Overview

Printable Version

A baby monitor lets you know that your baby is safe while you move about the house or yard. You can wash dishes, pay the bills, or even go to sleep, knowing you'll be alerted the minute your baby wakes up or needs your help. Many parents find monitors useful from birth well into the toddler years.

Types of monitors include models that let you listen in on your baby, see her on screen, or know that she is moving with reasonable frequency. All monitors include a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter works best when placed within about 10 feet of your child. It will send a signal as far as 600 feet or more, depending on the model. The receiver is the part you keep near you. Motion monitors include a third component: a sensor pad you place under your baby's mattress to detect her motion (including breathing).

Whether to choose an audio, video, or motion monitor -- or some combination model -- depends on what you find most reassuring. Use this guide to decide which type is for you.

Tip: Signal quality is the most important attribute of your baby monitor. Look for a monitor with a strong signal and multiple channels, which can help minimize interference or static noise. Concrete walls in your house can also interfere with transmission, as can phone or other signals in your neighborhood. Spending a bit more for greater clarity can be a worthwhile investment.

Shop Monitors

Next Page