What to look for when buying a baby monitor

Getting ready for your baby’s arrival can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to setting up the nursery. You want to make sure everything is just right for your little one, and that includes making sure they have a safe and comfortable place to sleep. It’s a big decision, but with a little thought, you can create a nursery that’s perfect for your baby’s needs.

A baby monitor is one of those newborn essentials that offers reassurance during the early months. But with so many options out there, knowing where to start can be a bit much. Here are the key features to look for when choosing one for your family.

Guide to choosing the best baby monitor

Choosing the right baby monitor isn’t always straightforward, especially with many claiming to be the “best.” If you’re after something that goes beyond the basics, here’s what to consider.

1. Wi-Fi vs. Non-Wi-Fi Baby Monitors

When it comes to picking a baby monitor, there are a few important things to think about, like how private, secure, and reliable it is. One common decision parents make is whether to go for Wi-Fi or non-Wi-Fi options — each offering its own advantages depending on your lifestyle and preferences. 

Having a Wi-Fi baby monitor is really handy as it lets you watch your baby through an app on your phone or tablet. For many, flexibility is a major advantage, to be able to connect while at work, running errands, or even travelling. But it’s worth noting that these monitors rely on an internet connection, and connectivity depends on the strength and stability of your internet. Digital security is also being considered, because just like any connected device, Wi-Fi monitors can be vulnerable if not properly secured.

On the other hand, non-Wi-Fi baby monitors offer a simple, secure, and reliable connection without the internet. This makes them a popular choice for parents who prioritise privacy and security, as the risk of external access is significantly reduced. They’re also reliable within their range, as they’re not affected by internet outages or weak Wi-Fi signals.

Another benefit many parents like is their simplicity. Straightforward, no apps, no logins, just plug and go. This can be especially helpful during travel, holiday homes, or even camping trips where internet access may be limited or unavailable. The only trade-off is that this has a limited range and cannot be accessed remotely. This is best suited for parents who value security, ease of use, and consistent in-home monitoring.

2. Sound, Feeding and Room Temperature Notifications

Lots of baby monitors these days offer alerts for sound, feeding, room temperature, and even nappy changes. These features are especially helpful in the early days, giving you extra support when routines are still forming. Beyond simply having these features, it’s worth considering how they actually work in real life.

Sound notifications

Look for baby monitors with customisable sound alerts, allowing you to adjust volume based on your preference. 

Feeding alarms

A feeding alarm lets you set reminders for your baby’s feeding schedule, which can be especially helpful in the early newborn stage when feeds are frequent and routines are being established. Rather than relying on memory (or notes you may not always have time to update) during sleep-deprived nights, feeding alarms can help support consistency for both parent and baby.

Temperature alerts

Room temperature plays an important role in safe and comfortable sleep. Choose a monitor that provides accurate, real-time readings, along with the ability to set your own minimum and maximum temperature range.

Voice Operated Exchange (VOX)

Baby monitors have sound-activated alerts that allow the monitor to switch on or notify when sound is detected. A more advanced option lets you adjust sound sensitivity levels, helping distinguish between background noise and the baby’s cries, conserving battery and reducing unnecessary alerts.

These features should support you, not add to the mental load. The best setup is one that feels intuitive and helpful, acting as a gentle guide as you respond to you and your baby’s needs.

3. Video Quality Range Considerations

A strong video connection and reliable range are key to ensuring you can always keep an eye on your baby with confidence. A long-range connection also allows you to move freely around your home while staying connected to your little one. 

It can vary depending on your home environment; factors such as wall materials, thickness, and other internal or external interference can all impact signal strength. Some monitors can offer coverage of up to 300 metres in open space, which means you may still receive a strong, stable signal even when you’re a significant distance from the camera. This makes them suitable for larger homes or when travelling.

4. Mounts vs. Stands Setups

When you’re getting ready for a new baby, it’s easy to get caught up in all the big things and forget about the little details that can make a big difference. Like where to put your baby monitor, it might seem like a small thing, but it can really affect how useful it is. You want to be able to keep an eye on your baby and make sure they’re safe, so it’s worth thinking about where it is best to place your baby monitor.

Having a setup that supports your routine while keeping your baby safely in view is key. However, not all baby monitors offer the flexibility to be both mounted and used with a stand, which can limit how you use them across different spaces.

Opting for a monitor with flexible placement options can make everyday life much easier. Whether you prefer a consistent, fixed view or the ability to move the camera from room to room.

Bonus Features to Consider

We’ve covered the essentials; now let’s look at some value-added features that can make everyday parenting a little easier. 

Additional Camera Setup

If you find yourself constantly moving from room to room or watching more than one child, it may be worth considering a system that supports multiple cameras.

Having additional cameras allows you to set up monitoring in different areas of your home, such as the nursery, bedroom, or living space, without needing to reposition a single device each time. Simply switch between views and stay connected wherever you are at home.

Smart TOG Guide

If you’re often wondering what to dress a baby for sleep, a built-in Smart TOG Guide can be helpful in reading the room temperature in real-time. Look for a feature that recommends what your baby should wear in every room temperature. It’s a true game-changer for parents who worry about their baby being too cold or overheating. 

At its core, a baby monitor is about peace of mind. Beyond the features and design, safety and reliability are what truly define a good monitor. By this point, you’ve likely already narrowed down a brand in mind, and if it ticks all the boxes, you’re well on your way to finding the right fit for your needs.

If Drift Home baby monitor is on your shortlist, it’s worth considering the thoughtful extras you won’t find elsewhere.

With love,

eP X