12 Best Portable Heating Pads (Comparison & Reviews)

Many love winter for its snow-covered streets, bustling pre-Christmas shopping malls, the long-awaited holidays, and of course the cold weather. The last point can spoil the holidays, especially for those who consider themselves easy to freeze, so today we have selected for you the best portable heating pads, which will warm the frostiest days and stabilize your blood circulation and cold joints. To stay warm such cold days, you may also use a portable infrared sauna.

The best choice:

Our Top Pick
Sunbeam Heating Pad

Sunbeam Heating Pad

The pad heats up in 30 seconds for super-fast heat therapy. The 6 heat settings let you customize the level of intensity you need to begin feeling better.

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The list of the other great portable heating pads with a comparison of the main characteristics:

ItemDimensionsWeightMax TemperatureHeat Settings
Sunbeam Heating Pad

Sunbeam Heating Pad

11.81 x 8.5 x 2.76 inches1 pounds

140⁰F

6

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UTK Far Infrared Heating Pad

UTK Far Infrared Heating Pad

14.96 x 18.9 x 0.39 inches4.4 pounds159°F

6

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Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heating Pad

PureRelief Deluxe Heating Pad

11.5 x 7.72 x 2.72 inches1.41 pounds

140⁰F

4See Best Price

Thermalon Microwave Activated Moist Heating Pad

Thermalon Microwave Heating Pad

2.5 x 3 x 10 inches 1.5 pounds

microwave

1See Best Price

Comfier Massage Mat

Comfier Massage Mat

24.5 x 14 x 9.5 inches10 pounds

124ºF

5See Best Price
Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad

Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad

80 x 60 x 0.2 inches5.19 pounds140℉10See Best Price
Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder Pain Relief

Sunbeam Neck & Shoulder

14 x 0.5 x 22 inches2 pounds140⁰F

4

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ARRIS Heating Pads for Back Pain

ARRIS Heating Pads for Back Pain

9.9 x 7 x 2.6 inches1.06 pounds176℉5See Best Price
BriteLeafs Far Infrared Therapeutic Rechargeable Cordless Pain Relief Heating Pad

BriteLeafs Far Infrared

8.2 x 7.3 x 2.9 inches1.25 pounds

130⁰F

2See Best Price
BodyMed Digital Moist Heating Pad

BodyMed Digital Moist Heating Pad

27 x 14 x 1 inches 2.7 pounds

120⁰F

1See Best Price
Microwavable Corn Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack

Microwavable Heating and Cold

11 x 7.5 x 2 inches2.8 pounds

microwave

1See Best Price
Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap

Carex Bed Buddy Heat and Cooling

4.25 x 23 x 1 inches1.04 pounds

microwave

1See Best Price

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Sunbeam Heating Pad

Sunbeam Heating PadThis bestseller has been a leader in the Best Heating Pads category for several years with its over 9400 customer reviews. Why? Well, the success is owed to good value for money and a universal size, the dimensions are 12″ x 24″.

Add the rectangular shape and you’ll see that it is really convenient and practical. Unlike other specially shaped heaters (such as the neck cut ones) this model is suitable for full coverage “without gaps” around any joints.

With it, you can sleep, and warm a damaged knee or elbow. Too bad you can’t carry it under your jacket as the heater is powered from an AC outlet.

The device provides for 6 heat settings and the XpressHeat technology that completely heats the heating pad for 30 seconds. It also allows you to configure the remote therapeutic heating of various groups of muscles and joints for 2 hours ahead is integrated.

One of the main problems which the users encounter when using these best heating pads for medical purposes is that the ointments quickly stain the heater. In the case of Sunbeam, you won’t need an extra towel, as the case is detachable and washable, and doesn’t cause any issues.

As a result, this is a multi-purpose model providing rich opportunities for the treatment of joints, muscles, and with the possibility of flexible change of warmth treatments for therapeutic and domestic purposes.

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UTK Far Infrared Heating Pad

UTK Far Infrared Heating Pad UTK specializes in infrared technology. The company not only manufactures infrared products but also researches the benefits of infrared therapy. UTK’s products are FDA certified and GMP approved for medical use.

Because of the specific nature of infrared waves, this pad will penetrate much deeper than the skin level and will get both to the muscle tissues and joints.

The device comes with a digital controller that can be used to adjust heat to your comfort level (6 settings). You can also set your own automatic shut-off function for up to 4 hours by 15 minutes increments.

There’s a sophisticated memory function that remembers your last settings. So you won’t have to go through the pain of adjusting the device every time you use it. The pad comes also with a 10-ft cord. The pad is of soft PU leather and filled with 120 jade stones.

This device is pricey but it’s a great investment since most infrared pads can be used for years. Don’t expect the results after just 2-3 times of using it, allow some time for the infrared to really sink in deep into your muscles, perhaps a week for the results to be felt and seen.

Also, do not be discouraged if you do not feel enough heat right away with this device, it works well even if you just feel warmer at first. And while there’s a high risk of burns associated with electrical pads. You’re on the safe side with infrared.

The consumers were generally happy with how the product delivered, with only a handful saying the controllers didn’t work properly. But, they could be purchased separately or exchanged under warranty.

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Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heating Pad

Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heating PadPure Enrichment is a relatively new company that has already filled a niche among manufacturers of premium household appliances and personal care products and has quickly established itself as a leader in the industry.

The heating pad from Pure Enrichment has become an all-time hit and a bestseller among heating pads on the market.

Pure Enrichment heating pad is an electrical pad that utilizes both dry and moist heating. To enjoy moist therapy, just dampen the micro plus side with a sponge or spray it with a mist of water.

It’s made of super-soft microfiber that’s nicely warm and comforting to the touch. It has 6 heat settings and a 2-hour automatic shut-off feature. It comes with an LED digital controller, a 9-ft extra long cord, and a convenient storage bag.

And while we know that electrical pads do not penetrate deeper than the skin level, the pad will certainly ease mild pain and cramps.

The testers praised the wonderfully soft fabric of the pad’s cover, the simplicity of the control settings, the heat properties, and the durability of the device. The less enthusiastic consumers said that the pad was not hot or penetrated deep enough. So if you’re looking for a deeper therapy, then you have to choose something else.

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Thermalon Microwave Activated Moist Heating Pad

Thermalon Microwave Activated Moist Heating PadThe Thermalon pad has to be microwaved for 1 to 2 minutes and applied for 30 minutes to the problem area. The pad features a special Hydro Pearl technology where water molecules are absorbed from the air and stored inside the beads.

When microwaved that water is released thus providing a “moist’ heat experience. There’s no need to dampen the pad in water before heating it up, thanks to the technology.

Don’t expect miracles to happen with this type of pad, it won’t reach deep and won’t work on your joints either. If you have mild pain that seldom comes with menstruation or a strained muscle, then it would probably work.

The customer’s response was mixed with a lot of people saying it exploded in the microwave (especially when the pad touched the microwave walls), others complained that it leaked or melted.

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Comfier Massage Mat

Comfier Massage MatThis is a huge mat by Snailax that has both massage and heating modes. It looks really impressive.

The manufacturer promises 10 invigorating massage motors, 5 massage modes, 4 massaging zones, and 3 levels of intensity! It also has 4 heating pads that target 4 heating zones in the upper and lower back, thighs, and calves.

The material is a soft plush fabric that certainly enhances the comforting qualities of the mat. The customers are overwhelmingly pleased with their purchases, with a lot of people saying “it’s a keeper”, “top of the line”, “works as described”, and many others were pleasantly surprised with the quality of massage and heat.

Those who were not just as lucky to experience all the benefits of the mat said they might have received a faulty product which they had to return or exchange. The warranty covers all unpredictabilities, so I’m sure you won’t get disappointed.

But, just as with any other electrical heating do not expect thorough and deeper heat penetration, it will mildly work on the superficial areas of your body providing very light relief.

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Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad

Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad SunBeam heating bedding is a great option for those how are up for anything to avoid sleeping in a cold bed.

Although this heating mattress pad is imported, Sunbeam is a reputable business, that’s been in the industry for almost a century.

Sunbeam has its own patented technology that it calls ThermoFine® Warming System. It monitors the temperature of your body as well as the surrounding environment.

Moreover, it employs patented carbon-based polymer Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) that guarantees consistent heating. For example, if during the night your feet become cold, the PTC will sense the drop in temperature and will automatically direct extra heat to your feet. This is a truly innovative technology that only Sunbeam employs at the moment.

The mattress pad comes with an EasySet Pro Controller that has 10 heat settings and a 10-hour shut-off feature. This is very important, in case you seldom forget to switch off your devices.

The pad’s made of 100% polyester and has a generous 5 ounces of plush fill for increased comfort. The pad also features a dual-zone control in case you and your partner have different sleeping preferences.Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad 2

You won’t have to feel cold any longer the first few minutes in bed as all you’ll have to do is turn on the encasement heating and spend a minute doing your thing.

After the Sunbeam has heated the bed to reach the required temperature, it will maintain it. You can change the temperature and total heating time whenever necessary as up to 20 options are available!

There are 6 mattress pad sizes to choose from. The mattress pad itself is pleasant to touch, it doesn’t rustle and you won’t feel any wires underneath.

It’s crucial as no one wants to be the princess from “The Princess and the Pea”! Just like with the blanket, you can set 2 temperature modes for individualized comfort. You can obviously wash and clean it without being afraid to damage it.

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Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder Pain Relief

Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder Pain ReliefThis heater is one of the best heating pads for the neck and shoulders area. Unlike its analogs, Renue is securely tightened to your body.

That’s why it is great not only for heating your cold neck but also for keeping you warm while watching a movie, reading a book, or working in a cold office as this is a tech and comfortable replacement of a plaid.

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to move around while wearing this semi-poncho at home as it is powered by an outlet.

The brand XpressHeat technology is also integrated into this product. Here it provides for 4 temperature modes and can be programmed to distribute heat for two hours.

The micro plush case is identical to the top-end version one as it is soft, pleasant to the touch, and does not cause discomfort after prolonged use.

The only thing that this useful winter device is lacking is a built-in battery. We’re all too tempted to bundle up and walk around in it all winter. But as they say, good things come in small packages.

Of course, this isn’t a low-end model: its price tag higher than the top product’s one and functionality is less wide. Still, the convenience of design in comparison with the classical form cannot be underestimated. And we have not found any worthy competitors of this model too.

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ARRIS Heating Pads for Back Pain

ARRIS Heating Pads for Back PainARRIS provides you with an adjustable heating lower back wrap which can be used on the lower back, waist, abdomen, knee, or shoulders to relieve pain.

A perfect gift for Mother’s day, father’s day, or Christmas, the wrap-around belt is ideal for men and women of any age.

The far infrared technology of the ARRIS heating waist belt wrap is far better than the conventional heating pads. It has wide stick straps that brace the aching area. It is adjustable and fits well with your stomach, waist, or abdomen.

The heating level of the waist belt wrap can be adjusted with the help of a 3-level controller. Low- blue (45 degree Celsius), Medium-white (55 degree Celsius), and High-Blue (65 degree Celsius).

The heating waist belt wrap performs several functions. It promotes blood circulation, relieves tension, stress, muscle pain, stiffness, and cramping.

This particular heating pad is powered by a 5V battery which is capable of offering enough power to the heating pad.

There is an in-built thermal protection module that protects it from over-heating. If it overheats, the flow of heat stops until it returns to its standard temperature. The secure and reliable heating belt can be hand washed without worrying about electrical leakage.

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BriteLeafs Far Infrared Rechargeable Pain Relief Heating Pad

BriteLeafs Far Infrared Therapeutic Rechargeable Cordless Pain Relief Heating PadThis safe and simple to use, Brite Life far infrared therapeutic heating pad is cordless, portable, and rechargeable. Unlike traditional and conventional heating techniques, these heating pads work on far-infrared rays.

It deeply penetrates into the body (up to 3-inches), into your bones and muscles to release your pain. It loosens your muscles with its optimizing therapeutic effect.

The superior heating technology of the portable heater allows the user to use it on a lower or higher heating temperature as per your choice.

The heating pad can operate for a long period of 2-4 hours (its working duration depends on the temperature.) This Velcro tape of the heating pad provides you with a comfortable grip around the pain site and it can be extended up to 70-inches. You will be impressed by the contour and comfortable fit of the Velcro.

The middle layer of the far-infrared carbon heating pad releases far infrared waves which distribute heat and infrared waves evenly.

Brite Leafs far infrared heating pad can be used to relieve back pain, shoulder pain, stomach ache, sore muscles, arthritis, cramps, or any other kind of discomfort.

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BodyMed Digital Moist Heating Pad

BodyMed Digital Moist Heating Pad The BodyMed heating pad is in our review because of its fast heating, ability to maintain high temperatures, and ease of use.

According to our data collected during testing in the open air, the BodyMed heating pad took an average time of about 12 minutes to heat up to its peak temperature.

This is one of the faster ramp-up times among the heating pads 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 rest of the hour of testing. When we actually placed this heating pad on the tester’s body, its largest 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 heating pad 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. But, 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 heating pad 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 Heating Pad.

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Microwavable Corn Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack

Microwavable Corn Filled Heating Pad and Cold PackFrom the beginning of our testing, the Caylee’s Creations heating pad 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.

It has a removable sleeve that is hand-stitched, has a nice pattern, is machine-washable, and feels soft to the touch. As for its heat ability, when it was tried out on a tester’s body, it reached a toasty 122°F.

During testing in the open air, Caylee’s Creation heating pad reached its largest 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 heating pad is the one for you.

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Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap

Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck WrapIf you’re looking for a heating pad that doesn’t need electricity, we recommend the Carex – Bed Buddy for its design, drape, and moist heat. Weighing two pounds, the Carex was just the right weight.

It is heavy enough to transfer heat, but not so heavy that it became uncomfortable after several minutes of use. Priced at around eight dollars (at the time of publishing), it is by far the least expensive of our finalists.

Over 4,000 Amazon reviewers rate this model 4.4 stars on average, and we agree that it offers a lot of bang for your buck. It is filled with 100% organic materials: natural grains, herbs, and flowers.

The Carex provides moist heating without adding extra water or getting too wet. If you’re alternating hot and cold treatments, this is a great option, because it’s both microwavable and freezable.

We weren’t really sure how the rope handles added to the design; we would have preferred the extra length over the seemingly unnecessary handles. Another downside (to both our non-electric finalists) is that it has a cooked, popcorn-like odor when heated. We didn’t feel it detracted too much from the benefits, but if you have a sensitivity to smell, these models may not be for you.

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FAQ for portable heating pads buyers:

Can you overuse a heating pad?

There are no hard or fast rules regarding how long to use a heating pad on your back. It all depends on the level of pain and your tolerance to heat. Even so, if you use a heating pad on a high setting, remove after 15 to 30 minutes to avoid burns.

Does heat make inflammation worse?

Heat can make inflammation significantly worse. Ice can aggravate symptoms of tightness and stiffness; it can also just make any pain worse when it’s unwanted. Both ice and heat are pointless or worse when unwanted: icing when you’re already shivering, or heating when you’re already sweating.

How long should you lay on a heating pad?

Apply heat for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Moist heat (hot packs, baths, showers) works better than dry heat. Try an all-day heat wrap, available in pharmacies. If you are using an electric heating pad, avoid falling asleep while the pad is on.

Can heating pads help lose weight?

According to some research, a heating pad burns body fat, so if you find these pads very expensive you can always replace them with a hot water bag, as it is used to improve the circulation of blood in the body. so it will be a good medium to enhance burning fat.

Is heat or cold better for nerve pain?

The combination of hot and cold increases the circulation of fresh blood to the area, which may help relieve pain. Hold an ice pack over the affected area for about 15 minutes at a time, three times a day to help reduce inflammation. Heat pads can be applied for a longer period, up to 1 hour, three times a day.

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