Key Takeaways
- A pocket hot water bottle is a small cushion filled with a solution of sodium acetate which, when activated, produces of heat by crystallization.
- It works thanks to an exothermic reaction which releases thermal energy when the gel goes from the liquid state to the solid state.
- It is a source of portable, reusable, safe and practical to warm your hands and relieve pain muscles, etc.
Introduction
Cold winter days can be particularly unpleasant, especially when you have to stay outside for a long time. Whether it's for a sporting activity, a walk or simply for your daily commute, there's nothing worse than having frozen hands and extremities. Fortunately, there is a portable and ecological solution to warm you up instantly: the pocket heater, also called mini hot water bottle!
This little marvel reusable has won over many fans thanks to its clever operation based on a natural chemical process. Whether you are a cold person, an outdoor athlete or a parent concerned about keeping your family warm, this heater guide will explain in detail the operation of a pocket hot water bottle, its many advantages and uses, as well as advice on how to choose and maintain it.
Definition of a pocket heater
A warmer or pocket hot water bottle is a small flexible cushion filled with a colorless and odorless solution of sodium acetate trihydrate . When activated, this solution solidifies releasing heat through crystallization. The heater then becomes a source of portable heat which can be slipped into a pocket, a glove or directly against the body to warm you.
Popularity and usefulness
pocket hot water bottles have gained popularity in recent years due to their practicality, their safety of use and their respect for the environment. They represent an ecological alternative to disposable heaters to combustion and are particularly appreciated by athletes, travelers and anyone wanting a simple and effective way to combat the cold.
- 500 times reusable on average for pocket hot water bottles with sodium acetate solution before needing to be replaced. [1]
- 50°C approximately, this is the maximum temperature that a pocket hot water bottle can reach during 1 hour of use [2]
- 7 hours of continuous heat can be provided by disposable hand warmers to warm hands. [1]
Also read: How to Choose the Best Type of Hot Water Bottle ?
The operating principle of pocket heaters
Conversion of chemical energy into heat
At the heart of how a pocket hot water bottle works is a fascinating chemical process that converts energy stored in a solution liquid in warmth comforting. This solution is composed of a solute, sodium acetate, dissolved in water.
When the heater is activated, the phase change from liquid to solid triggers an exothermic reaction. In other words, the chemical energy contained in the solution is released in the form of heat by crystallization of sodium acetate.
As the founder of The Oversized Hoodie®, I have always been fascinated by innovations that combine ingenuity and simplicity. How a pocket hot water bottle works is a perfect example. This little wonder transforms a banal chemical reaction into a real concentrate of comforting warmth.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
zoom in on the sodium acetate crystals of the heater
Using exothermic reactions to produce heat
Exothermic reactions are chemical processes that release heat to their environment. In the case of pocket hot water bottles, it is the crystallization of sodium acetate which produces this heat.
When the liquid solution solidifies, the sodium acetate molecules organize themselves into an ordered crystal lattice, releasing the stored thermal energy. This transfer of energy results in a rise in the temperature of the cushion, warming it instantly.
The different types of heaters
Single-use versus reusable heaters
On the market, you will find two main categories of heaters: the disposable to single-use models and the reusable versions.
disposable heaters generally work by combustion of a chemical mixture. They produce heat for a few hours before running out. On the other hand, reusable pocket hot water bottles based on solution of sodium acetate can be reactivated indefinitely.
Comparison of combustion and pressure activated models
Among the reusable heaters, there are two main activation modes: by pressure or by immersion in the boiling water.
The pressure-activated models have a small metal disc that is pressed to trigger crystallization. For immersion heaters, simply immerse them for a few minutes in hot water to initiate the exothermic reaction.
Also read: How long does a hot water bottle last ?
Advantages and use
The benefits of a pocket heater
A pocket heater is a practical accessory that offers many advantages to warm you up and give you comfort and well-being in all circumstances:
- Heats instantly thanks to its exothermic reaction
- Portable and nomadic, perfect for travel or sport
- Reusable up to 600 times, very economical and ecological
- Relieves muscle pain, joint pain, stomach aches, etc.
- Promotes relaxation, falling asleep and relieves stress
- Safe and natural, without electricity or combustion
I have had the opportunity to see on many occasions the benefits of a good pocket hot water bottle. Last winter, during a ski trip with friends, one of them complained of joint pain after a fall.
As a good host, I lent him my heater that I had in my bag. A few minutes after applying it to his painful knee, he felt real relief and was able to continue our hike without too much discomfort.
It was at this moment that I fully realized to what extent this accessory could be a real natural remedy for small everyday ailments.
Tips for use
To make the most of the benefits of a pocket hot water bottle, here are some tips for use:
- Scrupulously follow the instructions for use and the precautions of use
- Place the warmer against sore or cold areas of the body
- For a lasting effect, reapply application every 30-60 minutes
- avoid activating it near the face, eyes or sensitive areas
- Keep it out of reach of young children to avoid burns
By following these instructions, you will be able to fully take advantage of the comfort provided by this natural heat source and reusable .
Also read: Is the hot water bottle really a solution for constipation ?
Selection and purchase
Selection criteria
With the growing popularity of pocket heaters, many models and brands are available on the market.To make the right choice, here are some criteria to take into account:
- The heating duration (between 30 min and 12 hours depending on the model)
- The dimensions and the weight for optimal practicality
- The design and the colors offered according to your preferences
- The quality of the materials used (without harmful substances)
- The price according to your budget
At The Oversized Hoodie®, we attach great importance to the quality of the products we offer. This is why I recommend that you carefully check the composition and materials used for your pocket heater. Choose models free from substances harmful to your health and the environment.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
Also read: Which hot water bottle lasts the longest ?
Where to buy a pocket heater ?
You can get a pocket hot water bottle in many stores physical or online:
- sports and outdoors stores
- home and well-being departments of supermarkets
- Shops specializing in accessories of therapeutic heat
- General or specialized e-commerce sites like The Oversized Hoodie which offers you water bottles of the best quality.
Do not hesitate to compare the offers, to read the opinions of other users and to favor the brands known to make your purchase with complete confidence.
Maintenance and precautions
Care Instructions
In order to enjoy the long-lasting benefits of your pocket heater, it is essential to maintain it well. Here are some tips for a long lifespan:
- Strictly follow the user manual and the manufacturer's instructions
- After use, allow to cool completely before store
- Clean the exterior regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap
- avoid shocks and deformations which could damage the envelope
- Replace the solution according to the recommended frequency (every 2-3 years in general)
- Store in a dry place, protected from heat and frost extremes
By following these maintenance rules, your pocket hot water bottle will maintain its effectiveness for many years.
Also read: Why avoid boiling water in your hot water bottle ?
Use precautions
Although very safe, heaters require some precautions for use to avoid any risk:
- Never activate it near the face, eyes or sensitive areas
- Keep it out of reach of young children to prevent burns
- Discontinue use in case of liquid leak or visible damage
- For allergic people, check the composition before use
- Do not apply to damaged skin or open wounds
By following these simple instructions, you will be able to enjoy in complete safety of the soothing benefits of gentle heat of a pocket hot water bottle.
Also read: How to use a rubber hot water bottle safely ?
Conclusion
The pocket hot water bottles have become an essential accessory for anyone who wants to warm up naturally and effectively. Thanks to their ingenious operation based on the crystallization of a solution of sodium acetate, they provide a heat source portable, reusable and safe.
Whether you are a cold person, an outdoor athlete or a parent wanting to protect your family from cold, these little wonders will bring you comfort and well-being on a daily basis. Easy to use, ecological and great practicality, they represent an ideal alternative to disposable heaters at combustion.
| Profit | Description |
|---|---|
| Heats instantly | Thanks to its exothermic reaction, the heater diffuses a pleasant heat in just a few seconds after activation. |
| Portable and nomad | Its compact size allows you to take it anywhere with you, whether travel, sport or in daily life. |
| Reusable many times | The reusable models can be reactivated up to approximately 600 times, which is very economical and ecological. |
| Relieves pain | Applied to a sore area, the heater soothes muscle pain, joint pain, stomach ache, etc. |
| Promotes relaxation | Its gentle heat provides a feeling of well-being and relaxation, helping to fall asleep and stress. |
| Safe and natural | Without electricity nor combustion, the heater is a source of natural heat and safe. |
We hope that this complete guide has allowed you to understand everything about the operation of a pocket hot water bottle, its many benefits, but also the advice on how to choose it, use it and maintain it. Do not hesitate to browse our FAQ below to answer your latest questions!
FAQ
How to activate a pocket hot water bottle ?
Most pocket hot water bottles are activated either by pressure on a small metal disc, or by immersion in boiling water for a few minutes. This gesture triggers the crystallization of the solution of sodium acetate which then produces heat.
How a tablet hot water bottle works ?
A tablet hot water bottle is a disposable model which works by combustion of a chemical tablet. When it is pierced, air penetrates and causes an exothermic reaction which releases heat for a few hours.
How to refill a hot water bottle ?
The reusable hot water bottles do not strictly speaking "recharge". After use, simply let them cool completely before you can reactivate again according to the instructions for use.
How a disposable heater works ?
Most disposable heaters work by combustion of a chemical mixture. When activated, an exothermic reaction occurs and releases heat for a few hours until complete exhaustion.
References
[1] "Which pocket heater to buy to stay outside in winter ?", Douce Bouillotte, the blog
[2] Article title not available, Maison Smart
