Two hot water bottles shown with their stoppers
A metal hot water bottle from 1925
A hot water bottle is a container filled with hot water and sealed with a stopper, used to provide warmth, typically whilst in bed, but may also be applied to a part of the body.
While generally used for keeping warmth, its local application is also a medical treatment in certain cases, e.g., for pain relief; see also "Heating pad".
Modern day hot water bottles are manufactured in rubber, and are commonly covered in fabric, often with a novelty design. The modern design is subject to a patent by Slavoljub Eduard Penkala. Prior to the invention of a rubber which could withstand sufficient heat, hot water bottles took the form of bed warmers, typically made of metal or earthenware and sealed with a cork stopper.
Containers for warmth in bed were in use as early as the 16th century. Early on, they contained hot coals, but soon after, hot water was used. Containers were made of a variety of materials like zinc, copper, glass, and wood. To prevent burning, metal hot water flasks were wrapped in a soft cloth bag.
See also
- electric blanket
- bed warmer
Categories: Bedding | Medical equipment | Medical treatments | Heat
