9 Best Neck and Shoulder Heating Pads (Infrared, Electric, Microwavable)

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Look…

If you get a lot of strain and pain in your neck and shoulders then no more do you have to suffer from it, thanks to the best neck and shoulder heating pads available on the market right now.

They will deliver heat to the pained area and allow you to feel better within just a few minutes of heat.

Below you will find the best neck and shoulder heating pad reviews, and those include microwavable, infrared, cordless, and battery powered options. All of these products are exceptional and will work to help relieve your pain.

Without further ado, let’s get started.

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Sunbeam Contouring Shoulder Heating Pad

• Type: Electric heating pad
• Size: 22 x 19 inches
• Weight: Approximately 2 pounds
• Heat Runtime: Continuous as long as plugged in
• Heat Settings: 4 heat settings with auto shut-off after 2 hours
• Material: Soft micro-plush fabric
• Design: Contoured fit for neck and shoulders with magnetic clasp

Sunbeam is a very popular brand is the heating pad space.

This particular product is an electric heating pad designed for targeted relief of neck and shoulder pain. It’s perfect for folks who need consistent, focused heat therapy to alleviate muscle tension or stiffness.

With a contoured design, it wraps comfortably around the neck and shoulders, making it ideal for home or office use.

Pros:

• With four heat settings, you can find the perfect level of warmth to melt away tension. Imagine coming home after a long day and sinking into soothing warmth tailored just for you.
• The soft micro-plush fabric feels like a cozy hug, making you feel relaxed.
• The 2-hour auto shut-off feature gives peace of mind, should you fall asleep while using it.
• Magnetic clasp keeps the pad in place and allows consistent heat application.

Cons:

• Some users find the maximum heat level insufficient. However, for most, the gentle warmth is therapeutic and effective.
• May feel restrictive for larger individuals, but its contoured design generally accommodates a wide range of body types.

Quick verdict:

This Sunbeam heating pad is a dependable and user-friendly solution for neck and shoulder pain. Its contoured design and magnetic clasp ensure a secure fit, while the four heat settings allow for personalized comfort.

The plush fabric adds a touch of luxury, making it an excellent daily-use product. Oh, and it’s a budget-friendly option, too.

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Comfytemp Weighted Heating Pad

• Type: Electric heating pad
• Size: 20 x 25 inches
• Weight: 2.5 pounds (weighted with micro-glass beads)
• Heat Runtime: Continuous as long as plugged in
• Heat Settings: 9 heat settings with auto shut-off (1-2 hours)
• Material: Micro-plush fabric
• Design: Weighted for enhanced heat penetration

This Comfytemp product is an electric heating pad designed to combine heat therapy with weighted pressure for enhanced muscle relaxation.

It’s ideal for people who prefer deep, consistent heat therapy with a gentle, soothing weight. Hence the name, Comfytemp!

Pros:

• Thanks to weighted design, the pad stays snugly in place, maximizing heat absorption. It’s like getting a warm, comforting hug that melts stress away.
• With nine heat options, it caters to various comfort levels and needs.
• The auto shut-off feature available, should you drift off to sleep.
• The micro-plush material is soft and inviting, making each use a relaxing experience.

Cons:

• Some users report issues with long-term use, but these are uncommon and typically covered by warranties.
• While the weight enhances therapy, it may feel cumbersome for those with mobility issues.

Quick verdict:

This is another very affordable neck and shoulder heating pad. It works exceptionally well, and it can be machine washed, which is a great feature.

You have a moist heat option and a unique combination of heat and gentle pressure, which are great to get heat deeper down into your muscles and have that deep relaxation and pain relief.

It’s the best weighted heating pad for neck and shoulder pain on this list.

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Huggaroo Microwavable Heating Pad

• Type: Microwave heating pad
• Size: 17 x 12 inches
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Heat Runtime: Up to 30 minutes per microwave session
• Material: Velvety fabric with herbal aromatherapy fillings
• Design: Contoured shape with weighted edges

This Huggaroo product is a natural, cordless heating pad filled with herbal aromatherapy blends. It’s perfect for individuals who want portable, moist heat therapy combined with the relaxing benefits of aromatherapy.

Pros:

• No wires to limit your movement—simply microwave and enjoy. Perfect for on-the-go use or multitasking.
• Herbal blend fills the room with a calming aroma, for extra relaxation.
• Moist heat penetrates deeply, providing effective relief for stiff muscles.

Cons:

• Only lasts up to 30 minutes. However, reheating is quick and easy.
• The fillings may degrade over time, but careful use can extend its life.

Quick verdict:

The Huggaroo microwaveable heating pad is a cordless and portable solution for stress relief and pain management.

While the heat retention is shorter compared to electric options, it’s sufficient for quick relief sessions. The natural fillings may degrade over time, but the overall experience is highly therapeutic and comforting.

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Sunbeam Microplush Shoulder Heating Pad

• Type: Electric heating pad
• Size: 22 x 19 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Heat Runtime: Continuous as long as plugged in
• Temperature Settings: 4 heat levels with auto shut-off (2 hours)
• Material: Microplush fabric
• Design: Magnetic closure for secure fit

What is it?

The Sunbeam Microplush Shoulder Heating Pad is an electric heating pad designed specifically for neck and shoulder relief. It’s ideal for individuals who want a dependable and easy-to-use solution for tension, stiffness, or chronic pain in these areas.

Pros:

• Adjustable heat levels. Four heat settings allow you to customize your experience.
• The microplush fabric feels comfortable and luxurious against your skin.
• The 2-hour auto shut-off feature, should you fall asleep while using it.
• Secure fit with the magnetic closure to keep the pad in place and provide heat where you need it most.

Cons:

• Some users mention uneven heating, but this typically doesn’t impact overall effectiveness.
• While great for neck and shoulders, it may not be suitable for larger areas. However, it’s perfectly designed for targeted relief.

Quick Verdict:

The Sunbeam microplush shoulder heating pad offers a familiar design and reliable performance for effective heat therapy.

Its soft material and secure magnetic closure provide comfort and ease of use. With adjustable heat levels, it caters to different preferences, making it a versatile and reliable tool for daily relief.

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Bed Buddy Heat Wrap

• Type: Microwaveable heating pad
• Size: 19 x 12 inches
• Weight: 2.5 pounds
• Heat Runtime: Up to 30 minutes per microwave session
• Material: Soft fabric with natural grain fillings
• Design: Flexible and lightweight

This Bed Buddy product is a microwaveable heating pad filled with natural grains, designed for moist heat therapy. It’s an excellent option for those looking for an affordable and portable solution to alleviate neck and shoulder pain or stress.

Pros:

• Very budget-friendly, costs under $25
• The natural grains deliver moist heat, which penetrates deeply for effective pain relief.
• No cords or plugs mean you can use it anywhere, whether at home, work, or on the go.
• Lightweight and adaptable, it molds comfortably to your neck and shoulders.

Cons:

• Needs reheating after 30 minutes, but the quick microwave time makes this manageable.
• Natural grains may wear down over time, but proper care can prolong its lifespan.

Quick Verdict:

The Bed Buddy Heat Wrap is a practical and cost-effective choice for natural heat therapy. Its microwaveable design makes it portable and easy to use, while its flexible shape ensures it conforms well to your body.

All in all, you get quality heat therapy without breaking the bank — perfect for anyone on a budget.

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REVIX Microwave Heating Pad

• Type: Microwaveable heating pad
• Size: 24 x 15 inches
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Heat Runtime: Up to 30 minutes per microwave session
• Material: Soft fabric with natural grain and herb fillings
• Design: Extra-large with ergonomic fit

This REVIX product is an extra-large, microwaveable heating pad infused with natural grains and herbs for moist heat therapy and aromatherapy benefits. It’s ideal for those seeking comprehensive coverage and relaxation.

Pros:

• Perfect for covering large areas, ensuring thorough relief for neck, shoulders, and upper back.
• Natural herb fillings provide a calming scent, turning pain relief into a spa-like experience.
• Cordless convenience. Enjoy unrestricted movement during use—just heat and go.

Cons:

• Some users find its size cumbersome, but the added weight enhances heat retention.
• Needs frequent reheating for longer sessions, though this is standard for microwaveable products.

Quick Verdict:

The REVIX Microwave Heating Pad offers extensive coverage and combines the benefits of heat therapy with soothing aromatherapy. It’s a versatile and effective choice for managing pain and promoting relaxation.

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Pure Enrichment PureRelief Heating Pad

• Type: Electric heating pad
• Size: 24 x 12 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Heat Runtime: Continuous as long as plugged in
• Temperature Settings: 6 heat settings with auto shut-off (2 hours)
• Material: Soft micro-plush fabric
• Design: Long design for full upper back coverage

This Pure Enrichment PureRelief product is an electric heating pad with an elongated design for extended coverage. It lives up to its PureRelief name and is ideal for those seeking targeted relief for the neck, shoulders, and upper back.

Pros:

• Six options let you fine-tune the temperature for your perfect comfort.
• Perfect for addressing upper back pain along with neck and shoulders.
• Auto shut off ensures safety, should you fall asleep while using it.
• The micro-plush material makes every use feel luxurious and soothing.

Cons:

• The power cord can limit mobility, but its length ensures you can use it in most settings.
• Some users mention issues over time, but these are rare and often resolved under warranty.

Quick Verdict:

The Pure Enrichment PureRelief heating pad offers excellent customization and comfort with six heat settings and a long design for broader coverage.

If you want a versatile and extended heat therapy, then this product is a fantastic choice for you.

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UTK Infrared Heating Pad

• Type: Infrared heating pad
• Size: 18 x 12 inches
• Weight: 4 pounds
• Heat Runtime: Continuous as long as plugged in
• Heat Settings: Adjustable temperature control (up to 159°F)
• Material: Soft fabric with jade and tourmaline stones
• Design: Infrared heat for deeper penetration

The UTK Infrared Heating Pad is a high-end heating pad that uses infrared technology to provide deep-penetrating heat. It’s designed for individuals dealing with chronic pain or those who want a more advanced heat therapy option. The inclusion of jade and tourmaline stones enhances the experience, making it ideal for therapeutic use.

Pros:

• Infrared heat offers deep therapy, effectively targeting muscles and joints.
• Adjustable temperature settings allow for precise control and optimal comfort.
• Therapeutic stones add a touch of luxury and enhance the heat’s effectiveness.
• High-quality materials ensure longevity, making it a worthwhile investment.

Cons:

• Higher price tag
• At 4 pounds, it’s bulkier than standard heating pads, but the weight contributes to its durability and therapeutic effect.

Quick Verdict:

The UTK heating pad offers advanced therapeutic benefits with its infrared technology and inclusion of jade and tourmaline stones.

Its deeper heat penetration makes it an excellent choice for chronic pain sufferers or anyone seeking a premium heat therapy experience. Imagine feeling relief that goes beyond the surface to tackle deep-seated pain.

Now…

It’s more expensive than traditional heating pads, but in my opinion, the advanced features justify the cost for those needing deeper relief.

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Sharper Image Cordless Heat Wrap

• Type: Cordless heating pad (rechargeable battery)
• Size: Adjustable fit for neck and shoulders
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Heat Runtime: Up to 1 hour per charge
• Temperature Settings: 3 heat settings
• Material: Soft, breathable fabric
• Design: Cordless and portable

This Sharper Image product is a portable heating pad powered by a rechargeable battery.

It’s perfect for individuals on the go who need a convenient and cordless option for heat therapy. The wrap design ensures it stays in place, providing targeted relief for the neck and shoulders.

Pros:

• High level of portability.
• Very user-friendly with simple controls and three heat settings.
• The adjustable wrap ensures it stays in place, delivering consistent heat to where you need it most.

Cons:

• May not be as intense as plug-in models, but it’s sufficient for portable use.
• Only provides up to 1 hour of heat per charge, but quick recharging ensures minimal downtime.

Quick Verdict:

The Sharper Image cordless neck wrap is the ultimate solution for heat therapy on the go. Its lightweight design, adjustable fit, and cordless convenience make it a standout choice for those with an active lifestyle.

The rechargeable battery makes it easy to use anywhere, whether at work, home, or while traveling. Imagine relief that moves with you!

All in all, a great cordless neck and shoulder heating pad on the market right now.

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How to Choose the Best Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad

Below you will look at a series of topics that will help you narrow down our top picks for the best neck and shoulder heating pads.

Take your time to read about each feature because it will help you pick the right one for you.

Heat Method

Electric neck and shoulder heating pads offer dry heat, while microwaveable heating pads produce moist heat. Infrared is also a dry heat method, but it’s also deep and more effective (hence the higher price tags).

Heat Settings

The heat setting feature is extremely important when considering which product, you should buy. Some products just have the traditional three heat setting feature, which is usually just low, medium, and high.

Other companies offer more heat settings that will range in different temperatures. The more heat setting the heating pad has, the easier it will be to adjust it perfectly to how you like it.

Auto Shut Off

The auto shut off feature is another fantastic feature to have in your heating pad for safety reasons. This is basically a fail-safe that will shut off automatically if the product begins to overheat. This is an exceptional safety feature that actually works and will prevent fires from starting.

Timer

Most heating pads have some sort of time feature on it. The basic ones that don’t have a lot of added features typically have a two-hour self-timer that will shut off after two hours of use. This is the basic feature you will see. Some products have different timer options, such as an hour or even thirty minutes.

Heat Up Time

Heat up time is definitely an important thing to consider because you want a heating pad that is going to heat up quickly. Some heating pad products heat up faster than others, so make sure when you are reading the reviews that you see how fast the product will begin to heat up.

Snug Fit

Shoulder and neck heating pads should fit around your neck snug and securely. If you have to big of a heating pad, it will not fit on top of your shoulders by itself. Most of the best neck and shoulder heating pad options I reviewed have a magnetic clasp that will keep the heating pad securely around your neck. If you are small, then I suggest getting one with a clasp to keep it securely on you.

Easy to Clean

Another important feature is how easy is it to clean the heating pad. Most of the heating pads in my review are able to be machine washed as long as you disconnect it from the power cord. Do not put your heating pad into the dryer as it will ruin the heating elements. Lay it out to hang dry, and then you can use it as normal.

Cord Length

The length of the electrical cord is another feature that people take into consideration. Most people like to relax while using a heating pad, so they will need to have a long enough cord to plug it into an outlet near where you are relaxing.

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Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad FAQs

Below you will find a few common questions and answers on the topic of the heated neck and shoulder pads.

How Does a Heating Pad Work?

The inside of the heating pad has tiny wrapped around coils that heat up when connected to an electrical source. It then heats up the entire pad and will penetrate the top layer of your skin to warm it up. When the skin is warm, the brain blocks out the pain sensors and just focuses on how the heat feels.

How Long Does It Take for a Heating Pad to Heat Up?

Some heating pads take less time to heat up than others. I would say as soon as you plug in the heating pad, it will start to heat up. Some of the heating pads I reviewed above only take about thirty seconds to start heating up.

What is the Best Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad?

In my personal opinion, I believe the Sunbeam brand is the best when it comes to heating pads, and my favorite product was the Sunbeam Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad, which is the first product I have reviewed.

Read more in the review above to find out why I like this product so much!

Are Neck and Shoulder Heating Pads Safe to Use?

This is a common question with heated clothing and accessories.

Yes, you may be surprised to hear this, but a heating pad is actually very safe to use. Many of them have fail safes, which means if they start to overheat, they will actually shut themselves off automatically, which will prevent the heating elements from getting burned out as well as fires.

You will not have to worry about the safety of any of the neck and shoulder heating pads above because they all have exceptional features and safety features.

Can You Use a Heated Neck and Shoulder Pad When Pregnant?

Yes, you can use a heating pad when you are pregnant; but always consult your doctor if you’re unsure.

Personally, I’d just not put the pad directly onto your stomach. Since we are talking about a neck and shoulder heating pad, it is more than safe for a pregnant woman to use.

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In Conclusion

Any of these products is a great way to relieve pain in your neck and shoulders.

People who spend a lot of time in a seated position in an office can get a lot of strain in their neck.

Heat is a natural pain reliever, so I really do hope my best neck and shoulder heating pads reviews helped you find the perfect one for your needs and your budget.

Now, I’d like to hear from YOU:

What is the best neck and shoulder heating pad or wrap, in your opinion?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!