DocumentationDo You Add Water to a Bed Buddy?
No. Our Original Bed Buddy wrap needs no added water in the microwave. Here is why, and what to do if your model's instructions look different.
Quick answer
No, do not add water to the Original-style Bed Buddy wrap. Our 2-Pack page says it uses moisture from the air and needs no water. Never soak, wet or pour water onto a grain-filled wrap before microwaving it.
Applies to: BBF8000-02 (Original wrap, 2-Pack) and Original-style wraps such as BBF1998-12. For other models, read the tag.
Why no water is needed
The wrap is filled with natural grains. Heated in the microwave, it gives off warmth that feels moist, which is why we call it moist heat. You do not need to add water to get that feel. The same wrap, heated dry, is ready to use after the stand time on the tag.
What about the listings that mention water?
Some listings and older material use different wording. A listing for one model may mention water, while another section of the same page says no water is needed. We do not want you to guess.
- Do not wet the wrap, not even to restore warmth.
- Do not put a wet wrap in the microwave. It can overheat unevenly.
- If the tag on your wrap mentions water, follow only what the tag says for that model.
- If the sources disagree, contact the seller or Carex customer service for your model number before heating.
What can go wrong with extra moisture
- Food or liquid in the microwave can cause overheating.
- A wet filling can spoil, and may develop a damp smell.
- The filling can clump, which makes hot spots more likely.
If a wrap gets soaked, let it dry completely in a ventilated place before using it. If it smells musty afterward, see why does my Bed Buddy smell and when to replace it.
A quick checklist before you heat
| Check | Yes / No |
|---|---|
| Is the wrap dry? | Yes |
| Is the dish clean and empty? | Yes |
| Does the time match your tag? | Yes |
| Are you staying nearby? | Yes |
Note: Heating time, stand time and maximum time all depend on the model. Follow the tag on the wrap you own.
Related guides
How to Use Your Bed Buddy Cold
Chill your Bed Buddy in the freezer for a flexible cold wrap. Learn how long to freeze it, how to apply it and when to check your skin.
Can You Heat a Bed Buddy Without a Microwave?
We do not recommend heating a Bed Buddy any way except the microwave method on your tag. Here is why, and what to use instead.