Friday 9th December 2022
Experts warn ageing water bottles can cause serious injury – and you shouldn’t just use any old one from the back of a cupboard.
After reviewing all the information, the balanced view is any timescale is a recommendation and dependant on many factors.
- Quality - cheaper quality hot water bottles won't last as long as a higher grade bottle
- Amount of use - a heavily used hot water bottle will deteriorate quicker and should be replaced more often
- Care of storage when not in use - Removing the stopper and storing bottle away from direct sources of heat or sunlight - avoid airing cupboards, boiler cupboards or heat sources such as radiators.
- There is actually no expiry
Best practice would be regular inspection for any deterioration, make sure you are storing it correctly.
- Fill the bottle with hot, but NOT boiling, water
- Make sure the stopper is securely screwed on
- Fill the bottle to a maximum of three-quarters full
- Wrap the bottle in a towel to prevent direct contact
- Avoid taking the bottle to bed
- Frequently examine the bottle for signs of wear and tear
- Make sure it has been tested to BS1970:2006 standards
- Expel all air above the water level before sealing carefully, to prevent injury from the escaping hot steam
- Special care should be taken when used by those with sensory deficits, the elderly and children