How to Choose a Baby Monitor in Australia

If you’re a new parent, baby monitors can feel like one more overwhelming decision. There are lots of features, lots of opinions, and not much clear guidance.

This guide keeps it simple. It explains what actually matters, what’s often misunderstood, and how to choose a monitor that fits your home and your baby.

We’ll also add Australian‑specific safety notes, so you can feel confident about setup and day‑to‑day use.

What parents usually get wrong

Assuming more features means better sleep. Most families only need a clear audio feed and reliable range.
Over‑focusing on brand claims. Real‑world performance depends more on your home layout and interference.
Ignoring placement rules. Cords and cameras placed too close can become hazards.
Buying for future stages only. A good monitor should work now and adapt later, not overwhelm you today.

Key things to consider

Audio vs video. Start with what will actually reassure you day to day. Audio‑only can be enough.
Range and signal strength. Double‑brick walls, long hallways, and multi‑storey homes can reduce range.
Battery life. Short battery life is frustrating overnight, especially if you rely on the parent unit.
Night vision. Useful if you plan to check in without turning on lights.
Volume and sensitivity. A good monitor lets you hear a cry clearly without constant background noise.
Ease of use. You’ll use it half‑awake. Simple controls matter.

Australian standards and safety notes

Baby monitors sold in Australia should comply with local electrical and radio requirements. Even so, the biggest safety risks come from setup and placement.

Practical safety reminders:

Keep all cords out of reach. The recommendation is to place cords at least 1 metre from the cot or bassinet.
Secure the camera and mount. If it can wobble, it can fall.
Avoid placing monitors inside the cot. Always keep devices outside the sleep space.
Check for overheating. Make sure devices have airflow and aren’t covered.

If you’re unsure, check the manufacturer’s safety guidance and the product manual.

Age‑based guidance

Newborn

At this stage, parents often need reassurance more than data. Audio can be enough, especially if your baby sleeps nearby. If you choose video, keep the setup simple and safe.

6 months and older

Sleep patterns shift and babies become more mobile. A wider camera angle can be helpful, and you may value a monitor that works across more rooms.

Toddler

Toddlers may leave the cot or move around at night. A reliable video feed and good range can help you respond quickly without entering the room every time.

Budget expectations

You don’t need to spend top‑tier money to get a reliable monitor. The best choice is the one that fits your home and your routine.

In general:

Audio‑only models tend to be simpler and more affordable.
Video monitors add convenience but can vary widely in quality.
Extra features often cost more but don’t always add real value.

When to worry / when not to

It’s normal to check the monitor often in the early weeks. Over time, you’ll learn your baby’s patterns and feel more confident.

Worry is understandable, but the monitor shouldn’t increase anxiety. If you find yourself checking every few minutes, consider reducing alerts or using audio‑only at night.

If you have health or safety concerns, speak to your GP or child health nurse.

Conclusion

Choosing a baby monitor should feel manageable. Focus on what will help you day to day, set it up safely, and keep it simple.

If you’d like more guidance, see: