I’ve mentioned before that we don’t typically use microwaves, but there’s one exception I make. We like to create DIY heating pads at home, which are easily warmed up in the microwave. My usual concerns about microwaves, especially how they can ruin the taste of food, don’t really apply here since we’re not consuming these pads, so I’m okay using one for this purpose.
Before having kids, I used an electric heating blanket, but when I got pregnant with my first child, I noticed it had safety warnings against using it during pregnancy, along with risks of burns, electric shocks, and fires. Electric heating pads have similar warnings.
I needed a more natural option. Back in college, I used a hot/cold pack that could be heated in a microwave or chilled in the freezer. It lasted until my college days ended, but luckily, my mom came up with a homemade version we’ve been using ever since.
Her homemade rice heating pad is really easy to make and very effective. Just pop it in the microwave for a couple of minutes, and it stays warm, providing comforting heat therapy.
Now, I have a couple of these rice heating pads at home, and each of my kids made one with my mom. We use them a lot, and here are some of my favorite ways to use them:
To make one, you’ll need rice (of course), cotton fabric, and some sewing supplies. I use inexpensive white rice as a filler since it’s not for eating. If you don’t have a sewing machine, you can sew them by hand, though it takes a bit longer. DIY projects like this also make thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
You can customize the size and shape of your rice heating pad, but I usually make mine in a 12×6 inch rectangle.
There are lots of great tutorials online for making really nice-looking rice heat packs. I make fancier ones for gifts, but for everyday use at home, simpler ones work just fine.
Have you ever made your own heating pad? Leave us a comment and don’t forget to share this post with a friend!
