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How to Take a Baby’s Temperature Right, Age Guide (Video)

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Read the full written guide: How to Take a Baby’s Temperature: Armpit, Ear or Forehead by Age →

Learn which thermometer works best for each baby age and the simple steps to get a reliable reading. We cover armpit, forehead, and ear methods, plus the key numbers that matter. This video offers general parenting advice and is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you’re worried, consult a doctor.

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Transcript

Did you know a baby’s fever is 38 °C?

Did you know a baby’s fever is 38 °C?

How to Take a Baby's Temperature

We'll show you the right thermometer for every baby age, and reveal the single tip that prevents false fever readings.

Thermometer by Age

Each age has a spot that works best. Under three months stick with the armpit, from three to six months it stays the top choice, and after six months you can also use the ear or forehead.

Armpit Digital Method

The armpit digital method works from birth to adulthood. First wipe the tip with alcohol or soap and let it dry. Make sure the baby’s skin is dry, then place the tip in the centre of the armpit, pointing up toward the head. The beep means the temperature has stopped rising, not that it’s done.

Forehead & Ear Tips

For forehead scans, keep the thermometer and baby in the same room for ten minutes, wipe away any sweat, and hold the device the distance the manual suggests, usually one to three centimeters. Scan the centre, take two readings a minute apart, and if they differ by more than three-tenths of a degree, trust the armpit instead.

Fever threshold

Most doctors call 38 °C or higher a fever, no matter which site you used.

Quote

Remember: a forehead reading is just a question, an armpit reading gives the answer.

When to Call Doctor

If a baby under three months hits 38 °C, call a doctor right away. Also watch for drowsiness, floppiness, difficulty waking, seizures, rapid breathing, blue lips, or a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed. These signs mean you need urgent care.

Keep a Fever Card

A simple fever card helps you track the pattern. Write the time, temperature, where you measured, and what the baby was doing. Stick it on the fridge; a doctor can spot trends in seconds.

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Read the full guide

The full guide is on thecareonline.com. General information only, so check with your doctor for your own case.

Nothing on The Care Online is medical advice. Traditional practices are described as tradition, not as fact. Take a persistent or serious concern to a qualified professional. See how videos and posts are made on our methodology page.