A guide to baby body temperatures

Did you know that babies can’t regulate their temperatures like adults can? Their bodies don’t yet have the systems they need to stay within the safe range, meaning they can easily get too hot or too cold. That’s why it’s important to take your baby’s temperature if you suspect they are unwell.

Usually, quickly increasing temperatures suggest a fever (because of an infection). However, it can also indicate they are simply too hot in their clothing or bedding.

When their temperature changes, it can signify an illness, so here’s a guide to baby body temperatures.

What is a normal baby temperature?

Normal baby temperatures range from 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F). However, all babies are different, so you should always monitor what’s ideal for yours.

Slight changes are okay throughout the day, but if your baby goes out of the normal range, that’s a sign you should take action.

How to take your baby’s temperature correctly

You can take your baby’s temperature in various ways. While it might seem daunting the first time, you will soon get the hang of it.

One method is under the arm, where you place a digital thermometer probe in the armpit and wait for it to beep. The beep says the temperature reading is stable, and you can take a measurement.

Using the ear is another option for babies over six months. Parents like this method because it provides a more accurate reading of internal temperatures.

Finally, you can use rectal temperature readings. These are the most accurate, but they can be uncomfortable, so only use them when you suspect a fever.

What causes high temperatures in babies?

Babies can develop high temperatures for numerous reasons. The primary causes are:

• Immune responses to infections from viruses and bacteria in the environment
• Teething, which can sometimes lead to inflammation or rarely infections
• Overheating when babies have too many blankets on them

If your baby’s temperature doesn’t go down at normal room temperature wearing normal clothing, it could indicate a fever. However, if it does, they might need a cuddle to calm them down.

How do you know if your baby has a fever?

You can usually tell your baby has a fever by looking for signs (other than a temperature over 38°C (100.4°F). For example, you may notice:

• Sweating or clammy skin
• Resistance to feeding that goes against their usual schedule
• Fussiness
• Irritability or excessive crying
• Flushed or reddened skin
• Excessively warm skin to the touch

If you notice any of these signs, take their temperature to see if your baby has a fever.

When to call a doctor

If your baby is under 3 months old and their temperature rises above 38°C, call the doctor immediately. Babies of this age require quick attention for safety reasons.

For older babies, fevers shouldn’t last for more than a couple of days. If they do or you see a rash or unusual breathing, get medical help. Your baby could have an infection that their immune system can’t fight off.

Keep their room temperature comfortable

Babies do best when room temperatures are 18-20°C (64-68°F). Higher than this can cause them to overheat in their bedding.

For accuracy, don’t rely on your thermostat. Instead, use a room-specific thermometer to gauge heat near their nursery or bedroom.

Prevent infections with Milton’s sterilising products

You can also use Milton’s sterilising products to reduce the risk of infections. These solutions eliminate bacteria from surfaces, making it less likely that babies will experience exposures that cause them to get sick.

Everything you need to start sterilising can be found in our new Sterilising Starter Kit and can help you get into a new routine where it becomes second nature. You can shop today from Boots or Amazon, or you can find our hygiene and sterilising range at Boots, Amazon, Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury’s, and other major supermarkets.