The best audio monitors on the market
If you want to keep a close ear on your baby, an audio monitor is a good choice
If you’re after low-key reassurance and don’t want to blow your budget either, an audio monitor is a great bet for keeping an ear on your baby. Just remember though that although baby monitors can offer peace of mind, your baby should sleep in the same room as you for the first six months to minimise the risk of SIDS.
What to look for
Most monitors you can buy today are digital, which means they’re less likely to pick up sounds from other baby monitors in neighbouring houses, and some have an enhanced form of digital transmission called DECT, which makes them even more efficient in filtering out other noise.
If you’ve got a big house, or want to be able to sit in the garden while your baby is in bed, a long range will be an asset. Other useful features include a nightlight and room thermometer on the baby unit, and the ability to play lullabies and other soothing noises.
Need to know
Audio monitors are significantly cheaper, but you might still end up checking on your baby if you hear a noise but can’t tell if he’s awake or asleep. Lots of baby monitors have a light display on the parent unit that flashes when sound is detected. This is extremely handy as you can mute the monitor so you don’t hear every sigh and snuffle, but you can still be alerted when your baby cries.