If you’re preparing for a new baby and trying to gather all your necessities, you may be asking, “Do I need a baby monitor?” There are pros and cons to a baby monitor. Here’s how to make that decision…
When I was pregnant with my first child we were clueless as to what was needed.
We knew we needed diapers, a crib, and a car seat.
That was about it. I’d read books about nursing, setting up good sleep habits, and the basic logistics, but wasn’t sure which gadgets or gear to buy.
I read that in a house where bedrooms very close together, a baby monitor was not necessary. On the flip side, I also read that they can help give you sanity.
Read: Minimalist moms must haves for mothers of babies
Fast, simple, and free strategies to implement if baby can’t get to sleep, won’t stay asleep, or is unsettled in general.
Let’s dive in… do you actually need a baby monitor?
The following questions will help you decide whether or not to purchase an expensive baby monitor. Ask yourself these four questions before making you decision:
1. Where will the baby sleep from day one?
If your baby sleeps in the same room as you for a few months, you probably don’t need a monitor for a while, if ever. If their crib is beside you then you can be assured you’ll hear their every move and whimper.
However, If you have a two story home and plan on allowing the baby napping upstairs… it will come in handy.
We didn’t use a monitor with any of my babies until they were older and sleeping in their own rooms at night.
Read: The importance of white noise to help baby sleep
2. How do I sleep?
I once heard it said that after you have kids you’ll forever sleep with one ear open.
Ain’t that the truth!
Now, if you are a deep sleeper, a monitor will likely be just what you need. It will ensure you hear all your baby’s noises and to give you reassurance.
Fast, simple, and free strategies to implement if baby can’t get to sleep, won’t stay asleep, or is unsettled in general.
If you are a light sleeper and the baby is very near you, it may not seem necessary.
I am a lighter sleeper and even without a monitor, but with the baby in the same room, I wake up for every little gurgle.
If your husband takes turns getting up with the baby and he’s a deep sleeper, a monitor might be just the ticket. Just put it on his side of the bed.
After all, he’s not doing you any favors by taking care of the kids.
3. What else will you use the baby monitor for?
If you think you can live without a baby monitor (which you most definitely can) but wonder if it would have other uses later, then you are right.
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Learn MoreAlternative uses for baby monitor:
- When the kids are older, a baby monitor is useful for independent playtime
- For toddlers, it’s useful to see how long it takes them to actually fall asleep.
- If you plan on doing yard work, monitors are perfect use during nap times.
- It helps you get things done during those brief free periods without worry you’ll miss your baby’s cry.
Read: 8 useful ways to use the pack and play
4. So if I want one… should I get a basic monitor or a smart one?
With so many choices, it can be overwhelming! See the list below for some help!
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Learn MoreOver the years, I’ve used the cheapest, a medium quality, and a fairly expensive version. They each have benefits and downsides… let’s talk about which one may work for you!
It all depends on your home & how you’ll use it…
- In a smaller house where the bedrooms are closest together, the basic bottom of the line monitor will do the trick. Don’t worry about getting too fancy, the “peace of mind” comes from hearing your little one.
- If you live in a larger or two story house, you may want to get a better quality monitor for connection purposes. This is just simply because of the distance involved. The same is true if you plan on working outside during nap-time.
- Maybe you love the idea of being able to see and speak to your baby? If being “techy” is a benefit to you, there are some really great high quality monitors available. I can’t believe the quality and range of some!
Get the right baby monitor right here!
Look no further, I have compiled the top 5 baby monitors in each of the different qualities. Here are some that are basic, and some have all the bells and whistles!
- VTech Audio Baby Monitor– Here is a bottom of the line, but just as useful baby monitor. It still has a talk back feature and reaches up to 100 feet. I actually used this one with my first baby, and it worked great!
- Baby Monitor with Zoom Camera and LCD Screen- This middle of the line baby monitor is still full of useful technology. You can speak to your baby through this system and even adjust the camera digitally. Get it Here.
- Anmeate Baby Monitor with Digital Camera- Here is a basic mid line and excellent quality monitor. It has a 960 ft range, 2 way talk, and night vision.
- Motorola Video Baby Monitor- With this monitor you get two cameras for peace of mind if baby turns over with his/her back to the camera. It was infrared night vision and a room temperature feature. Get it Here.
- Nanit Plus Smart Baby Monitor- Here is a top of the line and highly rated baby monitor with a wall mount included. Some of it’s features include HD camera and video, temperate & humid sensors and sleep tracking.
Fast, simple, and free strategies to implement if baby can’t get to sleep, won’t stay asleep, or is unsettled in general.
FAQs
For parents who need to monitor multiple children in different rooms, there are several options available to help you keep an eye on all your children simultaneously: split-screen video monitors, multi-camera systems, and expandable baby monitors with the option to add additional cameras.
Yes, there are potential privacy risks associated with using baby monitors, especially smart monitors that are connected to the internet. While these monitors offer convenience and remote monitoring capabilities, they can also pose privacy challenges like unauthorized access, data breeches, remote access, and insecure networks. Be sure to thoroughly research the baby monitor you choose before purchasing if you decide to use a smart monitor.
Absolutely, there are important safety guidelines to follow when using baby monitors to ensure the well-being of your child. Always ensure proper placement by positioning the baby monitor’s camera or sensor unit at a safe distance from the crib to avoid any physical contact with the baby. Make sure the camera is securely mounted or placed on a stable surface to prevent it from falling into the crib and out of your child’s reach. Keep all cords, wires, and cables associated with the baby monitor out of your child’s reach to prevent choking hazards or entanglement. Read the safety instructions for the monitor you choose to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
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If they are still breastfed or formula fed (no solids), you can just throw the diapers in the washing machine without doing anything extra. They just need a soak cycle before you add the detergent.