How to clean thermometer properly after each use

The thermometer has become a tool for daily use due to the coronavirus pandemic, but after each use, it is advisable to clean it, and more so when shared among several family members. Let’s see below, tips to know how to clean the thermometer correctly after each use, also taking into account the type of thermometer we are using.

How to clean thermometer properly after each use

In recent months, measuring fever has become commonplace, and in fact, it is something that is done daily, for example before children go to school and, of course, when they arrive at their schools. The measurement of temperature is no longer something that is done only when we get sick or feel that we are well. It is something that determines the possibility that we may be infected by Covid. So it is important not only to know how to use it correctly but also to ensure good hygiene.

In fact, cleaning the thermometer is necessary after each use. Even when it comes to the one we use with our own family.  Since temperature readings often involve direct contact with a sick person. It is important that thermometers are disinfected before and after each use. And as it is usual for several people to use the same device in homes. It is necessary to wash and disinfect the thermometer between uses to avoid the passing of germs between people.

Clean the digital thermometer

The digital thermometer uses an electronic heat sensor to measure a person’s body temperature in less than a minute. It can be placed in the armpit, groin, mouth, or rectum. To clean a thermometer of this type it will be necessary to use denatured alcohol with at least 60% alcohol.

The correct way to clean (and disinfect) the digital thermometer is to dip a cotton ball or swab in denatured alcohol and run it through the thermometer. If desired, rinse the device with cold water to remove any alcohol residue. Being careful not to get any electronic items, such as the screen, wet.

Once you have cleaned it, we must let it dry. For this, it will be enough to keep it in its storage box. Or we can also use a cloth that is clean and has not been used previously.

Cleaning the infrared or forehead thermometer

This type of thermometer that has become very fashionable as a result of the pandemic, which is in fact the one we see used at the door of health centers as well as at the entrance of schools, uses an infrared sensor to measure body temperature in seconds through a scan of the forehead. Although many are designed to be used without touching the skin, the device must be disinfected before and after use in the event of contact. To do this, simply clean the sensor with a cotton swab or an alcohol swab. Then we let it finish air-drying.