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Most hot water bottles typically last 2 to 3 years. Depending on the brand and manufacturer, some can last up to 5 years. The longevity of your hot water bottle also depends on how well you take care of it. Not filling your bottle with boiling water or hot tap water will help: the rubber won't degrade as fast. Using a cover and storing your hot water bottle in a dark and dry place will also increase its longevity.
How old is my hot water bottle?
We know that depending on the brand, manufacturers guarantee your hot water bottle to last between 2 and 5 years counting from the date of manufacture. This is usually indicated on your hot water bottle and/or the instructions that came with it.
Once you know what the guaranteed lifespan is, check the date on which your hot water bottle was manufactured. You can do this by checking the stamp on your hot water bottle, called a "daisy wheel".
The hot water bottle daisy wheel and how to read it
The daisy wheel is used by hot water bottle manufacturers to inform consumers when the item was produced. We added an image below describing how a daisy wheel should be read.
In the picture below, the hot water bottle was produced in the 1st week of January 2022. In addition, the manufacturer specifies the hot water bottle should be replaced after 5 years.
This means that for safety reasons, you need to dispose of your hot water bottle on January 1st, 2027 at the latest. In other words, this is your hot water bottle's expiry date!
How to make your hot water bottle last as long as possible
How long your hot water bottle will last depends on how you take care of it. How you use and store your hot water bottle may influence its longevity.
Here are our recommendations to take care of your hot water bottle. These recommendations are also important in terms of safety.
A well-taken care of hot water bottle is less prone to getting damaged and having leaks, and thus safer to use. In very rare cases, hot water bottles can burst if not used properly.
1. Fill it the right way
Hot water bottles adhering to the British Standard (BS 1970:2012) have a high-quality standard and are made of very resistant material.
That being said, the following points are essential when it comes to your bottle's longevity:
Don't fill it with boiling water: your hot water bottle is not designed to withstand boiling water over 2-3 years
Don't use hot tap water: impurities in tap water, even hot, may also degrade your hot water bottle from the inside
Don't fill it to maximum capacity: too much pressure inside your hot water bottle may lead it to burst
Instead, boil water (this will eliminate the impurities in the tap water), and let it cool down for about 10 minutes. The water you pour inside your hot water bottle should be around 80 degrees Celsius.
Following these instructions will make your hot water bottle last longer. Read our full hot water bottle filling instructions.
2. Use a cover
Using a cover for your hot water bottle may offer an extra layer of protection. Don't get us wrong, rubber, PVC, and silicone hot water bottles are very resistant and can definitely survive without a cover. Read more on the difference between hot water bottles made of rubber, PVC, or silicone.
However, over a 2 to 5-year lifespan, scratches and friction here and there can gradually damage your hot water bottle. A cover will protect it against this. In addition, it will keep your hot water bottle warm for longer. Double win!
3. Store it in a dark and dry place
The way you store your hot water bottle also influences how long it lasts. Storing it in the wrong place can also damage the material over time.
Your hot water bottle should be stored in a dark and dry place (e.g. a cupboard or drawer), with the stopper removed. Make sure no water has stayed in the bottle if you're planning on storing it for a longer period.
Read our article on how to store your hot water bottle!
2 signs you need to replace your hot water bottle
In most cases, we recommend you replace your hot water bottle every 2 to 3 years merely as a precaution. Although rare, hot water bottle accidents are no fun, and the whole point of them is to keep you warm, not send you to the hospital.
Triple-check the indicated lifespan of your hot water bottle given by your manufacturer and use the daisy wheel to count back. If your hot water bottle's lifespan is not indicated by the brand, play it safe and buy a new one after 2 years of use, maximum.
1. You notice signs of wear and tear
Your hot water bottle should be replaced immediately if you notice any signs of wear and tear. Ideally, you should check for these before each use to be on the safe side. Signs of wear and tear include deep scratches and damaged corners or seams for example.
If you notice any of these, it's time to thank your hot water bottle for the warm times and to kiss it goodbye. So long, partner.
2. Your hot water bottle is leaking
If your hot water bottle is leaking, safely empty it in the sink and dispose of it immediately. Even small leaks can turn into larger ones.
Don't take any risks and purchase a new hot water bottle. A new hot water bottle will cost less than a trip to the emergency room. Again, thanks for the cosy times and so long, partner.
Final thoughts
We hope we gave you a better understanding of how long a hot water bottle lasts. Just like any item you own, hot water bottles will last longer if you take care of them. Give them love and care, they will reward you with warmth and cosiness. Win-win! Win.
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