Gone are the days of using the back of your hand to decide whether your little one has a fever; if your baby feels warm, looks flushed, is sweating or shivering, or has flu-like symptoms, it’s time to break out one of the best baby thermometers to get an accurate temperature reading. (Remember that for a baby, a fever is considered any temperature over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit). Digital thermometers allow you to get a quick temperature reading, which, when you have a baby is exactly what you need, so they’re the best choice for most parents.
There are digital thermometers designed for use in many different places on the body, so to decide which is best for you, consider your baby’s age and your personal preferences. Keep in mind that many thermometers are designed to be used on multiple places on the body. When it comes to baby, these are the best types:
Rectal thermometers (Best for 0 months+)
Rectal thermometers give the best reading, especially for babies under three months old, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, many of these can also be used in the armpit (which is usually the least accurate spot to take a temp) and mouth when your child gets a little older.
Forehead thermometers (Best for 3 months+)
Forehead thermometers, also called temporal artery thermometers, can be a little pricier, but are a quick and easy-to-use way to get a temperature reading. However, it's best for little ones three months and older. They’re also the most accurate after rectal thermometers.
Ear thermometers (Best for 6 months+)
Ear thermometers are another good option for babies six months and older, and are safe and quick to use. They’re fairly accurate and are comfortable for most babies.
Features: In general, the faster the temperature reading, the better, so make sure to pay attention to this when picking a thermometer. It can also be helpful to find one that can store several past temperature readings for reference later on (some thermometers even have apps that can do this).
To help you quickly find the best for you, here are four thermometers for your little one that Amazon reviewers swear by.