If you have a sore throat or a nagging earache, you may consider using one of the microwaveable heating pads. The moist heat it provides around the ear may reduce pain and discomfort. Microwaveable heating pads are a safer alternative to water bags and are convenient to use anywhere. Read on to learn how to find the right one for you. Fillers While you can buy microwaveable heating pads , you may wonder what the filler is. What can you use to make your heat pad? One of the best fillers for a heating pad is barley or oats. You can also use a reusable compress made from pillows or fabric scrap. Most commercial instant hot and cold packs contain calcium chloride or magnesium sulfate. The best filler for a heating pad is dense, and smaller pieces will retain heat better. Foods such as oats and barley are also good choices because they are lightweight and retain heat well. While they are not the most attractive, they are all good heat-retention materials and will ...