Key Takeaways
- The electric hot water bottle offers the duration of heat the longest , up to 8 hours depending on the model.
- The dry hot water bottle with seeds provides heat natural which lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours.
- The tablet hot water bottle heats quickly but only retains the heat for 30 to 60 minutes.
- The traditional rubber hot water bottlekeeps the heat for approximately 2 hours once immersed in boiling water.
Understanding the different types of hot water bottles
There are several types of hot water bottles which are distinguished by their heating method and their efficiency to retain heat.
The main types of hot water bottles are:
- The electric hot water bottle
- The dry hot water bottle
- The tablet hot water bottle
- The rubber hot water bottle
Each type has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of duration and quality of heat released.
Also read: What is the best type of hot water bottle ?
The electric hot water bottle: long-lasting heat
How does an electric hot water bottle work ?
The electric hot water bottle contains a resistance which heats up when plugged in. The heat is diffused through the hot water bottle thanks to a heat transfer liquid.
Some models have temperature and timer settings to precisely control the heat released.
Quality and lifespan of an electric hot water bottle
The electric hot water bottle offers gentle and even heat. It allows for rapid heating and some models keep the heat for up to 8 hours.
Its lifespan is important if it is of good quality. Allow 5 to 10 years depending on use and maintenance.
How to choose a good electric hot water bottle?
To choose a high-performance electric hot water bottle, check:
- The power in watts (minimum 60 watts)
- The heating time (5 to 15 minutes)
- The heat duration announced
- The temperature and timer settings
- The height and the weight depending on the use
- The brand and the reviews for a guarantee of quality
The dry hot water bottle: a natural solution
What is a dry hot water bottle ?
The dry hot water bottle contains seeds or stones (flax, buckwheat, wheat, cherry, etc.) which retain heat once reheated.
It provides natural heat, without electricity. It’s an ecological choice.
The use of seeds in dry hot water bottles
The seeds used are carefully selected for their ability to accumulate and restore heat.
The most common are flax, buckwheat or wheat seeds.stones of cherry or horse chestnut are also very effective.
Duration and quality of heat from a dry hot water bottle
The dry hot water bottle heats in a few minutes in the microwave or in the oven. It then keeps the heat for 1 to 2 hours.
The heat is less strong than an electric hot water bottle but remains very pleasant and natural.
cherry stones are very popular because they provide a pleasant cherry smell when heated. They retain heat well for around 1h30.
flax seeds are also widely used. Linen has the ability to absorb and slowly release heat. Flax seeds provide gentle heat for approximately 2 hours.
We also find hot water bottles with rapeseed seeds which have a high calorific value. The fine rapeseed grains distribute heat evenly for approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
Finally, spelt, wheat or rice grains are excellent natural heat accumulators. Their rounded shape allows homogeneous diffusion for almost 2h30. They give off a pleasant smell of toasted cereals.
Thus, each type of seed or kernel has properties allowing optimal and prolonged diffusion of heat in dry hot water bottles.
The tablet hot water bottle: a practical choice
The principle of the hot water bottle
The tablet hot water bottle works using a mineral salt tablet which heats up quickly once immersed in water.
This pellet is inserted in a soft fabric cover which helps to retain and diffuse the heat.
Heat duration of a tablet hot water bottle
The tablet hot water bottle reaches a maximum temperature in 15 to 20 minutes.
It then retains this heat for 30 to 60 minutes depending on the model.
How to heat a tablet hot water bottle ?
Just immerse the tablet in boiling water for about 5 minutes.
It can also be reheated in the microwave following the manufacturer's instructions.
The rubber hot water bottle: a timeless classic
Can you put a rubber hot water bottle in the microwave ?
The traditional rubber hot water bottle should not be heated in the microwave as it risks exploding under the effect of the heat.
It is best to fill it with boiling water and close the screw cap.
Duration and quality of heat from a rubber hot water bottle
Immersed in boiling water, the rubber hot water bottle keeps the heat for approximately 2 hours.
The diffusion of heat is homogeneous and it perfectly matches the contours of the body.
Also read: Which Hot Water Bottle is the Most Effective ?
The gel hot water bottle: for a feeling of cold
What is a gel hot water bottle ?
The gel hot water bottle contains a liquid based on water and propylene glycol which solidifies in the freezer.
Unlike other types of hot water bottles, the gel hot water bottle does not release heat but provides a pleasant sensation of cold.
It is an effective relief in cases of bruises, strains or migraines.
How long does a gel hot water bottle last ?
Placed in the freezer for at least 2 hours, the gel hot water bottle maintains the sensation of cold for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Some high-end models with glycol-based liquid can keep cold for up to 4 hours.
How to use a gel hot water bottle ?
Using a gel hot water bottle is very simple:
- Place the hot water bottle in the freezer for at least 2 hours.
- Take the frozen hot water bottle out of the freezer and place it on the area to be treated.
- Let the cold act for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Return the gel hot water bottle to the freezer for reuse.
With its prolonged cold sensation, the gel hot water bottle is perfect for relieving pain and swelling.
The plastic hot water bottle or heater: practical and inexpensive
What is a heater ?
The heater is a hot water bottle made of plastic filled with hot water. Light and flexible, this model in PVC or rubber is very practical.
The heater provides enveloping warmth thanks to its shape which follows the contours of the body.
How to use a heater ?
To use it, pour boiling water into the hot water bottle in plastic and close tightly.
You can also microwave it for 30 seconds, respecting the maximum power indicated.
What are the advantages of a heater ?
The heater has several advantages:
- Low purchase cost
- Easy to use and heat
- Lightweight and practical, ideal for traveling
- Adaptable to all parts of the body
- Provides a pleasant warmth humid
Thanks to its affordable price, the heater is ideal for occasional use.
How long does a heater last ?
Filled with boiling water and properly closed, the plastic heater retains heat for approximately:
- 45 to 60 minutes for small models
- 1h30 to 2h for standard models
- Up to 3 hours for large models intended to cover a back or legs.
The duration of heat also depends on the quality of the plastic. Inexpensive models often cool down after 45 minutes.
To reheat the heater, simply put it in the microwave for 30 seconds again or immerse it in hot water.
Also read: How to have a hot water bottle ?
The best hot water bottle for long-lasting heat
The electric hot water bottle is the ideal choice if you are looking for prolonged heat. Some models keep heat for up to 8 hours.
The dry hot water bottles and rubber offer approximately 2 hours of heat. The tablet hot water bottle lasts approximately 1 hour.
Conclusion
To choose a hot water bottle with a long duration of heat, choose a electric efficient.
The dry hot water bottles and rubber are suitable if you need heat occasionally.
The tablet hot water bottle is practical due to its rapid heating but does not keep the heat.
| Type of Hot Water Bottle | Heat Duration | Heating Mode | Special features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric hot water bottle | Up to 8 hours | Electrical resistance | Adjustable temperature and timer |
| Dry hot water bottle | 1 to 2 hours | Seeds in the microwave | Natural heat |
| Hot water bottle | 30 to 60 minutes | Tablet in boiling water | Heats up quickly |
| Rubber hot water bottle | Approximately 2 hours | Boiling water | Traditional and easy to use |
| Gel hot water bottle | 1h30 to 2h (cold) | Freezer | Used for cold, relieves pain and swelling |
| Plastic hot water bottle (heater) | 45 minutes to 3 hours | Microwave or boiling water | Practical, light and inexpensive |
FAQ
How does a hot water bottle work ?
The basic principle is to heat an element which stores then restores the heat gradually.
Depending on the models, it is a electric resistance, seeds, a pellet or boiling water.
How to use a hot water bottle ?
For optimal use, follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Generally:
- Electric hot water bottle: plug in and set the timer for a suitable duration of heat.
- Hot water bottle dry: heat the seeds in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
- Hot water bottle with tablet: immerse the tablet in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Hot water bottle in rubber: fill with boiling water and close tightly.
How to choose a good hot water bottle ?
- Check the power in watts (60W minimum).
- Check the heating time (5 to 15 minutes ideal).
- Compare the heat duration announced.
- Consult the reviews and the comparative tests.
- Choose the size that suits your use.
- Prefer reputable brands.
Which hot water bottle keeps heat the longest ?
The electric hot water bottle keeps the heat for the longest time, up to 8 hours depending on the models.
Dry and rubber hot water bottles keep heat for approximately 2 hours.
What is the most effective hot water bottle ?
High-end electric hot water bottles are the most efficient thanks to their power of heating high and constant. Their cover thick also optimizes heat retention.
How long does a hot water bottle last ?
Depending on the quality and the brand, a hot water bottle has a lifespan of 3 to 10 years.
electric models generally last longer than dry or tablet hot water bottles.
How to heat a plastic hot water bottle ?
Hot water bottles in plastic type heaters are heated in microwaves or in boiling water. Respect the temperatures indicated.
Never heat a plastic hot water bottle with a hairdryer or a radiator, risk of fire!
What size hot water bottle for children ?
For a child, choose a mini hot water bottle of 30x20cm or a standard size of 40x30cm.
Avoid models that are too large and may cover the child's entire body.
Sources
[1] "The effects of heat and massage application on autonomic nervous system", PubMed.gov
[2] "Moist heat or dry heat for delayed onset muscle soreness", PubMed.gov
Updated on 5 April 2024
