Becoming a parent may be one of the most gratifying and terrifying experiences in the whole world. Elizabeth Stone captured it best when she said that having a child was “to decide forever to have your heart go walking outside your body.” If we could, we would be there for every single moment of our child’s life. Yet, we cannot spend every second of our day watching our child sleep!
Many new parents use baby monitors to keep an eye on their child when they are away. Although the purpose of a baby monitor seems pretty self-explanatory, there are actually many factors you need to consider before buying one. Here are five features to look for when buying a baby monitor.
1. Methods of Monitoring
You should look whether a monitor relies on audio, video, or another form of observation. Do you want to listen to your baby, or would you prefer to have a visual as well? There are many products outfitted with video recording technology. These will live stream your child’s every movement and project this footage on your screen. If you opt for a newer model, you can even connect your monitor to your own smart devices. This way, you can check in on your child at your own convenience!
Some parents prefer monitors that go the extra step and catalog their child’s vital signs. These advanced models will record your baby’s temperature and alert you if it enters into unhealthy territory.
2. Frequency
In order to make sure your monitor works correctly, you need to purchase one with a frequency unlike the other devices in your home. Prior to the digital renaissance, parents didn’t need to put much thought into their device’s frequency. They didn’t have to worry about wifi, cable signals, and cordless phones interfering with their monitoring product.
Now, the times have truly changed, and you need to invest in a baby monitor that is a different frequency than your other wireless devices. Many manufacturers have started using the 1.9 GHz frequency band. This particular band is least prone to interference or cross-talk. Yet, you should always check the frequency band on your own devices prior to buying a monitor.
3. Battery Life
When purchasing a device to watch your child, you need to take into account its battery life. If you buy something that drains the life out of them within minutes, you’re going to buy a lot of AA battery packs. Some models feature rechargeable batteries, but even then, there is a possibility that you are still going to experience mass battery death.
As always, do your research. You can seek out products with a higher battery life through website reviews. For example, the website from Best Baby Station will include battery vitality in their product overviews.
4. Low Battery Alert
You’ll need to look for a baby monitor that has a built-in alert system for a low battery. When you have a baby who requires your constant attention, it’s easy to let other things fall by the wayside. So, look for a monitor that will alert you when it needs recharging. This way, the device will keep you informed of its needs, instead of you constantly guessing or forgetting them.
5. Night Vision Capabilities
If you opt for a video monitor, then you’ll need it to be equipped with night vision. The whole investment becomes moot if you cannot see your baby at night. It’s not as if you’re going to leave camera lighting in your baby’s room every evening. Thus, ensure that your camera is equipped with infrared night vision. This way, you can see your child clearly, night and day!
In Conclusion
When it comes to your baby monitor, the most important tip is to look for features that fit your parenting style. Take into account you and your baby’s needs, and do your research! Equipped with this combined knowledge, you can easily find your personal, perfect baby monitor.
