I first got this as a Christmas present from a friend and I didn't use it for a while as I didn't realise how nice they are once heated. Before you put it in the microwave it's just an average bear, soft, cute looking display purposes mainly. However, I have come to realise that these beddy bears can be essential for a good nights sleep on a cold winters night.

They are made in China using microsafe materials and the small balls in the bear are essentially just treated wheat grains and the head and arms is made of the average soft stuffing. The bear additionally has a lovely and relaxing lavender aroma which is released upon heating. It really helps with ease of sleeping. When the scent starts to fade you simply can put a few drops of lavender oil to refresh the aroma.

They are so easy to heat, just put it in the microwave for 2 minutes for 800-1000 watts or 2 and a half for 600-700 watts. Once heated they can be used similarly to hot water bottles. They are a great comfort when suffering from period pains and stomach aches or just to ease getting into a freezing bed. The warmth lasts for a long time and you'll be asleep before you have any sense of it gradually fading.

They can also be used as cold packs and you just have to place the bear in a sealed freezer bag and put in the freezer for 2-3 hours. This makes them ideal for reducing temperatures, easing sprains and reducing swelling. I haven't personally done this as I usually just use ice packs as my freezer is quite small and usually full, but it is a useful feature.

Intelex now have a huge range of different microwaveable animals along with the classic bear. They cost around £10 which isn't bad for a teddy bear which also has much more on offer.

I would happily recommend it and it's a great gift, as I would know!