How to use a baby monitor in the best way

It’s normal for a new parent to be concerned about your baby while they sleep in another room. Parents can have peace of mind by using baby monitors to keep an eye on their baby. Technology has advanced to the point that you can monitor your baby even while you are at work, on errands or halfway across the country.

Let’s look at what types of baby monitors are available for parents. Which one is best for you? What safety tips should you keep in mind?

Different types of baby monitors

Audio monitors
Video monitors
WiFi monitors

These all allow you to monitor your baby in a variety of ways. It’s up to you what you can afford, what features you want, and how your lifestyle is.

Audio Monitors

Audio monitors can pick up any sounds your baby makes when they wake up or while asleep. Audio monitors are not as accurate as video monitors. They can’t tell you if your child is just making noises in their sleep or if they have awakened fully.

However, audio monitors are often the most affordable option. This monitor is best if your baby will sleep in your bedroom and you only need to be able to check on them during naptimes or when you leave the room.

Video Monitors

You can see your baby while they sleep using video monitors. The video camera is usually mounted on the wall in your baby’s bedroom. Many video cameras have special features such as zooming, tilting and night vision so you can see your baby even if the lights are out.

Multiple video receivers can be used to monitor your baby from different places in your home.

WiFi Monitors

These monitors can be connected to your WiFi network, so you can view or hear your baby from your smartphone or any other digital device.

This allows you to continue watching your baby even if you’re not there.

How to Setup and Purchase a Baby Monitor

It’s best to set up your monitor as soon as your baby arrives. This is because every home is different, so some baby monitors can cause interference more than others.

Also, make sure that the baby monitor does not pick up any background noises such as fans and air conditioners.

Safety Tips

Baby monitors can generally be used safely. Some issues can occur if the monitors are not used correctly or with care. These are some safety tips for baby monitors.

Safety of the Baby Monitor Cord is a Must

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported seven infant deaths and three cases of babies nearly being suffocated due to baby monitor cords since 2002.

The CPSC recommends that baby monitors with wires should be kept at least three feet away from a baby’s bedroom, such as a crib, bassinet or pack ‘n’ play. The CPSC also warns against placing a baby monitor in a crib or at the edge of a crib.

Beware of Sleep Apnea (Breathing Disorder) Monitors

Baby monitors are available on the market to monitor your baby’s breathing in order to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The Academy Of American Pediatrics (AAP), however, advises against the use of these monitors in most cases.

AAP claims that these devices are not proven to prevent SIDS and may cause more concern than any other. If your baby is suffering from breathing difficulties or needs home oxygen, your doctor may recommend a sleep apnea monitoring device.

Do not allow a baby monitor to replace your own supervision

While baby monitors are very helpful, they shouldn’t be used in place of parental supervision. If you don’t see your baby moving for a while, or if they aren’t crying, be aware.

Baby monitors are not designed to detect fevers and other symptoms that can be detected by parents alone.

Place the baby monitor

There are no rules other than making sure that the corded baby monitor is at least three feet from your baby’s crib.

You will mount a video monitor to the wall. This will make it easier to properly video your baby. You can find more information in the instructions for your specific device.

How long can a baby monitor be used?

It is up to you how long you use your baby monitor. A baby monitor is used by most parents for their baby’s first few months, when night wakings are common. These devices are also useful for parents who need to take naps.

But many parents end up continuing to use one into the toddler years too, as it can be helpful to see what your little one is doing when they enter the climbing-out-of-bed-stage of life.

Some parents decide to not have a baby monitor at all. Some parents choose to forgo a baby monitor entirely, whether their baby is sleeping in their bedroom or because they don’t find baby monitoring stressful. A baby monitor is not necessary as long as your baby can be heard when they awaken.

A word from Verywell

You will have many questions about baby monitors as you create your baby registry. There are so many options available these days that you might not be able to decide if one is right for your needs or if you really need it with so many features. It is possible to wonder if you really need one.

Baby monitors are a valuable tool for parents. However, if you are unsure about your decision, it might be a good idea to get a basic model first. Many baby monitors offer more features than you might need to keep an eye on your child.

https://www.babypower.us/using-a-baby-monitor
https://www.babyuseful.com/safety-of-baby-monitors
https://www.babyenergise.com/how-to-test-baby-monitors
https://www.babyexciting.com/choosing-a-baby-monitor
https://www.enjoy-the-life-baby.com/use-a-baby-monitor
https://www.babyhappy.us/wireless-baby-monitor-safe
https://www.babyforlife.co.uk/type-of-baby-monitor