How to Choose a Perfect Microwavable Heating Pad?
Are you looking for a new microwavable heating pad? Or maybe you'd like to buy one as a gift for someone? Either way, many factors dictate what microwavable heating pad works best for your purpose.
Don't fret, though! I'll be going over all these factors and more, so you can make the best decision.
What is the best fabric for heating pads?
The material used in making the heating pad should be soft and comfortable so that it does not cause irritation or discomfort. It should also be easy to clean so that there is no contamination from bacteria or germs during use. Cotton is the best fabric because it has all these qualities and is hypoallergenic!
Some companies use synthetic fabric, which could produce toxic moisture or fumes, burn the skin or cause allergic reactions. Always choose cozy, 100% cotton flannel, ideally approved by the National Cotton Council of America.
Guaranteed To Do No Harm
Look for a company that guarantees that its products do not harm. This includes both the short and long-term effects of using their product. If there is any risk, it should be clearly stated on their website and in their literature about using their product.
Unfortunately, 99% of the heating pads available today are made in China. Some even claim they are made in the US or Canada, but they are not!
Be sure that it’s truly made in Canada or US, do your homework! The easiest way to check the country of origin is to check the product availability on AliExpress or Alibaba website. If you can find it there, it's definitely made in China.
Material Sourcing
It is important to know where your products are coming from, especially regarding raw materials used in making heating pads. The best option is to buy microwavable heating pads made using raw materials from North America because they have been tested and proven safe for use in terms of health and safety concerns. This also ensures that there is no risk of any chemicals being used in making these products, which can also be hazardous to our health and environment.
Localizing supply chain represents a tremendous opportunity to help the environment. When we reduce shipping and storage, we also reduce emissions and energy usage.
Filler
Choose one with 100% locally grown grains as filler. This will ensure that you get the highest quality product possible. Locally grown products contain fewer chemicals and additives than other countries or states. They also tend to be more environmentally friendly because they don't require long transportation distances or lots of packaging during shipping. There are many options available for heating pad fillers. Be sure to purchase the type of filler best for you.
After many years of testing and research at HARTI, we found that heating pads filled with whole oats are the best option for the following reasons:
- Unlike others, it won’t mold or degrade over time.
- Whole oats filling provides the best heat retention, much better than the other option, like rice, cherry pits, flax seeds, corn, beans, or clay beads.
- The smell from the whole oats is the only one that doesn't make you feel sick. Rice, flax seeds, or other options can create a terrible, burning smell after heating in a microwave. Unlike oats that provide a comforting earthy, organic small.
- Other bags are too heavy while providing even less heat retention. HARTI uses whole oats containing all three parts of the grain - the germ, endosperm, and bran- which makes our heating pad much lighter than others while providing much better heat retention. This filling has a great balance between being shapeable, with a bit of heft, and still being lightweight and comfortable.
Size
Size is often a matter of preference. Some sizes offer ultimate flexibility, such as approximately 4 or 5 inches wide and 20 inches long. Long enough to stay around the user's neck, over a shoulder, over a knee, and so much more. Not to mention those cold winter evenings when you’d like to snuggle up to something warm to fall asleep!
Hand Sewn Or Machine-sewn
We recommend choosing a hand-sewn heating pads by seamstresses instead of machine-sewn. Sewing machines are not as accurate as humans and can cause mistakes like uneven stitching, loose threads, etc. Hand-sewn items are typically sturdier and last longer than machine-sewed ones, so they're worth the extra cost if you're looking for something that will last for years instead of months or weeks!
Always choose made with care and love.
Two Layers or One Layer?
Two layers are the best option because they allow for a thicker layer of material between you and the heat source and increase durability. Our research found that customers didn’t care for heating pads with grain sticking out and poking their skin, especially when applied to bare skin. Two layers of fabric stop this from occurring, especially when the filling is whole, perfectly cleaned oats.
It’s also nice to have options when choosing colors or patterns on your heating pad. It will make it more attractive as a gift or just something special for yourself!
How to choose packaging?
You should always look for eco-friendly packaging when buying products online. Today many manufacturers use recycled materials for packing, making it safer for the environment and consumers. This also ensures that there is no risk of any chemical exposure during the transportation of the product. More and more consumers are looking for eco-friendly solutions as a top priority for their purchases.
Always choose 100% recyclable, organic products, including the package. If you no longer need your heating pad, you can place it right into composting.
Perfect For Gift Giving
Microwavable heating pads make for excellent gifts for anyone on your list. They are great for people who have aches and pains or just want to relax after a long day at work in front of their favorite TV show. Many different colors and patterns are available, so you can choose one that matches your personality or interests.
There is hardly a better gift option than one made with love and designed to bring comfort and pain relief to family and friends.
Cold Therapy or Moist Heat?
There may be times when you prefer ice or cold therapy for your pain or comfort. The pads should be versatile enough to use for either.
Always choose a heating pads that can also be used to provide cold therapy. Cold therapy can be used to reduce pain. Cold compresses can constrict blood vessels rapidly and reduce the neurotransmission of pain.
For cold therapy you can keep your pad in the freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to use, remove the bag. Place the pads on the pain site for twenty minutes. For larger pain sites, you can use two pads simultaneously.
COLD THERAPY | HEAT THERAPY |
For the ultimate cold therapy, place your pack in a freezer-safe bag, tightly sealed and into a freezer for at least 2 hours before use | Heat the pack in a 30-second interval until the desired temperature is reached. Total heating should not exceed 2 minutes! |
Conclusion
HARTI heating pads for maximum versatility, safety, health, wellness, and more. Trust us for sourcing safe materials and creating quality products.
Choose - handmade with love!