Baby Monitors: What They Are, How They Work, and When You Really Need One

When you bring a newborn home, silence can feel louder than noise. That’s where a baby monitor, a device that lets parents hear or see their baby from another room. Also known as a nursery monitor, it gives you the freedom to shower, eat, or even rest without constantly checking on your little one. It’s not just about hearing a cry—it’s about peace of mind. But not all baby monitors are the same. Some use radio waves, others connect to Wi-Fi, and a few even track heart rate and breathing. The right one depends on your home, your worries, and how much tech you’re comfortable with.

Many parents worry about baby monitor security, the risk of someone hacking into a video feed or listening in on private moments. Wi-Fi models are convenient—you can check on your baby from your phone—but they’re also vulnerable. That’s why so many families are turning to non Wi-Fi baby monitors, devices that use secure radio frequencies instead of internet connections. They don’t stream to your phone, but they also can’t be hacked from across the world. Then there’s the debate around smart baby monitors, devices that claim to reduce the risk of SIDS by tracking movement and vital signs. The truth? No monitor can prevent SIDS. The American Academy of Pediatrics says safe sleep practices—back sleeping, firm mattress, no loose bedding—are what actually lower risk. But if your monitor helps you sleep better at night, that’s worth something too.

And it’s not just for babies. You might be surprised to learn that many parents keep a monitor going until their child is three, four, or even older—especially if they’re transitioning to a big kid bed, sleepwalk, or just need that extra reassurance. The question isn’t just when to start using a baby monitor—it’s when to stop. Some families hang onto it because they’re nervous. Others turn it off because their child is independent. Neither is wrong. What matters is knowing what your monitor can and can’t do, and making a choice that fits your family’s rhythm.

Below, you’ll find real, no-fluff guides on everything from where to place your monitor for the clearest signal, to whether Owlet actually saves lives, to how to lock down your device if you already have a Wi-Fi model. There’s no marketing hype here—just what parents actually need to know to feel confident, not scared.