We could talk about our colleague (hello Marion!) who fell asleep on his hot water bottle before waking up, his skin burned, because of the pain. Four years later, and despite her visit to the emergency room, she still has a scar. So for her (and for the others), we decided to tackle this big subject of the proper use of a hot water bottle. Because with falling temperatures and rising energy prices, there are many reasons to take your heating object out of the closet. Water temperature, rubber condition, skin contact: Anne-Sophie Ly, from Douce Bouillotte, gives us some tips for warming up safely.
A quality hot water bottle in good condition
Whether fillable with water, electric or full of seeds, hot water bottles should be used with care. Above all, when buying, it is better to stop on an object of good quality. We know that this cute five-euro hot water bottle caught your eye, but think about your skin. “For water bottles, choose those with the BS standard, the British standard which prevails at European level, and those made in Europe”, explains Anne-Sophie Ly. By focusing on quality, the risk of bursting, in particular, will be minimal. To be sure, you must also check the condition of this heating object. Before filling it, a quick glance makes sure that there are no signs of wear or micro-cracks that would cause the risk of bursting, and therefore serious burns (hello Laura !).
As the water bottles wear out, it is also necessary to remember to change them regularly. “Every three to five years for good quality equipment, and every year for one of lesser invoice”, assures the specialist.
Not too hot (and even less for children)
Second step: fill the hot water bottle. With the freezing temperatures ahead, the temptation is great to bring the water to a boil, just to warm up as quickly as possible. But we tell you right away: it’s not a good idea. “A hot water bottle is a maximum of 80°C”, says Anne-Sophie Ly.
For some people it will be even less. “The water temperature must be adapted to everyone’s sensitivity. People can be burned from 40°C. For children, for example, it is recommended not to exceed this temperature. “And obviously, you should never leave a little one alone with a water bottle,” adds the specialist. Last recommendation before using a seed hot water bottle for a toddler: after having put it in the microwave, the specialist advises to test the heat on the inside of the wrist, as for milk from a bottle.
At 80°C, the risk of burning when filling your hot water bottle is high (hello Bérénice! Yes, we meet a lot of people who have had misadventures with their hot water bottle). So be very (very) careful when you pour the water. Last advice on this point: “You must fill the container two-thirds full and evacuate the residual air before closing it. And do not hesitate to turn the hot water bottle over to see if the cap is correctly positioned. “It’s a bit silly, but a lot of people close it badly and afterwards they complain that it leaks,” remarks Anne-Sophie Ly.
Not in direct contact with the skin
To avoid burns, you also avoid putting the burning object directly against your skin. “You always put a cloth or a piece of clothing between the hot water bottle and yourself. And even taking this precaution, do not leave it against your body for more than thirty minutes.
Finally, last advice: exit the dodo with the hot water bottle. We know it’s tempting (and fun) but instead, we put her in her bed and take her out just before slipping under the sheets. “Originally, this type of hot water bottle was created to replace the old brick that was heated on the stove and placed before going to bed to heat the bed. You wouldn’t dream of sleeping next to a hot brick. So think about it the next time you are tempted to use your hot water bottle as a comforting blanket.
“If you sleep with it and something happens, it’s directly on the skin, even when you sleep with pajamas, so the risk of burns is really very serious. » Ask our colleague Marion.