Sooner or later, all of us experience muscle stiffness, soreness, or cramps. These maladies are especially common among athletes, whose regular muscle strain can lead to chronic discomfort. Thankfully, there are safe and non-pharmaceutical methods to alleviate this discomfort, beginning with the use of a heating pad.
In fact, if you're an active or athletic person, then you probably need to have a good heating pad handy. The question is, what's the best heating pad? At the ACTIVE Reviews Team, we tested
several top options, and assembled this list of recommendations.
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The Best Heating Pads - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Heating Pad: Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Heating Pad
- Best Heating Pad for Back: UTK Heating Pad for Lower Back
- Best Heating Pad for Cramps: ComfyTemp Full Weighted Heating Pad
- Best Heating Pad for Neck: Andola Electric Heating Pad
- Best Microwavable Heating Pad: Glow Botanica All-Natural Heating Pad
- Best Weighted Heating Pad: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Body Pad with Warmer
- Best Large Heating Pad: Ambershine XXXXL King Size Heating Pad
- Best Portable Heating Pad: FEETMOR Cordless Heating Pad
- Best Budget Heating Pad: BESIGILA Electric Heating Pad
- Best Heating Pad with Massager: WOOMER Weighted Heating Pad with Massager
Best Overall - Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Heating Pad
SPECS
- Size: 23.5" x 11.5"
- Material: Polyester microplush
- Heat source: Electric
- Heat range: 6 temperature settings (105℉ to 140℉)
- Timer: 120-min. auto-shutoff
The Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Heating Pad is our pick for the best overall heating pad, primarily because it's just so versatile: The XL size and fast-acting electric heat make it a good fit for alleviating pain in your back, abdomen, shoulders, or elsewhere. The microplush material is blanket-soft, meaning this is a good heating pad for those times when you need to feel comforted. A nine-foot cord offers lots of flexibility, and the 120-minute shutoff is a commendable safety feature.
What We Like
- Long cord
- 6 temperature settings
- 120-min. auto-shutoff feature
- Soft micro plush material
- XL size
What We Don't Like
- Not as well-suited for period cramps or smaller areas
- 9' cord is convenient, but also makes storage a bit more cumbersome
BUY: Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Heating Pad
Best Heating Pad for Back - UTK Heating Pad for Lower Back
SPECS
- Size: 7" x 48" x 0.5"
- Material: N/A
- Heat source: Electric
- Heat range: Up to 159℉
- Timer: 4-hour auto-shutoff
Looking for lower back pain relief? The UTK Heating Pad for Lower Back provides targeted heating to smaller areas of the body, making it tailor-made for alleviating lumbar symptoms. Infrared heat is combined with jade stones to promote deep penetration, while a 118-inch cord offers plenty of flexibility and convenience. There's also an auto-shutoff feature to ensure safe use.
What We Like
- Long cord
- High temperature range
- Targeted heat to lower back
- Deep heat penetration
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for larger areas of the body
- Long cord is convenient, but can also make storage more cumbersome
BUY: UTK Heating Pad for Lower Back
Best Heating Pad for Cramps - ComfyTemp Full Weighted Heating Pad
SPECS
- Size: 24" x 12"
- Material: Polyester flannel
- Heat source: Electric
- Heat range: 9 temperature settings
- Timer: Adjustable up to 9 hours
We can recommend the ComfyTemp Full Weighted Heating Pad on at least two levels: Not only is it a great pick if you like weighted heating pads, but it also works well if you need targeted cramp relief. There are nine temperature levels to choose from, and a memory function to help you save your preferred heat setting. A long cord and a range of 11 auto-shutoff timers only add to the flexibility and functionality of this top-notch heating pad.
What We Like
- Memory function
- Weighted beads inside
- Customizable timer
What We Don't Like
- Some may prefer their weighted heating pads to be even heavier
- Long cord is convenient, but can also make storage more cumbersome
BUY: ComfyTemp Full Weighted Heating Pad
Best Heating Pad for Neck - Andola Electric Heating Pad
SPECS
- Size: 26" x 25"
- Material: Microplush flannel
- Heat source: Electric
- Heat range: 6 temperature settings (86℉-149℉)
- Timer: 2-hour auto-shutoff
The Andola Electric Heating Pad is specifically designed to wrap around your neck. If you're stiff or sore, whether due to athletic injury or just sitting at a desk all day, this heating pad will offer ample relief. The six temperature settings, safety features, and comforting microplush flannel are icing on the cake. Also note how easy it is to button this heating pad in place around your neck, allowing you to comfortably wear it while you read, watch TV, or whatever else.
What We Like
- Targeted neck relief
- Soft, comforting material
- 6 temperature settings
What We Don't Like
- Only recommended for neck and upper back pain
- Removing the controller for machine washing can be tedious
BUY: Andola Electric Heating Pad
Best Microwavable Heating Pad - Glow Botanica All-Natural Heating Pad
SPECS
- Size: N/A
- Material: N/A
- Heat Source: Microwavable
- Heat Range: N/A
- Timer: None
The Glow Botanica All-Natural Heating Pad is a great pick if you want something that uses all-natural ingredients, and does not require the use of an electrical cord. Simply place your lavender-infused heating pad into the microwave for a minute and a half, then apply to the area where you need cramp or joint pain relief. As an added bonus, you can also throw this pad into the freezer to use it for cold therapy. A convenient carrying bag is included.
What We Like
- All-natural ingredients
- No electrical cord to deal with
- Hot or cold therapy
- Carrying bag included
- Takes just 90 sec. to heat
What We Don't Like
- Doesn't get quite as hot as electrical heating pads
- No options for temperature setting, auto-shutoff, etc.
- Higher price point
BUY: Glow Botanica All-Natural Heating Pad
Best Weighted Heating Pad - Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Body Pad with Warmer
SPECS
- Size: 30.5" x 20.5"
- Material: Quilted microlink
- Heat source: Electric
- Heat range: 3 temperature settings
- Timer: 60-min. auto-shutoff
The Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Body Pad with Warmer is made with high-quality glass beads to provide weighted pressure. In other words, it's the ideal combination of a heating pad and an electric blanket, creating a keen sense of comfort. You can pick between three basic temperature settings, while an auto-shutoff feature stops the heat after an hour of use. Quilted microlink material is supple and cozy.
What We Like
- Quilted material
- Weighted pressure
- Works well almost anywhere on the body
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- Some will want more than three temperature settings
BUY: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Body Pad with Warmer
Best Large Heating Pad - Ambershine XXXXL King Size Heating Pad
SPECS
- Size: 45 cm x 85 cm
- Material: Flannel
- Heat source: Electric
- Heat range: 6 temperature Settings
- Timer: 120-min. auto shutoff
Larger heating pads work better when you need succor for your whole back, or want something you can curl up in. The Ambershine XXXXL King Size Heating Pad more than meets that description. Designed for full-body use, this is essentially a heated blanket, ideal for a restorative nap. An auto-shutoff feature helps prevent burning, while six temperature options allow you plenty of control over your settings. The flannel material is soft to the touch, another great way in which this electric blanket lends itself well to cozying up.
What We Like
- Full-body size
- Auto shutoff feature is a great precaution for nappers
- Soft-to-the-touch flannel
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended if you need targeted heat
- Some people may prefer their therapeutic blanket to have more weight to it
BUY: Ambershine XXXXL King Size Heating Pad
Best Portable Heating Pad - FEETMOR Cordless Heating Pad
SPECS
- Size: 48"
- Material: N/A
- Heat source: Battery-powered
- Heat range: N/A
- Timer: None
One of the frustrations people have with heating pads is that they can be a pain to travel with. Not so with the FEETMOR Cordless Heating Pad, an outstanding choice for abdominal or back relief, and especially for period cramps. Powered with a battery, this pad fits around your midsection and provides either belly or back heat. There's also an option to insert an ice pack, instead, treating yourself to some cold therapy. Small yet effective, this is easy to take with you when you're on the road.
What We Like
- Small size
- Great for relieving period cramps
- Works with both heat and cold therapy
- No cord
What We Don't Like
- Only works for the belly and back
- Sizing can be tricky
- Very little control over heat level
BUY: FEETMOR Cordless Heating Pad
Best Budget Heating Pad - BESIGILA Electric Heating Pad
SPECS
- Size: 12" x 24"
- Material: Plush fabric
- Heat source: Electric
- Heat range: 6 temperature settings
- Timer: 2-hour auto-shutoff
The BESIGILA Electric Heating Pad is proof that you don't have to spend an arm and a leg just to get a decent heating pad. It's a good option if you're looking for affordable heat relief, or if you're shopping for a gift. The plush padding, combined with six heat settings, offers plenty of succor for sore or stiff muscles. And the middling size means this heating pad can work well for almost any part of the body.
What We Like
- Modest price point
- 6 temperature settings
- Plush feel
- Good middle-ground size
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended if you want full-body coverage
- Not quite as durable as other heating pads
BUY: BESIGILA Electric Heating Pad
Best Heating Pad with Massager - WOOMER Weighted Heating Pad with Massager
SPECS
- Size: 20" x 24"
- Material: Flannel; micro-plush
- Heat Source: Electric
- Heat Range: 3 temperature settings (115℉ to 145℉)
- Timer: 2-hour auto-shutoff
When you've got stiff, sore muscles, there's really nothing that feels better than heat therapy. Well, except for heat therapy and a massage. That's what you get with the WOOMER Weighted Heating Pad with Massager. This generously sized blanket comes with comforting fabrics on either side, a great heat range, built-in safety features, and more. Options for vibrating massage and weighted pressure are available from the remote and add to the comprehensive, therapeutic feel.
What We Like
- Weighted pressure
- Vibrating massage
- Good range of heat options
- Generous size
- 5-year warranty
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- On the heavy side
BUY: WOOMER Weighted Heating Pad with Massager
What to Look for in a Heating Pad
Looking for the best heating pad? Here are a few considerations to keep in mind while you shop.
Safety
When left on for too long, heating pads can cause burns. As such, it's usually best to find a product that has an automated shut-off.
Electric or Non-Electric
Electric heating pads usually come with a cord that you plug into a wall outlet, meaning they are easy to use but only if you're sitting somewhere near an electrical outlet. Non-electric options usually need to be placed into the microwave or heated in some other way. This is really just an issue of convenience and personal preference.
Material
Most electric heating pads come in polyester or microplush fabric. Microwave heating pads are more likely to be plastic.
Size
Heating pads come in a range of sizes and shapes. Do you need something small, specifically to alleviate period cramps? Or do you want a larger heating area to help address more significant muscle soreness, including back strain?
FAQs About Heating Pads
Do doctors recommend heating pads?
Heating pads are generally an approved method for treating muscle soreness or stiffness, just so long as you are very careful not to use your heating pad for too long, or to fall asleep with your heating pad in use.
What size heating pad should I get?
It totally depends on the area you need to treat. For period cramps, a smaller heating pad is usually better. For larger areas of muscle soreness, including the back, you'll need a bigger heating pad.
How long should you use a heating pad?
You'll usually want to remove your heating pad after 15 to 30 minutes, an important way to avoid burns.
How long do heating pads last?
Electric heating pads usually last for at least a couple of years. Microwavable ones tend to have a shorter lifespan.