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 |  | Oral, glass: $1-$15 |  | Oral, digital: $5.50-$20+ |  | Ear, digital: $20-$55 |
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Thermometers are a household staple, yet there are numerous types to choose from. All thermometers measure internal body temperature, but the technology now ranges from traditional thermometers to ear thermometers that store past readings and alert users to high fevers.
Typical costs: |
- Glass oral thermometers cost between $1 and $15. The RG Medical Diagnostics[1] oral thermometer contains no mercury and retails for about $6. HB-Instruments[2] offers an easy-to-read thermometer with a case for $14.99.
- Digital oral thermometers cost between $5.50 and more than $20, depending on the amount of time required for a reading and features of the thermometer. For about $8, Vicks[3] offers an oral digital thermometer with a 30-second read out. Vicks also has a Speed-Read Thermometer[4] with an 8-second read out, which retails for about $13.
- Ear thermometers, which also provide a digital reading, cost between $20 and $55. The cost depends on the features of the thermometer. For example, the Vicks Ear Thermometer[5] provides results in one second and stores the last 12 readings. It retails for $55.
- Temperatures can also be taken at the temple and on the forehead. Thermometers that measure in this way cost between $30 and $60, depending on the features offered. Medline Industries[6] offers a temple thermometer that has a near-instant result, without invasive measuring techniques. The thermometer retails for $56. Vicks[7] offers a forehead thermometer which costs about $50.
Related articles: First Aid Kits, Stethoscope, Blood Pressure Monitor
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What should be included: |
- A thermometer purchase should include the thermometer itself, packaging and instructions for use. Some thermometers will come with a carrying case and a warranty, which can be between three months and three years. Some thermometers will also come with extra batteries.
Additional costs: |
- Experts recommend that people cover the tips of thermometers prior to use. These disposable covers can range in cost from $1.25 for 20 covers to $12 for 40 covers.
- Digital thermometers require batteries, which can cost between $2.50 and $10 depending on the brand. Batteries typically need to be replaced annually with regular home use.
Shopping for a thermometer: |
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- Thermometers do not require a prescription and are sold online and at most pharmacies. People can talk to pharmacy clerks about individual thermometers offered in stores.
- Families with young children should only purchase digital or glass thermometers that can also be used rectally. Most brands are approved for both oral and rectal use, just be sure to check the packaging. Ear thermometers and temple thermometers, while handy, are not accurate enough for children under the age of three. All patients should keep in mind that rectal and oral temperature readings are the most accurate.
- Consumer Reports[8] offers advice for people purchasing thermometers. This report concludes that the best thermometers cost less than $15.
- When purchasing a thermometer online, beware of retailers from outside the United States. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration[9] offers other tips to consumers purchasing online, including talking to a physician or pharmacist before making an online purchase.
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Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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What People Are Paying - Recent Comments |
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External Resources: |
- www.rgmd.com/retail.html
- catalog.hbinstrument.com/item/easy-read-pocket-thermometer/30584-aluminum-duplex-e...
- www.vicks.com/
- www.vicks.com/
- www.vicks.com/
- www.medline.com/catalog/sku-detail.jsp?sku=MDS9698
- www.vicks.com/
- www.consumerreports.org/cro/babies-kids/index.htm
- www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Consumers/BuyingMedicalDevicesandDiagno...
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