Should something be placed between the hot water bottle and the skin?

Yes, a fabric layer is recommended. The rubber surface heats unevenly, and at points of close contact the temperature may be higher than it feels overall. A thin towel, a pillowcase or a special hot water bottle cover reduces this risk and makes the warmth more even.

It is especially important not to apply the hot water bottle directly to the skin if the skin is irritated, damaged or prone to reddening from heat. In older people, the skin's sensitivity to temperature may be reduced, and children's skin is thinner and burns more easily, so for them a fabric layer is essential.

Using the hot water bottle to warm the bed before sleep is a separate scenario: it is placed under the blanket in advance and, before you lie down, removed or moved to the foot of the bed on top of the sheet. Sleeping directly on the hot water bottle is not recommended.

If you have skin conditions, recent injuries or a tendency to bleed, consult a specialist before applying heat.