I. Cleaning Methods for Household Thermometers
1. Mercury Thermometers
Shake the mercury column down to below 35°C and rinse off any residual sweat or saliva with running water.
Wipe in one direction from the sensing tip toward the handle using a 75% medical alcohol swab, or soak in alcohol for 30 minutes.
If used by individuals with specific infections, soak in a 500 mg/L chlorine-based disinfectant for 30 minutes, then rinse with sterile water, air-dry, and store.
2. Electronic Thermometers
Non-waterproof models: Gently wipe the probe and body with a soft cloth dampened with 75% alcohol; avoid letting liquid seep into the device's crevices.
Waterproof models: The probe section can be rinsed directly with water; disinfect by wiping with alcohol and allow to air-dry.
3. Infrared Forehead/Ear Thermometers
Gently wipe the probe lens with a cotton swab dampened with 95% anhydrous alcohol; do not rinse directly with water, as water spots may affect measurement accuracy.
Wipe the body with a dry, soft cloth; for stubborn stains, use a small amount of neutral detergent.
II. Cleaning Methods for Industrial/Laboratory Thermometers
1. Self-calibrating Precision Electronic Thermometers
Turn off the device and allow the probe to cool completely before wiping the probe and body surface with a soft cloth dampened with anhydrous ethanol.
For waterproof models, the probe may be rinsed directly with water (avoid getting water inside the body); air-dry after wiping-do not use high-heat drying methods.
2. Glass Liquid-in-Glass Laboratory Thermometers
Allow to cool to room temperature after measurement, then soak in 40°C warm water for 10 minutes to soften any residual crystals.
Gently wipe with a soft cloth along the direction of the scale markings; for stubborn residue, soak in a diluted neutral detergent solution for 5 minutes, rinse with distilled water, and air-dry.
Strictly avoid scraping the glass with hard objects like steel wool to prevent damage to the scale markings and capillary tube.
3. Oven/Industrial Thermometers
Disconnect the power and allow the device to cool completely; disassemble any removable parts according to the manual and clean them separately. Wipe the surface and crevices with a soft cloth dampened with mild soapy water; rinse with clean water, wipe dry, and allow to air dry.
III. General Cleaning Precautions
1. During all cleaning operations, avoid direct contact between corrosive solvents and sensitive components to prevent compromising measurement accuracy.
2. Ensure the device is completely dry after cleaning before placing it in a dedicated, well-ventilated storage case; a desiccant may be added to prevent moisture buildup.
3. Remove the batteries if the device is to be stored for an extended period, and periodically check the device's condition to prevent dust accumulation from affecting future use.
