For the first few months of your baby’s life, it may feel that you’re completely attached at the hip to them. With contact naps aplenty and no real routine in place, those newborn days are a joy of closeness.
Over time, though, as your baby settles in to a more consistent routine and (let’s be honest) you’re ready to reclaim a little more of your evening back, it’s probably time to start thinking about a baby monitor. A good baby camera or monitor will leave you feeling confident you can see and hear your baby well, while not in the same room.
If you’re happy with just being able to hear your baby, there are some great audio-only options. More common are the traditional video monitors, with the camera in the nursery and a separate viewing screen, which stays with the caregiver. If you’re willing to splash out a little more, a smart camera could be more your scene. These connect through wifi via an app on your smartphone or tablet, which means you can check in on your baby even if you’re in the garden.
For an even further level of monitoring, wearable elements – such as wraps or socks – allow you to monitor more than just your baby’s crying or movements, including their breathing, oxygen levels or temperature. We have to note that, while these can be a welcome addition for new or anxious parents, keep in mind they’re not medical devices and are often not 100 per cent accurate.
Whether it’s a simple, affordable audio-only option you’re keen on, or if you’d prefer a bells-and-whistles setup with soothing features and remote viewing, we’ve got you covered.
How we tested
We tested each camera and monitor over the course of a few nights for naps, night-time sleep and observing play. Our little helper is seven months old and just beginning to move around independently while in the cot alone. Prices range, on average, from £29 to £399, offering varying features. We chose nine of the best to suit every parent’s budget, to give a great view of your child, day or night.
The best baby monitors for 2023 are:
- Best overall – Cubo AI sleep safety bundle baby monitor: £399, Cuboai.com
- Best for tracking heart rate – Owlet smart sock 3 baby monitor: £289, Owletbabycare.co.uk
- Best for crying babies – Tommee Tippee dreamee sound, motion and video baby monitor: £229.99, Tommeetippee.com
- Best for awkward spaces – Lollipop baby monitor: £166, Amazon.co.uk
- Best for extra features – Bluebell 9-in-1 baby monitor: £349.90, Amazon.co.uk