The Best Heating Pads to Soothe Your Aches and Pains

We updated this article in February 2023 to ensure all picks vetted by the Good Housekeeping Institute were in stock and reflected accurate prices. We replaced our pick for best heating bad for cramps with another model by Urban Outfitters as the original was out of stock.

No one likes menstrual cramps, back and neck pain or sore muscles. Fortunately, a good heating pad can help ease your suffering by relaxing your muscles and even optimizing muscle recovery. Most heating pads don’t require much more than an outlet (if even that) and take up little space. "Heating pads can be a convenient way to enhance circulation and relieve aches and muscle stiffness," says Stefani Sassos, a certified personal trainer and the Deputy Director of the Nutrition Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. "Heat brings more blood flow to the area, loosens up soft tissues that may be tight and can allow for improved mobility."

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our experts test all kinds of products, from the best electric blankets to the best period underwear. To find the best heating pads, we narrowed down the field by researching the best models on the market, looking for ones that feature soft, high-quality materials, sizable surface areas and lengthy cords, at least three heat settings and positive customer reviews. We also took note of added features like auto-shutoff timers and unique composition materials. The picks ahead are best-sellers from top-rated brands that impressed our experts with their features.

Our top picks:

After reading about our picks, learn more about how we chose the best heating pads and what you should keep in mind while shopping for one.