The potential safety hazards of the hand warmers in the market easily become "grenades"

There are two main types of common hand warmers: the electrode type, which uses two metal rods, and the electric wire type, which contains a large coil or tube inside. These devices have become increasingly popular as the weather gets colder, but not all of them are safe.

When purchasing a soft hand warmer, you can often identify its type by simply touching it. This is especially important because some models can be dangerous if not used properly.

In recent years, there have been multiple reports of hand warmers exploding, leading to injuries and property damage. CCTV recently aired a special report warning people about the risks associated with electrode-type hand warmers. Despite these warnings, such products are still being sold in markets like Zhengzhou.

Hand Warmers Explode Repeatedly

Recently, Ms. He from Zhengzhou bought a hand warmer for 30 yuan at a local market. Unfortunately, it exploded while she was using it, filling her room with a strong odor. She said she was terrified, but luckily, no one was harmed. The product had no information on its origin, manufacturer, or specifications, which made it difficult to trace.

This is not an isolated case. In 2012, a junior high school student in Nanjing suffered serious burns after a hand warmer exploded. In another incident, a woman in January 2012 had her home’s electrical outlet scorched when a hand warmer exploded. In November 2011, a woman in Shandong was severely burned when a hand warmer on her leg exploded during TV time.

Electrode Hand Warmers Are Banned

Due to repeated safety issues, the Chinese government has imposed strict regulations on hand warmers. In 2009, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) issued specific guidelines regarding temperature rise, sealing, and power failure resistance for electric hand warmers.

According to media reports, electrode-type hand warmers are not compliant with national safety standards. They are prone to leakage and bursting, which is why their production and sale are strictly prohibited. However, despite these rules, many still appear on the market.

Authorities in Zhengzhou have started testing hand warmers available for sale. If they fail to meet safety standards, they will be removed from the market. Some businesses are also being advised on how to distinguish between safe and unsafe products.

Electrode Hand Warmers Still Sell Strong

During a visit to several markets in Zhengzhou, reporters found that most hand warmers on sale have similar designs, with only minor differences in color, size, and shape. Many lack clear instructions or test reports, making it hard for consumers to know what they’re buying.

On e-commerce platforms like JD.com, Taobao, and Dangdang, electrode-type hand warmers are still available. Some listings even include warnings about potential dangers, yet they remain on sale.

Industry Claims and Concerns

A local vendor in Zhengzhou mentioned that many small factories produce cheap hand warmers without proper testing. Regular products are more expensive, but they look better and are easier to clean. According to him, most hand warmers currently on the market are electrode-type and filled with conductive liquid.

He also claimed that modern temperature control technology has improved, reducing the risk of overheating. However, he admitted that many consumers are unaware of the differences between electrode and electric wire types.

Why Are Electrode-Type Hand Warmers Dangerous?

Experts explain that electrode-type hand warmers contain two charged electrodes. When powered, the solution inside becomes electrically active, causing it to heat up. Since the current isn't stable, it's hard to control the heat output. If the temperature rises too quickly, the liquid may boil and cause the bag to rupture.

Why Is the Electric Wire Type Safer?

Electric wire-type hand warmers use a coil or tube that heats up through resistance. The heat is then transferred to the liquid inside. Even if the bag breaks, the liquid is not charged, making it safer than electrode-type models.

How to Choose and Use Safely

1. Always check the packaging and instructions before purchasing. Look for information about the type of heater and the manufacturer.

2. If you touch a soft hand warmer and feel two metal rods, it’s likely an electrode type.

3. If you feel a large coil or U-shaped tube inside, it’s probably an electric wire type.

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