The best baby thermometer is one that gives an accurate reading quickly and is easy to use when your little one is unsettled. For newborns, Australian health services recommend a digital thermometer used under the arm. From around three months, a good non-contact forehead or ear thermometer offers fast, fuss-free readings that are ideal for a wriggly, poorly baby. This guide compares the main types so you can choose with confidence.

A reliable thermometer is one of the most useful things in your baby first-aid kit, so it's worth getting the right one before you need it at 2am.

Types of baby thermometers

Digital stick thermometers

These affordable, widely available thermometers are used under the arm (axillary) for babies. They're accurate and recommended for newborns, though a wriggly baby needs to stay still for around a minute, which isn't always easy.

Non-contact forehead (infrared) thermometers

Held a few centimetres from the forehead, these give a reading in seconds without touching your baby, which is perfect for checking a sleeping or distressed child. They're best from around three months of age and are the go-to for many Australian families who want speed and convenience.

Ear (tympanic) thermometers

Ear thermometers read the temperature inside the ear canal quickly. They're accurate when positioned correctly but can be less reliable in very young babies, whose ear canals are tiny, so they suit older babies and toddlers better.

Which baby thermometer is the most accurate?

For newborns and young babies, a digital thermometer under the arm is considered the most reliable. As your baby grows, a quality non-contact forehead or ear thermometer becomes accurate enough for everyday use and far easier on an unsettled baby. The most important factors are using the device correctly and consistently. For a deeper comparison, see our guide on ear vs forehead thermometers for babies, and our tips on the most accurate way to take a baby's temperature.

What to look for when buying a baby thermometer

• Speed: a reading in a second or two makes checking a sleeping baby far easier
• Accuracy and clear display: a backlit screen you can read in a dark nursery
• Age suitability: check it's recommended for your baby's age
• Fever alert: a colour change or alarm when the temperature is high
• Ease of cleaning: a hygienic, wipe-clean design
• Versatility: some models read forehead, ear, room and liquid temperatures in one

Normal temperature and when it's a fever

A normal body temperature for a baby is roughly 36.5–37.5°C. A temperature of 38°C or above is generally considered a fever. According to the Raising Children Network, you should see a doctor urgently if a baby under three months has a temperature of 38°C or higher, or if an older baby has a fever with other worrying signs such as being hard to wake, breathing difficulty, a rash, or persistent vomiting. Always trust your instincts and seek advice if you're worried.

How to take your baby's temperature correctly

• Digital under-arm: place the tip in the centre of a dry armpit, hold the arm gently against the body until it beeps
• Forehead (non-contact): hold it the distance stated in the instructions, aimed at the centre of a dry, uncovered forehead
• Ear: gently pull the ear back and up, insert snugly and take the reading

Whatever type you use, follow the manufacturer's instructions and take a couple of readings if you're unsure. For more buying help, read our guide on how to buy the ideal baby thermometer.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most accurate thermometer for a baby?

For newborns, a digital thermometer used under the arm is the most reliable. From around three months, a good non-contact forehead or ear thermometer is accurate enough for everyday use and much easier on an unsettled baby.

What is a normal temperature for a baby?

A normal baby temperature is roughly 36.5 to 37.5°C. A reading of 38°C or above is generally considered a fever.

When should I worry about my baby's fever?

See a doctor urgently if a baby under three months has a temperature of 38°C or higher, or if any baby has a fever alongside worrying signs such as being hard to wake, trouble breathing, a rash or persistent vomiting. Trust your instincts and seek advice if you are concerned.

Are forehead (non-contact) thermometers accurate for babies?

Yes, quality non-contact forehead thermometers are accurate when used correctly and are best from around three months. Make sure the forehead is dry and uncovered and hold the device at the distance stated in the instructions.

Can I use an ear thermometer on a newborn?

Ear thermometers are better suited to older babies and toddlers because a newborn's ear canal is very small, which can make readings less reliable. For newborns, a digital under-arm thermometer is recommended.

How do I take my baby's temperature correctly?

Follow the method for your thermometer type: under the arm for digital, aimed at a dry forehead for non-contact, or gently in the ear canal for tympanic. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take a second reading if unsure.

This article offers general information only and isn't a substitute for advice from your GP, child health nurse or the Raising Children Network. Seek medical advice promptly if you are worried about your baby.