B&M is selling a 1.7 litre hot water bottle that the chain says is big enough to "perfectly warm your whole body" as the weather turns colder, offering shoppers a way to stay warm without switching on the central heating.
The Long Fur Hot Water Bottle costs £10 in stores across the UK. According to the brand's website, shoppers can choose from four colour options: pink, grey, brown, and cream.
A 'luxuriously soft' design for cold nights
Describing the item online, B&M says: "Keep cosy on cold winter nights with this luxuriously soft faux fur long hot water bottle. The elongated design is perfect for warming your whole body, whether you're curled up on the sofa or snuggled in bed."
The discount chain said that this item could also "make a lovely gift for friends and family or a treat for yourself". Aside from comfort on cold nights, this hot water bottle could help those struggling with pain.
Heat therapy benefits and a cheaper alternative
Hot water bottles can help relieve pain by using heat to relax tight muscles, dilate blood vessels to improve blood flow, and block pain signals sent to your brain, experts say. Some of the most common issues that can be relieved by a hot water bottle include period cramps, back or neck pain, and long-term stiffness caused by arthritis.
There is another similar item on offer at Home Bargains. The Home Collections Long Hot Water Bottle (£7.99) claims to help "melt away your aches and pains with its body-warming comfort".
Describing it online, Home Bargains said: "Snuggle up with the Home Collections Long Hot Water Bottle in chic grey, designed to melt away your aches and pains with its body-warming comfort. Complete with adorable pom pom and faux fur detail, it's your perfect companion for cosy evenings."
Safety guidelines for hot water bottles
People using hot water bottles should be aware of some safety guidelines. First, people should let the boiled water cool slightly before filling the bottle to prevent damage to the material.
People should not fill any bottle to the maximum line. For safety, people should aim for about two-thirds capacity.
Once prepared, always wrap the bottle in a towel or fabric cover to protect your skin from burns, which can occur from direct contact. Apply the warmth for no more than 20 minutes at a time, and do not sleep with a hot water bottle.
