I've actually done all those things so far. :s My crock water dish is in a corner on the UTH. The paper towel is flat on the tub when I'm using the temp gun. Maybe I have an extra thick paper towel...?
ETA: Now I'm using the temp gun above the paper towel again, and the temperature range is as low as 80~84 on the hot spot. And I'm pressing down on the paper towel when using the temp gun. Still 90~95 under the paper towels though. I wonder if I'm using the temp gun wrong... LOL.. Should I just take out the paper towels...?