Don't get into hot water: A guide to selling and hot water bottles

A hot water bottle can be a great winter warmer, but safety must come first.

As cooler nights draw in, many of us reach for a classic Kiwi comfort: the humble hot water bottle. They’re a fantastic way to keep warm and soothe aches, but it’s crucial to remember that they can cause devastating injuries if they’re not up to standard.

To protect our community, there are serious legal obligations that everyone selling hot water bottles on Trade Me must follow – whether you’re a business or just clearing out your linen cupboard.

This guide is here to help you understand your responsibilities and keep everyone safe.

Because of the serious risk of burns, product safety isn't just a good idea, it's a legal requirement. In New Zealand, the Unsafe Goods (Hot Water Bottles) Permanent Prohibition Notice 2016 makes it illegal to sell any rubber or PVC hot water bottle that doesn't meet a specific, mandatory safety standard.

This isn't a Trade Me rule; it's the law, and it applies to both new and second-hand items.

How to check if a hot water bottle is compliant

For a hot water bottle to be sold legally in New Zealand, it must meet the British Standard BS 1970:2012.

This standard ensures the bottle is made from quality materials, the seams are strong, and it has passed rigorous safety tests.

Look for the stamp: The standard must be permanently marked on the bottle itself, usually stamped on the neck. If there is no stamp, you cannot sell it.
Check the year: For new hot water bottles, they must show BS 1970:2012. For second-hand bottles, older versions like BS 1970:2006 or BS 1970:2001 are acceptable, but only if the bottle is in perfect condition with no signs of wear, damage, or perishing.

As a seller, you have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure your product is safe so you must ensure the bottle is stamped.

The Commerce Commission and enforcement

The Commerce Commission is the government agency responsible for making sure this law is followed. They have the power to investigate sellers and remove unsafe products from the market.

Selling a non-compliant hot water bottle can lead to serious consequences.

The Commission’s enforcement actions are designed to prevent injuries and hold sellers accountable.

If you are unsure whether a bottle is compliant, the safest thing to do is dispose of it.

Essential tips for safe use

When using a hot water bottle at home, following these steps is vital for injury prevention:

Don't use boiling water: Let water from the kettle cool for a few minutes before filling the bottle. Boiling water degrades the rubber and can cause it to split.
Don't overfill it: Fill to a maximum of two-thirds full and gently squeeze out the excess air before sealing.
Always use a cover: Never place a hot water bottle directly against the skin. Use the cover it came with or wrap it in a thick towel.
Don't put pressure on it: Never lie, sit, or put weight on a hot water bottle, as this can cause it to burst.
Store it correctly: When not in use, empty it completely and store it in a cool, dark place with the stopper removed.

If you see a hot water bottle listed on Trade Me that doesn't show the safety standard or looks unsafe, please help us keep the community safe by using the ‘Community Watch’ button at the bottom of the listing.

Kia tūpato (be careful), and stay warm safely.