I use regular rice. I make my packs from muslin, folding fabric in half, sewing the ends closed then stiching top to bottom every 2 inches. I fill the channels half full, shake and add rice to half if needed. Then sew across the top. I then make a fleece cover. Can be frozen, put any packs in a zip lock, or microwaved. I don't put scents in do to peoples allergies and scent preferrances. Scented oil can be added. The fleece gives it a most heat.