How to Make a Microwavable Heating Pad

A heating pad is something that everyone should have in their house, whether it be for those minor aches and pains or a headache. If you don't already own one there's no need to go out and waste money on one when you can make one with things you have laying around your house. And the best part is it will work just as good if not better then one you would buy at the store.

Supplies:
Fabric of your choice
Filler
Fragrance if you chose
Needle and thread
Funnel (paper or plastic is ok)
Scissors

Filler Options
There are several filler options out there for your heating pad. Generally most people go with what they've actually got on hand in the house, which in turn means usually picking uncooked rice. But some other options you have are wheat, barley, beans, feedcorn, buckwheat hulls and flax seed. It really comes down to your general preference.

Fragrance:
For those of us who like aroma therapy then I recommend adding a soothing fragrance to your filler before placing it in the heating pad. Some ideas could be essential oils, spices, or herbs such as crushed mint, cinnamon, peppermint oil, rose petals, lavender, or potpourri. You can also use a fragrance sachet you may already have around the house as long as the sachet is material and made out of cotton.

Fabric Options:
It is not recommended to microwave any other fabric other then cotton. With cotton you have a large variety of fabrics to choose from. You have denim, flannel, fleece, wash cloths towels and even socks. The list is long for cotton fabrics you may have laying around the house.

Directions:
1/ Using your scissors cut your fabric to the shape and size you want.
2/ Fold your material in half.
3/ Take your needle and thread and using the double stitch sew your material like a pillow leaving one side completely open.
4/ Now again using your needle and thread sew the side you had left open closed leaving only a 2 inch space still open.
5/ Now take your material and turn it inside out so that the seams are in the inside of the bag
6/ Now place your funnel into the 2 inch opening of your fabric and slowly begin to pour your filler into the funnel.
7/ Be sure to only fill your bag between half and two thirds of the way. Make sure not to overfill
8/ Once your bag is filled 2/3 to ¼ the way full remove the funnel.
9/ Take your needle and thread and using the double stitch sew the two inch space closed.

How to use your microwavable heating pad:
Now that your done making your microwavable heating pad I'm sure you want to try it out. All you need to do is place it in the microwave for 1 to 3 minutes. I personally recommend spritzing the heating pad with a little bit of water prior to putting it in the microwave. This will add a bit of warming effect and if you've used fragrances, spices, or incense then it will also add to the aromatherapy.