My mom loved hers, she would warm it up and put in the bed while she was getting ready for bed, then when she would get in it was already nice and toasty!! I did as "Peaceandjoy" said and made inside with the filler, and then the cotton "case", that way you can wash it. I have used feed corn and rice both! Corn does retain the heat better, but if you use rice, use the jasmine rice adds a very subtle "aroma"! Good luck!