As an expecting parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your little one safe and sound. A reliable baby monitor can provide peace of mind by alerting you when your baby needs you - even when you're in another room. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose?
Let's walk you through the key features and factors to consider when picking out the perfect monitor for your family. We will take an overview of the different styles available, top-rated brands, important capabilities to look for, and setting up tips.
By keeping your needs and priorities front of mind, you can find a monitor that helps you feel more connected to your baby during the exciting early months!
If you're still on the fence about buying one,could click Do You Really Need a Baby Monitor?
1. Deciding Between Audio vs. Video Monitoring
One of the first decisions you'll make is whether you want an audio-only baby monitor or one with video capabilities.
Audio monitors simply let you listen to sounds from your baby's room. You'll hear when they wake up or cry so you can tune in to their needs. Video monitors take it a step further by also letting you see real-time footage of your little one in their crib or bed.
Video can seem appealing if you want to be able to visually check in anytime. But some parents find they end up obsessively watching the video feed, analyzing every movement. This can lead to unneeded worry and lack of sleep.
An audio monitor might allow you to get some rest while still letting you know if your baby needs tender loving care. Consider which capabilities would bring you confidence without heightening anxiety.
2. Know the Key Features That You Need from A Monitor to Provide Peace of Mind
Beyond just audio vs. video, here are some other key features to look for:
- Range - Look for at least 800+ feet of indoor range and outdoor capabilities. This allows you to roam freely around your home and yard without losing the signal.
- Battery Life - Audio monitors with at least 12 hours of battery life give you flexibility. For video, 6-8 hours of battery life is ideal for all-night monitoring.
- Night Vision - Infrared night vision lets you keep watch even after lights out. Essential for video monitors.
- Temperature Sensor - Being able to remotely monitor the nursery temperature ensures your baby is nice and cozy.
- Talk Back Communication - Wifi monitors that allow two-way talking through the camera let you soothe your little one from afar.
Consider which capabilities would provide the most valued reassurance based on your personality and needs.
3. Know the Different Types of Baby Monitor
Listening-In Audio Monitors
These trusty monitors let you listen in on all the coos and cries from your little one's nursery. The handy parent unit can go with you anywhere in the house so you always have an ear on your baby. Most audio monitors have a range of 400-1000 feet, allowing you to roam freely while still hearing the peeps and murmurs that say your sweetie needs you. Many also have helpful extras like night lights, temperature displays, and even two-way talkback to soothe your kiddo from afar. Simple and budget-friendly, these audio-only monitors start around just $30.
Seeing-Is-Believing Video Monitors
If you like being able to see your precious one sleeping soundly, a video monitor is for you. These monitors send a video and audio feed straight from a camera in the nursery to a parent unit or your smartphone. You'll be able to check in anytime and get the visual reassurance that all is well. Most monitors have a 300-900 foot range and handy features like night vision, temperature sensors, even panning cameras. Prices range from $100-$300 for most home video models.
Sensor Mat Monitors
These innovative monitors use sensor pads that slip right under baby's crib mattress to detect the slightest movements. If no movement is sensed for 20 seconds, you'll get an alert on the parent receiver. This allows you to monitor breathing and movement without any cameras. Most sensor pads connect via radio frequency or wifi and work from 300-900 feet away. Prices are budget to mid-range, from $40-$200.
Clip-On or Wearable Monitors
For tracking vitals and stats when you're on-the-go, wearable monitors are the way to go. Your little nugget wears a sensor-equipped sock, bracelet, or clip-on that tracks things like oxygen levels and heart rate. The parent receiver connects to your own clothing or smartphone so you're notified of any abnormalities no matter where you roam. Great for use outdoors and on-the-move, prices range from $250-$400.
Hope this gives you a feel for the main types of monitors in a more lighthearted way! Let me know if you need any specific recommendations for your family.
4. Setting a Realistic Baby Monitor Budget
Once you understand you and your baby's need, and you have already studied the different types of baby monitor's function, the next step is to set a budget before shoping. The price of baby monitor range varies greatly when it comes to baby monitors. Simple audio monitors can cost between $30-$100. More advanced video monitors with a slew of features can range from $150-$300. High-end smart monitors cost upwards of $300.
Think about the specific features that would help you feel most connected to your baby. Then set a budget that aligns with your priorities. You don't need to splurge on fancy add-ons you won't use.
I recommend spending at least $70 for a quality audio monitor, or $150+ for video to get the best reliability and performance.
5. Our Top Recommendation
f you want to avoid monitors with scratchy audio, pixelated video, and batteries that fade at midnight, we recommend the MOMCOZY 1080P Baby Monitor.
This monitor delivers crystal clear HD video on its 5-inch split-screen display. The 1080p camera captures every detail from multiple viewing angles. And the battery impressively lasts up to 11 hours for all-night monitoring.
Since MOMCOZY connects directly without WiFi, you also get secure and private transmissions free of hacks.
With its long battery life, multi-view screen, and reliable connectivity, MOMCOZY simplifies monitoring so you can relax. Easily watch over two kiddos or view one nursery from different spots. Highly recommend for moms seeking fuss-free, around-the-clock monitoring!
6. Installation Tips for a Stress-Free Setup
Once you've purchased your monitor, proper setup is key. Think about ideal placement based on your home's layout. Test the monitor at different distances and angles to identify any connection issues.
Mounting your monitor's camera high in a corner of the crib gives the best vantage point of the entire space. Be sure to keep cords securely fastened and out of baby's reach.
For wifi monitors, check that the wifi signal reliably reaches the nursery. Lag and loss of connection can happen if the router is too far.
Take time to ensure everything works properly and familiarize yourself with all features. This prevents any stressful troubleshooting down the road!
7. Finding the Ideal Baby Monitor for Your Family
The key is identifying what truly matters most to you - whether that's hearing every little sound, zooming video view, temperature alerts, or sleep tracking. Match the monitor capabilities to your personality and needs.
We hope this overview equips you to find the perfect monitor to give you peace of mind and help you responsively care for your little one! Please reach out if you have any other baby monitoring questions. I'm always happy to share additional guidance to support new parents.
