I was at a craft show that was selling different sizes of these warming pads and I asked what he filled them with and it was crushed wheat I bought some at a bulk food store and made some warming pads . The wheat seemed to hold the heat longer (maybe my imagination)

Rice is probably the one of the least expensive alternatives.

I wonder what product would be lighter as I have a problem with weight

how much rice did it call for? stuffed tightly or just enough? I have one with rice (purchased) and love it. however i did think of making one that came down the front a bit longer.

Put ALL rice in the freezer for a minimum of 3 days immediately when bringing it home from the store.

The rice bags work great. Never had a problem with mine. I have had for several years.

that's the same thing I thought.

thank you all for your input. I may try the crushed wheat.

My niece makes these and uses barley in hers. She has had great success with hers. I am going to make one shortly.

I've made these using rice, lavender buds (bought in bulk), a bit of cedar shavings and find that this mixture keeps away bugs as well as leaving a lovely scent. I even make tiny bags of this mixture without the rice to stick in among my fabrics. You can also add cloves and/or eucalyptus.

Jan in VA