How To Check The Age of A Hot Water Bottle

Hot water bottles are practical and comforting companions during chilly nights or when seeking relief from muscle soreness. However, it is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of these bottles, as they do have a limited lifespan, the UK government advises changing your bottle every 2-3 years of use. 

1) Check the manufacturing date

You can do this by looking at the flower-shaped symbol on your hot water bottle. The number in the middle refers to the year the bottle was made and then the 12 segments refer to the 12 months in the year and the little dots inside these segments refer to weeks. 

So, for example if you have 2 dots in both the 3rd and 4th segment this means it was produced between the 2nd week of march and the 2nd week of April. 

The manufacturing date may not tell you all you need to know as you may not know when you bought the bottle, but if it is more than 5 years old it is recommended that you change it even if it has not seen much use. 

2) Inspect the hot water bottle

If you are unsure about the manufacturing date it is advised that you look at the rubber closely for any signs of wear and tear. Over time, the rubber or material used in its construction may deteriorate, resulting in cracks, leaks, or a hardened texture. These indications can suggest an older bottle that may need replacing. 

Knowing the age of your hot water bottle is crucial for ensuring your safety and comfort. By examining the flower wheel and by inspecting the bottle for wear and tear you can confidently determine if it's time to replace your hot water bottle. 

Thanks for reading,

Freddie