Taking your baby's temperature

There is no need to take your baby's temperature unless you think she has a fever or is ill.

A normal temperature ranges from 97.6 degrees Fahrenheit to 100.3 degrees Fahrenheit.

To get an accurate temperature reading for newborns to 1 year olds, use only a rectal thermometer.

Getting ready

Before you take your baby's temperature:

• Wash the thermometer in clean, warm, soapy water. Wipe it with rubbing alcohol.
• Shake the thermometer below 96 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Do not give your child hot or cold liquids 30 minutes before taking her temperature by mouth.
• Be with your child to make sure he or she stays still.

Four ways to take a temperature

There are four ways you can take a temperature. It is important the health care provider knows which way you used.

1. Rectum

A normal rectal temperature is 99.6 Fahrenheit or 37.6 degrees Celsius.

• Coat the tip of the rectal thermometer with petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline).
• Gently insert the thermometer into your child's rectum. Do not go farther than 1 inch.
• Hold the thermometer in place for 2 to 3 minutes.

2. Axillary (under the armpit)

A normal axillary temperature is 97.6 Fahrenheit or 36.4 degrees Celsius.

• You may use a digital thermometer.
• Make sure your child's armpit is dry.
• Put the bulb under your child's arm, which should be snug against her body.
• Make sure the thermometer stays in place for 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Oral (mouth)

A normal oral temperature is 98.6 Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Celsius.

• Do not use the oral method unless your child understands that she must not bite the thermometer.
• You may use a glass or digital thermometer.
• Put the bulb end of the thermometer under your child's tongue.
• Tell your child to close her mouth but not to bite the thermometer.
• Keep it in place for 2 minutes.

4. Ear

This is not to be used on an infant.

• Follow the ear probe package directions carefully.
• Clean the thermometer after each use.
• Always keep the thermometer in its original container.

Related Links

How to treat your child's fever

Signs to call your baby's health care provider

Your newborn, baby

Pediatric specialists

Family medicine specialists

First published: 10/04/2002
Last updated: 11/30/2006

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts