Your first aid kit is never complete without a baby thermometer. Nothing is more frightening for first-time parents as your baby’s first fever. The best baby thermometers on the market are portable, easy to use, and can deliver quick and accurate readings.
Babies can’t tell you what they are feeling, so it’s not always easy to tell when they are sick. The right thermometer will give you an insight into how they are feeling and let you know when it’s time to call a doctor. We reviewed every baby-friendly thermometer to help you choose the right one for you. Keep reading to see the 10 best baby thermometers to buy in 2021.
- Types of Baby Thermometers
- Top 10 Best Baby Thermometers 2023
- 1. Best Overall Thermometer: Braun ThermoScan7 IRT6520 Thermometer
- 2. Best Value Baby Thermometer: Mosen Baby Thermometer
- 3. Best Premium Baby Thermometer: Equinox Digital Infrared Thermometer
- 4. Best Pacifier Baby Thermometer: Summer Infant Pacifier Thermometer
- 5. Best Digital Ear Baby Thermometer: Braun ThermoScan 5 Digital Ear Thermometer
- 6. Best Smartphone Baby Thermometer: Kinsa QuickCare Smart Digital Thermometer
- 7. Best Dual-Use Baby Thermometer: GoodBaby Thermometer
- 8. Best Rectal Baby Thermometer: Purple Safety Baby Digital Thermometer
- 9. Best Forehead Thermometer: iProven DMT489 Baby Forehead Thermometer
- 10. Best Basic Digital Baby Thermometer: Ankovo Digital Thermometer
- Baby Thermometer Buying Guide
- Final Thoughts on Baby Thermometers
Types of Baby Thermometers
It is highly advisable for parents to always have a baby thermometer. The “touch test” is not precise or reliable. Any thermometer readings that are above 100.4 degrees when your child is under 3 months of age are a serious issue and require urgent attention from a medical professional. A temperature of over 102 degrees for a period of more than 2 days is a reason to take a child above three years old to the hospital.
What are the most dependable thermometers when it comes to accurate readings? There are several different types of baby thermometers to consider:
Rectal Baby Thermometers
Rectal baby thermometers are a little uncomfortable for the child. However, they deliver the most accurate temperatures. Rectal baby thermometers perform best for infants three months and younger. When shopping around make sure you purchase one with a wide base and flexible tip.
Oral Thermometers
Oral thermometers are also considered accurate and safe to use. All you do is place the thermometer under your baby’s tongue and wait for the readings. Oral thermometers are more appropriate for children ages four years and older because they are able to hold still won’t try to swallow the tip.
Infrared/Forehead/Temporal Artery Thermometers
The type of thermometer is the most expensive on the market because of infrared technology. These high-tech thermometers measure the baby’s temporal artery temperature on the forehead. The technology is precise and appropriate for children of all ages.
Ear Canal Thermometers
Ear canal thermometers are easy to use and not invasive. It is an appropriate choice for kids over 12 months old. Babies under a year old do not have a large enough ear canal for accurate measurements. The placement inside the ear is also important.
Pacifier Thermometers
Pacifier thermometers are suitable for young babies, yet do not always produce reliable results. It is recommended you consider another option if at all possible.
Axillary (Armpit) Thermometers
Unfortunately, axillary thermometers are considered the least accurate. While it is a better option than having no thermometer at all, we recommend another type of product.
Top 10 Best Baby Thermometers 2023
1. Best Overall Thermometer: Braun ThermoScan7 IRT6520 Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Ear
Performance
The Braun ThermoScan7 can be used by your entire family thanks to the age precision technology. The ExacTemp technology makes it easy for you to place the thermometer in the ear for correct measurement. The color-coded fever alert for different ages alerts you when your little one’s temperature is alarming.
It comes with a pre-heated tip to ensure you get the correct measurement. Its memory records up to nine previous measurements to allow you to monitor your little one’s fever progression. It allows you to choose between Celsius and Fahrenheit based on your preference.
Convenience
The Braun ThermoScan7 thermometer is fast and easy to use to allow you to check the temperature even for stubborn infants quickly. The color-coded display gives you an easy time to read the thermometer and the backlit display ensures you can take the measurements at night. Age precision technology means you can adjust it depending on the age of the person whose temperature you are taking, but it is fiddly to set up and must be done each time you use it.
It comes with a case to store it in, and also includes 21 probe covers to place over the tip, allowing it to be safely shared without spreading infection from one individual to another. The extra battery is convenient, so you won’t have to worry when your battery runs out.
Verdict
The ThermoScan7 thermometer is a great choice if you are looking for a reliable thermometer that allows you to switch between different ages and track the temperatures over several readings. It is quick and easy to use, making it perfect for young infants. Its excellent accuracy and consistency make it the best ear thermometer.
Pros
- Has an age adjustable fever guidance
- Fast and easy to use
- Excellent accuracy
- Can be used at night
- Switches from Fahrenheit to Celsius with ease
Cons
- Using age precision technology is quite fiddly
2. Best Value Baby Thermometer: Mosen Baby Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Ear and Infrared
Performance
The Mosen Thermometer for Ear and Forehead support all members of your family. Safety and accuracy are important to the manufacturer and it shows with the final product. The monitor has been clinically tested and validated. The infrared technology is the most reliable way to get quick and accurate body temperature readings for babies.
There are three different ways to produce measurements. Parents have the option of testing the forehead or ear of infants. Furthermore, you can also use the device to read the temperature of rooms or surfaces. The device stores the last 32 measures for quick access and review.
Convenience
The Mosen Thermometer for Ear and Forehead features a one-button measurement system. The design is straightforward and quick to use. The baby body temperature device also sets off an alarm if the temperature reading is high. This baby thermometer includes a cloth bag for storage and comes with extra batteries.
Verdict
The Mosen Thermometer for Ear and Forehead is one of the best baby thermometers on the market for a reason. The infrared technology delivers results in a couple of seconds and is reliable and has the backing of the medical community. The ability to measure room and surface temperatures are also helpful.
Pros
- Multipurpose thermometer
- Infrared technology is ultra-reliable
- Quick readouts in a few seconds
- Check the temperature on the forehead or ear
- Stores the last 32 readings on the device
Cons
- A little pricey yet still reasonable for most families
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Infrared
Performance
Far more expensive than other thermometers on this list, the Equinox Digital Infrared thermometer is a fantastic temperature taking solution for babies. This is because it can provide an accurate reading without the need for contact. As a result, the baby can be blissfully unaware of you measuring their temperature. What’s more, because you can also measure room and surface temperatures with it, it can be useful in checking the ambiance of the nursery, for example, and see if that is contributing to any overheating.
Convenience
It has a color-coded LCD screen which changes depending on the severity of the reading. If they’re too hot, it goes red, moderate it goes orange and normal it goes green. It provides a simple way for you to tell if there is anything to be worried about. Best of all, the readings are extremely quick, which is good if your baby is prone to fidgeting or you are concerned about their immediate health.
Verdict
This is a superb feature-packed thermometer that’s just very expensive for the functionality it offers. It does provide an all-in-one thermometer solution and, as it is contactless, does not require regular, or any, cleaning.
Pros
- 3 modes to take different temperatures
- Contact-less
- Doesn’t need regular cleaning
Cons
- Expensive
4. Best Pacifier Baby Thermometer: Summer Infant Pacifier Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Pacifier
Performance
Made to soothe your baby and check on their health at the same time, the pacifier thermometer from Summer is a good choice for parents who want to keep track of their baby’s temperature to watch for the first signs of illness. In order to get an accurate reading, your baby needs to use this pacifier for about 4 minutes. While this is not an issue for most babies, some babies will not take to this pacifier, which makes temperature reading impossible.
Convenience
Thanks to the provided carrying cases, the Summer Pacifier Thermometer is easy to take with you anywhere you go. Because the thermometer requires your baby to use the pacifier for a few minutes in order to get an accurate reading, it can be difficult to get a reading exactly when you need it.
Verdict
The Summer Pacifier Thermometer is not your best choice to get a quick temperature reading, but it can be incredibly convenient for daily monitoring of your baby’s temperature. It’s also one of the best value pacifiers for your baby.
Pros
- Convenient pacifier design makes taking baby’s temperature easy
- Color-coded indicator shows when your baby has a fever
- Comes with a convenient carrying case
- Great value
Cons
- Can take up to 5 minutes to display an accurate temperature
- If they spit it out, you have to start again for an accurate reading
5. Best Digital Ear Baby Thermometer: Braun ThermoScan 5 Digital Ear Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Ear
Performance
The Braun ThermoScan5 is an ear thermometer, meaning you will have an accurate measurement at all times. It features a pre-warmed tip to ensure accurate and consistent measurements and reduce discomfort. It has a positioning system that guarantees correct placing in the ear, thus making for a precise reading. The thermometer keeps a record of the most previous measurement so you can easily track the temperatures. However, the display isn’t backlit, which can make it hard to take a reading in the dark.
Convenience
The Braun ThermoScan5 ear thermometer lights up as well beeps to alert you when it is done measuring the temperature. If you would like to use the thermometer between multiple users in your home, it comes with disposable lens filters to enable you to do so. The lens filter prevents infection from being spread from one child to another and also keeps the thermometer from wax residues which could lead to inaccurate readings.
It is fast, enabling you to take your child’s temperature quickly, and is very easy to use with its large buttons. It gives you the freedom to select between Fahrenheit and Celsius, depending on which measurement you’re comfortable with.
Verdict
The Braun ThermoScan5 digital ear thermometer is a great choice if you are looking for an ear thermometer for your family. It is fast and gentle, thus suitable for infants since they become restless quickly. It’s an earlier model of our top pick, and as such has neither the backlit color-coding nor the age precision technology, but is otherwise functionally similar.
Pros
- Suitable for infants, toddlers, and adults
- Fast and easy to use
- Offers accurate readings
- Comes with lens filters
Cons
- We wish it had a backlit display to allow reading at night
6. Best Smartphone Baby Thermometer: Kinsa QuickCare Smart Digital Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Oral, Rectal, Axillary
Performance
The Kinsa QuickCare thermometer has been designed to be used as a rectal thermometer, oral or underarm and can be used on individuals of all ages. It allows you to connect to your android phone using Bluetooth. It offers a free app that guides you on what to do, tracks measurements and gives you medical advice.
You can log in your little one’s symptoms into the app and it will guide you on taking care of your baby. You can also use it as an alarm to alert you to when you should be giving your baby medicines. The app also keeps a record of up to 50 previous readings thus perfect for tracking fever progression.
Convenience
The Kinsa QuickCare thermometer gives you results within 8 seconds, making it easy to take a reading from your fidgeting infant, although it’s not as quick as other thermometers on the list. It has been clinically tested to guarantee you accurate readings that you can rely on. The app keeps individual’s profiles separately making it easy for you to use on different members of your family. Your child will love the Sesame Street design in the app that soothes them when they are sick.
Verdict
If you are looking for a thermometer that will give you some data and advice bundled with it, this could be the best choice. It comes with an easy to use smartphone app that not only advises you on what to do with your child but also alerts you on when to administer their dose. The app also makes it great for your entire family.
Pros
- Fast and accurate
- Features Sesame Street design
- Tracks up to 50 previous readings
- Has a good battery life
- Tracks the individual health progressive for multiple family members
Cons
- Requires sanitizing after each use
- Requires smartphone nearby and charged
7. Best Dual-Use Baby Thermometer: GoodBaby Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Infrared
Performance
The GoodBaby Thermometer uses three sensors to create the most accurate temperature readings possible without any contact whatsoever. To use this thermometer, simply hold it an inch away from your baby’s exposed forehead or ear and press the scan button. It only takes moments for an accurate reading to appear on the clear LCD screen. This is the perfect thermometer for quickly taking your baby’s temperature while they are sleeping.
Convenience
The GoodBaby Thermometer’s simple operation and fast, accurate results make this one of the most convenient baby thermometers we looked at. We also appreciate the memory function that saves up to 35 previous readings to help track changes in the baby’s temperature over time. This thermometer is ideal for babies but can be used by kids and adults of all ages.
Verdict
The GoodBaby Thermometer is one of the best baby thermometers we reviewed, but you don’t have to take our word for it. This thermometer has been proven accurate in clinical testing and has been recommended by hundreds of pediatricians. This thermometer is our top premium pick.
Pros
- The most accurate thermometer we reviewed.
- Simple one-button operation
- The no-touch thermometer can read your baby’s temperature from their forehead or in their ear
Cons
- Can be difficult to find the right area of the ear to get consistent adult temperatures
8. Best Rectal Baby Thermometer: Purple Safety Baby Digital Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Rectal, Oral, Axillary
Performance
The Purple Safety baby thermometer offers three modes of operation. It is designed with a flexible tip so that you can safely use it as a rectal thermometer. You can also use it under your child’s tongue or armpit. It comes with a fever indicator that beeps to warn you when your little one’s temperature is too high.
Convenience
The Purple Safety digital thermometer gives you results in 30 minutes to guarantee you quick measuring. Its accuracy and clear display ensure correct and efficient measurement. It comes with an extra battery, so you don’t have to worry about buying a new one when the current one runs out. It is waterproof, allowing you to easily clean the thermometer, making it safe to use with multiple children without risking the spread of infections.
The included beeper will inform you once the thermometer is done checking the temperature. It automatically switches off after 10 minutes and comes with a hard case cover that you can use when you store it away.
Verdict
The Purple Safety baby thermometer is the best thermometer on a budget. It is accurate, easy to read and use and also easy to clean thus safe for your baby, making it an excellent selection given its price.
Pros
- Simple and easy to operate
- Provides accurate reading
- Easy to clean and sanitize
- Affordable
- Comes with an extra battery
Cons
- It takes 30 seconds to read the temperature which is longer compared to other thermometers
9. Best Forehead Thermometer: iProven DMT489 Baby Forehead Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Forehead, Ear
Performance
This thermometer makes work easier for you due to its multiple functions. You can use it to take your baby’s temperature through the ears or forehead, or you can use it to measure the nursery’s temperature or your baby’s bottle temperature. You will not have to worry about inconsistency in readings since the thermometer has undergone testing to ensure all readings are accurate and fixed.
If your baby’s temperature is alarming, the display lights up either green or red to alert you. It allows you to switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit so you can always select what you are comfortable with.
Convenience
The iProven forehead and ear thermometer has a beeping sound to let you know once it is done measuring your baby’s temperature. You will love that the sound can be muted to allow you to check your little one’s temperature without the sound waking them up.
The non-contact thermometer is convenient for your baby since they won’t notice you taking their temperatures. It comes with a storage bag so you can keep the thermometer clean at all times.
Verdict
If you are looking for a thermometer for multiple uses in your home, this 3-in-1 thermometer is your best bet. It allows you to easily check on your baby’s temperature, the room temperature as well as the temperature of their bath. The non-contact mode also makes it great for infants who can’t remain still when they’re having their temperature checked. You can use it on infants and adults, making it a perfect selection for your family.
Pros
- The ear model is easy to clean thus allows you to use without a lens cover
- Switches easily from ear to head to object thermometer
- Can be used at night
- Easy to use
Cons
- Some find it hard to remove the ear probe cover
10. Best Basic Digital Baby Thermometer: Ankovo Digital Thermometer
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Forehead, Ear
Performance
The Ankovo digital thermometer is reliable and has a forehead function which is suitable for all ages, or the ear mode for use on children above 3 years old. It keeps a record of up to 20 previous readings, making it easy for you to keep track of the body temperature. It is fast and will give you the result within one second. The infrared sensor also guarantees you accurate measurements at all times. It does not have mercury, thus it is safe for your child.
Convenience
It comes with only two operation buttons, therefore it is easy to use. It warns you when your baby’s temperature is too high so you can take the necessary action. It has a beeping sound that alerts you once the thermometer is done checking the temperature. The large display will give you an easy time to read your baby’s temperature. The display also allows you to use the thermometer at night.
It offers you the option to select between Celsius and Fahrenheit so you can easily choose the mode you are comfortable with. It features an indicator that warns you when the battery is low, so you won’t have to worry about being caught unawares. The cap and carrying case ensure safe and clean storage. You will have to clean it each time you use it though, rather than just replacing the cap like on other models.
Verdict
If you are looking for an easy to use yet accurate baby thermometer, this makes a good choice. It offers two modes of operation thus great if you want a multipurpose thermometer. It is safe and fast, therefore suitable for children. It can also be used on individuals of all ages making it perfect for family use.
Pros
- Easy to use device
- Fast and accurate
- Suitable for all ages
- Warns you when body temperature is too high
Cons
- Needs to be sanitized after each use
Baby Thermometer Buying Guide
You might be able to tell that the temperature changes in your baby by feeling the warmth on their forehead, but you cannot know the extent unless you use a very accurate thermometer. For babies, even a slight change in their body temperature could be an indication of a serious infection or illness. Thus, it’s highly advisable to have a reliable baby thermometer at all times to help you know when you need to rush or call your pediatrician.
How do you choose the best thermometer for your baby? What factors do you consider when buying one?
Baby’s Age
As we noted above, some thermometers won’t work for some kids because they might not be age-appropriate. Oral thermometers, for example, require your baby to remain still and have it in their mouth for a few minutes to get accurate readings. As such, they can only be used by older kids who can understand what you’re telling them.
On the other hand, rectal thermometers are appropriate for kids of any age because they are very accurate and easy to use. But, they are not recommended for use on kids older than five years because they might be invasive at this age.
Thermometer Accuracy
It’s good to note that even the slightest change in your baby’s body temperature could mean a serious issue. Any incorrect reading can easily mislead you.
How Safe Is the Thermometer?
You don’t want to hurt your baby in the process of checking their body temperature. Hence, ensure that the thermometer’s design is safe for your baby. This will mostly apply to the rectal, oral and ear thermometers since they require some form of insertion in your baby to get the readings.
Do not take your baby’s temperature immediately after a hot bath because the heat raises their temperature for around one hour. Also, when using a multipurpose thermometer, use it for just one area for hygiene purposes. And make sure you clean it between each use.
If you’re unsure how to use a thermometer, take a look at how to use it. Again, know when to see your doctor based on your baby’s temperature readings and also any helpful tips to get the temperatures down before reaching the doctor/hospital.
Cost
Most baby thermometer types are very affordable and you will easily find one that fits your budget. However, if it’s a very cheap option, you might find it is inaccurate. It can be so annoying when you’re all panicky and running to your doctor only for them to tell you that your baby’s temperature is fine and they are not ill. To avoid this, do thorough research before buying one to ensure that you’re getting accurate readings all the time.
Response Time
Given that babies can be hard to keep still, especially when they are unwell, it’s better to go for a thermometer that will give you a quick readout while also remaining accurate. Infrared thermometers are the fastest, but they are also a bit expensive.
Extras
If you decide to go with the inexpensive digital stick baby thermometer, we would advise you to get two. This is so you can take a reading from different parts and can compare the readings. However, remember to label them with a permanent marker to ensure that each is used for the designated part always.
Display
The best thermometer should have a large display, or better still, be backlit to make it easier to read.
Fever Alert
Some thermometer models will have a display or tone to alert you when the temperature is higher than normal. Our best premium pick is a good example of that.
Baby Thermometer Safety
There are a few warnings or safety hazards associated with certain types of thermometers. As a parent, it is important to make yourself aware of any flaws or associated dangers. It is also important to make sure you clean the thermometer after every use.
Additionally, make sure you read the full instructions included with the product before getting your first reading. Instructions can teach you how to get the most accurate measurements.
Here are some types of thermometers you may want to avoid:
Glass Thermometers
The first type of baby thermometers to avoid are glass thermometers. Glass thermometers contain mercury, which is highly poisonous. Glass is also a delicate substance that can crack and shatter, as well as pose a safety hazard to your baby. These types of thermometers are going out of fashion now.
Pacifier Thermometers
The most annoying thing about pacifier thermometers is the amount of time they take to produce a measurement (3-5 minutes). Pacifier thermometers also lack accuracy and serve as a choking hazard. However, we still have one on our list if you feel it is the right option for you.
Oral Thermometers
Oral thermometers work fantastic for older children ages four and higher. However, they are one of the least appropriate choices for babies under the age of a year. Older children are able to sit still and don’t try to swallow the device.
Final Thoughts on Baby Thermometers
We have reviewed the best baby thermometers and from our list, you’re guaranteed to get one that will make you and your baby happy. There’s a wide variety of options for you to get the thermometer that’s quick, easy, cheap or high-tech depending on your needs. Look after yourself and your little one and we hope this guide has helped.