They are a tried and tested source of comfort for back pain or stomach cramps and a guarantee of pleasant warmth on cold days: hot water bottles. Burns caused by hot water bottles are a phenomenon that we under no circumstances want to associate with practical helpers.
But even if warnings about burn blisters or skin changes caused by the hot water bottle seem exaggerated at first glance: these side effects occur more often than you think. Even with a pleasant supply of heat, as with so many things, the dose makes the poison. If it is permanently too high, diseases such as toasted skin syndrome can occur.
In this article we will show you exactly how to avoid these burns from the hot water bottle and what is really important when using soothing hot water bottle belts in practice.
This is why hot water bottles cause burns
If you use a hot water bottle to warm yourself on cold nights or to relieve acute pain , be aware that burns are a real danger. Although they are very safe to use, they can cause serious burns if used improperly.
The main reason for burns associated with hot water bottles is the temperature of the liquid they contain. Your skin is sensitive to heat and the contents of the bottle may be much hotter than you expect. It is therefore essential to proceed carefully.
You should therefore check the condition of your bottle regularly. Cracks or wear can cause hot water to leak, which could result in serious injury. That's why it's smart to take a careful look at your hot water bottle before each use.
The right temperature
Bring the water to the boil, open the bottle, fill it - done. Handling your bottle is pretty simple. However, we quickly overlook an important aspect: the optimal temperature of the water filled.
You should only use hot water, but not boiling, as this reduces the chance of burns. Filling with boiling hot water can quickly go wrong and should therefore be avoided. Instead, let the water cool for a few minutes before filling the bottle.
Toasted skin syndrome: hot water bottle burns
Almost everyone likes crispy toasted bread for a long breakfast. However, we are less likely to want to see our skin in a similar condition. But toasted skin syndrome leads to exactly that.
This is not about direct burns caused by skin contact with high heat, but rather gradual skin changes caused by constant, excessive heat. If you regularly expose your skin to high heat applied directly via the skin, it can slowly change. A brownish-red network is created - like on toast.
Experts also refer to this brownish pigmentation as “erythema ab igne,” which means “redness from fire” in ancient Greek.
Damage to blood vessels
The excessive heat damages your blood vessels and causes red blood cells to leak out. Their breakdown products, known in medicine as hemosiderin , are deposited in the skin. This causes discoloration of the skin called hyperpigmentation.
You will only recognize toasted skin syndrome when the visual consequences are already visible on the skin. It is therefore important to use your hot water bottle carefully and carefully.
How to prevent burns from a hot water bottle
It is a loyal companion in the cold season that gives us cozy warmth. But caution is advised as improper use can lead to painful burns. Safety should therefore come first, alongside your personal comfort needs:
- Check your bottle before each use: Inspect it carefully for cracks, leaks, or other damage that could cause hot water to escape.
- Use a suitable cover: A towel or special cover between the hot water bottle and your skin is crucial to avoid direct contact. This distributes heat evenly and minimizes the risk of burns. Hot water bottle belts from Vintage Spirit come with a matching cover.
- Pay attention to the water temperature: Never fill the bottle with boiling water . Let the water cool down a bit beforehand to reach an appropriate temperature.
- Avoid excessive heat: You should never leave it on the same part of your body for too long. Avoid excessive heat exposure as this can cause skin irritation.
- Set limits: As beneficial as it may be, limit the application time to appropriate intervals. This helps reduce the likelihood of burns from the hot water bottle.
- Care: Make sure to clean and dry your bottle properly before storing it. This will extend their lifespan and ensure their functionality.
- Be aware of warning signs: If you ever notice red spots or blisters caused by the hot water bottle, remove it immediately and allow the skin to cool. If symptoms persist, you should seek medical advice.
Conclusion: A hot water bottle that is too hot can cause burns
If you play with fire too carelessly, you can get burned. We learn this simple insight as small children. This also applies to a hot water bottle used with excessive heat.
The essential protective measures are simple: check your bottle carefully, always use a protective cover, pay attention to the water temperature and set clear time limits. This ensures that you can enjoy the soothing warmth without any concerns.
You can enjoy it particularly safely with the hot water bottle belts from Vintage Spirit. The products made from upcycled materials not only come with a safe cover that protects your skin, but in contrast to classic versions can also be flexibly attached to the body. This way you avoid individual areas being exposed to excessive heat for too long.
Your health and well-being come first. Burns from hot water bottles are preventable as long as you exercise the necessary caution. Protect your skin, be careful when using it and let the hot water bottle become what it should be - a source of warmth and relaxation.
