Do you know the most accurate thermometer for your baby?
Having a thermometer is essential, but so is knowing the types of baby thermometers suitable suitable for little ones.
Types of baby thermometers
To help you choose the best product for your baby, we’ve gathered a list of the types of baby thermometers available. You can also read baby thermometer reviews to find the top-rated products other parents prefer.
Ear thermometers
Ear thermometers – also known as tympanic thermometers – measure the temperature inside the ear using an infrared sensor. This method is quick and doesn’t cause much discomfort.
Keep in mind, earwax and ear canal shape can interfere with ear thermometer accuracy – and they may not be accurate for babies under six months.
Read Omron TH839S Ear Thermometer reviews.
Forehead thermometers
Forehead thermometers are a convenient and non-invasive way to take your child’s temperature. Using an infrared scanner, the device measures the temperature of the temporal artery in the forehead, giving you a reading within a few seconds.
A big plus is that parents can use a forehead thermometer while their child sleeps, but they aren’t typically considered accurate for babies under three months.
Read Omron MC-720 Forehead Thermometer reviews and Vicks Forehead Thermometer reviews.
Digital thermometers
Digital thermometers are cheaper to purchase and can be used for oral, armpit or rectal readings. According to CHOICE, they are “accurate for oral and rectal readings, often up to 0.1°C .”
Rectal readings
The American Academy of Pediatrics says rectal temperature readings are the most accurate in babies and children under three. However, John Hopikins Medicine says a forehead thermometer might be okay too for parents who are unable to get a rectal reading of their baby.
Armpit readings
Armpit thermometers measure the temperature under the armpit. Although this method is less accurate, it’s also less invasive. Armpit thermometers are sometimes used to get an idea if your child has a fever. If a positive reading occurs, parents need to retake their child’s temperature using a more accurate device or make an appointment with a GP.
Oral readings
Oral thermometers are a popular choice, but they only work if used correctly (i.e. sitting still). For this reason, oral thermometer readings are recommended for older children (around four of five years).
Read Vicks Fever InSight Thermometer reviews.
What is a normal temperature for a child?
The Raising Children Network says: “The average body temperature for children is about 37°C. If your child’s temperature is higher than 38°C, she probably has a fever.”
Baby fever: when to see a doctor
Parents should take babies under three months with a temperature to hospital. Fever in children between three and 12 months could be a sign of another illness. Parents should seek medical advice on the same day as the high temperature reading.
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