Baby Thermometers Buying Guide

There are so many baby thermometers out there, the best one might be difficult to pinpoint. In general, most physicians recommend digital thermometers, not ones containing mercury. You can get both oral and rectal, but rectal tend to be more accurate for babies.  They are quick to use and give accurate readings. Axillary, or underarm thermometers, must be held under the baby's arm for ten minutes. Oral is reliable, but because it takes about two minutes, you can end up struggling if you have a fidgety baby. Oral thermometers are better for children at least 3-4 years old. 

 Some trusted brands of baby thermometer include: Vicks,  and Omrom,  Braun,  Exergen,  Safety First,  Summer Infant,  The First Years,  but ask your paediatrician if they have any recommendations. 

Types of Thermometers

Rectal Thermometers  Always use lubrication when using a rectal thermometer. Also, make sure the thermometer has a soft and narrow tip.	Underarm (Axillary) Thermometers   Accurate and comfortable, but beware of time constraints-- can take up to ten minutes.	Ear Thermometers  An alternative method, but usually the most uncomfortable and least accurate.	Temporal Scanner Thermometers  Best not disturb! Exergen created a forehead scanner that allows you to take your baby's temperature without waking him or her up.	Pacifier Thermometers  Seldom recommended, these thermometers are generally uncomfortable and therefore unreliable .

Mercury vs. Digital

Mercury Thermometer  Most paediatricians remain adamant that mercury thermometers are unnecessarily risky, since digital thermometers are now fairly inexpensive and trustworthy.  If you have a mercury thermometer, and want to throw it away, don't just toss it in the bin. You don't want to release mercury into the environment, so call your local health department and see what they recommend.	Digital Thermometers  Digital thermometers are fast, accurate, and inexpensive. Most paediatricians advise parents to use digital thermometers, as exposing a child to mercury is well-known to be harmful. There isn't much of a debate here.