Do I need a baby monitor?

If you sleep in the same room as your baby or live in a small space where you can always hear or see what your baby is up to, you probably don’t need a monitor. (Although you may still be interested in one for things like tracking sleep analytics, room temperature or your baby’s movements and vitals.) Otherwise, most parents enjoy the convenience and peace of mind a baby monitor provides. Instead of needing to stay close to the nursery or constantly checking on your baby, you’re free to rest, catch up on Netflix or get things done around the house anytime baby is asleep. Monitors can also double as a nanny cam to keep an eye on your child and their caretaker when you’re not at home.There are three kinds of baby monitors: audio, video and movement monitors. We share our top picks for [best baby monitors across all categories](https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/best-baby-monitor) in our buying guide.

What is the purpose of a breathing and movement monitor?

A baby movement monitor is just what its name implies—a baby monitor that uses sensors to track your little one’s movements while they’re asleep and alert you if there’s a problem. In addition to tracking movement, some monitors also track stats like your baby’s breathing, heart rate, oxygen saturation levels and temperature. Some even provide sleep analytics that can help you gain insights around your baby’s sleep patterns. Some monitors use wearables like a sock or a band for tracking. Others use a clip that attaches to your baby’s diaper, while some use special sensors that are placed beneath your little one’s crib mattress. Some baby movement monitors work alongside a video monitor and are sold as a bundle. Others offer the option to add a video monitor on for an extra cost, and some movement monitors function completely independently of video monitors. Babylist’s list of [best baby movement monitors](https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/best-baby-movement-monitors) breaks down the latest technology for your [smart nursery](https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/smart-baby-nursery).

Are there additional features I should look for in a baby monitor?

Baby monitors may come with various features such as temperature monitoring, two-way communication, lullabies, night vision and smartphone connectivity. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a monitor.

What is a smart crib?

Baby tech is making new parenthood easier than ever before. Smart cribs bring tech into the nursery and can help your baby sleep better and longer—and that is something we’re always here for. Smart cribs often include features like motion, sound, lights and vibrations. Some smart cribs detect your baby’s cries and respond with motion and sounds; others learn your baby’s sleep patterns and can even start soothing them before they fully wake up. (Many also offer sleep analytics so you can track and analyze your baby’s sleep over time.) Most smart cribs are Bluetooth compatible and can be controlled via an app on your phone or other devices, and some can be linked to Amazon Alexa or Google Home. [Babylist’s picks for the best smart cribs](https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/best-smart-cribs) will help you find an option that has all the tech-y features you are looking for.