After heating (typically 2–3 minutes in the microwave, depending on model and microwave power), a Lavayoo provides deep, penetrating warmth for about 15–30 minutes of strong heat, followed by gentler warmth for up to 45–60+ minutes (or longer when insulated under a blanket).

Heat times below are approximate after standard microwaving. Every microwave is different, so start with shorter times and adjust. Always test the temperature on your wrist before applying to skin.

• 1 lb (Eye Mask): Stays really hot for about 10 minutes.
• 3 lbs (Small): Stays really hot for about 15 minutes.
• 4 lbs (Original, Wrap, and Medium): Stays really hot for 15–20 minutes, followed by gentler warmth warmer than body temperature for 30–45 minutes (or longer if insulated).
• Segmented Full Back (~7 lbs total, but divided into small tubes): Performs similarly to the 4 lb models — really hot for 15–20 minutes, then gentler warmth for 30–45 minutes.
• 10 lbs (XL aka "The Monstrosity"): Delivers strong heat for 30–45 minutes. When placed in your bed under the covers, it can keep the area warm for 6–7 hours, making it excellent as a bed warmer.

Pro tip: Putting a blanket, towel, or sheet over your Lavayoo traps the heat and makes it last even longer. Every microwave is different, so start with shorter times (e.g., 2 minutes for smaller pads) and adjust as needed. Always test the temperature on your wrist before use.

Yes — Lavayoo pads work great for cold therapy as well as heat! Many customers are surprised to learn this, but the same lava sand that holds heat so well also retains cold for a long time. Keep one in the freezer and one for heat.

Freezing instructions:
Place your Lavayoo in a sealed bag in the freezer for at least 1 to 2 hours (or overnight). Many people keep one ready in the freezer at all times.

The cold releases slowly and evenly, giving you an extremely comfortable cold that feels gentle and soothing — unlike traditional ice packs or gel packs that can feel sharply cold or “bite” the skin. Just like with heat, the more lava sand the pad contains, the longer the cold lasts, and it outperforms rice or food-filled pads.

Cold duration is a little shorter than heat, but still provides a solid, effective session. Approximate times after freezing:

• 1 lb (Eye Mask): Effective comfortable cold for about 8–10 minutes.
• 3 lbs (Small): Effective comfortable cold for about 12–15 minutes.
• 4 lbs (Original, Wrap, and Medium): Strong comfortable cold for 12–18 minutes, followed by gentler cooling for another 20–35 minutes (or longer if insulated).
• Segmented Full Back (~6 lbs total, but divided into small tubes): Performs similarly to the 4 lb models — strong comfortable cold for 12–18 minutes, then gentler cooling for 20–35 minutes.
• 10 lbs (XL aka “The Monstrosity”): Delivers strong comfortable cold for 25–40 minutes. When used in bed under the covers, the cooling effect can last even longer.

Pro tip: Covering the pad with a blanket or towel helps trap the cold and makes it last longer.
Use cold therapy for about 15–20 minutes per session (or as recommended by your doctor). Always test the temperature on your wrist before applying directly to skin.

Lavayoo pads are safe and easy to heat in the microwave, but every microwave is different, so always start with the minimum time and increase in 30-second increments only. Never exceed the maximum safe time for your model.

Approximate starting microwave times (adjust based on your microwave wattage and desired warmth):

• 1 lb (Eye Mask): Start with 60 seconds.
• 3 lbs (Small): Start with 1.5–2 minutes.
• 4 lbs (Original, Wrap, and Medium): Start with 2 minutes (up to 2.5–3 minutes max).
• Segmented Full Back (7 lbs): Start with 2.5 to 3.5 minutes.
• 10 lbs (XL aka "The Monstrosity"): Start with 4 to 6 minutes.

Important safety tips:

• Always test the temperature on your wrist or inner arm before applying to skin.
• Do not overheat — the fabric can scorch if heated too long.

Lightly mist the fabric with a little water before heating. This helps prevent scorching and extends the life of the fabric.

Yes! Lavayoo lava sand pads can be safely heated using several other methods if you don’t have access to a microwave or prefer them. These methods provide gentle, even heating:

• Oven: Preheat to 200°F. Place the pad on a cookie sheet or baking tray. Heat for 20–30 minutes (flip halfway for larger pads). You can go slightly higher (up to 225°F) for faster results, but stay under 250°F to protect the fabric.
• Air Fryer: Set to 200°F for 5-8 minutes (6 minutes is a good starting point for most models). Flip the pad halfway through for even heating.
• Warming plate / electric hot stone warmer / towel cabinet (Towel Cabi): Place the pad on the warmer and heat according to the device’s instructions for similar-weight items. These are great for low-and-slow, continuous warming.
• Other options: Low-heat Crock-Pot / slow cooker (wrapped in a towel).

Yes — Lavayoo pads are fully washable! Unlike rice, flax, or bean-filled heating pads that can mold, rot, or develop odors, our lava sand filling is completely odorless, non-rotting, and safe to submerge in water.

Cleaning instructions:

• Hand wash: Submerge in a sink or bowl of warm, soapy water. Gently agitate, rinse thoroughly, and squeeze out excess water.
• Dishwasher: Place on the top rack and run a normal cycle.

After washing, dry completely before use or storage:

• Place in the oven at 200–250°F for 2–3 hours (check after 2 hours). You can go slightly longer for larger/heavier models like the XL.

Important notes:

• Removable outer covers (sold separately) can be machine washed for extra protection and easier maintenance.
• Using a washable cover between uses helps keep the inner pad cleaner longer.

This makes Lavayoo easy to keep fresh and sanitary for years — perfect for families, kids, or frequent use.