Thermophore MaxHEAT Plus Automatic Moist Heating Pad Size Medium 14" x 14" Model 356

I have returned several heating pads because I could barely feel any heat. Thankfully someone having the same problem added the link to the Thermophore MaxHeat in his review. This really does get hot for a change. I actually had to take it down a notch. The only thing that would be better is for the timer to last more than 30 minutes but it’s not like you’re so far away you can’t reset it and since it does get hot, I don’t mind doing that at all.

This thermophore is very different from most electric heating pads aimed at the general consumer market, and is typically available from medical supply retailers and wholesalers, not drug or department stores. It gets much hotter than consumer-oriented heating pads, and it heats up much more rapidly. The special cover generally absorbs enough humidity from the air to create a small amount of moisture, which transfers heat much more effectively. Covers are washable in cold water but should be line dried to avoid shrinkage. Worn replacement covers can be purchased. [Covers for some models also come with a pouch in which to place a wrung-out cloth (included) to compensate for very dry conditions, when needed.]The thermophore is available in a variety of sizes and, within each size, there is a choice of controls: 1) a "dead-man switch," which must be held to operate--ideal if the user is likely to fall asleep while using it; and 2) a timed control (20 minutes) with manual on-off and delay buttons.It is not a coincidence that the picture on the box shows the model laying on his abdomen, with the thermophore atop his back. The instruction booklet emphasizes that, for safety reasons, the user should never lay on top of the thermophore. There are two reasons for this: 1) with the thermophore layered between the bed and the body, the heat cannot easily dissipate, increasing the risk of burning the skin; 2) the heating coils and wiring will degrade more rapidly from the high heat the thermophore produces and, if it is accidentally folded or wrinkled while in use, the risk of damage to the thermophore over time also increases. Unfortunately, unless users have someone to place the thermophore on their backs for them, it can be very difficult to use according to the instructions. Also, some users may find laying on their abdomens uncomfortable or inconvenient for 20 minutes at a time. I suspect that many users who are disappointed in the limited lifespan of their thermophores may lay on top of it due to necessity or ignorance. I recommend reading the entire consumer manual carefully before using it for the first time.I recently replaced a six-year old, frequently-used model with a new thermophore and have been pleased with the performance. I tried using the optional moisture cloth a couple of times to see if it made a difference in my 45% humidity environment. Although it clearly added to the moisture in the heat produced, I believe the unaided cover produces enough moisture to be effective. I also like the new delay feature on the timer control. If the thermophore gets too hot for comfort, I simply press the delay button until it cools down and then press it again. Because the delay feature stops--but doesn't reset--the timer, I know that I will not overextend total heating time beyond 20 minutes.I have one minor suggestion to the manufacturer with respect to improving the timer control. The on-off and delay buttons are identical in feel, and until the user gets familiar with where the two buttons are, it is easy to confuse them if the user does not have visual contact with the control (e.g., see model on the box, whose eyes are closed). This confusion could easily be avoided by adding a raised plastic "dot" in the center of one of the buttons, so the two buttons can be distinguished from each other by touch.Overall, however, the thermophore has been a fantastic product for me. Users should keep in mind the safety and wear concerns--which appear in the consumer manual--particularly if they use the product frequently.

The auto shut off is great to have. It’s pretty durable. Theres a pretty good amount of weight so it stays put. The heat is definitely what I needed. The high is very hot and I love. It’s definitely a great value and the price is well worth it. Simple design and functionality is simple as well. The auto shut off is definitely a great safety measure so you don’t burn yourself. I’ve fallen asleep with it on and it shuts off with no worries

I have used this heating pad for years - before me,my mother had one. It always came in a great box that had flip lid for easy storage when not in use - fold the heating pad long ways three times and put it away. Now this large size heating pad - while the same as before and I tested it -is scrunged into a very small box that needed tape so it would not pop out - no way you would ever be able to get it back in to store it. At the price you would think that Thermophone could afford to use the great box it used to . Shame on them for cutting costs this way.

Likes:Large surface.Thin enough to NOT hurt my back when laying on it.It doesnt BULGE like other heating pads when you lay on them.It has a plastic/vinyl-like inside, with a comfortable almost microfiber like full cover over that, so you can slide in-between those a mesh pad that you use to get wet, to create the moisture.Both outter cover and mesh are washable.VERY long cord. Long enough to go from one side to the other in a California King bed, and still have room to plug in.Still using it after 4-5 years, and it still works like new.ALMOST as good as a massage.Cons:Pretty expensive (but very worth it).Only lasts for about 10 minutes, then you have to turn it off for a minute and set it again. This messes up the steam, and the placement on you back.If you dont wash them every couple uses, the outter and mesh begin to smell very bad. Like Cat Urine (no, its not me, lol. I hardly sweat). I think this is from the inner plastic, or maybe from the manufacturing?VERY highly recommend to anyone with an injury or sore muscles.

We bought a 2nd one for our son and and a third as a gift for a friend in pain. Really nice quality. Pay attention to the model science some have a switch you have to hold down while other models have a 3-setting switch that shuts off automatically and that you don't have to hold down.

I’ve had several these Thermophore heating pads, even bought them for family. But after a few years the on/off switch seem to break. I purchased another pad, same size as my previous ones, and this pad is STIFF it’s almost too stiffs to wrap around your neck shoulders. Therefore can’t use it as much as I would like. Ive only had it a couple months and can’t return it. This used to be a great product by Battle Creek but the changes they made are not user friendly.Even my massage therapist experienced the same issue which she smartly returned.