The Hug | Hot & Cold Gel Pack

The Hug is about to become your new best friend. A hot and cold pack unlike traditional options. This comforting hot/cold therapy pack can be heated in the microwave or hot water, cooled in the freezer and then worn securely with the adjustable straps for targeted comfort. Making this the best choice over a traditional wheat bag or hot water bottle. The microwave-free method of heating makes this hot/cold pack the best option for using in hospitals or birthing units where microwave heating isn't permitted. 

The Hug is ideal for providing comfort for areas like your back and stomach, delivering full, soothing coverage. Commonly used to provide comfort for sore necks, tension headaches, muscle fatigue, and general aches. Hot and cold therapy is widely applied in managing symptoms associated with arthritis, post-surgery recovery, and everyday discomfort.

We love The Hug for period cramps, endometriosis pain, back and shoulder pain from pregnancy or carrying your toddler around, labour pains & postpartum cramps. The perfect companion for every stage of motherhood and beyond. 

Includes

• 1 x Classic hot & cold gel pack with elastic straps
• 1 x Classic skin protecting cover
• 1 x Elastic extension strap for additional length

Use

Heat it up or cool it down in 3 easy ways 
- Microwave
- Boiling Water
- Freezer

Safety

• Do not use gel pack directly on skin, (use The Hug Cover). 
• Regularly inspect your gel pack for any signs of  damage or leaks. Do not use if damaged. 
• Use only as directed. 
• Do not overheat in the microwave, as this can cause the gel pack to burst. 
• Do not use it on broken skin, and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
• Children must be supervised by a guardian when using the gel pack to ensure safe use. 

Cold Application

1. Place the gel pack in the freezer as flat and even as possible for at least 2 hours.
2. Do not apply the gel pack directly to the skin. Insert into The Hug Cover before use.
3. For safety reasons, it's important to apply The Hug cold for no more than 20 minutes at a time. Repeat every 45-60 minutes as needed.
4. Store the gel pack in the freezer when not in use for cold application.

Hot Application

Hot Water Method

1. Boil 4-5 litres of water.
2. Remove the pot from the heat source.
3. Place the gel pack in the water for 10 minutes. You can secure each strap to your container with pegs to keep the straps out of the water.
4. Carefully remove the gel pack and dry it with a towel.
5. Gently place The Hug Cover on before applying it to your body.
6. Do not apply the gel pack directly to the skin. Insert into The Hug Cover before use.

Microwave Method

Note: Microwave ovens vary in power, so you will need to determine the correct heating time for your microwave oven with care. To avoid burns or damage to the gel pack it is best to start heating cautiously and gradually increase the time to achieve the desired heat.

1. Lay the gel pack flat in the microwave with or without the cover, ensuring the gel is evenly distributed. Fold the straps in and place the gel pack so it rotates freely without touching the walls inside the microwave.
2. If the gel pack is at room temperature, heat on high for 30 seconds (times will vary depending on microwave power) and let it stand for 30 seconds. It is important not to let the gel pack bulge; if it does, stop immediately to avoid bursting.
3. If frozen, heat on high initially for 45 seconds, and let stand for 45 seconds before heating further to desired temperature.
4. If additional heating is needed, turn over the gel pack and heat in 10-20 second increments, checking after each increment until the desired temperature is achieved (check to ensure the gel is still evenly distributed).
5. Once the gel pack is heated to the desired level, ensure The Hug Cover is on the heated gel pack before applying it to your body to avoid burning the skin.

Specifications

Materials

• Ingredients of gel pack: Non-toxic and biodegradable - Water 79.9%, Glycerine 15%, CMC 5%, Preservative 0.1%
• Gel pack material: Single layer of 30-micron thick polyester fabric which is durable, lightweight and environmentally friendly
• Gel pack straps: elastic with Velcro ends
• Cover: 50% linen 50% cotton blend with Velcro ends
• Separate extension strap: elastic band with Velcro ends

Measurements

• Classic gel pack (not including the straps): 37.5 x 14.5cm
• Elastic gel pack straps (attached to the gel pack): 24 x 5cm each when relaxed
• Classic cover: 40.5 x 15cm
• Separate extension strap: 37 x 5cm when relaxed

Care

Classic gel pack

• Store gel pack in a clean, cool, dry place when not in use. Or store it in the freezer as flat as possible for convenient ice pack use when needed.
• To clean your gel pack, wipe gently with a cool damp cloth. Do not use chemicals to clean your Hug gel pack.

**Do not put your gel pack in the washing machine or the dishwasher.

Cover and separate elastic strap

• Store your cover when not in use in a clean dry area.
• To clean your cover or elastic strap, handwash. Line dry. Iron at low temperature.