How Long Do Wheat Bags (Heat Packs) Last?

Do wheat bags & heat packs expire?

A wheat bag can last for years! Before I started Warm Wheat Bags, years ago, I would made heat packs for my friends and family. And I know that they still regularly use their original wheat bags to this day.

I haven't changed how I make the wheat bags at all, including the wheat, lavender or materials and their wheat bags are still going strong!

Wheat bag and heat pack lifespan

When cared for properly and heated correctly, I would say a wheat bags could last up to 10 years. And as a cost-effective method of natural pain relief, I believe nearly everyone would benefit from having a wheat bag.

Do wheat bags and heat packs wear out?

Yes, wheat bags can wear out over time. With age can come the regular signs of wear and tear of any fabric product, such a loose stitching and tears in the fabric.

You should regularly check your wheat bag for signs of wear and tear. No one wants to have wheat spill out everywhere for you to then have to clean it up.

Can wheat bags and heat packs go off?

Wheat bags can go off. The fabric bag itself won't go off but the wheat inside a wheat bag could if not looked after properly. If your wheat bag gets wet, the wheat itself can get damp and eventually go moldy. 

Also, over time and after heavy use, your wheat bag may start to smell. If your wheat bag does smell, you may need to refresh your wheat bag a simply buy a new one.

Read - Why does my wheat bag smell?

How many times can you heat a wheat bag or heat pack?

A wheat bag can be heated and used regularly without any problem. It's recommended that you heat a wheat bag a couple of times before use, in order to remove excess moisture that has been absorbed by the wheat. This helps your wheat bag hold heat longer.

Also, be careful of overheating your wheat bag as this can lead to hot spots developing, which then increases the risk of your wheat bag igniting.

How often should you change a wheat bag or heat pack?

If cared for properly, your wheat bag will last years! There isn't a recommended amount for how often you should change your wheat bag. It'll be a case of keeping an eye on it and checking for wear and tear. To help your wheat bag last longer and give it a new lease of life, you could refresh it.

Read - Wheat bag care instructions

How do you refresh a wheat bag or heat pack?

You can put a cup of water in with a wheat bag when you microwave it to rehydrate the wheat inside. Rehydrating the wheat can help to get rid of any burnt smells that may be coming through and give your wheat bag a new lease of life.

Another way to improve the smell of your wheat bag if to add essentials oils to your wheat bag. If you catch your wheat bag before it smells too bad, you can effectively mask the smell with a fragrance.