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Guide

How to Clean a Meat Thermometer Safely

Wash the food-contact probe after every use and between raw and ready-to-eat foods. Keep the display and electronics out of water unless the maker explicitly permits immersion.

GGearjury editorial team · Updated 15 October 2026· 4 min
How to Clean a Meat Thermometer Safely
01

How to clean a food thermometer after raw meat

Remove the probe from the food and wash the food-contact section promptly with warm water and washing-up liquid. Avoid touching clean handles, switches or worktops with hands contaminated by raw meat.

02

Check the waterproof rating first

Read the model instructions before rinsing or immersing anything. Waterproof probes may tolerate more exposure, but a separate display, socket or charging contact can still require dry cleaning.

03

Clean around the probe joint carefully

Use a damp, soapy cloth around hinges and seams without forcing water inside. Do not scour the sensing tip, kink a cable or place the unit in a dishwasher unless the manufacturer expressly says it is dishwasher-safe.

04

Rinse and dry the food-contact surface

Remove detergent residue with clean water, then dry with a clean disposable towel or allow the probe to air-dry. Refit a clean cover only when the probe is dry.

05

Clean a cooking thermometer between readings

If a probe moves from raw food to cooked food, clean it before the second check. This prevents the thermometer itself becoming a route for cross-contamination.

Common questions

Questions before you buy

How often should you clean a meat thermometer?

Clean the probe after every use and between checks where raw food could contaminate cooked or ready-to-eat food.

Can you wash a food thermometer with washing-up liquid?

Usually the metal food-contact probe can be washed with warm water and washing-up liquid. Follow the product manual for the body, cable and connector.

Can a cooking thermometer go in the dishwasher?

Only if the manufacturer explicitly marks that component dishwasher-safe. Many instant-read thermometers contain electronics that should be hand-cleaned.

Can you use antibacterial wipes on a thermometer?

Use only products suitable for food-contact surfaces and follow their contact-time and rinsing instructions. The thermometer maker may specify an approved method.

Sources and how we chose

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Best Meat Thermometers in the UK for 2026

Best Meat Thermometers in the UK for 2026

Thermapen ONE is our top all-round pick for fast spot checks. ThermoPro TP19H is the simpler alternative, while DOT and MEATER Pro suit cooks who need continuous monitoring.