options, complete the package.

As for the pad’s performance, it took about 26 minutes for it to reach its maximum temperature of ~130°F. However, despite its long warm-up time, the UTK had one of the best long-term heat outputs; the temperature decreased by less than 1°F over the rest of the hour-long test.

Can hit a peak temperature of about 130°F

Precise controls and settings

Leather prone to sliding around

Guidelines for Safe Use of Heating Pads

The primary consideration with heating pads is safety. There are a few potential safety issues of which anyone purchasing a heating pad should be aware.

—Electric heating pads should not be sat or laid upon unless stated explicitly otherwise in the heating pad directions. The reasons for this are two-fold: First, putting weight onto a heating pad with electric heating coils may cause damage to the heating coils. Second, lying down on the heating pad may trap the heated air, which can cause elevated temperatures and subsequent skin burns.

Long story short, please follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for heating pad usage.

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Meet the tester

Julia MacDougall

Senior Scientist

Julia is the Senior Scientist at Reviewed, which means that she oversees (and continually updates) the testing of products in Reviewed's core categories such as televisions, washing machines, refrigerators, and more. She also determines the testing methods and standards for Reviewed's "The Best Right Now" articles.

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The Best Heating Pads of 2024

Say goodbye to sore muscles, cramps and back pain.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

There's nothing enjoyable about the likes of menstrual cramps, back and neck pain or sore muscles and joints associated with conditions like arthritis or sciatica in pregnancy. But there's an easy fix that can help ease your suffering: heating pads.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Pure enrichment purerelief xl king size heating pad.

Sunbeam Standard Size Heating Pad

Best for Neck and Shoulders

Pure enrichment neck & shoulders heating pad.

Best for Knees

Sunbeam heating pad wrap.

Best for Lower Back Pain

Geniani extra large electric heating pad xl.

Best for Arthritis

Utk natural jade and tourmaline heat pad.

Best Microwaveable

Smoko toasty heatable plushie.

Best Weighted

Comfytemp weighted heating pad.

Best for Pregnancy

Attmu rubber hot water bottle.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , our experts test all kinds of products to soothe and comfort, from the best electric blankets to the best period underwear . To find the best heating pads, we narrowed down the field by researching the best models on the market, looking for ones that feature soft, high-quality materials, sizable surface areas and lengthy cords, at least three heat settings and overwhelmingly positive customer review s . The picks ahead are best-sellers from top-rated brands that impressed our experts with their features.

After reading about our picks, learn more about how we chose the best heating pads and what you should keep in mind while shopping for one.

If you’re looking for a versatile heating pad that you can use on your neck and shoulders, back, abdomen or elsewhere on your body , this extra-large pick will get the job done. We love that it features a soft material that'll feel like a blanket on your skin and features six settings from 105-140ºF. Along with an impressive five-year warranty, this heating pad includes a nine-foot cord, so you can use it on the couch or in bed without struggling to find an outlet that's close enough. While we haven't tested it in our Labs yet, this heating pad has racked up over 71K reviews and a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, where reviewers make note of the brand's exceptional customer service and the product's solid overall performance.

It may be super-affordable, but this heating pad from Sunbeam is a highly versatile option that'll soothe sore muscles and joint pain. Use it like you would any other traditional heating pad, or, for deeper pain relief, you can spray the cover with water and reap the benefits of moist heat, according to the brand. While it only has three heat settings (low, medium and high), our experts like that it’s offered in both standard and extra-large sizes and features a long 9-foot cord for convenient use . While the price is unbeatable, the polyester exterior won’t be quite as comfortable as other heating pads. If you prefer a softer feel and can pay a bit more, the Premium King Size Heating Pad is another excellent choice from Sunbeam, featuring a softer pad along with six heat settings.

Pure Enrichment Neck & Shoulders Heating Pad

Perfectly contoured for your neck and shoulders, this dedicated heating pad drapes over the area to target muscles where they ache the most. It features four temperature settings, so you can choose the right amount of heat for you. You can also use dry or moist heat, according to the brand. We haven't formally tested this pick in our Labs, but Pure Enrichment makes some of the most popular heating pads on the market, and our experts love how well you can cozy up with this pick. The super soft and plush exterior feels a lot like a soothing version of your favorite sweatshirt or blanket. Plus, the heating pad has a 9-foot power cord that affords you flexibility to move about or sit some distance from the nearest outlet. Unfortunately, there's no auto-shutoff feature on this budget-friendly pick.

If you're struggling with joint pain caused by a condition like pregnancy or arthritis, our experts say a wrap is a great solution, as it secures around the leg or arm for targeted pain relief . We love that this option has the ability to both heat and cool, since it offers dual relief. When using for heat, you can toggle through three temperature settings on the electric heating pad; when using for cold therapy, simply slip a frozen ice pack inside the interior sleeve. For deeper pain relief, you can also use moist heat by spraying the pad with water prior to heating, according to the brand. The cord is long enough to afford some flexibility, but on the downside, some reviewers claim that it's relatively heavy and tends to get in the way unless you're sitting very still.

With more than 19K reviews, this 4.4-star heating pad is another relatively budget-friendly pick and one of the most popular on Amazon. While we haven’t tested it in our Labs yet, we like that this machine-washable electric heating pad warms up to its hottest setting in under 30 seconds, according to the brand, and that it’s made of a soft and fuzzy material for a comfortable, soothing experience. The extra-large size is ideal for versatile use all over the body, but ideal for large areas like the lower back, neck and shoulders or to soothe sciatica in pregnancy. As a nice bonus, the brand says you can also use a moist heat therapy method in tandem with low, medium or high heat, if desired.

Unlike other heating pads, this pick from UTK is composed of 52 jade and 20 tourmaline stones , which the brand claims benefit the body while heating up any sore muscles or cramps. Though we haven't tested those claims, our experts love that this heating pad comes in a large size to cover a lot of surface area — great for lower back pain and sciatica. You can even wrap it around your leg to soothe a sore knee or hip. We also love that you can pick the exact temperature you want to heat it up to on the controller. The hottest setting reaches temperatures above 100 degrees. There’s also a memory function, so you can save your favorite settings for future use, such as temperature and amount of time.

When you're menstruating, a heating pad is a good for cramps. Not only is this polyester heating pad the perfect size for placing on your abdomen, but it also gives off comfy vibes — ripe for snuggling while the heat soothes the zings in your belly. Customers can't get enough of the cute design and neither can we — just look at the bear's smile! It's easy to operate, too. All you have to do is remove the the interior flax seed- and lavender-filled pouch and place it in the microwave for one minute before replacing inside the plushie for a warm squeeze. Unfortunately, it doesn't get as hot as other options, particularly electric heating pads. But on the upside, y ou can also leave it in the freezer if you want to cool off instead.

If you’re a fan of weighted blankets , this heating pad is a great 2-in-1 pick. It features nine heat levels to choose from and a memory function to remember your favorite settings. It’s also safe to bring to bed with 11 auto-off timers, ranging from 30 minutes to nine hours . This makes it an exceptionally great pick for period cramps, since you can lay the pad over yourself like a blanket while the heat soothes the pain. While we haven’t reviewed this pick in our Labs yet, we love that this heating pad is made of soft flannel polyester that’s machine washable for easy care. We also like that the interior is composed of 2.2 pounds of glass beads to help distribute weight evenly across your body and provide just the right amount of pressure.

If you’d prefer to avoid dealing with the hassle of cords and electrical outlets, a hot water bottle is a great option for soothing pain, cramps and soreness. Offered in several bright colors along with a knit sleeve, all you have to do is add hot water , tighten the top and you’re good to go. You can also use the water bottle as a cold compress for any swelling, making this option a great choice for pregnancy. When handling hot water, our experts stress the importance of safety and recommend being extremely careful to ensure the lid is safely fastened before use.

How we chose the best heating pads

While we haven't formally tested heating pads in the Lab, the Good Housekeeping Institute’s product testing experts and engineers know what to look for when it comes to buying a good heating pad: a variety of heat settings, auto-shut-off features, safety certifications, cord length, materials and size are the main criteria we considered. To make our recommendations, we looked for brands that typically perform well in our evaluations or materials with which our experts have experience , features that would be most useful and top consumer reviews with feedback on ease of use and cleaning.

What to look for when shopping for a heating pad

✔️ Electric vs. non-electric: The first question to ask yourself before purchasing a heating pad is whether you want one that uses electricity or one that can be heated up in the microwave. The advantage of an electric heating pad is being able to quickly and easily adjust how much heat you need at any given time, though you’ll need to plug it into an electrical socket. Fortunately, most electric heating pads come with an auto-shutoff setting after two hours, in case you fall asleep or forget to turn it off. A microwavable or non-electric heating pad, on the other hand, oftentimes comes stuffed with material that can be heated up in the microwave, or in the case of hot wattle bottles, filled with hot water.

✔️ Safety: If purchasing an electric heating pad, it’s important to check whether the product has a third-party safety certification like UL and whether it features an auto-shutoff. In addition to following instructions, our experts recommend taking a few important safety measures before using heat therapy: First, start on the lowest level and gradually increase the heat intensity. Second, never apply a heating pad directly to your skin; instead, try wrapping it in a towel or cloth before applying. When it comes to microwavable heating pads, Lexie Sachs , executive director of the GH Institute Textiles Lab, warns that these are “easier to accidentally overheat if you don’t follow directions properly, so make sure to adhere to any warnings and instructions from the manufacturer.”

✔️ Size: When it comes to heating pads, size matters. Do you want a heating pad that’s smaller and specifically for period cramps and joint pain around the elbows or knees, or would you prefer a larger heating pad that covers a wider surface of your body area for days when you have lower back pain, a stiff neck or sciatica pain? If the latter, an extra-large size might be the best option for you.

✔️ Material: Heating pads come in a range of shapes, sizes and materials. Typically, electric heating pads are made from polyester and fabrications like microplush or even flannel are generally regarded as the best material for heating pads, since they're softer and more comfortable to wear or drape over yourself. Microwaveable heating pads or non-electric heating pads like hot water bottles are generally made of plastic, which can then be wrapped with a softer cover of your choice.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

At the GH Institute, Media & Tech Reviews Analyst (and frequent heating pad user) Olivia Lipski tests and reviews all of the best gadgets to hit the market, from electric bikes to home robots . With a B.A. from George Washington University and a Master’s in Communications from Sciences Po Paris, Olivia is dedicated to staying on top of the industry’s latest innovations in order to help GH readers make better buying decisions.

Brigitt Earley , a writer and editor with over 15 years of experience writing about home products and electronics, also contributed to this piece. She worked under the guidance of experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute to research and review the heating pads recommended in this story.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.

Karen Litzy, P.T., D.P.T. is a licensed physical therapist, international speaker, and owner of Karen Litzy Physical Therapy, PLLC. Through her work as a physical therapist, she has helped thousands of people, including Fortune 500 CEOs, royalty and celebrities, overcome painful conditions, recover from surgery, and feel stronger than ever before. As the host Healthy Wealthy & Smart, a top 200 podcast, on Apple Podcasts, she has interviewed influencers in the worlds of health, medicine and entrepreneurship. She also shares how she has prevailed with her own experience of chronic pain.

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Pure Enrichment®

Purerelief deluxe heating pad.

15% Off Orders $60+

Relax and unwind with the PureRelief Deluxe Heating Pad from Pure Enrichment. This electric pad provides a natural alternative to pain relief with therapeutic heat. Easily treat life’s common discomforts, like backaches, and sore muscles with this soft and durable pad. Choose from 4 fast heating temperatures providing comfort to your lap, back, chest, or shoulders. Help reduce stress, soothe anxiety, and enhance relaxation in any setting with this pad at home, school, or work. 

• Therapeutic 12” x 24” Heating Pad : Provides targeted heat therapy for the back, shoulders, abdomen, legs, and other large muscle groups.
• 4 InstaHeat ™ Settings: Choose the level of warmth that works best for you with settings that range from 110℉ to 140℉.
• Ultra-Soft Microplush: For an added aesthetic finish the beautiful rain blue color makes this high-quality fabric pleasing to look at and touch.
• Automatic Shut-Off: Convenient 2 hour shut-off conserves energy and ensures your pad never overheats.
• Extra-Long Cord: A 9 ft cord makes using this pad on your bed, couch, or favorite chair a breeze.
• Machine-Washable: Keep your pad looking as new as the day you purchased it by machine washing when needed.

PureRelief® Deluxe Heating Pad is backed by Pure Enrichment’s industry-leading 5 Year Warranty, so your satisfaction is guaranteed.

great quality

I love my heating pad I use it every night and it is nice and long to cover the whole spine

comfortable and perfect for everyday use

This is my second heating pad with the Pure Enrichment and the quality and comfort of their pads is amazing. No poking plastic or cover to deal with - just plug in and enjoy. The size is perfect of use on any part of your body.

- Thomas J. M.

wouldn't buy anything else!!

This is the second heating pad I've bought from you. Plan on getting another one to keep by my bed. Have one at each house. Have lower back pain and have it plugged in by my chair in the living room. Love it!! Have recommended to others.

- Kris S.

great heating pad!

I love this heating pad! My cousin had one and after visiting her, I knew I had to get one. The size is great, since it fits across my back so well. I also like how fast it heats up. My old heating pad was one of the old ones that was plastic with a cover (that kept coming off). This heating pad is so soft and I can't say how great it is.

- Neta

I love this heating pad

I love this heating pad I love the fact that it fits my entire back and with the 4 settings

- Diane D.

Product Features

InstaHeat Technology

Super-Soft Microplush

2-Hour Auto Shut-Off

Year Warranty

Product specifications.

Auto Shut-Off Timer

Model no. / upc, what’s in the box, you may also like.

PureRelief XL – King Size Heating Pad $34.99

PureRelief XL Extra-Long Back & Neck Heating Pad $49.99

PureRelief XXL Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad $44.99

PureRelief Universal Joint And Muscle Heating Pad $39.99

MistAire™ Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier $39.99

PureRelief™ Deluxe Foot Warmer $49.99

PureRelief Lumbar & Abdominal Heating Pad $39.99

PureRelief® Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad $34.99

PureRelief Plush Heated Throw Blanket $69.99

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5 best reptile heating pads to keep your little friend warm

Lizards, snakes, turtles, and tortoises are all reptiles, which means they have a few specific needs you’ll want to think about before bringing them home. Most importantly, most reptiles are cold-blooded, meaning they can’t make their own body heat and instead need to absorb heat from the environment around them. As you might guess, this means they like warm, sunny places to bask in order to keep their temperature (and therefore their energy level) up. When you bring home a reptile, it’s important to make sure you have a heating pad or your animal will quickly get too cold and might even slip into hibernation. Not sure where to start? Here are some of the best reptile heating pads. 

• Tikaton Reptile Heat Pad – Temperature Adjustable Under Tank Heater

FREESEA Aquarium Heater Fish Tank Submersible Heater (50W/75W/100W) with LED Temperature Display

Kabasi reptile heating pad, 14w / 20w waterproof reptile heat pad under tank terrarium with temperature control, the best reptile heating pad with thermostat: ipower reptile heat pad 4w/8w/16w/24w under tank terrarium warmer, repticare rock heatermini, tikaton reptile heat pad – temperature adjustable under tank heater.

A versatile heating pad, this one can go under the tank or stick to the side to diffuse heat. It’s important to note, though, that placing any heating pad on top of furniture could cause permanent damage as they’re really only made to go on glass or another temperature-resistant material. There are also two different sizes you can choose from depending on your housing and setup. We do recommend putting the heater on one side rather than the front or back, which allows a more secluded basking area that warms a section of the tank rather than the whole thing. A user loves the fact that it can be adjusted to different temperatures, remarking, “Works great! Nice heat control. Purchased this to use with our leopard gecko, works great for a 10 gallon tank. Highly recommend!!!”

We know it’s for fish, but hear us out. This one works great for any marine reptiles that really need a heater that can be immersed in the water to heat it a little better. While you absolutely want warmer and cooler areas, you do need a baseline water temperature that won’t get too low and cause your aquatic turtle to go into a stupor. Unlike other heating pads that don’t do well in water, this one has to be submerged. It runs very efficiently, shutting off when the water reaches the desired temperature and turning back on when it drops, just like the thermostat in your house. Commenters mention that even though it’s really designed for fish, it’s still “Turtle approved,” and one fan even remarks, “My hatchlings love to float over top of it, and they even sleep on it sometimes!”

This highly energy-efficient and energy-saving heating pad “W orks perfectly, ” according to one reviewer. It goes underneath the tank but does a good job of warming the substrate and delivering heat into the housing. While the pad cannot go in the water itself for long periods of time, you can feel free to clean it with a damp rag since it’s mostly waterproof. Your beardie, leopard gecko, or tortoise will thank you for keeping them safe and toasty. Remember to include a thermometer and hygrometer so you don’t overheat or under-moisten your habitat.

The ultimate in a thermometer and heating pad mix, this one’s temperature is controlled so you can choose your setting and monitor your tank as needed. It displays the temperature as either Fahrenheit or Celsius and has a range between 40 and 108 degrees, which means you can warm to just about any level that you need for your animal (and make sure that it stays there). You’ll also have better insulation across the mat so it works well if you need something a bit more uniform or want to heat a larger area. A happy corn snake owner highly recommends this heating pad and says, “The heat pad hasn’t fallen off & provides good heat throughout the night.”

More than just a heating pad, this “ Awesome Secondary Heat Source, ” as one happy reviewer puts it, will look good and add a little warmth to your tank. Keep in mind, unlike many pads, it doesn’t have any form of temperature control and some users mention that they cover it just to make sure it doesn’t wind up burning their pets. One extra bonus is that you can add it as part of the decor and it won’t burn your furniture or block your view of your animal as some others will. Even birds and mammals like this, and it’s great for bearded dragons or box turtles too (although it is not a good fit for marine reptiles).

No matter what kind of reptile you have, it probably requires some type of heat source, but keep in mind these aren’t your only options. You can also look into heating lamps, which some species seem to prefer. Many owners note, though, that it can come down to a particular animal eschewing the main heating source and loving something else, with very little ability to predict what any individual will take to. Some lamps allow for a more localized heated region for basking, but the pad will do a better job at evenly distributing the warmth. It really all depends on your needs, your pet’s needs, and your setup. 

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You've been familiar with dog years, and you've heard that cats have nine lives. But what do you know about reptiles?

The class Reptilia is a diverse group of animals that range from the tiniest lizards to the largest turtles. They're the distant evolutionary cousin of birds defined by a few unique characteristics, including the internal fertilization of their young and scales covering at least part of their bodies (via Britannica). Apart from these essential traits, reptiles are incredibly variable and can only be classified into a few large groups.

Everyone understands that Fido needs to be walked, typically multiple times per day. But many other animals enjoy an excursion to the great outdoors too — we've all seen cute pics of cats, bunnies, and even ferrets rocking a leash. Want to give it a try with your lizard? It is possible to walk a bearded dragon, and both of you can enjoy the experience, provided you don't have dog-level expectations. It might take a little extra preparation, but with the right equipment, you can take a trip out to explore the wide world together. 

Do beardies like to go on walks? Well, define walks. You won't be able to take your reptile out and do laps with him around the neighborhood. Make sure you only intend to go for a tiny outing and that you start really small. Truth be told, he'll probably just look around a little bit and then decide to go back inside where it's temperature and humidity-controlled and there's unlimited free food. But you may find that he looks forward to these short jaunts into his natural habitat. If that winds up being the case, you should continue them even though it's not the same as a "real" romp. What type of harness does my bearded dragon need? Especially at first, you'll need some way to secure your animal, and that's where the harness comes in. Just as you'd put your dog or cat on a leash attached to a collar, so too you need something to maintain control and keep track of your reptile. Don't go outside without something to keep him close by since it only takes seconds to lose track of your pet, who can get away quickly and go under or over things you can't. Some of these contraptions come in different sizes, and you can try a few out and see what works best for the both of you. Choose one specifically for this species, though — do not repurpose a mammal harness or try to make your own if he hasn't tried it out yet. You need him to stay secure for the entirety of your expedition. How do I know if my beardie is comfortable? You certainly want to ensure that the harness fits and that you aren't dragging him around, much as you would with any other pet. On top of that, though, check the temp outside before scheduling your journey. It needs to be extremely warm for him to do well outdoors. As in, well into the 80s preferably with a gentle sun beating down. Don't go out in the rain or cold as that does not match his natural habitat, which is often the desert and other warm climates. However, he also needs the opportunity for a cooldown at a moment's notice. Stay within reach of some shade as that will allow him to escape there as needed. Along these lines, keep the walks short to start, maybe five or 10 minutes until you adjust to his preference. 

You probably learned in 3rd grade what an amphibian is: an animal that lives both in the water and on land; the name even has the Greek word for "both," "amphi," in it. But as with all things, it's actually a little more complicated than the explanation we got in elementary school. Of course, lots of animals would fit this description that definitely are not amphibians. After all, otters and penguins live on water and land, but they certainly don't qualify. It's especially tricky to distinguish between reptiles and amphibians since they share so many characteristics in common. So how do we tell them apart? Are turtles really reptiles or amphibians? This is how it all works. 

What makes reptiles and amphibians special? Like humans, fish, and birds, reptiles and amphibians are both vertebrates. This means we all have backbones, unlike bugs or jellyfish. Most birds and mammals live on land; fish spend the majority of their lives in water. But the other groups are special because they get a little of each (we'll break that down in a minute). Additionally, these guys are cold-blooded while humans are warm-blooded. That means we make our own heat and need sweaters and blankets to trap it on or sweat to cool it off. Reptiles absorb heat from their environments, so you typically see them choosing to live in warmer climates and hibernating in winter. However, there are a few key differences between reptiles and amphibians. 

Best overall

Best for travel, best for large dogs.

• How we tested

The 3 best dog cooling mats and pads of 2024

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Many dogs, including my own, like to lie outside and take in the fresh air even on hot days. But it's important to make sure they don't overheat. I set out to find the best dog cooling mats and pads to help my dogs beat the heat when temperatures rise, whether they're in the backyard, their crates, or road tripping.

I tested five of the most popular cooling mats with my dogs at my home in the Pacific Northwest during a heat wave, with temperatures hovering around 100 degrees. My two senior hounds sometimes struggle with the heat — my almost 15-year-old beagle mix, Sherman, and Walter, my 9-year-old dachshund. My top pick is the K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III , which you fill with water to create a long-lasting cooling effect. It has a foam core for extra comfort.

Just like with any mat or bed, you should supervise your dog the first few times they use one of these. Cooling mats are either filled with water or a nontoxic heat-absorbing gel. Dr. Krista Miller, a veterinarian also known as Dope Black Vet on YouTube , says it's important to make sure your dog doesn't consume the gel contents, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and potential allergic reactions. Although you might think a cooling pad can be used in direct sunlight, you can't leave these mats in the sun because it will reduce their performance.

Read more about  how Insider Reviews tests and evaluates pet products .

Our top picks for the best dog cooling mats and pads

Best overall: K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III - See at Amazon

Best for travel: Green Pet Cool Pet Pad - See at Chewy

Best for large dogs: Arf Pets Self-Cooling Solid Gel Pad - See at Chewy

The K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III not only cools your dog off, but its foam core also provides extra comfort.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Foam core and water provide cushioning
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Less expensive than gel mats
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Works continuously without the need to recharge
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No weight limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Must fill with water
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Need to drain before storing
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Too small for very large and giant breeds

The K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III is excellent for indoor and outdoor use in temperatures up to 95 degrees. When placed in the shade, it remains at ambient air temperature, keeping the bed cooler than a dog's normal body temperature of 99.5 to 102.5 degrees. My dogs and I like this cooling pad the best because the foam core and water provide extra cushioning and support like the best dog beds .

To set up the bed, you'll have to remove the cap from the spout on the bottom, fill it with the recommended amount of water, replace the cap, then adjust the pad's air valve. When filled with water, the bed measures about 1.5 inches high. You can move it around, but you'll need to handle it carefully. The manufacturer's directions explain how to lift it — most importantly, you should not pick it up by the corners because the foam core can bunch up. 

My dogs often hang out in the kitchen, so whenever I turn off the air conditioning and open the sliding door, I lay it on the floor for them. The bed performed well both on the kitchen tile and outdoors in the shade. When filled with water, it's pretty heavy, so there's no chance it'll slip on smooth surfaces. The nylon/vinyl cover is soft, and the water distributes evenly throughout the pad so dogs can balance comfortably. Make sure your dog's nails are trimmed short so the cover doesn't tear if they like to dig before lying down.

If you travel with this mat, you'll need to drain the water to make it lighter and more portable. I used a damp towel to clean it and let it air-dry on the porch. The cover is also mold and mildew-resistant.

The Green Pet Cool Pet Pad is the best mat for keeping dogs cool on the go.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Wide range of sizes
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Suitable for dogs under 8 pounds
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can place in refrigerator for faster recharging
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Easily folds up for storage and travel
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No setup required
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Protective cover available for purchase
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lacks cushioning

The Green Pet Cool Pet Pad contains a patented pressure-activated gel that absorbs a dog's body heat to keep them cool for up to three hours. Because this thin mat is divided into sections, you can easily fold it up for travel and storage. Plus, it's available in a range of sizes to fit most dogs and crates, including an extra-small size for toy breeds. 

The brand recommends using it indoors and out of direct sunlight. I tested it both indoors and outside in the shade. Outdoors, it still helped cool my dogs. I took it on a camping trip, where it remained cool for the entire hour my dog lay on it.

The mat's nylon covering is very soft but also quite slick. If your dog runs across it, it could easily slide out from underneath them. Therefore, I recommend placing it on a softer surface where it won't slide.

The mat was easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. A machine-washable cover is also available for purchase, but I did not test it for this guide. 

The Arf Pets Self-Cooling Mat cools for up to three hours and is perfectly sized for dog crates.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in extra large size for large and giant breeds
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No warranty

The Arf Pets Pad uses gel technology similar to The Green Pet Shop mat, absorbing a dog's body heat to keep them cool for up to three hours. In testing, the two mats had the same cooling and recharging abilities. However, the Arf Pets Pad is the clear winner for this category because it's available in a 33-by-55-inch size not offered by other brands I tested. It's also a half-inch thick, with a bit more cushioning than the thinner Green Pet mat.

I used this mat in one of my dog's crates during a nearly three-hour car ride. The mat was still cool at the end of our trip. I also tested it on the floor in my kitchen, which is next to an outdoor deck. Typically, my dogs come in from the deck and immediately lie on the cool tile floor. When the mat was on the floor, they often chose it over the cool tiles.

The vinyl covering is stain-resistant. The manufacturer says to wipe down the mat with warm soap and water. I used a damp cloth to remove the dirt left behind from my dog's paws. The material is very soft, so you'll need to keep your dog's nails well-trimmed. Dogs that like to dig in their beds may accidentally tear this pad if unsupervised.

How we tested the best dog cooling mats and pads

The best dog cooling mats and pads in this guide were provided as editorial review samples by their manufacturers. I tested each mat was tested for at least one month and evaluated according to the following criteria. 

Keeping dogs cool on hot days: The most important test is how long each pad stays cool in a warm environment whether indoors or outside. I left the mats in the shade for an hour, then checked to see how cool they remained. After bringing them indoors, I also checked them every 15 minutes to determine how long each one took to recharge.

Material and weathering outside in the shade: I evaluated the best cooling mats and pads based on the durability of their materials and whether or not they could stand up to dirt and a dog's nails. 

Ease of cleaning: All of the mats came with manufacturer cleaning instructions. I washed each pad according to its instructions to see how easily it came clean.

Overall comfort:   All five mats tested were placed in the shade, and I let my dogs choose among them. Over a month, it was evident which mats they preferred when the temperatures rose.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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Money blog: Avocados 'laser-tattooed' in supermarket trial; Netflix users warned of scam

Lasers are being used to "tattoo" barcodes onto extra large avocados to replace stickers at Tesco. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news below, and leave your thoughts in the comments box.

Friday 31 May 2024 21:00, UK

• First-time buyers urged to consider building societies over banks
• Netflix users warned of scam
• Avocados 'laser-tattooed' in supermarket trial
• Drivers unaware as Low Emission Zone fines go live in Scotland

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An investigation has been launched into whether the biggest banking merger since the financial crisis could harm competition.

The Competition and Markets Authority announced the inquiry into Nationwide's £2.9bn takeover of rival Virgin Money this morning.

The move would bring together the fifth and sixth largest retail lenders, creating a combined group with around 24.5 million customers and nearly 700 branches.

It would spell the end of the Virgin Money brand, with Nationwide planning to rebrand the business within six years.

The CMA has invited interested parties to give their views on the deal, as it considers whether it could "result in a substantial lessening of competition" in the market.

Nationwide struck the takeover agreement in March, and last week a clear majority of 89% of Virgin Money shareholders voted in favour, helping to clear the path to complete.

The government has sold £1.24bn of its shares in NatWest, accelerating the process of private ownership.

The Treasury's shareholding in the high street bank has fallen by approximately 3.5 percentage points to 22.5%.

NatWest, formerly Royal Bank of Scotland, received multibillion-pound bailouts during the 2008 financial crisis, leaving the government with an 84% stake.

The government has been selling down its stake in the lender, with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt planning to sell all of its interest in the bank by 2025 or 2026 should the Conservatives be re-elected.

There was supposed to be a public share sale this summer, allowing individuals, not just institutional investors, to purchase stock, but the plans have been shelved due to the election.

In recent years, the sell-off has become more rapid. In 2018, the government owned 62% of the group, but by December of last year that was down to just under 38%.

In March, that fell below 30%, meaning the government was no longer classed as a controlling shareholder in the lender.

Earlier this year, NatWest wrote to shareholders asking them to support an increase in the amount of stock the bank could buy back from the government in a year, from just under 5% to 15%.

The establishment of Great British Energy is among the last remnants of the "green prosperity plan" devised and championed by Ed Miliband, the shadow secretary of state for energy security and net zero, three years ago.

The former Labour leader's vision was to spend £28bn per year in the first five years of an incoming Labour government on decarbonising the UK economy.

However, as the current leader Sir Keir Starmer recognised, the issue was swiftly weaponised by the Conservatives because all the money - as Mr Miliband himself had made clear - would have been borrowed.

More importantly, the plan did not survive contact with Rachel Reeves, the shadow chancellor, who has made fiscal responsibility her priority.

The £28bn-a-year spending pledge was watered down in February this year to one of £23.7bn over the life of the next parliament.

A sizeable chunk of that will be on Great British Energy, described by Mr Miliband as "a new publicly owned clean power company", which Labour has said will be initially capitalised at £8.3bn.

And, instead of the money being borrowed, Labour is now saying "it will be funded by asking the big oil and gas companies to pay their fair share through a proper windfall tax".

Read on  here... 

Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee are joining Glasgow as cities with Low Emission Zones where motorists could face fines up to £480 if they don't comply.

The zones were introduced two years ago, but drivers were given a grace period before charges began.

In Dundee, the grace period ended today - in Edinburgh and Aberdeen it's tomorrow.

A non-compliant vehicle entering the zone can be charged £60, which doubles with each subsequent breach up to a maximum of £480.

If paid within 14 days, the initial fine will be halved to £30.

Despite the warning, only 55% of drivers in Scotland are confident they know where the zones are in operation, according to online marketplace Carwow.

Some 30% of Scottish motorists are not sure if they understand the rules and 24% are not sure if their vehicle is compliant.

"We therefore need to tackle the lack of understanding among motorists about Low Emission Zones in Scotland – where they are and which cars are compliant - because, without better knowledge, millions of drivers are at risk of being fined," said Sally Foote, chief commercial officer at Carwow.

The Low Emission Zones aim to discourage high-polluting vehicles from entering certain areas, just like those in English cities like Sheffield and Bristol.

Unlike English Clean Air Zones, Scottish LEZs apply to all types of vehicles except motorbikes and mopeds.

Non-compliant vehicles are not allowed into those zones whatsoever, unlike English LEZs, which apply a daily charge.

Ultra-low emission vehicles are automatically compliant, but others must conform to certain Euro emission ratings, which can be found in your V5C logbook - or you can check online.

Cars, vans, minibuses, taxis and private hire vehicles with a petrol engine must have at least a Euro 4 rating, while those with diesel engines should have a Euro 6.

Grants are available to people living within 20km of a LEZ who have no other choice but to sell or adapt their vehicles.

Hackers say they have stolen confidential information from all Santander staff and millions of customers, reports the BBC.

A gang going by the name of ShinyHunters posted an advert on a hacking forum claiming to be selling 30 million people's bank account details, six million account numbers and balances, 28 million credit card numbers and HR information for staff.

Earlier this month, the bank said data was accessed belonging to customers in Chile, Spain and Uruguay and all current Santander employees, but nothing that would allow transactions to take place.

As of March, Sandander as a whole employed more than 211,000 people and as of 30 June 2021, 20,900 employees worked for Santander UK.

Santander has declined to comment on the claims beyond a statement released on 14 May.

It read: "Certain information relating to customers of Santander Chile, Spain and Uruguay, as well as all current and some former Santander employees of the group had been accessed.

"No transactional data, nor any credentials that would allow transactions to take place on accounts are contained in the database, including online banking details and passwords. The bank's operations and systems are not affected, so customers can continue to transact securely.

"We apologise for the concern this will understandably cause and are proactively contacting affected customers and employees directly."

ShinyHunters have previously sold data stolen from AT&T and claim to be selling private data hacked from Ticketmaster, the BBC reported.

Lasers are being used to "tattoo" barcodes onto extra large avocados to replace stickers at a UK supermarket.

High-powered beams will draw the Tesco logo by removing a tiny section of the top layer of the skin in a trial designed to be environmentally friendly. 

The etching, directed by a computer program, takes a third of a second to mark an avocado, 70 million of which Tesco sells a year.

Customers at approximately 270 Tesco stores in southeast England will see the new avocados and – if feedback is positive – they will be rolled out across all stores.

Tesco said it could save nearly a million plastic stickers on its loose extra-large avocados, based on current sales information.

"We're really excited to hear customer feedback on our new laser-etched avocados, avoiding the need for a barcode sticker that can easily be forgotten and left on when recycling through household food waste," said Tesco avocado buyer Lisa Gilbey.

The trial also includes replacing the plastic tray packaging for two of its most popular avocado lines and moving to a cardboard container that is easier to recycle.

Westfalia Fruit, which supplies avocados to Tesco, said this could save more than 20 million pieces of plastic tray packaging from the twin-pack avocado alone, increasing up to 25 million pieces across the pre-packed range.

The laser-etched avocados will be in all stores taking part in the trial this weekend.

Income growth over the last 15 years has been the "worst in generations", according to a report.

Pay packets would be 24% higher for the average Briton if incomes had risen at the same rate since 2009-10 as they did prior, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) found.

Real average earnings this year are expected to be 4% higher than in 2019–20, but disposable incomes will be broadly unchanged due to higher mortgage payments, tax rises and falling employment, the IFS said.

"Although there has been a widespread slowdown in growth internationally since the financial crisis, the UK has fallen from being one of the fastest growers prior to the Great Recession, to one of the weakest performers," said Tom Waters, an author of the report and an associate director at IFS.

UK income growth lagged behind comparable nations between 2007 and 2019, coming 10th out of 14 countries analysed by the IFS.

At 6% growth, the UK was performing half as well as the US, and well below the 30% that could be expected in a similar time period pre-recession.

Germany outstripped the UK by some margin at 16% growth, while only France, Spain and Greece recorded a lower rate.

Between 2019 and 2023, UK incomes fell by 0.5%, the third worst growth among 12 countries for which there was available data.

"Living standards have languished for more than a decade," said Mubin Haq, chief executive of the abrdn Financial Fairness Trust.

"On a range of measures, UK performance has been weak, especially in comparison to other wealthy countries. The danger is that stagnation becomes the new normal. 

"This is in no one's interests and stunts too many futures and too many lives."

Netflix subscribers are being urged to be wary of suspicious emails or texts claiming to be from the streaming giant.

Customers have reported being contacted by scammers claiming to be Netflix, asking for payments or stating there are problems with their account. 

Under no circumstances should links be clicked on in any suspicious-looking messages, consumers have been warned. 

Recent figures cited by Birmingham Live showed victims of scams lost £1,730 on average, with around half saying they were left feeling angry with themselves or "stupid".

Netflix issued a message to millions of its customers: "If you get an email or text message (SMS) asking for your Netflix account email, phone, password, or payment method it probably didn't come from Netflix.

"We'll never ask for payment through a third party vendor or website. 

"If the text or email links to a URL that you don't recognise, don't tap or click it. If you did already, do not enter any information on the website that opened.

"Scammers can't get information from you unless you give it to them. So don't click any links in the messages or reply to them."

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

JD Sports is one of the big losers on the stock market this morning after its shares plunged more than 12% in early UK trading.

It comes after the sportswear retailer released its results for the year to January on Friday - and revealed it had suffered an 8% drop in pre-tax profits.

Revenues also dropped by 8.3% to £3.51bn over the 12 months - but its organic sales grew by 9%.

Despite the figures, the chain's chief executive Regis Schultz hailed the company's "strong" performance in what he described as a "challenging market".

In other markets news, the government has sold £1.24bn of its shares in NatWest.

The Treasury's stake in the high street staple has fallen by around 3.5 percentage points to 22.5% as a result of the move.

The bank received several multibillion-pound bailouts during the 2008/09 financial crisis and is being gradually returned to private ownership.

However, a public share sale planned for this summer has been postponed because of the upcoming general election - as Sky News revealed last week.

Overall, there's little change on the FTSE 100 this Friday morning.

It's down 0.3% as investors await inflation news in the US and Europe which could impact on potential interest rate cuts.

On the currency markets, £1 buys $1.27 US or €1.17 - similar to yesterday's rates.

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iPower Reptile Heat Pad 4W/8W/16W/24W Under Tank Terrarium Warmer Heating Mat and Digital Thermostat Controller for Turtles Lizards Frogs and Other Small Animals, Multi Sizes

4" x 7"

4" x 7"-New

6" x 8"

8" x 12"

8" x 18"

Purchase options and add-ons

• Variety of uses: perfect for reptile, lizard, amphibian, small animal or plant terrariums. Also perfect for germination, home brewing, or Kampuchea Tea.
• Energy efficient: new PTC heating material and insulation increases overall heat transfer uniformly across the mat. Reach desired temperatures within minutes
• 3M adhesive Paper: 3M adhesive Paper of the heat Mat provides a strong grip to the contact area for optimum heat transfer. The heat Mat stays exactly where you want it.
• Specifications: 8" X 12" Size, 120 volts, 16 watts, 6 ft. Power cord, US standard plug and No adapter needed.
• Package included: 1 pack 8" x 12" Reptile Heating Pad

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From the manufacturer

PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE PURCHASING AND USING.

The Following Actions are PROHIBITED:

• Folding or Multiple Heating Pad Overlay.
• Using It in the Wrong Voltage Environment.
• Cover All Areas of The Heating Pad.

WARNING: Risk of Electric Shock.

• The Reptile Heat Pad is for indoor use only. Do not submerge the heat pad for any reason.
• Inspect cord periodically. Do not use if cord is damaged or frayed.

WARNING: Risk of Fire.

• The side mounting of the Reptile Heat Pad is the preferred application. Please leave your pet heating pad with a cooling area.

Placement of Terrarium:

• Do not place on heat sensitive surfaces (i.e. antique furniture, plastic, carpet, etc...)
• Do not place the terrarium where it may receive direct sunlight.

The heating pad uses positive temperature coefficient (PTC) ink technology, and its characteristic is that the resistivity increases as the temperature rises.

When the resistivity reaches a certain level, the resistance will effectively block the current and prevent further heating of the material, avoiding overheating, achieving self-heating temperature control.

One of the Leading Professional Supplier Over a Decade

• Our goal is to put a light in every garden where needed.
• We only provide the premium quality components and reliable service.

Heating pad for reptile, Under tank warmer

Provide suitable temperature for your pets..

Ideal for use with reptile, amphibian, small animals, pet, or plant terrariums.

• Size: 8"x12"; 16W; Length of cord: 6fts
• 120V US voltage and Standard Plug and No adapter needed
• Easy to clean and convenient to use
• Provide quick warm and save energy
• Waterproof and moisture proof designed
• Suitable for: turtles, snakes, lizards, Gekkonidae, small mammals, spider, crawler, etc

Product details

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 15.35 x 8.07 x 1.57 inches; 13.19 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ Reptile Heat Pad 16W Under
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ May 20, 2021
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ iPower
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B095GQMDN2
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China
• #6 in Terrarium Heat Mats

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Heat mat for reptile #reptiles #reptile

Chas @through.the.lleaves

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Product guides and documents, product description, important information, compare with similar items, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the performance and value of the pet supplies. For example, they mention it works well, is worth the money and that it's a good buy. That said, some complain about the adhesion. Opinions are mixed on heat and quality.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the pet supplies. They mention that the installation was easy, it works well, and has no problems. Some say that the output is decent but off by about 2-3 degrees.

"...It’s just the pad. I don’t prefer zoo med products however this one works fine and does the job. We shall see how it’ll hold up over time." Read more

" works perfectly " Read more

"The adhesive nearly worked (we used tape). The output is decent but off by about 2-3 degrees..." Read more

"It's been about 2 months now and it's still running great . I use it on my mourning gecko tank side for 24/7 warmth...." Read more

Customers like the value of the pet supplies. They say it's worth the money, a great product, and a good buy. Some mention that it'll see how long it lasts.

"...It’s pretty big, worth the money ." Read more

"...and healthy, so despite any mechanical difficulties... the product was a good buy (so far, we'll see how long it lasts)." Read more

"...the other iPower stuff I've bought before, but this item is a piece of junk ." Read more

"...I still gave it the second star because it's a cheap , low power heating pad which I'll still use, but I have to buy a real thermostat/controller for..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the heat of the pet supplies. Some mention that it heats better than the name brand ones and with a much better price, it sticks well and maintains temp. However, others say that it barely heats to 75° and is very un-uniform. They also say that the tanks are made out is too thick for heat to get through.

" Gets maybe a tad hot , even outdoors when I have my animal ambassadors out...." Read more

"She loves to lay flat on the heating pad, helps her regulate her body heat . It’s pretty big, worth the money." Read more

"...When I was cleaning the tank I realized that the heating pad area is really hot to the touch...." Read more

"This was very easy to set up. My lizard gecko stays warm . It doesn’t require much care." Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the pet supplies. Some mention it's a good quality product, while others say it'll detach after 3 months.

"...However, it's relatively thick plastic AND we used wood blocks to raise the cage just above the heater...." Read more

" Great product " Read more

"...Don't recommend trying to move it after it's stuck to the tank, it breaks it some and causes it to produce less heat so make sure you put it where..." Read more

"Got these for my hermit crab tank, they aren't flimsy or thin and wrinkly , they are flat firm and adhere solidly to the tank...." Read more

Customers have negative opinions about the adhesion of the pet supplies. They mention that the pad doesn't stick to melamine very well, and the mat separated from the sticky layer.

"The adhesive nearly worked (we used tape)...." Read more

"I cleaned the area to apply the heat pad but I guess the adhesive isn't strong enough I had to duct tape the heat pad to the bottom of my snake tank." Read more

"The mat separated from the sticky layer that’s supposed to keep it on and fell off of my tank...." Read more

"First day of having it attached and the adhesive failed . Would of returned but I had already thrown away box." Read more

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