Learn more
Buying a thermometer for the whole family is often a long-term purchase. So, it makes sense to look for a model that not only gives accurate readings but is also quick and convenient to use.
Mercury-in-glass thermometers
In the past, mercury-in-glass thermometers were used to measure the temperature, but this is no longer done today –these thermometers are actually banned in the EU. The reason: if the thermometer breaks, toxic mercury can escape. Battery-free in-glass thermometers with a harmless substance are still available, but they are rather awkward to use, and the measuring process takes at least 5 minutes. Nowadays, people generally use either digital thermometers or infrared thermometers.
Digital thermometers
Digital thermometers are pen-type thermometers like the in-glass thermometers. However, they measure faster: the measurement usually takes just under a minute. It is also easier to read the temperature value because of the digital display. There are three body sites you can measure: under the armpit, in the mouth or rectally. The rectal measurement provides the most accurate values, but many people find it uncomfortable and unhygienic. Especially babies and small children dislike rectal measurement – not only because of the measurement site, but also because they have to be undressed and dressed again for the procedure. Another aspect is that they have to be woken up if they are asleep. When measuring in the mouth, you have to follow some rules, and when measuring under the armpits, you should add 0.5° C to the displayed value to get a more realistic value.
Clinical infrared thermometers
Clinical infrared thermometers measure the infrared radiation emitted by the forehead or eardrum. This is recorded via a sensor and, after conversion into a temperature value, displayed as body temperature. The measurement with an infrared thermometer is very fast, taking only a few seconds. The short measuring time with an infrared thermometer is the greatest advantage, but its reliability and simple usage should also not go unmentioned. When performing a forehead measurement, the thermometer is simply moved across the forehead over the temporal artery. The measuring sensor detects the infrared radiation emitted, performs a scan for three seconds, and displays the highest measurement recorded. With non-contact infrared thermometers, like Veroval® baby for instance, skin contact is not necessary, hence it is hygienic because the risk of contact transmission of bacteria or viruses is minimized. For ear measurement, devices such as the Veroval® DS22 – 2 in 1 Infrared Thermometer are appropriate. They offer single-use protective covers that can be changed with every reading.
So, you can opt for the completely contactless version like the Veroval® baby infrared thermometer or, if you prefer, a thermometer that offers forehead and ear measurements like the Veroval® DS22 – 2 in 1 Infrared Thermometer. You will see: not only the little ones, but also the older family members will certainly appreciate the advantages of an infrared thermometer.
