Thermophore MaxHEAT Plus Automatic Moist Heating Pad Size Medium 14" x 14" Model 356

This thermophore is very different from most electric heating pads aimed at the general consumer market, and is typically available from medical supply retailers and wholesalers, not drug or department stores. It gets much hotter than consumer-oriented heating pads, and it heats up much more rapidly. The special cover generally absorbs enough humidity from the air to create a small amount of moisture, which transfers heat much more effectively. Covers are washable in cold water but should be line dried to avoid shrinkage. Worn replacement covers can be purchased. [Covers for some models also come with a pouch in which to place a wrung-out cloth (included) to compensate for very dry conditions, when needed.]The thermophore is available in a variety of sizes and, within each size, there is a choice of controls: 1) a "dead-man switch," which must be held to operate--ideal if the user is likely to fall asleep while using it; and 2) a timed control (20 minutes) with manual on-off and delay buttons.It is not a coincidence that the picture on the box shows the model laying on his abdomen, with the thermophore atop his back. The instruction booklet emphasizes that, for safety reasons, the user should never lay on top of the thermophore. There are two reasons for this: 1) with the thermophore layered between the bed and the body, the heat cannot easily dissipate, increasing the risk of burning the skin; 2) the heating coils and wiring will degrade more rapidly from the high heat the thermophore produces and, if it is accidentally folded or wrinkled while in use, the risk of damage to the thermophore over time also increases. Unfortunately, unless users have someone to place the thermophore on their backs for them, it can be very difficult to use according to the instructions. Also, some users may find laying on their abdomens uncomfortable or inconvenient for 20 minutes at a time. I suspect that many users who are disappointed in the limited lifespan of their thermophores may lay on top of it due to necessity or ignorance. I recommend reading the entire consumer manual carefully before using it for the first time.I recently replaced a six-year old, frequently-used model with a new thermophore and have been pleased with the performance. I tried using the optional moisture cloth a couple of times to see if it made a difference in my 45% humidity environment. Although it clearly added to the moisture in the heat produced, I believe the unaided cover produces enough moisture to be effective. I also like the new delay feature on the timer control. If the thermophore gets too hot for comfort, I simply press the delay button until it cools down and then press it again. Because the delay feature stops--but doesn't reset--the timer, I know that I will not overextend total heating time beyond 20 minutes.I have one minor suggestion to the manufacturer with respect to improving the timer control. The on-off and delay buttons are identical in feel, and until the user gets familiar with where the two buttons are, it is easy to confuse them if the user does not have visual contact with the control (e.g., see model on the box, whose eyes are closed). This confusion could easily be avoided by adding a raised plastic "dot" in the center of one of the buttons, so the two buttons can be distinguished from each other by touch.Overall, however, the thermophore has been a fantastic product for me. Users should keep in mind the safety and wear concerns--which appear in the consumer manual--particularly if they use the product frequently.

The auto shut off is great to have. It’s pretty durable. Theres a pretty good amount of weight so it stays put. The heat is definitely what I needed. The high is very hot and I love. It’s definitely a great value and the price is well worth it. Simple design and functionality is simple as well. The auto shut off is definitely a great safety measure so you don’t burn yourself. I’ve fallen asleep with it on and it shuts off with no worries

I recently purchased the Thermophore MaxHEAT Plus Moist Heating pad in the Petite size (4" x 17") and I am very happy with its performance. I bought this heating pad for aftercare and recovery from a double jaw surgery, and it has worked great. This was the number one rated product in many jaw surgery groups and I agree after using it. The moist heat option is especially helpful, as it provides even more soothing relief for sore muscles and joints. The small size of the Petite pad is also convenient, as it allows me to easily use it on specific areas of my face and jaw, where I need the most relief. I am very satisfied with the Thermophore MaxHEAT Plus Moist Heating pad in the Petite size and would recommend it to others who need relief from surgical aftercare and recovery.

We were wanting a heating pad and purchased some and returned them because we couldn’t tell if they were working and just got barely warm. I figured after a few maybe they didn’t make heating pads that heated anything more than barely warm until we tried this one. IT WORKS!! No lukewarm here baby, the high setting gets actually hot, the medium is less hot and the low is warm. I actually have to turn it off sometimes. The heat is even. I like being able to have the moist heat too which my partner uses it without it. If you want a lukewarm heating pad this is not for you. If you want a heating pad that throw heat...this is the one for you!! The cover comes off to clean. This is important to me even pre-COVID days I always liked to clean things. We previously bought a weighted heating pad with a thick cloth cover that was spot clean only...gross! It has an automatic shut off after 26 minutes. You need this if you fall asleep with this on high because it gets hot!! Longevity of the product I can’t speak for yet as we have only had it for a few weeks, otherwise we are VERY happy with how this gets hot and actually works!!

Likes:Large surface.Thin enough to NOT hurt my back when laying on it.It doesnt BULGE like other heating pads when you lay on them.It has a plastic/vinyl-like inside, with a comfortable almost microfiber like full cover over that, so you can slide in-between those a mesh pad that you use to get wet, to create the moisture.Both outter cover and mesh are washable.VERY long cord. Long enough to go from one side to the other in a California King bed, and still have room to plug in.Still using it after 4-5 years, and it still works like new.ALMOST as good as a massage.Cons:Pretty expensive (but very worth it).Only lasts for about 10 minutes, then you have to turn it off for a minute and set it again. This messes up the steam, and the placement on you back.If you dont wash them every couple uses, the outter and mesh begin to smell very bad. Like Cat Urine (no, its not me, lol. I hardly sweat). I think this is from the inner plastic, or maybe from the manufacturing?VERY highly recommend to anyone with an injury or sore muscles.

I have been using Battle CreekThermophore for many years. I have chronic back and hip pain and the beautiful and drippy Monterey coastal fog, makes my joints ache! I use my heating pad multiple times a day for instant relief. The highest heat setting gets extra hot! Perfect for me, I like there are three settings for heat. I’d recommend this product as a great gift for other pain sufferers, including young ladies who have cramps during their periods. Even with daily use, the heating pad lasts for years!