We haven’t been having much luck with thermometers lately. First, I misplaced our forehead thermometer. Then our multi-purpose thermometer stopped working. Tired of never having an accurate thermometer, I bought a number of different models at our local Target. I have always thought that pacifier thermometers seemed a bit gimmicky, but since daughter number three actually takes a binky, I decided it was worth a try. Unfortunately, this product didn’t work for us. Although our little one will willingly put it in her mouth, she won’t keep it in long enough to get a reading. Until they develop a model with a faster reading time (this one takes several minutes, it seems), I wouldn’t recommend it, however simple it seems. If you think it will work for you, however, you can purchase one for $12.39 at Amazon.com.

In my last Hit List of Five Things You Need for Baby post, I mentioned the disappointment I felt about my baby monitor. We brought it back and bought the updated version (here’s a tip, Canadian moms: buy it at Canadian Tire and use your Canadian tire money to save) of the Glow & Go 2 Receiver Monitoring System, complete with the same glowing nightlight option and two receivers for convenience. This new version also features a built-in digital thermometer. Best of all, it has wonderful clarity (no more static) and it can be switched on and off at the touch of a button. Thank goodness for improved designs! Way to go, Safety 1st. I found a set at BabySuperMall.com for $39.95.

I was imediately intrigued when I saw this Complete Family Thermometer from Safety First, largely because it is styled like the thermometers used in doctors’ offices. I couldn’t make up my mind whether it would be great, or just a gimicky product that looks like something better, but can’t deliver. Since we needed another thermometer in our house anyway, I decided to take a chance and buy it. So far, I have been quite pleased. It comes up with a reading quite quickly, and the readings don’t fluctuate, a problem I have had with ear thermometers especially.

One cool thing about this thermometer is that it comes with three interchangeable tips. You choose the tip based on the function: oral, rectal, or underarm use. The tips store neatly in the back of the thermometer and are easy to change. While some people might find the size a bit bulkier than they are used to, I actually like it because it makes the thermometer easier to keep track of.  Overall, I am quite pleased with this purchase and would recommend it to others. You can purchase one for $38.59 at cvs.com. These were sold out for a while while I was first trying to order one, so they seem to be quite popular.

The Safety 1st Baby’s Deluxe Grooming Collection is an organized way to keep all of your baby’s grooming essentials, not just for travel but also on baby’s dresser/changing table. If you remember to put things back after you use them, you know where they are when you need them. Sounds like common sense but most of us really have to work at it. But once you get into the habit of putting things back where they belong, and this little case has a place for everything, you’ll be a much saner mommy.

Also known as the Hospital’s Choice, this kit includes: 1 nail clipper, 8 emery boards, no scratch mittens, toddler brush and comb, cradle cap comb, toddler toothbrush, and an infant gum massager, all in a convenient travel case. It’s appropriate for use from birth on up.

This neat little kit is priced at $39.99 at Amazon.com.