How to Use a Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer (Baby Temperature Care)

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When our baby was born, we needed a thermometer, so I went on a search spree and found a simple, super handy pick.

 

Mercury thermometers can be very accurate since you measure directly, but for checking formula temperature all the time or keeping an eye on a baby’s health, they’re a hassle—so I’ll pass on those.

• How a non-contact infrared thermometer works
• What's in the box and basic specs
• How to use it
• Tips for more accurate readings

How a non-contact infrared thermometer works

I didn’t realize there were so many kinds of thermometers. A non-contact infrared thermometer picks up the infrared (heat) emitted by the skin—forehead or temple—then a lens directs it to a sensor that converts it into a temperature reading. It isn’t shooting infrared at you; it’s just reading the heat your skin naturally gives off, so it’s safe for people.

 

It reads a temperature in one to two seconds and you don’t have to touch the skin, which is great in those newborn days when you’re extra careful about infection. The trade-off is that accuracy can vary a bit from person to person. If you remember what your normal reading looks like and watch for any unusual numbers, it works well enough for everyday use.

 

What’s in the box and basic specs

Inside you get the thermometer, a stand, and a battery slot where the batteries originally sat.

When you take a reading, an orange LED lights up.

 

There’s a clear user manual included, which I read through. One note says readings can be off if the room is at or above 20 °C and you’ve just come in from outside, so keep that in mind.

 

The size fits comfortably in your hand, and it’s not so tiny that you’ll easily misplace it.

There are three buttons: MOD to change modes, MEM for memory, and a bell icon for the alarm.

 

It stores up to 10 temperature readings, though I mostly use it for quick checks and rarely need the memory. If you take temperatures regularly, you might find that feature useful.

I rely on my phone alarm, so the thermometer’s alarm doesn’t get much use. For me, the main value is the instant temperature check.

 

The stand cradles the body perfectly, so storage is easy and it looks tidy on a shelf.

The LED backlight makes the numbers easy to read at night.

 

How to use it

The opening at the front is the infrared sensor.

Hold it about 3 cm from the forehead for the most accurate reading. Other spots often read similarly, but the temple tends to be more stable because of blood flow and is less affected by hair or sweat. The center of the forehead is quick and convenient, but it’s more sensitive to surface conditions like sweat, hair, or skincare products.

 

If you’re too close, the LCD shows a warning and won’t take a reading. If you’re too far, you’ll end up measuring air temperature and the result won’t be accurate.

 

Press the top button. You’ll hear a first beep as it starts, then the screen lights up and shows the temperature.
It takes about two seconds, which makes it very handy.

 

Tips for more accurate readings

• If you’ve just come in from outside, let everyone settle in the same environment for 5–10 minutes before measuring.
• Wipe off sweat, lotion, or hair from the spot you’re measuring; surface conditions affect IR readings.
• Keep the recommended distance (about 3 cm) and hold the device straight on.
• Take two or three readings and go with the average.
• Avoid direct drafts from an AC or fan and direct sunlight; both can quickly change surface temperature.
• Keep the sensor lens clean with a soft cloth, and replace weak batteries since both can affect readings.
• For formula or bathwater, wait until steam dissipates, give it a quick stir, then measure near the surface.
• If there’s high fever or worrying symptoms, double-check with a contact thermometer (armpit/tympanic) and decide on a clinic visit from there.

 

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