10 Mistakes to Avoid Before Buying an Infrared Heating Pad

If you’ve ever stared at the dozens of infrared heating pads online, feeling completely lost (or tempted to just pick the cheapest one and hope for the best), you’re not alone.

I’ve been there – and I’ve made the mistake of buying a “high-rated” pad that barely warmed my skin and died after a month.

The problem is not that infrared heating pads don’t work.

The problem is buying the wrong one.

• Some barely warm up.
• Some spike EMF.
• Some are too small to actually help.
• Some die in months.

Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen to you.

The truth is, some of these pads are absolute game-changers for pain, stress, and sleep… and others are overpriced electric pads in disguise.

After testing a bunch (and reading way too many reviews), I’ve nailed down the real tips you need to avoid wasting money and getting the relief you need.

I currently own and regularly use a few infrared heating pads, including gemstone mats and portable carbon-fiber pads.

👉 See the 14 proven benefits of infrared light therapy (and why it’s different from regular heat)

Infrared Heating Pad Buying Guide: 10 Tips

I’ll be using some of my own infrared heating pads that I have at home as examples for my tips, so everything here is from personal experience.

1. Check How Deep the Heat Goes – Not Just How Hot It Gets

I used to think high temperatures mean better therapy, but what matters more is how deeply the heat penetrates.

When you’re browsing infrared pads, try to find out which type of infrared they use (near, mid, or far) and how high their temperatures go.

Pads with far infrared tend to reach deeper layers, so they’re usually better for long-term relief.

For example, the UTK heating pad and the Ereada high-end heating pad are far infrared deep penetrating pads that emit the most absorbable wavelength range of 4-16 microns, while the Medicrystal Mini mat combines far infrared, mid infrared, and red light therapy with energy peaks at 6 and 12 microns.

If you want deep, long-lasting relief, choose the far-infrared wavelength range over maximum temperature.

If a pad only advertises “high heat” but doesn’t mention infrared wavelength, skip it.

2. Don’t Trust the “Low EMF” Label – Check for Real Testing

Many claim “zero EMF,” but the reality is mixed.

Look for third-party EMF testing or actual user reviews with a meter test.

I learned this the hard way when a pad I bought online made my EMF reader spike.

UTK, Ereada, and Medicrystal pads had almost no detectable EMF in actual tests (even near the cord).

The UTK is made with non-magnetic carbon fiber, which is almost EMF-free, and the Ereada Amethyst Mat is made with a zero-EMF double silicon titanium electrical heating system.

If a brand does not publish EMF testing or allow independent verification, that is a red flag.

If EMF matters to you, stick to brands that show actual test data – not just marketing claims.

👉 See my full UTK heating pad EMF test here.

3. Size Matters More Than You Think

Start by asking: Where do I hurt the most?

If it’s your back or shoulders, get a medium to large pad (20″ x 32″ or more). If it’s your neck and shoulders, get a wrap-around design like the UTK Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad (heavy and stays put)

Small ones are cozy, but they often don’t cover enough.

(For people who want pain relief without much heat, consider my guide to red light therapy wraps and belts, which are lightweight and versatile alternatives for joints and muscles)

Some people highly recommend a full body infrared mat they can fall asleep on, or just treat their entire body like a mini infrared sauna and get a good sweat going.

Here’s a handy table:

The most common mistake is buying a pad that is too small and having to constantly reposition it.

If you are between sizes, go bigger.

Too small is the most common regret.

👉 If you already know what size you need, see my comparison of the best infrared heating pads here.

4. Weight Is Important

Heavy gemstone pads like Ereada or Medicrystal have this comforting weight and can be used as a blanket instead of a pad you lie on.

Many people find the added weight calming, like a weighted blanket, which may help with relaxation and sleep.

But if you want something you can wear or wrap around aching joints, lighter pads like the Sharper Image infrared heating pad or an infrared therapy belt are better.

If you like the feeling of a weighted blanket, gemstone mats are ideal.

If you want mobility, go lighter.

👉 If your pain spreads beyond muscles and joints into nerves, you may also find my guide to infrared therapy devices for neuropathy useful.

5. Pay Attention to the Controller

Sounds silly, but if the controller is confusing or unreliable (doesn’t reflect the actual temperature), you’ll use it less.

Look for easy-to-read buttons, temp. control by degrees (preferably 1-degree increments like the UTK Pro), and auto shutoff – to be safe if you fall asleep.

UTK’s controller is intuitive and reliable. I’ve been using it for more than 5 years, and it works the same way it did when it was new.

Some cheaper ones only have limited heat settings that may feel too hot or not hot enough for your specific needs and comfort.

A frustrating controller is one of the main reasons people stop using an otherwise good pad.

If you plan to use it daily, the controller quality matters more than you think.

A frustrating controller – you stop using the pad.

👉 For a broader look at devices that use infrared light technologies for pain relief, see my comparison of the best infrared light therapy devices.

6. Velcro Straps Are a Game-Changer for Mobility

If you’re planning to move around while using your pad (like walking or stretching lightly), get one with straps.

The straps can also help you attach the pad to your work chair so you can use it on the back for pain relief while you sit.

This matters most if you plan to use the pad while working, sitting upright, or doing light movement.

For example, the Thermotex has these, and it stays put even when I shift around. However, it’s expensive.

7. Check If It’s Foldable or Flexible

This matters a lot if you need therapy on your knees, neck, or shoulders.

Rigid gemstone mats don’t bend well – my Medicrystal mat is amazing for lying flat, but is not optimal to use while sitting.

For flexibility, non-stone pads win (or jade heating belts, like the UTK wrap).

If you plan to lie flat, rigid gemstone mats are ideal. If you plan to sit or wrap joints, flexible pads are the better choice.

8. Can You Wash It? Protect It?

Sweat, oils, and pets (yep, mine love it too) will get all over it.

Some brands come with washable covers or waterproof layers (Medicrystal includes both).

If not, read the cleaning instructions carefully before you wipe them off to prevent ruining them.

9. Storage + Portability: Will You Actually Use It If It’s Bulky?

My UTK Medium Pro lives on my couch now, but when I traveled with it, the carrying bag was a lifesaver.

Look for pads that fold easily and come with a carrying bag.

UTK includes one. Ereada’s large mats – not so portable.

If you travel even a few times a year, portability matters.

10. Customer Service Might Matter More Than Features

Seriously, the best features mean nothing if you can’t reach someone when it breaks.

I had a defective controller once, and Medicrystal replaced it in 3 days.

Strong customer support often matters more long-term than an extra feature you rarely use.

11. BONUS: Gemstone vs. Non-Gemstone Pads – What’s Better?

I’ve used both, and here’s my honest take (and just facts):

Gemstone Pads (Jade / Tourmaline / Amethyst)

Best for:

• Long recovery sessions
• Deep relaxation
• Sleep support
• Full back or full body use

Pros

• Retain heat longer
• Heavy and grounding
• Feel deeper and more therapeutic

Cons

• Bulky
• Not very flexible
• Harder to travel with

Non-Gemstone Pads (Carbon Fiber / FIR Fabric)

Best for:

• Travel
• Joint wrapping
• Sitting upright
• Everyday flexible use

Pros

• Lightweight
• Flexible
• Easier to store

Cons

• Less “weighted” feeling
• Heat retention may not feel as rich

Most people who are serious about infrared therapy end up owning both.

My choice? I use both. I keep my gemstone pad for longer recovery sessions and use my portable carbon pad when I’m traveling out of the country.

Quick takeaway:

• Choose gemstone pads for long recovery sessions
• Choose non-gemstone pads for flexibility, travel, and joint wrapping

How Much Should You Spend?

• Under $100 – Basic portable pads. Good for short sessions and travel.
• $100–$250 – Most people find their sweet spot here. Good size, low EMF, reliable heat.
• $300+ – Full body gemstone mats for long sessions and deep relaxation.

Spending more only makes sense if you will use it consistently.

If you want help choosing the right one, I’ve compared the best infrared heating pads of 2026 based on pain type, size, EMF levels, weight, and budget.

To your health and happiness,

Meital