How to Use a Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer on a Baby

By Babies R Us Australia | Published: 2026-11-02

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to take a baby's forehead temperature with a non-contact infrared thermometer, from preparation to reading, plus tips for getting a reliable result.

Quick answer

To take a baby's temperature with a non-contact infrared forehead thermometer, make sure the forehead is dry and clear, hold the thermometer at the distance the manufacturer specifies, and scan across the forehead. Repeat once if the reading seems off, and use a rectal or underarm thermometer if you need a core measurement for a very young infant.

Why forehead readings need a little preparation

Infrared forehead thermometers read the heat coming off the skin, so anything that changes skin temperature can skew the result. A baby who has just been bundled in a blanket, worn a hat, or been lying on one side may have a warmer forehead on that side. Sweat or a recent bath can cool the skin. For a more reliable reading, let your baby settle in the room for a few minutes and check that the forehead is dry and uncovered.

Non-contact thermometers are convenient for a quick check, especially with a sleeping or restless baby, but they are not always as precise as a rectal reading. That is why many health guidelines still recommend a rectal thermometer for infants under three months when you need an accurate core temperature. Use the forehead thermometer for screening and trends, and confirm with a rectal reading if your baby is very young or the fever seems high.

When to trust the reading and when to double-check

A single forehead reading is a snapshot. If it shows a fever, or if your baby seems unwell, wait a few minutes and take another reading. Consistency matters more than one number. If the second reading is very different, check your technique: distance, placement, and skin condition. Also consider the environment—direct sun, a heater, or a cold room can affect the reading.

No thermometer replaces your judgment about how your baby looks and behaves. A baby who is feeding poorly, unusually sleepy, or hard to wake needs medical advice regardless of the number on the screen. For any infant under three months with a temperature of 38°C or higher, seek medical care promptly.

Step-by-step: taking a forehead temperature

Prepare the forehead: Wipe away any sweat or moisture with a soft cloth and make sure the forehead is uncovered. Remove hats or headbands and wait a few minutes if your baby has just come in from outside or been wrapped up. A dry, exposed forehead gives the most reliable reading.
Position the thermometer: Hold the thermometer perpendicular to the forehead, aiming at the centre, at the distance stated in the manufacturer's instructions. For the Oricom NFS100, follow the manual's specified distance—do not guess. The correct distance is the most common mistake; check the manual every time you use a new thermometer.
Take the reading: Press the scan button and hold steady until the thermometer beeps or displays a result. Keep your hand still and avoid moving the thermometer during the scan. Movement during the scan can cause an error or a low reading.
Read and record: Note the temperature and the time. If you are tracking a fever, write it down so you can see the pattern rather than relying on memory. A written log helps you and your doctor spot trends.
Repeat if needed: If the reading seems inconsistent with how your baby looks or feels, wait a minute and take a second reading. If the two readings differ significantly, check your technique and try once more. Two consistent readings are more useful than one outlier.
Clean the sensor: After use, clean the sensor according to the manufacturer's instructions—typically with a soft cloth or alcohol wipe if specified. Do not immerse the thermometer in water. Proper cleaning keeps readings accurate and prevents cross-infection.

Product facts

Oricom NFS100 Infrared Forehead Thermometer: The Oricom NFS100 Infrared Forehead Thermometer uses infrared technology to measure temperature without skin contact and is suitable for children and adults. Non-contact use means you can check a sleeping baby without waking them, and the whole family can share the same thermometer.
Oricom NFS100 Infrared Forehead Thermometer