*Updated 3-21-13*

I’ve read quite a few negative reviews regarding the Vicks Behind Ear Gentle Touch Thermometer that retails $30-40. I don’t understand what the issue is. I received a free thermometer as a Klout perk (like many other bloggers), and it’s worked every single time. It’s accurate and very easy to use.

The manual has specific guidelines to follow…perhaps people aren’t? For example, if someone has been outside in the cold or heat, you need to wait at least 20 minutes for their temperature to regulate before using the thermometer on them. Also, if the thermometer has been under a heat or A/C vent or in direct sunlight, you need to wait before using it. Makes sense.

I don’t know. Maybe it’s not user error…maybe half the products are faulty and Vicks has terrible quality control? But my experience has been completely positive, and I’ve been recommending this thermometer to friends for their babies and kids. $30 may seem a lot to pay for a thermometer, but it’s so easy to use! You press the tip of the thermometer FLAT against the skin behind (not below) the ear and press the button. It beeps immediately, and that’s it…temperature has been taken and is ready to read. When I was testing the thermometer on my son, he kept squirming and moving around, so I held his head with one hand and used the thermometer with the other. It still worked every time, so it really didn’t take a lot of skill.

I’ve used the thermometer twice now when my son had a fever, and it worked great. I checked it against a cheap under-arm type thermometer both times, and the Gentle Touch thermometer was accurate. I’m pleased with the features. I didn’t mention it above, but the screen is green when the temp is normal, orange when it’s elevated, and red when it’s a fever temp. I love that, and I also love how it records previous temps, so you can keep track of your child’s temp. Also, I mentioned above that my son squirms when I use it. That’s no longer true. He’s used to me taking his temp (he’s 10 1/2 months old), and he holds still. I’ve been recommending this thermometer to my friends, and I do think it’s worth the price, because it’s accurate, easy to use, and gives peace of mind. THAT is worth the price (my opinion).

Note: I received a Vicks Behind Ear Gentle Touch Thermometer as a Klout perk. I was under no obligation to review the thermometer. The opinions are my own and may differ from the opinions of others.