Expert tips to ensure safe usage of hot water bottles

As a bitter cold snap grips the UK, Health and Safety training experts, High Speed Training, are urging the public to exercise extreme caution when purchasing and using hot water bottles.

The warning follows a recent high-profile recall of several hot water bottle models sold via TikTok Shop, which were found to pose a significant fire and burst risk due to poor manufacturing standards.

While an effective and affordable way to keep warm, in 2024 nearly 1,000 people were admitted to burn units in England and Wales due to hot water bottle accidents.

Dr. Richard Anderson, Head of Learning and Development at High Speed Training said: “Hot water bottles are a fantastic way to beat the chill, but the recent recalls on social media marketplaces highlight a growing danger. Low-quality products that fail to meet UK safety standards can pose a significant risk. Like any household item that utilizes high heat, they aren’t without risk, especially if they are purchased from unverified sellers or have surpassed their ‘expiry date’.”

What to look for when buying

Experts advise consumers to be cautious of “viral” or unbranded products sold through social media platforms. When buying a new bottle, ensure it meets the BS 1970:2012 safety standard. If a product seems unusually cheap or lacks clear safety markings, it may not have undergone the rigorous pressure testing required to prevent leaks and bursts.

Check the age

It is recommended that hot water bottles be replaced every two years, as the rubber used in their construction can deteriorate over time, making them more prone to splitting or leaking.

You can identify when your hot water bottle was made by finding a flower-shaped symbol, known as the ‘daisy wheel,’ embossed directly onto the neck or body of the bottle.

#The number in the centre tells you the year it was made, and the twelve segments represent the months of the year. The number of segments with dots shows the month the bottle was manufactured.

For example, if the symbol has a 25 in the middle, and dots in the first 6 segments, the bottle was manufactured in June 2025. If the segments have more than one dot, the number of dots in the final (or only) filled section shows which week of that month the bottle was made. So, three dots means the third week of the month.

How to Fill and Use Your Hot Water Bottle Safely

Dr. Anderson continues: “Before filling up, check the bottle for any noticeable damage or wear and tear. Avoid filling the bottle with boiling water. This can damage the internal seams, so it’s best to leave it to cool before filling up. It’s also advisable to only fill the bottle about two-thirds of the way full, before expelling any remaining air and ensuring the stopper is tightened securely.

“Always use some type of cover on a hot water bottle, which helps to avoid contact burns on the skin, and avoid sitting or lying on them, as this can increase the risk of the bottle failing.”

“When not in use, drain the bottle and store it with the stopper removed in a cool, dry place like a cupboard.”

For more tips and in-depth guidance, visit High Speed Training Hub, or our article: Hot Water Bottle Safety