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

(See the 14 proven benefits of infrared light therapy)

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.

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.

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.

(You can see an actual test of the UTK hearing pads in my detailed UTK Heating Pads Review)

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.

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:

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.

That pressure alone helps with anxiety and sleep problems.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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

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

When it comes to Gemstone Pads (Jade/Tourmaline/Amethyst), the heat feels richer – it lasts longer and seems to go deeper.

When I turn off these pads, I can feel my muscles warm and relaxed even after the pad itself cools down (and it takes at least 20 minutes for them to cool down!).

Why?

Because natural gemstones allow the heat to be maintained for a longer duration while releasing negative ions and far-infrared heat therapy, doubling the effectiveness.

The negative ions they emit by being heated make me feel like they actually help me wind down at night.

They’re heavier, and that “weighted blanket” feeling is incredibly grounding.

However:

They’re bulky, some don’t flex, and they’re not great if you need something portable. The heat doesn’t always go as deep – it feels more like a surface warmth.

Non-Gemstone Pads (like Thermotex or Shaper Image) are lightweight, more flexible, and easier to pack or wrap around your leg.

They are often simpler to clean and store.

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.

Feeling ready to make a choice, but not sure which pad is right for you? I’ve compared the top infrared heating pads of 2025, where you’ll find the best options for your specific needs, budget, and pain points.

To your health and happiness,

Meital