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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

By
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Luff
Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach.
Learn about our editorial process
and
Lindsey Lanquist
Lindsey Lanquist

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.

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Updated on May 02, 2024
Medically reviewed
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Amy Walsh, M.D.
Amy Walsh, M.D.
Medically reviewed by Amy Walsh, M.D.

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.

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Rich Scherr
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Fact checked by Rich Scherr

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heating pads test

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.

Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Electric Heating Pad

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Features
    5/5
  • Heating Quality
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Large, flexible design

  • Easy to use

  • Heats up fast

Cons
  • Only one self-timer option

Key Specs

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

Woman using Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Electric Heating Pad

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Best Overall Runner-Up

Geniani Extra Large Heating Pad

GENIANI XL Heating Pad

Courtesy by Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Features
    4.5/5
  • Heating Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Flexible and easy to bend

  • Soft, plush cover

  • Extra-long cord

Cons
  • Heat doesn’t reach edges of pad

  • Easy to turn off by accident

Key Specs

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

Who It’s For

Best for soothing lower back pain or menstrual cramps.

Why We Love It

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. 

Potential Flaws

  • 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.

Most Valuable Insight

“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

Geniani Extra Large Heating Pad for Back Pain Relief placed on top of blue towel

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

SuzziPad Microwavable Heating Pads

SuzziPad

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    4/5
  • Features
    4/5
  • Heating Quality
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4.3/5
Pros
  • Portable

  • Flexible

  • Soft and comfortable 

Cons
  • May be too small for some

  • Can pick up smells

Key Specs

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

Who It’s For

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

Why We Love It

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. 

Potential Flaws

  • 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.

Most Valuable Insight

“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

SuzziPad Microwavable Heating Pads are placed on shoulder of women while testing

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Comfier Heating Pad with Massager

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Features
    4.5/5
  • Heating Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Convenient, wearable design

  • Soft, plush material

  • Versatile for different muscle groups

Cons
  • Massage may not be intense enough for some

Key Specs

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

Who It’s For

Best for targeting low back pain while working from home. 

Why We Love It

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. 

Potential Flaws

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

Most Valuable Insight

“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

Person working while wearing Comfier Heating Pad with Massager

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Sunbeam Heating Pad Wrap for Back Pain Relief with Auto Shut Off and Moist Heating Option, 23 x 15", Slate Grey

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Features
    5/5
  • Heating Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Convenient, wearable design

  • Machine-washable cover

  • Long cord

Cons
  • May be too large for some

  • Not as versatile

Key Specs

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

Who It’s For

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

Why We Love It

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.

Potential Flaws

  • 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.

Most Valuable Insight

“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

Tester wearing Sunbeam Heating Pad Back Wrap with Adjustable Strap

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Best for Neck and Shoulders

Pure Enrichment PureRelief Heating Pad

Pure Enrichment PureRelief Heating Pad

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Features
    5/5
  • Heating Quality
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Convenient, wearable design

  • Simple closures

  • Large button

Cons
  • Takes longer to heat up

  • No self-timer feature

Key Specs

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

Who It’s For

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

Why We Love It

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.

Potential Flaws

  • 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.

Most Valuable Insight

“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

Woman testing Pure Enrichment PureRelief Heating Pad

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Comfier Heated Knee Brace

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    4.5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Features
    5/5
  • Heating Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Wraparound design

  • Provides heat and massage therapy

  • Five vibration modes

Cons
  • Not as adjustable

  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

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

Who It’s For

Best for runners or walkers with sensitive knees

Why We Love It

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.

Potential Flaws

  • 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.

Most Valuable Insight

“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

Woman using Comfier Heated Knee Brace on her knees

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Gintao Electric Heated Foot Pad

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    4/5
  • Features
    3.5/5
  • Heating Quality
    3.5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Easy to set up and use

  • Large surface area

  • Soft, comfortable cover

Cons
  • Not a snug fit

  • Takes longer to heat up

Key Specs

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

Who It’s For

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

Why We Love It

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. 

Potential Flaws

  • 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.

Most Valuable Insight

“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

Gintao Electric Heated Foot Pad placed on the carpet

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Yeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Features
    5/5
  • Heating Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Provides heat and massage therapy

  • Discreet design

  • Three vibration settings

Cons
  • Not as versatile

  • No soft cover

Key Specs

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

Who It’s For

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

Why We Love It

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. 

Potential Flaws

  • 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.

Most Valuable Insight

“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

Person wearing Yeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad on her belly

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

Where We Stand

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.
heating pads test

Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida

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. 

Our Experts

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

Why Trust Verywell Fit

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.

3 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Petrofsky J, Berk L, Bains G, et al. Moist heat or dry heat for delayed onset muscle sorenessJ Clin Med Res. 2013;5(6):416-425. doi:10.4021/jocmr1521w

  2. 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

  3. 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

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