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Baby Monitors: Helping You Pick the Best One For You
By Elisabeth Meyer
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These days shopping for a baby monitor is a high tech experience. Recently, manufacturers have really stepped up the innovation and features. Today, there are many different models on the market at price points between $30 and $300. This article will help you decide which features are important to you, and how much you need to spend.
Analog vs. Digital
The most basic thing to look for is the type of signal or wave the monitor uses. All baby monitors are either analog or digital. Monitors that use analog work similar to your radio. The part in your baby's room is set to the same channel as the part in your room. These monitors are prone to interference and have lots of static. With my first child I had one of these, and there was a constant low staticy radio-like noise. I learned to ignore it, until someone moved in next door with a similar baby monitor. Sometimes I could actually hear what was going on in their house. Not exactly every word, but low murmuring sounds. Occasionally, I would even hear their baby cry. It was creepy, like something out of a horror movie. Additionally, you'll get major static if you have anything else wireless in the house. A wireless Internet connection or a cell phone charging on an outlet in the same room will turn your monitor into a white noise machine.
With the digital monitors, you don't have to worry about static or privacy. You'll get crystal clear sound all the time regardless of any other electronic equipment you may have. I have a digital monitor and I can hear my baby breathing. The digital monitors are more expensive ($70-$100), but don't waste your money on the cheapest analog monitors (under $40). You probably won't be happy with the sound quality, and you'll end up buying a more expensive digital monitor anyway. However, if you are on a tight budget, the Graco Ultra Clear II has received far better user ratings than other basic analog models. At around $40, it is one of the cheapest you can buy, but you should expect it to be not exactly clear. But, with two parent receivers and a nightlight feature, it is a bargain.
Range
The next feature to look for is range. This is basically how far the receiver can be from the monitor and still work. You really need to think about the size of your house and your lifestyle when deciding which monitor is best. If you have a single story home and don't plan on using it outside, a lower range of 300-500 feet will be fine. If you live in a large multilevel home or plan on doing yard work while baby sleeps, you should invest in a higher range level. If long range is important to you be sure to get a baby monitor that has a way of signaling you when you are out of range.
Sound-Only or Video
The next major decision you have to make is to buy a sound only or a sound and video monitor. Budget conscious consumers will want to go with an audio only monitor. A good video monitor will cost you $150-$300 dollars depending on how fancy it is. Audio only monitors will do the job perfectly well. Many of them come with "indicator lights" that let you "see" with LED lights how loud your baby gets. Thus, you can use it while doing noisy activities like showering. This also allows you to turn the volume off if you are watching TV or just want peace and quiet.
However, if you have the money, a monitor with a camera on it is a worthwhile baby gear splurge. Being able to see your baby is great for determining if he is really waking up or just crying in his sleep. It is also very reassuring to see that your baby is OK if you are going through sleep training. Also, some digital camera models have the option to view more than one room on the same receiver. You have to buy the additional cameras, but to be able to monitor more than one child or a playroom is a great feature that adds longevity to your baby monitor. I love my Summer Best View Handheld Color Video Monitor ($190). I can monitor up to four cameras (it only came with one) on one receiver. The view of each camera can be changed remotely using the receiver. In a well lit room the picture is in color and at night infrared technology gives me a clear picture of my son's crib. Summer Infant even offers a 7-inch LCD flat screen for some of its monitors. At an extra $150, this is a real splurge. But if you've got the money…I say go for it. Using a video monitor also extends the usability of your monitor. I can monitor my preschooler playing in her room while I'm downstairs doing laundry.
Portability
This brings me to the issue of portability. Some video monitors have bulky little TVs. You'll probably want to steer clear of these as you can't carry them with you around the house and they'd be difficult to travel with. You'll also want to make sure that at least the receiver has a battery power option. Usually the monitor will have to be plugged in, bit most parent receivers have the option to use either batteries or an AC adapter. Batteries are more portable, but expect to change them fairly frequently. If you plan on using batteries a lot look for a model that has a rechargeable battery. Another great option is to buy a monitor that comes with two parent receivers. You can keep one in the master bedroom and one in the kitchen. This is an especially great feature for multilevel homes.
Extra Features
As if you don't have enough features and options to think about, there are a few non-essential options that you may want. For example, many models have nightlight features with automatic timed shut offs. Some also offer room temperature monitors to make sure your little one does not get too hot or cold. The Graco Respond has a clock and even allows you to record a soothing voice message to play for your fussy child. Make sure you record something soothing and not creepy though. Several other baby monitors also offer music. The Phillips DECT Baby Monitor ($160) is one that plays lullabies. Unfortunately, they are short and only play for five minutes at a time. Also, they have sound quality similar to the music on a baby swing. It could be better. You're probably better off just playing a CD on a remote controlled player. The Phillips monitor is still really awesome as it is one that has two-way communication. This lets you not only hear your baby, but also talk back to him. This feature is great for helping calm your baby when you can't immediately get to him. Or friends have found it is great for telling a naughty toddler to stop trying to climb out of their crib.
Lastly, some baby monitors come with a motion-sensing pad (Anglecare Movement Sensor with Sound $80). You place the sensor pad under the mattress, and it is supposed to detect the smallest movements of your baby including breathing. If you child does not move for a predetermined amount of time, an alarm will sound on your parent unit. This is no substitute for parental supervision, but could add extra peace of mind for parents worried about SIDS or who have a medically fragile baby
Today there are so many types, brands and features of baby monitors you are sure to find one that is perfect for your lifestyle. A quick search of the Internet will reveal dozens of different models. I recommend deciding on the features you want and your price point first. Then look on websites like Babygizmo.com (our personal favorite) to check out Top 5s and read reviews on your favorites. Unfortunately, the quality and durability of monitors range widely, so user ratings are probably your best bet in making sure you don't waste your money. No matter which model and features you choose, be sure you know the seller's return policy just in case you're not happy with the one you bought. Happy hunting!!!
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