A parent can usually tell from a mile away when his or her baby is feeling low.

Even so, a thermometer is essential. With the wide variety of thermometers that are flooding the market, one is naturally confused. Some thermometers are more accurate than others, while some are not advised for children below 5 years, and still others are downright inaccurate.

So, here’s what you can expect:

Plastic strip thermometer: Safe and inexpensive plastic strips are placed against your baby’s forehead to record his temperature. A reading becomes available in less than 10 seconds. These strips are not at all intrusive, and change color to indicate temperature.

Their downside is that they are not very accurate and may show wrong readings if instructions are not followed. Therefore, most health care practitioners advise against using these strips, especially on very young infants.

Digital stick thermometer: These are very accurate, fast and inexpensive. Thirty seconds is all you need for an accurate reading – a lifesaver when you have to deal with a wailing, wriggling baby. Digital thermometers beep when they are done (another great feature) and can be used rectally, orally, or under the armpit. The drawback: digital thermometers tend to become inaccurate if they are dropped.

Ear thermometer: Expensive but quick and efficient. These thermometers are placed within the ear canal and become easy to use once you get the hang of it. But in infants below the age of one, the ear canal may be too narrow for obtaining a reading. The cost factor means they are not easily affordable in homes. Also, the technique of tugging the ears to straighten out the ear canal takes some getting used to. If the tip does not completely fill the ear canal, readings may be inaccurate.

Most parents do not really know WHERE the thermometer should be placed. Is the temperature reading most accurate when the probe is placed under the armpit, in the rectum or in the ear? Each method has its advantages.

Rectal reading: When your baby is below three months and too young to lay still, a rectal reading may be advised. When your baby is so young, accurate reading is a must. Rectal readings give consistently accurate temperatures. But, most parents fear that when the baby is wiggling too much, there is a danger of inserting the probe too deep, thereby perforating the rectum of your little one. To avoid this, look for thermometers that have wide handles and flexible tips. These will not allow you to insert the probe more than an inch. Always clean the thermometer with soap and alcohol before and after use. Before use, you can apply some petroleum jelly to the end.

Armpit reading: Parents of babies between 3-6 months find it convenient to record their temperature by placing the thermometer under the armpit, especially when the bay is sleeping. This method is easier and more convenient than doing a rectal reading – but less accurate. Also, if infants are below 3 months, readings may not be accurate enough.

Oral reading: Hold off on this method until your child reaches five years. Oral readings are impossible with a squirming crying toddler. Until the child is old enough, she will not be able to clamp the probe under her tongue.

Never use glass thermometers as even older children may accidentally bite or break them. If you are new to parenting, never hesitate to ask your healthcare provider for a demo of temperature taking techniques. Being able to record temperature accurately is a crucial part of parenting as it helps you evaluate your child’s illness.