When you're a new parent, it seems like there's a never-ending list of things you need to buy in order to properly care for your baby. And while it's true that there are a lot of products on the market vying for your hard-earned cash, not everything is worth the investment. So, how do you know which items are essential and which can be left on the store shelves?
This guide is here to help you sort out the must-haves from the nice-to-haves when it comes to baby thermometers. Because when your little one is sick, the last thing you want to do is waste time fumbling with a subpar product. Read on for everything you need to know about selecting the best baby thermometer for your needs.
There are three main types of baby thermometers: ear, forehead, and rectal. Each type has its own set of pros and cons, so it's important to choose the one that's right for you and your family.
Ear Thermometers
Ear thermometers are good for when your baby has a fever. Ear thermometers are quick and easy to use. They're also very accurate, making them a good choice for those who want to get an accurate reading as quickly as possible. However, they can be tricky to use on squirmy babies, and they're not recommended for use on infants under 6 months old. Ear thermometers work by measuring the infrared heat emitted by the ear drum.
Forehead Thermometers
Forehead thermometers are also quick and easy to use, but they're not quite as accurate as ear thermometers. They can be used on infants as young as 3 months old, making them a good choice for those who want a versatile thermometer that can grow with their child. Many models can be used on adults also. Forehead thermometers work by measuring the infrared heat emitted by the forehead.
Rectal Thermometers
Rectal thermometers are the most accurate type of thermometer, but they're also the most invasive. They're recommended for use on children from birth, and they require more effort and patience to use than other types of thermometers. They should always be inserted with care to avoid injuring the rectum. Rectal thermometers work by measuring the internal body temperature, which is usually higher than the temperature of the skin.
Other Types of Baby Thermometer
Oral Thermometers
Oral thermometers are a good choice for parents who want to take their child's temperature but don't want to use a rectal thermometer. They can be used on children of all ages, but they may not be as accurate as other types of thermometers. Oral thermometers work by measuring the infrared heat emitted by the mouth.
Temporal Artery Thermometers
Temporal artery thermometers are a new type of forehead thermometer that is becoming increasingly popular with parents. They can be used on children of all ages, and they are generally more accurate than traditional forehead thermometers.
Temporal artery thermometers work by measuring the infrared heat emitted by the temporal artery, which is located just under the skin on the forehead.
What to Look for When Shopping
When shopping for a good baby thermometer, it's important to consider accuracy, ease of use, and price.
Accuracy is key when choosing a thermometer. You want to make sure that the thermometer you select is able to give you an accurate reading every time.
Ease of use is also important. You want a thermometer that is easy to use, even on squirmy babies. This could mean giving you a reading as quickly as possible so you don't have to try keep baby still for a long time.
Price is also something to consider. Not all thermometers are created equal in terms of price. Choose the one that fits your budget while still meeting your needs in terms of accuracy and ease of use.
Thermometer shopping doesn't have to be stressful! By knowing what you need, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect thermometer for your family.
