General Articles Archives | Cuddly Comforts

Get rid of cold hands once and for all

In chilly weather, keeping your fingers functioning is no easy task

There was one winter morning I genuinely thought my hands were about to fall off. No exaggeration!

Well, maybe a slight exaggeration. But the chill well and truly set in.

It was back in the freezing cold winter of 2010. I woke up at 6am as usual and drew back the curtains to find a thick, white blanket of snow across every blade of grass, hedgerow and inch of our yard.

How lovely, you might think. A lazy day with the children building a snowman. Sledging down the hill on an old bin lid. Lobbing snow balls at one another as the dog leaves little zig zag footprints across the untouched ground.

If it was a weekend then yes. Or even a day off. But it was a Monday morning and I was due in work in under two hours.

Grab the de-icer, boil the kettle (not too hot as to crack the windscreens), find a snow scraper. Welly boots on, woolly hat, big jacket, shovel from the shed…where’s my gloves?

Cold hands aren’t just a problem when outside raking snow or trying to fix a flat tyre in the biting wind. Numb fingertips make it difficult to even type on your laptop or smartphone.

So, how can you keep your hands warm?

There are a number of ways. From the intricate methods to a quick fix. Got pockets in your coat or trousers? Push your hands inside of them.

Cup them together and blow deeply to release that lovely hot air. Rub them vigorously together to increase blood flow. If you’re really brave then put them under your clothes on to your warm skin.

Some top tips to keep your hands warm

Hot Water Bottle – Use an extra-long hot water bottle. Follow the instructions, clean it well and fill it with hot water.

Be sure to fill in some cold or room temperature water first before pouring in the steaming hot water from the kettle. Some people wrap it in a towel.

I must admit, I’ve never tried using a towel. We use the case provided. In fact with most of our bottles there are two cases provided.

Keep this bottle next to you as you work or watch your favorite shows. You can hold the bottle for a while or even rest your cold hands on it.

Not to mention the one with a loop and tie string. Connect it under your jumper and carry it with you everywhere you go. Slide your freezing digits underneath for a quick warm-up and and say goodbye to those uncomfortable cold hands!

Warmer – Install a hand warmer in your home to use as and when required. Tap a tune on the radiator under the curtains.

If you are at work, use the hand dryer in the toilet to bring back the sensation into your fingertips. If you’re feeling really daring, and it has a flexible nozzle, flick it up and blast the warm air into your face. Oh yeah!

Gloves – It can be difficult to type or cook wearing a pair of gloves but always have them on you. Wear them whenever possible, especially if you are stepping out into the cold.

Fingertips get cold very easily. It takes a lot of time to bring back senses into those tips.

Even more tips to keep your hands warm

Gloves with detachable fingers – If your work involves typing, you can use gloves where the fingers can be detached. This way, the palms are kept warm, and you can slide back the fingertips as and when you want to use them.

Vintage readers will remember the old TV comedy show Steptoe and Son. The dad used to wear a pair all the time. If it’s good enough for Albert Steptoe then it’s good enough for us.

Reduce The Gap – Pull your sleeves closer to your wrists. Reduce the gap between the sleeve and the gloves as much as possible. When there is no room for cold air to enter, your hands will stay warmer for longer.

Wiggle Them – Keep wiggling and rubbing your fingertips to keep them active and warm. However, do not let them sit idle for long as they can get numb.

Massage – Massage your palms and fingers when you are sitting at your desk. Take a break and massage your hands to get the blood flowing. Better blood flow will help keep the hands warm.

Remember those little gel warmers that people used a few years ago? They were sold in chemists and pharmacies. You pressed a little button and it heated up.

I looked them up and they are still a thing. Very popular in the outdoor space apparently. Which leads us back briefly to hot water bottles…

When blogger and explorer Jeff Podmayer trekked the Appalachian Trail he was met with weather of all conditions.

Luckily Jeff had an idea. Fill water bottles with hot water to create his own hot water bottles! If only he’d thought to take one with him he could’ve saved the DIY hassle.

As Jeff was trekking in the wild he had to make do with fresh stream water. None of the conveniences of our final tip were available on an outdoor trail.

Tap Water – If you are out or have no access to a fire or heater, use the tap water. Most public places, including office toilets, will have hot running water.

Now please be careful here. Make sure your hands are sufficiently thawed out first and use warm water at first. Placing ice cold paws straight under the tap is a recipe for disaster. You’ll end up with chilblains.

Better blood flow will help keep the hands warm.
Cuddly Comforts

Grab a hot water bottle and get on with life

Cold hands can be painful and uncomfortable. Especially when they prevent you from completing a basic task.

A good quality hot water bottle stays warm for hours. So fill it up and safely tuck it up while outdoors. Nobody wants freezing cold hands.

Why you need an extra long hot water bottle this winter

The weather is starting to get colder and it’s time to dig out those winter warmers!

Do you experience aches and pains at the end of a long day? Do you loathe it when you have to take painkillers to counter the pain? Do you sometimes feel excessively cold despite covering yourself fully with chunky blankets and clothes?

As fans of the trusty hot water bottle we love nothing more than a swift warm-up. These comfy companions will let you sleep faster. They are great for tying around the waist to stay snuggly warm before the heasting comes on.

And, overall, extra long hot water bottles are the best way to keep warm in the cold months. Winter is around the corner…so let’s prepare!

One out of every three homes has a hot water bottle

A hot water bottle is a staple in most homes. Additionally, it is a tried and tested first line of treatment for pain relief.

Hot water bottles come in lots of shapes and sizes. They are available in pharmacy stores, bargain shops and home décor establishments. They are also very affordable and can be bought without a prescription. Of course you could always pick up a hot water bottle from Cuddly Comforts!

A hot water bottle offers pain relief benefits

Whether it is joint pain, pesky neck pain, or stomach cramps due to periods, you can easily depend on a hot water bottle to give you instant relief. Stomach pain can be caused by Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which causes contraction of the intestine and stomach muscles.

This can be a painful experience. Use a heating pad or hot water bottle directly on the abdomen, while lying flat on the bed, can add immediate relief.

Heat therapy is a credible line of treatment for all muscle sores. It is even good for cramps during menstruation. Many women take medicines to deal with the excruciating period pain. Using a hot water bottle can effectively stop the pain naturally.

Pregnancy aches can also be handled better if you use a hot water bottle to soothe pain near the stomach and the pelvis.

Doctors recommend that pregnant mums take hot water baths. But if that seems like a chore, then hot water bottles will do the job perfectly. A hot water bottle is good even for relieving pain after a particularly tough workout.

Are you struggling with back and neck pain?

When back or neck pain strikes, we suggest you reach for the hot water bottle. Sitting too long in front of the computer or reading with your head down can result in excruciating pain in the neck and upper back. Try this the next time to have discomfort in your neck:

1. Stretch your neck and try to massage the area that is hurting

2. Use a cold press and apply to the area. This will help by reducing the lactic acid build-up in the pain site. Please do not place the cold pack directly on your skin, as it can cause burns.

3. Once your muscles relax, soothe the area with a hot water bottle to improve blood circulation in the area.

Other uses for your extra long hot water bottle

Make babies fall asleep quickly…

Do you have difficulty putting your young baby to sleep? Babies are acutely sensitive to changes in temperature. That being said, they love to fall asleep in a warm room. This is precisely why they are quiet till you are holding them.

Any parent will know the moment you put your special bundle to bed, they start crying. There are two hot water bottle hacks that you can try. You can fill warm water in the bottle and place it one or two inches away from the baby’s legs.

Alternatively, if you feel it is a hazard, you could use the hot water bottle to warm up the bed just before you put the baby on it. Adults love warm beds too.

Reduce anxiety…

Stress is an everyday reality for most of us. The next time you feel tense, turn to an extra long hot water bottle to improve your blood circulation. Add a few drops of essential oils to de-stress and get into your yoga pants or pyjama bottoms for added relaxation!

Stay warm on an adventure trail…

When you are out camping at night, the temperature can become really cold really quickly. Carry your hot water bottle whenever you go camping.

You can heat the water on the open campfire and fill your bottle to make your sleeping bag warm. This will ensure you catch quality sleep so that you can take part in all the activities planned for the next day.

Try it when you spend your evenings out for a BBQ or when you are out socializing with your friends late in to the night. You can be sure they will elevate the evening and make it more pleasant and ‘warm.’

Many bars and restaurants have been welcoming visitors to their outdoor areas. Since Covid-19 struck, indoor dining or socialising has been restricted. Therefore, the trusty hot water bottle has sprung into action to provide outdoor heating to weekend revellers and diners.

What to do with hot water bottle water?

When you have got relief from all the annoying pain, remember not to flush down the water when it comes back to room temperature.

Instead, use it to water your plants. Are there any more hot water bottle hacks you know that will help others? Let us know in the comments below.

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified practitioner if you are unsure.

Give me 24 hours and I’ll post you out a hot water bottle

At Cuddly Comforts we strive for excellent customer service. Seeing messages like these lights up our day as we know we’ve done a good job.

Sometimes there’s a glitch in the matrix. So far we have been able to fulfil our promise and get every extra long hot water bottle down to the post office within 24 hours of purchase. After that it’s in the hands of the Royal Mail or whoever else takes it from them.

An update will only be provided when we attempt to deliver your item

Have you ever seen this message? On the odd occasion the hot water bottle does not make it to our customer within the specified time frame they do contact us directly. As we keep every postage receipt it is easy to type in the code and trace where the bottle has ended up.

However, it is frustrating when we type in the code and it reads out: “An update will only be provided when we attempt to deliver your item”.

But what does this actually mean? Well, surprisingly enough, as confirmed in this Metro article, exactly what it says. Only once the product has been delivered, or an attempted delivery been made, will they have any further information for us.

Postage and packaging on our hot water bottles

When it comes to packaging our extra long hot water bottles we think it is important to reuse and recycle. Nobody has ever complained about this.

Naturally, we clean any previously-used packaging first and remove any old addresses or location identifiers. But after that, as long as it is still in good condition with no identifiable damage, we use it again.

Getting hot water bottles lost in the post

Thankfully the postal service is pretty reliable and this has only ever happened once. When it happened to us the Royal Mail accepted responsibility and we were able to claim the cost of the item back from them. We also sent out a second extra long hot water bottle to the customer to make sure she did not miss out. Job done!

Hot water bottles are dangerous

We often hear about the danger, but is it completely true?

Sometimes whenever we mention to somebody that we are in the extra long hot water bottle business there are two responses.

Firstly, what is an extra long hot water bottle? Well, as you probably know it is an ordinary hot water bottle. Only longer!

Secondly, they may say something like, “wow hot water bottles are dangerous”. Yes of course this is true. They CAN be dangerous.

The potential is always there for a burn, a spill or a scald. Leave it on your skin for a few seconds too long and an itchy red mark can appear. Here at Cuddly Comforts we would never dispute that. Which is why we take safety measures so seriously.

All of our bottles come with a link to the safety guide. On our website their are links to safety guides in different languages. Our outsourced team of specialist interpreters put them together to ensure warmth and safety across the Continent.

Woman with extra long water bottle and laptop — Hot water bottles need to be respected

Hot water bottles can be dangerous but so can many things

The truth is that hot water bottles of all shapes and sizes have the potential to be dangerous. However, a kitchen knife has the potential to be dangerous.

You can slice your finger just as easily as slicing a piece of nice juicy melon! But when was the last time somebody perused your new fitted kitchen and said, “I love it, but that block of knives is pretty dangerous”.

Same as your brand spanking new Honda, Audi or Ferrari. The shiny coat of paint, fast accelerator speeds and alloy wheels all get the thumbs up.

But nobody looks over the car, sitting pretty on the drive, and expresses concern that you might use it to run over a neighbour.

Therefore, lots of things can be dangerous if you don’t use them properly. Bleach, paint, power tools, a lawnmower. The list goes on.

Don’t burn yourself with a hot water bottle

As outlined in the safety guide the key is to remain safe and diligent at all times. Old, worn out hot water bottles are bound to cause issues. Not filling them correctly can be hazardous. Always dispose and replace bottles with damage, visible wear and tear or holes.

Before snuggling up for the night, check, shake and ensure correct filling measurements are adhered to. Boiling water is potentially harmful. Nobody wants boils, burns or blisters.

You want warm feet and toasty fingers! Look forward to trips to restaurants, pubs, outdoor venues. Not a trip to accident and emergency.

As the lockdown eased many managers in the catering industry turned to the trusty hot water bottle. Along with blankets and coats they have provided warmth for people sitting outside and eating.

So, yes, extra long hot water bottles CAN BE DANGEROUS. But they don’t need to be.

Why you need a hot water bottle gift set

Hot water bottles are handy because they have many versatile benefits. A simple hot water bottle can keep you or your loved ones warm. They are also useful for helping ease period cramps or pregnancy aches.

Many of our satisfied customers tell us how they’ve eased neck and back pain, or helped with wheezing and coughing.

Keep warm with an extra long hot water bottle

In addition, hot water bottles, especially extra long hot water bottles, are a cheap and effective way to keep warm whenever there’s a nip in the air.

Furthermore, whenever you’re tired, you can just wrap or place them where you feel the most pain. It might take a while to kick in; perhaps even some deep breathing is needed. But after a while you’ll hopefully feel better, healthier and ready to go again.

These are definitely a great way to show your love for your friends, family, and even yourself.

woman hugs hot water bottle — A warm hug in a furry cover

Hot water bottles in a gift set

More often than not, hot water bottle gift sets are a great idea when buying a gift. They are also great if you decide to create a gift from scratch).

Gift sets are designed to include many other items that can definitely keep you warm on those chilly evenings.
Cuddly Comforts

Aside from that, you have the potential to even save more money with a gift set rather than buying things individually.

These gift sets can include warm clothing such as woolly hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, slippers, and socks. Others may include masks, covers, and teddy bears.

Accessories for Extra Warmth

Who would say no to hot chocolates in a mug? Along with a hot water bottle, a hot chocolate mix and a fancy mug go together nicely. They perfectly complement a gift set for those who love sipping a mug of hot chocolate on cold days.

Not only does a cup of chocolate warm you from inside, but it also makes you feel comfortable and sleepy in the evening. It’s a great treat, and comparatively the hot water bottle can help keep you warm outside along with the delicious hot chocolate.

Hot chocolate in mug — Hot chocolate and a good book

Invest in warm clothes

Clothing such as knitted sweaters and fur-lined boots are popular winter warmers. Gloves, mittens, socks, and hoodies are a great compliment for hot water bottles. they fit snugly in a gift set due to their warmth and trendiness.

Especially in the winter season, these wearable items will never go out of style. Not only do they keep you snug, they can also make you look cute or cool, depending on your style preference. You can even alter them to suit your needs.

An accessory such as a scarf also complements an extra-long or traditional hot water bottle. Design and use choices are down to the individual, but the market caters to many tastes.

These accessories can double the warmth, while keeping the wearer comfortable and fashionable.

Cuddly stuffed toys

Are you in need of cuddles while keeping warm with a hot water bottle? Stuffed toys like teddy bears are a cuddly favourite. Many gift sets include cute cuddly toys that you can hug along with a hot water bottle.

Aside from helping you warm up, these plush animals will also bring comfort and joy to your and your loved ones. Cuddling a soft toy can help ease their anxiety and distress in both children and adults.

Other gift set items

Other products that go well with a hot water bottle in a gift set are crocheted covers, mats, and furry slippers.

Crocheted covers are suitably wooly and designed for covering a product, such as an extra-long hot water bottle. Consequently, this helps to protects you from accidental burns or heat exposure.

Always a plus point for all members of the family, no matter how big or small 🙂

Some of the throws, rugs or floor mats are furry and warm, keeping your feet away from cold as you step out of your bed or your bathroom.

Luxury gift set

Furry slippers will help you battle cold, and feel fashionable and comfortable at the same time. These products can go well with a hot water bottle because using them can make you feel snug, warm, and luxurious! Who doesn’t want to feel luxurious?

These are perfect for not just keeping toasty, but also snuggling and cuddling in your bedroom or near the fireplace.

All in all, there are many different products you can get just from buying or creating home-made hot water bottle gift sets.

You can save money by buying a gift set, and even get snug and comfy with your hot water bottle on cold days.

What are the benefits of using an extra long hot water bottle?

Since the 16th century, containers made of metal and filled with hot coals have been used to warm beds. The downside was always the risk of fire due to a stray spark or steaming embers catching.

Nevertheless, it is has proven to be very useful from then until now. We even covered the evolution of our favourite warming tool in a recent deep dive into the history of the hot water bottle.

Vintage Hot Water Bottles

We used to use the stone hot water bottles all the time “when I were a lad”. Glad you mentioned about wrapping them. I can confirm that bare feet and a bare hot stone bottle do not go well together!
Also be careful when you get out of bed in the morning that you don’t roll or push it onto the floor where it may break or even worse you tread on it!!! OUCH!!!
Perhaps you could investigate having your own modern/repro branded ones made for sale? We used to get replacement rubber washers from the local plumbers merchants & they do seem to be still available on eBay.
Keeping it Short and Simple (on YouTube)

Over time, its nature and purpose have of course been improved a lot. Unlike then, containers are currently made up of thermoplastic or rubber that can withstand and keep the heat for a longer period of time. Hot water bottle safety standards are higher.

Instead of coals, they are filled with hot water and sealed by a screw cap. Now, they are easier to use and more portable. Moreover, they are not only used as a relief during cold nights but also to ease aches and pains while helping to alleviate stress.

Hot water bottles for relieving pain

One of the most common uses of the hot water bottle is to ease body pains. These include colon problems, back pain, muscle pain, neck pain, or joint pain. It can also relieve stomach cramps due to menstruation.

Moreover, it is very easy to use. Put the water bottle on the painful part of your body. Then, let the heat gradually drift through your body, leading hopefully to instant pain relief.

Are you sleeping comfortably?

On very cold nights, an extra long hot water bottle can be used to warm the body. You can embrace it while lying down or you can put it beside you or inside the blanket to mitigate the coldness of the season.

You can sleep comfortably without the need for a heater that will only increase your electricity bill. We love saving a few pounds, plus the longer hot water bottles stay warm for hours.

Man Sleeping — Comfortable sleeping is a must

Heat therapy for relieving stress

After a long day at work, you can put it on your forehead while resting or lying down to relieve the stress. This is also a good pain relief when you experience back and neck pain due to prolonged sitting in the office.

A cover with loop and tie string makes for the perfect travel companion

Since it is portable, it is a good travel companion. Whether for a long flight or road trip, it is better to carry a hot water bottle. You might get cold or numb due to a longer period of travel. Who knows? You never know when you will need it.

Take your hot water bottle on outdoor activities

While watching your favourite sport or hanging out with friends outside on a cold day, a long hot water bottle is a very good companion.

You can tuck it in inside your jacket, and then you’ll never worry about the cold again. It is also good to carry around when camping. There’s a good chance that it will be cold at the camp site, therefore a hot water bottle can be used to warm the body.

You can continue talking and relaxing with your buddies without being bothered by the coldness.

At night, you can put it inside your sleeping bag, snuggling beside it to be able to sleep comfortably. When it is no longer warm, you can use empty out the water and re-fill.

Unfortunately, the water is unlikely to be reusable as it will be rubber infused, so no good for making tea or washing up with.

use a hot water bottle on a camping trip — Hot water bottles are good for camping

Easing muscle cramps and pains

After an intense physical activity like working out in a gym or playing sports, a hot water bottle can be used to treat sore muscles. It will prevent them from hurting too much the next day.

Coughs, runny noses, and colds are very common during cold nights. You can put the hot water bottle on top of your chest to help you breathe more freely and sleep comfortably. Maybe smear a touch of Vicks VapoRub on as well?

You never know what you can get from a very simple solution. Let one of our extra long hot water bottles do the hard work. Remove inconvenience, relax after a long day and enjoy that soothing warmth. Truly, a lot of benefits can be derived from an easy and convenient hot water bottle.

How do you make a hot water bottle?

Do It Yourself: Reusable Hot Water Bottles

Hot water bottles are great because they help ease neck pain, back pain and muscle aches. Generally, they reduce stiffness on muscles and joints.

There are a variety of types across the market. Prices vary from the very basic PVC budget options to Sri Lankan rubber, cashmere cover beauties.

Indeed, sometimes you may a want cheaper alternative to keep yourself warm. That quick fix to apply heat to a painful area. There may come a time when you don’t have your extra long hot water bottle at hand, but need its warming impact in an emergency!

OK, emergency might be a bit strong, but when you become used to a hot water bottle it can be difficult to get by when it is not around.

Many stores sell such hot water bottles or heating pads, but it’s actually easy to make a stop-gap alternative at home.

Option # 1: ‘The Microwaved Wet Dishcloth’

One way is using a wet dishcloth, as suggested by a user from Reddit. Soak a wet dishcloth in warm water. Then, place the warm dishcloth in a microwave-safe freezer bag. Heat it in a microwave for 45 to 60 seconds intervals until it is steaming hot.

As the author of that Reddit thread revealed: “I am told that hot water bottles are good for menstrual cramps. This takes about 5 minutes to get ready and works pretty well if you don’t have an actual hot water bottle around.”

After microwaving, wrap the dishcloth in a towel and apply it to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. You can also put the dishcloth first in a zip lock bag before wrapping it in a towel.

Warning! Always approach any hot water or heat-based treatment with extreme caution. That’s why we are always so insistent on promoting our safety guides at every possible opportunity.

We want you warm and safe, not….you guessed it…injured.

Option # 2: ‘Oven-Heated Towel’

There is also a way to make a handmade hot water bottle by putting a damp, folded towel in an oven. Set the oven’s temperature to 300°F (149°C) and leave the towel in for 5 to 10 minutes. You can leave it on longer, but don’t burn it.

Happiness is a warm bath and a soft towel
World of Wall Art

However, the timing will depend on the thickness of the towel.

When it is warm enough, you can now wrap the towel in a thinner, dry piece of cloth, and use it as a heating pad.

Option # 3: ‘Recycled Socks’

Reusable heating pads can also be created out of fabric or old socks. To make this, fill a clean cotton sock (old or not) with a cup of either uncooked rice, dried lentils, salt, or dried beans.

Don’t pack the grains or lentils too tightly, and allow some room so it can easily move to the area to be treated. Once done, tie the end of the sock with a piece of string.

You can also tie the end of the sock instead, to keep the grains from spilling out.

Heat the filled sock in the microwave for about 45 to 60 seconds or longer, depending on your microwave.

Once heated, you can now apply the heated sock to the affected area. To use it as a cooling pad, just place it in the freezer for five minutes.

Option # 4: ‘Bean bags’

Using beans or grain-filled heat bags is an environmentally-friendly alternative to hot water bottles. These can be used as hot water bottle alternatives by heating them in a microwave for no longer than 45 to 60 second intervals, or until you’re happy with the temperature.

These can be reused multiple times and can be stitched up again if they have a hole or one of the seams has blown. Like recycled socks, these can be used as cold compresses by freezing.

Sitting on a bean bag — These bean bags are a bit big

Option # 5: ‘Metal or Plastic Bottles’

For campers, it is hard to always bring excess baggage. In this case, you can use a metal or plastic bottle instead of a hot water bottle.

Just fill it with warm or hot water and wrap it in a sock or towel and you can now place it on the affected body part.

It’s not advisable to fill plastic bottles, or even actual hot water bottles, with boiling water. Why not you may ask….

Because they can melt and break down instead of working as an alternative to hot water bottles.

Heat = good.

Damaged plastic = not good.

They can be safe to use as long as they are filled with warm or hot water, and wrapped in towels or cloths before applying.

These homemade alternatives, unlike hot water bottles, may not stay hot for a long time. Hot water bottles will be more useful if you’re looking for a heater that can be used overnight. This is because all of our hot water bottles are made of rubber, which retains hot water for a long time.

These alternatives can help and work pretty well if you are in a pinch or don’t have an actual hot water bottle.

Should I make my own hot water bottle?

Unless you know what you are doing and feel confident then the answer is no. Actual hot water bottles are made by experienced professional using high-quality equipment.

If you are in a bind or need a quick fix then attempt the above options with caution. However, nothing beats your Cuddly Comforts extra long hot water bottle for safe, effective heat therapy.

5 items to complement your extra long hot water bottle

Winter came by fast, especially in 2020, due to the pandemic outbreak. Time flew faster than usual. It was a tough year, but we got through it. Winter is also the season to get prepared with necessary items for a good hibernation.

The sweaters that will bring you warmth and comfort for the chilly evenings ahead. The chopped logs and turf for open fires. The heat pads and hot water bottles. Hot drinks, stews and soups.

One staple item that should be on your cold weather kit list is an extra long hot water bottle. Why? Simply because it will keep you warm even when it is chilly or cold outside.

It will give you comfort and warmth. It is the perfect companion, especially if you cannot sleep easily at night due to howling storms or freezing weather.

I feel no shame in bundling down on the sofa, lighting some candles and making a nest out of hot water bottles and blankets.
Alice Vincent

Most good things in life come in bundles. It is best to pair your extra long hot water bottle with other heating products that are innovative and useful. This is a solid strategy during the colder seasons.

Here are 5 items to complement your extra long hot water bottle in winter…

Warming Footies or Microwaveable Footwear

A perfect source of heat therapy, warming footies are easy-to-use and function smoothly. They can help ease soreness and spasms that you may be experiencing. By using heat therapy on the affected area, the pain can be effectively reduced.

Heat therapy from the warming footies can also help the body relax and get rid of any stress—perfect to enjoy after a long day of walking. Sore feet are the product of a hard day. Adding a touch of comforting heat can make all the difference.

As microwaveable heating footwear, warming footies are very convenient and easy to use.

Weighted Blankets

Cold and chilly nights will become a thing of the past if you are equipped with a weighted blanket. This marvelous and innovative product is designed with multilayers that assure warmth.

The quality ones on the market are made from one hundred percent cotton. This is a warming and comfortable main material. Weighted blankets are very simple to use and can help aid a good night’s sleep.

They are helpful for users with sensory concerns. ADHD patients are also using weighted blankets to help with sleep issues.

Warmth and comfort in a blanket, what more can you ask for?

Rubber Hot Water Bottle

Made with premium quality rubber, the smaller hot water bottle is still going strong. It’s now known as the more traditional product on the market.

It does not have the versatility that an extra long hot water bottle offers. That said, we don’t discount its longevity and effectiveness.

There is a reason that small hot water bottles have stood the test of time for decades. Some of the pros and cons were discussed in this article. It still does its job in terms of giving the warmth and comfort required.

The rubber hot water bottle is perfect in helping ease body pains and cramps. It comes in a smaller and traditional size, which is ideal for focused usage on a specific body part.

Our hot water bottles don’t come from this particular region, but here is a peek in to a factory production process in Ukraine.

U-Shaped Neck Hot Water Bag

Picture this: you are traveling out of town for hours and hours and you experience sudden neck pain. What is the best item to have at that moment? With hat firmly tipped to modern technology, a U-Shaped Neck Hot Water Bag now exists.

Its warmth and comfort that comes in a U-shaped design is perfect for neck pains and soreness. It is also a perfect companion to have after a long and stressful day at work.

Hot Water Bottle with Knitted Cover

Another microwaveable water bottle wonder is made from high-quality silicone material. It also comes with a knitted cover, which is very elegant, and is perfect for traveling purposes. You can even use it at work, school, or anywhere you go.

It comes in a compact size, which makes it super handy, and it fits snuggly in your daily pouch or bag. This massage aid is perfect for fighting muscle cramps and body pain. We looked at the overall value of microwave hot water bottles in a previous article.

We currently have a team of highly-skilled hand knitters working on a new range. These crochet experts are creating a variety of extra cuddly designs.

I’m sure our knitters would agree on these golden tips for the perfect night’s sleep…

#1 Get a hot water bottle

#2 Fill it safely

#3 Cuddle into dream world

Job done!

Keep warm with an extra long hot water bottle

Cold weather spells are always around the corner. Whenever the icy reach of winter creeps into view, how are you going to prepare? The suggestions listed above are some of the most sought after items that you can get for the winter season.

Along with these carefully selected products, the extra long hot water bottle should be on everyone’s must-have list. It is not only perfect for the winter but it is usable across all seasons.

You may be wondering: are there any hot water bottles near me? The good news is, a quality hot water bottle is easy to acquire. We sell a specialised bottle complete with two covers right here.

It can be used for health purposes, as a massage aid, and as a stress reliever. It is truly the best companion during the winter and through any other season.

Wearable hot water bottles

If you’re based in the UK and Ireland you’ll know that a spell of cold weather is usually just around the corner. The trick is, be ready for it. Sweaters, check. Jackets, check. Coats, check. Wearable Hot Water Bottles, double-check!

As most of you know, hot water bottles come in handy as a massage aid, stress and body pain reliever. With every season comes a new “keep warm” fad.

Our information radars are on red alert that there are numerous types of wearable hot water bottles out there.

Convenient, flexible, wearable–these are just some of the reasons why you might consider grabbing your very own wearable hot water bottle right now.

Extra long hot water bottles as a Scarf

It is the season of scarves once again and what better way to wear a scarf than by using an extra long hot water bottle. The extra long hot water bottle is so long that it can be disguised as a furtive scarf.

It can come in different designs and colours. This is ideal, especially if you will be matching your outfit of the day with your hot water bottle.

Any good extra long hot water bottle will come in different designs made of high-quality materials. It is always down to your own personal preference to choose what design will work best for you.

Other than having a fashionable purpose, the extra long hot water bottle is a good addition to your home remedy kit, especially for emergency purposes. Since it comes in a longer size, it can reach multiple body parts at once. Perfect for easing body pains and muscle cramps.

use an extra long hot water bottle as a scarf — Wrap your bottle around like a scarf

Hot water bottles for easing body pains

Perfect for those extra cold or even just chillier evenings, the extra long hot water bottle is the ideal companion to keep you warm and comfortable in any weather.

Not only is it designed for extra toastiness (might have just made that word up!), but it also helps ease any discomforts or body pains that you may be experiencing.

Since the extra long hot water bottle comes in a longer size, the best part of having this item is that you can reach multiple body parts at once. The gorgeous knitted patterns and unique designs are a plus too!

Using only natural rubber as its main material, there is no need to worry about any suspicious odours or sinister effects that may harm your health.

Furry warmers as microwaveable furry boots

Another wearable wonder, this microwavable treat from Warmies is the perfect companion after a long working day. Perfect as a stress reliever or as a massaging aid, this pair of furry boots will give you the right amount of warmth and heat that you need.

Just imagine that it is your rest day. It could be a weekend or a holiday, and you are sitting peacefully on your couch, with a cup of hot coffee in one hand. Your latest page turner is in the other hand.

On your feet, a pair of furry warmers, because those chilly toes need some love as well.

Microwaveable heat pad

Fashionable and reliable, but is it practical? This microwaveable heat pad from Hungaroo is ideal for those who are always on the go and want to ease their neck and shoulder pain.

This option can easily be worn around your neck and can be attached hassle-free. It also promotes a soothing lavender aroma and is lightweight.

Another good thing about this microwaveable and wearable heat pad is that it can also be used for a cold compress. Just let it cool in a freezer for a relaxing and refreshing experience when the days eventually warm up.

Why choose a wearable hot water bottle?

Is it possible to look good and feel good? With a wearable hot water bottle, yes. Aside from the fact that it is wearable and convenient, a wearable hot water bottle is a must-have.

Consequently, it not only serves its purpose as a hot water bottle but also does more in terms of fashion and looking good.

It is warmth and comfort on the go. For example, have you ever experienced back or kidney pain while you are outside? Many of us have, and it’s very unpleasant. With a wearable hot water bottle, you can quickly ease and relieve that pain at any time of the day.

The treatment for kidney pain depends on what is causing it.
Kidney Fund

Placing a hot water bottle in a little back pack is always an option if you’re stuck for time. But remember, one of our hot water bottles with loop and tie string can also be useful.

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified practitioner if you are unsure.

Hot water bottles for cold hands and feet

When it comes to cold weather and circulation problems, hot water bottles or other heat-based therapies can help

Arthritis or Spasms – Get Instant Relief with Heat Therapy

Do you experience tingling or throbbing pain in your limbs? Are your fingers and toes growing numb? Do older adults at home often complain of body aches, including sprains and spasms in their muscles? Would you believe in alleviating all this pain naturally rather than popping analgesics? You’ve come to the right place.

Our body’s circulatory system:

With the heart at the centre, the circulatory system in our body is responsible for sending oxygen and other nutrients in the blood to all parts of the body. Poor circulation of blood to any part of the body will first of all manifest in your hands and feet.

Causes for poor circulation of blood:

1. Overweight and obesity;

2. Diabetes and diabetic neuropathy;

3. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) where there is a narrowing of arteries and blood vessels in the body;

4. Atherosclerosis in which plaque builds up in arteries and blood vessels and not allowing blood to flow freely through them;

5. Varicose Veins;

6. Blood clots;

7. Raynaud’s disease that is hands and feet going unusually cold due to narrowing of the blood vessels and

8. Bad heart condition

Every underlying condition behind poor blood circulation has its own set of symptoms. Potential red flags are raised when you begin experiencing unexplained pain in your limbs, muscles, and bones.

Why you must not ignore the poor circulation

Reduced blood flow and circulation over a long period of time causes several dilapidating health issues such as nerve and tissue damage. Untreated, it can lead to brain strokes or heart attacks, both of which can prove fatal.

We’ve seen how poor circulation is not a disease in itself. There can be a number of reasons why blood does not flow adequately to all parts of your body. A thorough diagnosis from your doctor will tell you what the underlying causes are. It is of paramount importance that you tell them your own medical history to help them assess your condition.

Blood circulation — Don’t ignore poor circulation

Heat as an effective therapy for soreness and pain in the muscles

You have probably heard many times from your coach, trainer, teacher, or doctor that heat relaxes tense muscles. There are a lot of thermotherapies available in the market, promising good results.

You could soak your feet in a warm water bath, use hot-mist towels to wrap around your hurting limbs or use hot water bottles and heating pads for topical relief.

Keep reading this article as we reveal how the heat will help your body recover from pesky aches and pains by improving blood circulation…

Do you experience aches and pains when you get on the gym floor?

If you enjoy a bit of gym therapy, irrespective of how often you work-out, body pains from exercising affects everyone from champions to newcomers. Soreness and stiffness is sometimes the price that you pay for being fit and active.

When you exercise, the body goes through the twin process of aerobic respiration and anaerobic respiration. While aerobic respiration helps in the intake of more oxygen, anaerobic respiration helps to burn the sugars within it.

This process of burning sugars in oxygen releases lactic acid in the worked-out muscles. A combination of overworked muscles and lactic acid production in them is what causes you to groan in pain.

A specific type of heat therapy may feel better for one person than for another, and it may require some experimentation to figure out which one works best.
Spine Health

What happens when you apply heat to the sore muscles

First of all, blood vessels begin widening, allowing a free flow of blood that also facilitates the removal of increased lactic acid in the worked-out muscles. This alleviates pain in the area.

– The heat also allows the toxins to flow out of the area

– The muscles become elastic by the introduction of the heat

– And finally, the nerve endings in that area get stimulated, which block the pain signals

Applying heat soothes worn-out muscles. Place a heat pack on the muscles which were aching before you started exercising. This will reduce the existing pain and help prevent new pain from developing in those muscles.

It is safe to use heat on your neck as well as your back. You may even apply heat patches, pads, and insulated water bags on recent and old injuries that are nagging.

It is usually viewed as safe and effective to use heat in arthritis pain like stiff knees and elbows. Doctors recommend heat therapy treatments to loosen tense muscles if the headache is due to overstress.

There are three types of heat therapy treatments

#1 Dry heat is also called ‘conducted’ heat therapy and is usually from heat sources such as heating pads, heat packs, heat water bottles and hot water saunas.

#2 Moist heat is also called ‘convection’ heat therapy and uses steamed towels/washcloths, warm moist packs and hot water baths. This is slightly more effective than the former.

#3 Professional heat therapies administered by physiotherapists like heat from an ultrasound machine help treat tender muscles and joints.

Chronic injuries vs. acute injuries

As a rule of the thumb, heat therapy is good only for those injuries that are not swollen or inflamed. Acute injuries must be instead treated with cold therapy. This is because heat will raise the skin’s temperature near the injury and increase the blood flow around it, leading to more bleeding from that injured spot.

An ice pack on the acute injury will reduce pain and swelling as it will narrow the blood vessels and help reduce internal bleeding.

Ice pack for swollen ankles — Ice packs reduce swelling

Hot water bottles can help ease the discomfort

Make sure that you wrap a towel loosely around the affected area before using the heating pad or bottle. In all cases, avoid direct contact of the heating surface directly on your skin. Keep the session short and no longer than 15 to 20 minutes at a stretch.

Directly using the heated pad and bottle in contact with your skin or using it beyond 20 minutes may result in accidental burning or scalding of your skin. Ensure that a safe cover is applied to your extra long hot water bottle and the hot rubber does not come in to contact with your skin.

Whether you will use a heated plug-in type of pad or a hot water bottle that is filled with hot water, never go to bed with the heated equipment still in contact with your skin. There is a danger that your skin will become too warm. The electric type heating pad can also accidentally start a fire.

Conclusion

Do not hesitate to call on your doctor or schedule an appointment if the pain seems to increase or you see other worrying symptoms at the pain site. Your doctor may order an X-ray, MRI, or a CT scan done for a better diagnosis.

That is the best way forward because pain, however inconsequential, can be at worst debilitating or at least a point of constant discomfort.

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified practitioner if you are unsure.