Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about air-activated warmers, from how they work to travel, storage and shipping.
How do air-activated warmers work?
Each warmer holds a blend of natural ingredients — iron powder, water, salt, activated charcoal and vermiculite. When the pouch meets the air, those ingredients react in a fast oxidation process that gives off steady heat. Depending on the product, a warmer reaches roughly 100°F to 180°F and lasts from about 1 hour to 20+ hours.
How long do the warmers take to warm up?
Most warmers reach a comfortable temperature within about 15 to 30 minutes of opening the pouch. Give them a gentle shake and a little air. At high altitude they can take a bit longer to get going, so open them ahead of time.
How long do they stay warm, and how hot do they get?
Heat time depends on the product — from about 1 hour up to 20+ hours — and temperatures run from roughly 100°F to 180°F. The exact heat time is printed on every package, so match the warmer to how long you'll be out in the cold.
Are the warmers reusable?
No. Our warmers are single-use. Once a warmer has finished, throw it away with your regular household garbage.
What's the difference between HotHands and Grabber?
They're made on the same line in Dalton, Georgia and share the same air-activated formula. HotHands® is the household name you'll find in drugstores and big-box stores, with the widest range of hand, toe, body and lap warmers. Grabber® is geared toward the outdoor and sporting crowd, with long-lasting options including an 18-hour Mega warmer.
Which warmer should I choose?
Choose by where you need the heat: hand warmers for pockets and gloves, adhesive toe and insole warmers for socks and boots, body warmers that stick to a base layer over your core, and lap warmers for the stadium bench. See them all in our full warmer lineup.
What are the benefits of air-activated warmers?
They're safe, odorless and need no batteries, cords or outside power. They're compact, lightweight and ready whenever you are — just open the pouch and the heat does the rest.
Can I put a warmer directly against my skin?
We don't recommend it. Warmers are safe to handle, but placing one directly on bare skin can be too warm — especially for young children, people with diabetes and older adults, who may have reduced sensitivity to heat. Always follow the instructions printed on the package and keep a layer of fabric between the warmer and your skin.
Can I use them inside gloves, boots or pockets?
Yes — that's exactly what they're made for. Tuck hand warmers into gloves or pockets, and stick adhesive toe and insole warmers inside socks or boots. Keep a layer of fabric between the warmer and bare skin.
Are the warmers TSA approved for flights?
Yes. Air-activated warmers aren't regulated as hazardous materials and are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags. You can confirm the current rules on the FAA PackSafe page for outdoor equipment. Need a Safety Data Sheet for travel or work? Email ecommerce@warmers.com and we'll send one over.
What's the shelf life or expiration date?
Sealed warmers have a shelf life of about 3 to 4 years. The exact expiration date is printed on the box.
How should I store my warmers?
Keep them in a cool, dry place in their sealed packaging. Because one of the ingredients is water, don't store them below freezing.
How do I dispose of used warmers?
Warmers are made from natural ingredients. Once used, simply throw them away with your everyday household garbage.
Do the warmers work at high altitude?
Yes. Because they rely on oxygen to activate, warmers can be a little slower to reach full heat at higher altitudes. Open them a few minutes early and let them get some air before tucking them into a pocket or glove.
What if my child or pet swallows a warmer?
Warmers aren't meant to be eaten. If a child swallows one, call your doctor or Poison Control. If a pet eats one, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away.
Do you sell warmers in bulk?
Yes. Many warmers are available by the case at a lower price per pair — see our bulk warmers. For wholesale or retail accounts, email ecommerce@warmers.com.
What are your shipping and return policies?
We offer $5 flat-rate shipping and free shipping on orders over $99 to the lower 48. See full details on our Shipping & Returns page.
Where are the warmers made?
HotHands® and Grabber® warmers are produced in Dalton, Georgia. Learn more on Our Story.