How to Sterilize Different Kinds of Thermometers

Thermometers should be sterilized between each use.

There are many kinds of thermometers available today and many now are digital, giving quick readings. Meat thermometers, for example, may be used to measure the temperature to make sure dishes are thoroughly cooked. Ear thermometers, oral thermometers and rectal thermometers are used to measure body temperature. Any thermometer that is potentially exposed to germs must be sterilized in between uses.

Things You'll Need

• Cloths
• Dish detergent
• Alcohol wipes

Instructions

1. Wet a cloth in hot water. Add 1 drop of dish detergent to the cloth.

2. Wipe the soapy cloth over the thermometer to wash away debris. Wet another cloth in hot water and wipe this over the thermometer to rinse off the soap.

3. Dry the thermometer with a dry cloth. Wipe the thermometer with an alcohol wipe and let it dry without rinsing.

Tips & Warnings

• Drug stores and grocery stores carry alcohol wipes in the first aid sections of these stores.

• You can find disposable sheaths for many kinds of thermometers. Using these sheaths means you won't have to sterilize the thermometer each time.

• Do not submerse thermometers in water unless the manufacturer indicates it is safe to do so. Water that seeps into the unit may cause a malfunction.

References

• Taylorusa.com: FAQ Thermometers
• One Healthy Lifestyle: Thermometer
• University of Maryland Medical Center