For all-day warmth while you move around, choose a heated gilet. For cold hands, choose rechargeable hand warmers. For bed and sofa, a hot water bottle is the simplest and cheapest. Each solves a different problem, and many people end up using two or three together.
Heated gilet vs hand warmers vs hot water bottle: comparison table
| Heated gilet | Rechargeable hand warmers | Hot water bottle | Thick winter duvet | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Core warmth, desk work, outdoors | Pockets, commutes, dog walks | Bed, sofa, lap | Sleeping |
| Portable? | Yes, with a USB power bank | Yes | Short-term | No |
| Power source | USB | Built-in rechargeable | Hot water | None |
| Reusable? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Our price from | £34.99 | £24.99 | See collection | £44.99 |
Which is warmest?
A heated gilet gives the most noticeable warmth across your body because it covers the largest area. Our USB Heated Gilet has 21 heating zones. Hand warmers only warm the area they touch, but that is often exactly what you need.
Which is cheapest to use?
A hot water bottle has the lowest running cost because it only needs a kettle of water. Rechargeable hand warmers and heated clothing use a small amount of electricity from USB, and can be recharged repeatedly through the season.
Which is best for commuting and being outdoors?
Hand warmers and a heated gilet. Both are portable and designed for use away from home. The magnetic hand warmers snap together into one compact unit for carrying.
Which is best for sleeping?
A hot water bottle to pre-warm the bed, plus a thick duvet. Do not sleep in heated clothing unless the manufacturer's instructions say it is safe. The Reversible Sherpa Duvet is a fleecy, cosy option.
Our recommendation by situation
- Work from home in a cold room: heated gilet.
- Cold hands outdoors: hand warmers.
- Cold bed: hot water bottle plus thicker duvet.
- Tight budget: hot water bottle first, then hand warmers.
Common questions
Do heated gilets need a power bank?
Heated gilets typically run from a USB power bank. Check the product page for what is included and the power output needed.
Can I wash a heated gilet?
Follow the care instructions on the product page, and disconnect any power source before washing.
Are rechargeable hand warmers reusable?
Yes. Unlike disposable heat packs, you recharge them and use them again.
Browse everything in our Winter Warmth collection, all with free UK delivery.